Veal Cordon Bleu
Veal Cordon Bleu features tender veal cutlets filled with Swiss cheese and ham, breaded and pan-fried to golden perfection, offering a savory, cheesy, and satisfying meal suitable for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pound veal cutlets with a mallet to flatten and season with salt and pepper.
- Place a slice of Swiss cheese and a slice of ham on each cutlet, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Top each with another veal cutlet and pound the edges to seal the filling.
- Roll each veal parcel in flour.
- Dip the rolled cutlets in beaten egg, then coat with bread crumbs.
- Saute in butter and oil until browned on all sides.
- Place the cooked cutlets in a baking dish.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 35 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider using a mixture of herbs like thyme or parsley in the breadcrumbs. For a lighter version, you can substitute the veal with chicken or turkey cutlets and use low-fat cheese. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of regular flour. Ensure the edges are well-sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve veal cordon bleu with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with German Cabbage or Fried Corn, Tennessee-Style for a hearty side. A light white wine, like a Chardonnay, complements the dish well, enhancing the flavors of the cheese and ham.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover veal cordon bleu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cutlets in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through, ensuring they stay crispy. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Veal Cordon Bleu contains roughly 2535 calories, with 30g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 262g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (71% of the Daily Value), protein (60% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1727mg per serving (75% 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 prepare veal cordon bleu in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cutlets up to the baking step and refrigerate them for a few hours or overnight. When ready to cook, simply bake them as instructed. This allows the flavors to meld and can save you time on the day you plan to serve them.
What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?
If you don't have Swiss cheese, you can use Gruyère or provolone as excellent alternatives. Both cheeses melt well and provide a similar nutty flavor that complements the ham and veal in the dish.
Can I freeze veal cordon bleu?
Yes, you can freeze cooked veal cordon bleu. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-40 minutes.
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).