Crispy, golden breaded pork cutlets are certainly delicious. However, the breading process can be messy and time-consuming. The good news is that you can make incredibly tasty pork cutlets without breading them.
Baking or pan-frying properly seasoned cutlets results in pork that’s juicy, packed with flavor and so easy to make any night of the week. Follow my tips for selecting the right cutlets, proper seasoning techniques, recommended cook methods and serving suggestions. You’ll never miss the breading after tasting how scrumptious unbreaded pork cutlets can be!
Benefits of Cooking Pork Cutlets Without Breading
Skipping the breading provides some advantages
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Fewer calories and carbs – The pork’s natural flavor shines through
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Faster prep – Just season and cook the meat.
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Easier cleanup – No need to deal with breadcrumb mess.
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More versatility – Pair with endless flavors and cuisines.
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Kid-friendly – Less messy for little hands to enjoy.
You’ll be amazed how much flavor flour-free, baked or pan-fried pork cutlets deliver. Let’s look at how to select and cook cutlets for the best results.
Choosing the Right Pork Cutlets
Look for cutlets that are:
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3/4 to 1 inch thick – Thinner cutlets overcook quickly.
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Boneless – Easier to cook evenly without bones.
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Uniformly thick – So they cook at the same rate.
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Loin or rib cut – More fat/flavor than sirloin options.
Trim any excess fat or silver skin for better texture, but leave some fat for moisture and flavor.
Seasoning is Key for Maximum Flavor
Seasoning is extra important when skipping the breading so flavor really pops.
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Pat cutlets dry – For better searing and seasoning adhesion.
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Use lots of seasoning – Salt, pepper, garlic powder, herbs, etc.
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Coat all sides evenly – Top, bottom and sides.
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Let sit 10-20 minutes – Allows seasonings to soak in.
Take the time to generously season for juicy pork with seasoning baked right in.
Baking Unbreaded Pork Cutlets
Baking is a simple, hands-off way to cook cutlets with excellent results:
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Preheat oven to 375°F – Use a standard baking sheet.
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Elevate cutlets on a rack – Improves air circulation.
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Bake 25-30 minutes – Until 145°F internal temperature.
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Check often – Thinner parts cook faster.
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Rest 5 minutes – Allows juices to redistribute.
Baking concentrates flavor and cooks the meat evenly without the need for breading.
Pan-Frying for Crisp, Golden Pork
Pan frying adds nice color and texture contrast:
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Use a heavy pan over medium-high heat – Cast iron or stainless steel.
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Pat cutlets very dry – For better browning.
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Use a touch of oil – Olive, vegetable or avocado oil.
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Around 4 minutes per side – Until 145°F internal temperature.
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Rest before serving – Locks in juices.
The high heat of the pan gives the exterior of the cutlets appealing sear and crispness.
Serving Suggestions for Unbreaded Cutlets
You have lots of options for plating your flavorful unbreaded cutlets:
- Alongside mashed, baked or fried potatoes.
- With roasted veggies like broccoli, carrots or brussels sprouts.
- On a bed of fresh salad greens or pasta salad.
- Topped with pan gravies or mushroom sauce.
- With sautéed apples or peaches.
Use your imagination to pair complementary flavors and textures with the pork.
Tips for Unbreaded Pork Cutlet Success
Follow these tips for the best results when making pork cutlets without breading:
- Select evenly thick, boneless loin or rib cutlets around 3/4-1 inch thick.
- Generously season with spices, herbs, salt and pepper.
- Bake at 375°F until 145°F internal temperature.
- Let cutlets rest at least 5 minutes after cooking.
- Pair with creative sauces, vegetables or starches.
Enjoy Effortless, Easy Dinner entrées
Skip the mess and hassle of breading to enjoy flavorful oven-baked or pan-fried pork cutlets any night of the week. With flavorful seasoning and proper cooking, you won’t miss the breading one bit after tasting how succulent and delicious these cutlets turn out.
What are you waiting for? Ditch the breadcrumbs and enjoy juicy pork perfection in record time tonight!
Easy Air Fryer Thin Boneless Pork Chops No Breading Recipe | Munchy Goddess
How to cook pork cutlets without breading?
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and place the pork cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through. Pan frying: Pan-frying is another delicious way to cook pork cutlets without breading. Simply heat some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the pork cutlets.
How do you cook pork cutlets in a frying pan?
Let us know in the comments below! Liberally season the pork cutlets on both sides with salt and fresh cracked black pepper. Heat a large frying pan to medium-high heat and add the butter. Once the butter is melted, add the cutlets and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden grown.
What is the best way to cook pork cutlets?
Pork cutlets cubed. flour. lemon pepper. 2 tablespoons butter ( will help to brown the meat beautifully) enough vegetable oil to cover pan. Season both sides of cutlets with lemon pepper. Dredge with flour.
How do you make crispy breaded pork cutlets?
Simple to make crispy breaded pork cutlets are coated in cracker crumbs and pan-fried on the stove until golden brown. Crunchy breaded pork cutlets make a wonderfully comforting meal, and are ready in under 30 minutes, requiring only 4 ingredients. In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs together. Add crushed crackers to another shallow bowl.