German Cheese Schnitzel
German Cheese Schnitzel features tender veal or tenderloin coated in cheese and bread crumbs, pan-fried to golden perfection, offering savory flavors with a cheesy crunch, perfect for special occasions or hearty family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pound the meat to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into 6 to 8 pieces to form cutlets.
- Sprinkle the meat on both sides with salt, pepper, and lemon juice; let stand for 30 minutes.
- Blend eggs, cold water, and 2 tablespoons of butter; set aside.
- Combine bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Coat the cutlets in flour, then dip in the egg mixture, letting excess drip off.
- Coat the cutlets with the cheese and bread crumb mixture and let stand for 15 minutes.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Brown the cutlets on each side until golden.
- Serve with noodles or potatoes, garnished with lemon slices and additional Parmesan cheese and paprika.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the veal in buttermilk for a few hours before preparation. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano can be a suitable substitute. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the cutlets to achieve a crispy texture. For a lighter version, you can bake the schnitzel instead of frying.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the schnitzel alongside buttery noodles or roasted potatoes for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with lemon slices for added brightness. For a complete dinner, consider a fresh salad or sautéed green beans as a side. You can also sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the schnitzel in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Cheese Schnitzel contains roughly 442 calories, with 6g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1306mg per serving (57% 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 chicken instead of veal for this recipe?
Yes, chicken breast can be used as a substitute for veal. The cooking time may vary slightly, so be sure to cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Chicken schnitzel is a popular variation and will still be delicious with the same coating and preparation.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour and bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Use almond flour or coconut flour for coating and gluten-free bread crumbs for the crunchy topping. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What is the best side dish to serve with German Cheese Schnitzel?
A classic side dish is potato salad, which complements the richness of the schnitzel. Additionally, roasted vegetables, such as carrots or Brussels sprouts, can add color and nutrition. If you're looking for something lighter, a simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette works well.
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).