Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
A beloved Midwestern classic, this sandwich features a massive, crispy fried pork cutlet, pounded paper-thin and served on a simple bun with pickles, onions, and mustard. It's the ultimate comfort food, delivering a satisfying crunch and savory flavor in every bite.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Pork Cutlets
- b.Slice the pork tenderloin crosswise into 4 equal medallions, about 1.5 inches thick.
- c.Place one medallion between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using the flat side of a meat mallet or a heavy skillet, pound the pork until it is very thin, about 1/4-inch thick. The goal is a large, even patty that is significantly bigger than your bun.
- d.Repeat with the remaining medallions. Season both sides of each pounded cutlet with half of the salt and pepper.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Set Up the Breading Station
- b.Prepare three shallow dishes. In the first, whisk together the flour, the remaining salt and pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- c.In the second dish, whisk the eggs and milk together until smooth.
- d.In the third dish, add the finely crushed saltine crackers.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Bread the Pork
- b.Working one cutlet at a time, dredge it thoroughly in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
- c.Next, dip the floured cutlet into the egg wash, ensuring it's fully coated on both sides.
- d.Finally, press the cutlet firmly into the cracker crumbs, making sure the entire surface is covered. Set the breaded cutlet on a plate or wire rack.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Fry the Tenderloins
- b.In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is ideal), pour vegetable oil to a depth of about 1/2 inch. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C).
- c.Carefully place 1 or 2 breaded cutlets into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-4 minutes per side, until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through.
- d.The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- e.Remove the cooked cutlets from the skillet and transfer them to a wire rack to drain excess oil. This keeps the bottom crispy.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Assemble and Serve
- b.Lightly toast the hamburger buns if desired.
- c.Spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun. Place a hot, crispy pork tenderloin on top.
- d.Garnish with dill pickle slices and thinly sliced white onion.
- e.Spread yellow mustard on the top bun and place it on the sandwich. Serve immediately for the best texture.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Pounding the pork evenly is the key to a tender, authentic result. Aim for a consistent 1/4-inch thickness.
- 2For an extra crispy crust, use panko breadcrumbs instead of, or mixed with, the saltine crackers.
- 3Do not overcrowd the pan when frying. This lowers the oil temperature and can result in a soggy, greasy cutlet. Cook in batches if necessary.
- 4Drain the fried cutlets on a wire rack, not on paper towels. This allows air to circulate and prevents the bottom from getting soggy.
- 5Keep the toppings simple. The classic combination of pickle, onion, and mustard allows the crispy pork to be the star.
- 6Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) without overcooking it.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Tenderloin
Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy kick. Serve with a spicy mayonnaise or hot sauce.
Panko CrustedPanko-Crusted
Substitute the saltine crackers with panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, even crispier texture.
Grilled VersionGrilled Version
For a healthier option, skip the breading and frying. Season the pounded pork cutlets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then grill over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through.
Deluxe ToppingsDeluxe Toppings
While not traditional, you can add lettuce, tomato, and a slice of American or cheddar cheese for a more loaded sandwich.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Pork tenderloin is a lean cut of meat packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, muscle maintenance, and overall body function.
Rich in B Vitamins
Pork is a great source of several B vitamins, particularly Thiamin (B1), Niacin (B3), and Vitamin B6. These vitamins are crucial for energy metabolism, brain function, and the formation of red blood cells.
Provides Key Minerals
This dish provides important minerals like selenium, a powerful antioxidant, and zinc, which supports immune function and wound healing.
Frequently asked questions
A single Pork Tenderloin Sandwich contains approximately 750-850 calories, depending on the size of the cutlet, amount of oil absorbed, and toppings used. It is a calorie-dense, indulgent meal.