Easy Pork Parmigiana
Golden-brown breaded pork tenderloin slices topped with rich spaghetti sauce and melted mozzarella make this comforting, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the egg and water in a bowl and set aside.
- Mix the grated Parmesan cheese with the Italian seasoned bread crumbs and set aside.
- Place each pork tenderloin slice between two sheets of heavy-duty plastic wrap and flatten to 1/4-inch thickness with a meat mallet.
- Dip each pork slice into the egg mixture, then dredge in the crumb mixture to coat.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the breaded pork slices until browned on both sides.
- Arrange the cooked pork slices in a lightly greased 8-inch baking dish.
- Top the pork with spaghetti sauce and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with shredded Mozzarella cheese, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or Italian herbs to the bread crumb mixture. If you want a healthier option, use whole wheat bread crumbs or substitute the pork with chicken breast. Let the breaded pork rest for a few minutes before frying to achieve a perfect crisp. Pair this dish with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Easy Pork Parmigiana with a side of spaghetti tossed in olive oil and garlic, or pair it with a fresh green salad. This dish complements well with garlic bread or a light tomato-based pasta like Tomato Spaghetti. For a comforting meal, consider serving it alongside Our Yummy Lasagna.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave it for a quicker option, but the oven will keep the breading crispier.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Pork Parmigiana contains roughly 456 calories, with 19g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1259mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pork tenderloin with chicken breast or turkey cutlets. The cooking time may vary slightly, so ensure the meat is cooked through to the proper internal temperature.
What can I use instead of commercial spaghetti sauce?
If you prefer homemade, you can make a simple sauce using crushed tomatoes, garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning. This provides a fresher flavor and allows you to customize it to your taste.
How do I know when the pork is cooked properly?
The pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check. When properly cooked, the pork will be juicy and no longer pink in the center.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).