Milanesa a la Napolitana
Milanesa a la Napolitana is a beloved Argentine comfort food. It features a breaded beef cutlet (milanesa) topped with a rich tomato sauce, a slice of ham, and melted mozzarella cheese, often finished under the broiler. It's typically served with a side of crispy French fries.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 Beef milanesas(Thinly pounded beef cutlets, about 1/4 inch thick. You can buy them pre-made or pound your own.)
- 4 slices Ham(Good quality deli ham.)
- 200 g Mozzarella cheese(Shredded or thinly sliced. Low-moisture mozzarella works best for melting.)
- 200 ml Tomato sauce(A good quality, simple marinara or crushed tomato sauce. Not too watery.)
- as needed Vegetable oil(For frying the milanesas.)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for serving French fries(Homemade or store-bought, prepared according to package directions.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Milanesas: Season both sides of the beef milanesas generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 2
Fry the Milanesas: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (around 180°C / 350°F). Carefully place the milanesas in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (fry in batches if necessary). Fry for about 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The exact time will depend on the thickness of the milanesas. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes - 3
Assemble the Napolitanas: Preheat your broiler to high. Place the fried milanesas on a baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce evenly over each milanesa, leaving a small border. Top each with a slice of ham, then generously cover with mozzarella cheese.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Broil to Melt: Place the baking sheet under the preheated broiler. Broil for 2-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
⏱️ 2-4 minutes - 5
Serve: Remove from the broiler. Let rest for a minute before serving hot, accompanied by freshly prepared French fries.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓This dish, despite its name, is an Argentine invention, not from Naples.
- ✓For an authentic touch, serve with a generous portion of crispy French fries.
- ✓Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying the milanesas to achieve a crispy, non-greasy crust.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Milanesa a Caballo: Serve the milanesa topped with a fried egg instead of the Napolitana toppings.
- Vegetarian Option: Use large portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices instead of beef.