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Cachopo Recipe

Cachopo Recipe

Cachopo is a classic Spanish dish from Asturias, known for its delicious combination of veal (or pork), ham, and cheese, all coated in crispy breadcrumbs. This dish is perfect for any special occasion or when you're craving something hearty and flavorful. Whether you're a fan of traditional recipes or looking for a fun new twist, Cachopo is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Spanish
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

  • 4 veal or pork fillets (about 1/2 inch thick)
  • 4 slices of ham Serrano or prosciutto
  • 4 slices of cheese such as Manchego or mozzarella
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs beaten
  • 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs preferably panko
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying

Equipment

  • Meat mallet (optional)
  • Large shallow bowls (for breading)
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Oven (optional if baking)
  • Paper towels (for draining excess oil)
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Fillets: Start by laying the veal (or pork) fillets flat on a clean surface. If needed, gently pound them with a meat mallet to flatten and tenderize the meat. Season both sides with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  2. Assemble the Cachopo: Place one slice of ham on top of each fillet. Add a slice of cheese over the ham. Then, place another fillet on top of each to create a "sandwich" of meat, ham, and cheese. Press down gently to help the layers stick together.
  3. Breading: Prepare three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third, place breadcrumbs. Dredge each filled fillet first in the flour, coating both sides, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Make sure the fillets are evenly covered in each layer.
  4. Fry the Cachopo: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough olive oil to cover the bottom. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded Cachopo fillets into the skillet. Fry for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. If the fillets are large, you may need to fry them in batches.
  5. Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the Cachopo to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve immediately while hot, ideally with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
    Cachopo Recipe

Notes

  • Meat Variations: Feel free to use chicken or pork if you prefer a different meat.
  • Cheese Swap: Try different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a personalized twist.
  • Oven Alternative: For a lighter version, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
  • Cachopo Recipe