Print

Crispy Pork Schnitzel

Close-up of golden-brown, crispy Schnitzel served with a fresh lemon wedge on a plate.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Learn to make perfectly golden and crispy pork schnitzel, a classic European dish that’s juicy inside and crunchy outside. This recipe is designed for home cooks seeking restaurant-quality results with simple ingredients and clear instructions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pork loin cutlets, about 1/2 inch thick
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Place each pork cutlet between two sheets of plastic wrap. Pound them to about 1/4 inch thickness using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan.
  2. Season both sides of the pounded cutlets with salt and pepper.
  3. Set up three shallow dishes. Place the flour in the first dish.
  4. In the second dish, whisk the eggs.
  5. Place the panko breadcrumbs in the third dish.
  6. Dredge each pork cutlet first in the flour, shaking off any excess.
  7. Next, dip the floured cutlet into the whisked eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  8. Finally, press the egg-coated cutlet into the panko breadcrumbs, making sure both sides are well-covered.
  9. Pour enough vegetable oil into a large skillet to cover the bottom by about 1/4 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
  10. Carefully place one or two schnitzels into the hot oil (do not overcrowd the pan). Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
  11. Remove the schnitzel from the skillet and place on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
  12. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • For an authentic Wiener Schnitzel experience, use veal cutlets instead of pork.
  • Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the schnitzel; this is key to achieving a crispy crust and preventing the meat from becoming greasy.
  • Serve with your favorite sides like potato salad, spaetzle, or a simple green salad.

Nutrition