Argentine · Beef
Milanesa Napolitana
Argentine breaded beef cutlet topped with ham, tomato sauce, and melted cheese. This hearty dish is a twist on the classic milanesa and is a favorite in Argentine restaurants and homes.
The Method
Instructions
First things first, let's get those beef cutlets ready. Lay each cutlet between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them out until they're about 5mm thick . This not only tenderizes the meat but also ensures they cook evenly. Once they're nicely flattened, sprinkle both sides with a good pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a little garlic powder to give them that subtle aromatic kick.
Now, let's set up our breading station. You'll want three separate dishes: one with plain flour, the next with eggs beaten until smooth and slightly frothy, and the last with breadcrumbs mixed together with dried oregano. This trio will help create that irresistible crispy coating on your Milanesa.
Take each seasoned cutlet and dredge it first in the flour, making sure it's coated evenly but gently shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting the extra drip off before you move on. Finally, press the cutlet firmly into the breadcrumb and oregano mix, really making sure the crumbs cling all over. Once all your cutlets are coated, give them a little rest for about 10 minutes , this helps the breading stick better when cooking.
While they're resting, heat a generous splash of olive oil in a large pan over medium high heat . You want the oil hot enough so the cutlets sizzle as soon as they hit the pan, but not so hot that the coating burns. Carefully lay the cutlets in the pan, cooking each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown and feel crispy to the touch. Once fried, transfer the cutlets to an oven safe baking dish , don't overcrowd them.
Preheat your oven to 200C (180C fan) or gas mark 6 . Now for the fun part: topping your Milanesa Napolitana. Place a slice of ham on each crispy cutlet, then spoon over a good dollop of tomato sauce, spreading it out just a bit. Finish by layering slices of mozzarella cheese on top. This combination will melt together beautifully, creating a gooey, delicious topping.
Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 8 to 10 minutes , or until the cheese is perfectly melted, bubbly, and just starting to get those slight golden spots. The aroma at this point is amazing! When you pull them out, sprinkle some fresh oregano on top for a lovely herbal note.
Serve your Milanesa Napolitana piping hot, ideally with crispy fries and a fresh salad on the side. It's comfort food at its best , crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Enjoy!
Now, let's set up our breading station. You'll want three separate dishes: one with plain flour, the next with eggs beaten until smooth and slightly frothy, and the last with breadcrumbs mixed together with dried oregano. This trio will help create that irresistible crispy coating on your Milanesa.
Take each seasoned cutlet and dredge it first in the flour, making sure it's coated evenly but gently shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting the extra drip off before you move on. Finally, press the cutlet firmly into the breadcrumb and oregano mix, really making sure the crumbs cling all over. Once all your cutlets are coated, give them a little rest for about 10 minutes , this helps the breading stick better when cooking.
While they're resting, heat a generous splash of olive oil in a large pan over medium high heat . You want the oil hot enough so the cutlets sizzle as soon as they hit the pan, but not so hot that the coating burns. Carefully lay the cutlets in the pan, cooking each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown and feel crispy to the touch. Once fried, transfer the cutlets to an oven safe baking dish , don't overcrowd them.
Preheat your oven to 200C (180C fan) or gas mark 6 . Now for the fun part: topping your Milanesa Napolitana. Place a slice of ham on each crispy cutlet, then spoon over a good dollop of tomato sauce, spreading it out just a bit. Finish by layering slices of mozzarella cheese on top. This combination will melt together beautifully, creating a gooey, delicious topping.
Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 8 to 10 minutes , or until the cheese is perfectly melted, bubbly, and just starting to get those slight golden spots. The aroma at this point is amazing! When you pull them out, sprinkle some fresh oregano on top for a lovely herbal note.
Serve your Milanesa Napolitana piping hot, ideally with crispy fries and a fresh salad on the side. It's comfort food at its best , crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Enjoy!
Pairs Well With
