Ingredients
For the Cutlets:
2 (1 1/4 pound) pork tenderloins, fully trimmed and cut into 8 pieces
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (plus more, as needed)
2 large eggs, beaten
3 cups panko bread crumbs
1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Cream Gravy:
2 tablespoons butter
1/3 cup diced dill pickles
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
1 bunch green onions, chopped (green tops reserved for garnish)
A pinch of cayenne pepper, or to taste
1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups cold milk (or more, as needed)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or more to taste
Salt, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Pound and Prep the Pork
Place pork pieces between two sheets of heavy plastic (resealable freezer bags work brilliantly). On a solid surface, pound the pork with the smooth side of a meat mallet until it’s about 1/2 inch thick.
Season both sides with salt and black pepper. Dust lightly with 2 tablespoons of flour, ensuring even coverage. Pour the beaten eggs over the cutlets, coating thoroughly.
Step 2: Coat the Cutlets
Spread panko breadcrumbs in a shallow bowl. Press each piece of pork firmly into the breadcrumbs to coat on both sides.
Transfer the breaded pork to a clean plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Cream Gravy
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pickles, minced jalapeño, and chopped green onions (reserve green tops). Sauté until the onions soften, about 3 minutes.
Stir in 1 1/2 tablespoons flour and cook for another 3 minutes, stirring constantly.
Slowly whisk in 2–3 tablespoons of cold milk to form a paste, then gradually add the remaining milk. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne.
Simmer on low for 5 minutes, adjusting the seasoning as necessary. Set the gravy aside.
Step 4: Fry the Pork Cutlets
Heat 1/4 cup vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry half of the breaded cutlets for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Transfer cooked cutlets to a plate lined with paper towels. Sprinkle with salt. Repeat with the remaining cutlets and oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the crispy pork cutlets and generously spoon the cream gravy over the top. Garnish with reserved green onion tops.
Serve alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or a crisp side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
If substituting proteins, keep in mind the cooking time may vary. Chicken and turkey will need to be cooked until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For a spicier kick, leave the seeds in the jalapeño.
Refrigerating the breaded cutlets helps the coating adhere better and crisp up beautifully while frying.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: International / American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Calories: 748
- Fat: 29
- Carbohydrates: 71g
- Protein: 67g