Veal Parmesan is a beloved Italian-American dish that delivers crispy breaded veal cutlets smothered in a rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese. It is a restaurant-quality meal that can easily be recreated at home using simple ingredients and step-by-step preparation techniques.
Whether served over pasta, alongside a fresh salad, or paired with warm garlic bread, this dish offers a comforting and satisfying experience that will impress family and guests alike.
For a well-rounded meal, consider pairing your Veal Parmesan with a hearty breakfast option like this Homemade Brownie Baked Oatmeal or a protein-packed start to your day with this Innovative Protein Oatmeal Recipe.
Table of Contents
What is Veal Parmesan?
Veal Parmesan, also known as Veal Parmigiana, originates from Italian culinary traditions but has become a staple in American-Italian cuisine. It is closely related to dishes like Chicken Parmesan and Eggplant Parmesan, where breaded protein or vegetables are layered with tomato sauce and cheese, then baked until golden and bubbling.
Why This Recipe Works
- Crispy and Flavorful Breaded Veal: The cutlets are coated in a well-seasoned breadcrumb mixture that creates a golden and crispy crust when fried.
- Rich and Tangy Marinara Sauce: Using a homemade or high-quality store-bought marinara sauce enhances the overall taste.
- Perfectly Melted Cheese: A combination of mozzarella and Parmesan adds depth of flavor and a creamy, gooey texture.
Ingredients
For the Veal Cutlets
- 4 veal cutlets, pounded ¼ inch thick
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup vegetable oil for frying
For the Sauce and Toppings
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (for garnish)
How to Make Veal Parmesan
Step 1: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three shallow bowls for dredging the veal. Fill one bowl with all-purpose flour, another with whisked eggs, and the third with Italian-style breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes.
Step 2: Bread the Veal Cutlets
Dredge each veal cutlet in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip into the whisked eggs, ensuring a full coat. Finally, press the cutlet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
Step 3: Pan-Fry the Veal
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the breaded veal cutlets for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the fried veal cutlets in a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each cutlet, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Bake Until Cheese is Melted
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
Best Seller Equipment for Making Veal Parmesan
- Lodge Cast Iron Skillet (12-inch) – Provides even heat distribution for perfectly crispy veal cutlets.
- Meat Mallet by OXO Good Grips – Ideal for pounding veal cutlets to the perfect thickness.
- Cuisinart Stainless Steel Baking Dish – Ensures even baking and makes serving easy.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 480 |
Protein | 42g |
Carbohydrates | 32g |
Fat | 22g |
Saturated Fat | 8g |
Cholesterol | 120mg |
Sodium | 780mg |
Fiber | 2g |
Sugar | 5g |
Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes. These figures should not be considered a substitute for professional dietary advice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Veal Parmesan
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1. Can I use chicken instead of veal?
Yes! You can substitute veal with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Pound them to an even thickness before breading and follow the same cooking steps.
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2. What is the best way to tenderize veal?
Pounding the veal cutlets with a meat mallet helps break down fibers and ensures even cooking. If you don’t have a mallet, use the bottom of a heavy pan.
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3. Can I bake the veal instead of frying it?
Yes, for a healthier version, bake the breaded cutlets at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method reduces oil but keeps them crispy.
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4. How do I prevent my Veal Parmesan from becoming soggy?
To keep it crispy, fry the cutlets just before assembling, avoid excessive sauce, and bake until the cheese melts without overcooking.
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5. What kind of marinara sauce should I use?
A homemade marinara sauce is best, but a high-quality store-bought version works well too. Look for one with minimal added sugar and a rich tomato flavor.
Final Thoughts on Making the Best Veal Parmesan
Veal Parmesan is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines crispy breaded veal, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese for an unforgettable meal.
Try making this Veal Parmesan recipe today and share your experience. For more delicious recipes, visit Fitorecipes.com.
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