Are you craving a restaurant-quality meal but short on time and effort? Look no further! This Cordon Bleu recipe using pork tenderloin offers all the cheesy, savory goodness of the classic dish, but with a surprisingly simple preparation. It's a perfect example of a healthy meal that's also quick dinner ideas, ideal for busy weeknights or impressive weekend gatherings. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 (1-pound) pork tenderloins, trimmed
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 slices cooked ham
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pork:
Butterfly each pork tenderloin lengthwise, almost all the way through, creating a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through! Season both sides of the pork with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Assemble the Cordon Bleu:
Place 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of Swiss cheese in the center of each butterflied pork tenderloin. Gently fold the pork over the filling and secure with toothpicks.
Step 3: Bread the Pork:
Place the flour, beaten eggs, and panko bread crumbs in separate shallow dishes. Dredge each pork tenderloin in the flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat thoroughly in the panko bread crumbs. Press gently to ensure the breading adheres well.
Step 4: Cook the Pork:
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded pork tenderloins in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). If needed, reduce the heat slightly to prevent burning.
Step 5: Rest and Serve:
Remove the pork from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before removing the toothpicks. Slice and serve immediately. This easy recipe pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or mashed potatoes.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Cordon Bleu:
- Don't overcook the pork: Overcooked pork will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the oil and lead to soggy breading. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your Cordon Bleu will be enhanced by using good quality pork, ham, and cheese.
Variations:
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, provolone, or even a blend of cheeses.
- Herb variations: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the bread crumbs for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the bread crumbs for a touch of heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Cordon Bleu recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this simple yet elegant dish, and remember to share your culinary creations with us! Happy cooking!