Cheese Donkatsu, also known as cheese-stuffed fried pork cutlet, is a popular Korean-Japanese fusion dish that combines crispy breaded pork with gooey, melted cheese inside. This indulgent meal brings together the crunchy texture of panko-breaded exterior and the rich, creamy cheese filling, offering both comfort and satisfying flavor. Often served with shredded cabbage, rice, and a savory sauce, Cheese Donkatsu makes for an excellent lunch or dinner option that feels both familiar and special. Whether enjoyed at home or in a restaurant setting, this dish appeals to cheese lovers and fans of crispy fried foods alike.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 4 boneless pork loin chops

• 4 slices of mozzarella or your preferred melting cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• Oil for frying

Directions

• Place pork loin chops between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them until about 1/4 inch thick.

• Season each piece with salt and pepper.

• Place a slice of cheese in the center of each pork chop and fold the meat over to enclose the cheese, pressing edges together to seal.

• Dredge each filled pork chop in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs.

• Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).

• Fry each cutlet until golden brown and fully cooked, about 4–5 minutes per side.

• Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

• Slice and serve hot with rice, shredded cabbage, and tonkatsu sauce.

Nutrients

• Calories: 630 kcal per serving

• Protein: 32g

• Carbohydrates: 35g

• Fat: 40g

• Fiber: 2g

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Cheese Donkatsu sets itself apart from other breaded pork dishes by combining the richness of melted cheese with the crisp texture of panko-breaded pork. While traditional Japanese tonkatsu focuses on pork’s natural flavor and crunch, adding cheese creates an unexpected layer of gooeyness and indulgence that elevates the dish to something more luxurious. The contrast between the golden-brown exterior and the soft, melty interior keeps each bite interesting, offering both crisp and creamy textures. Visually, the dish is striking as well, with golden cutlets sliced to reveal strings of melted cheese inside. It’s a memorable meal that bridges comfort food and restaurant-quality presentation, making it a standout choice for those looking to try something a bit different from classic fried pork recipes.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

The main components in Cheese Donkatsu offer more than just flavor—they also provide essential nutrients that contribute to a balanced meal. Pork loin is a lean protein source, supplying high-quality protein necessary for muscle maintenance and overall health. It also provides important vitamins such as B12 and minerals like zinc and iron. Cheese adds not only creaminess but also calcium and additional protein. Mozzarella, commonly used in this dish, is relatively low in sodium and rich in calcium, supporting bone health. The panko breadcrumb coating creates a crunchy texture while absorbing less oil than traditional breadcrumbs, helping to keep the dish lighter while still offering satisfying crispiness. Using eggs in the breading process adds another layer of protein and healthy fats. Though the dish is fried, using good-quality oil like vegetable or canola oil and maintaining the correct frying temperature minimizes oil absorption, keeping the cutlets crisp rather than greasy. Serving the cutlets with shredded cabbage adds fiber and antioxidants, helping to balance the richness of the pork and cheese. Cabbage is particularly high in vitamin C and provides digestive benefits. The accompanying tonkatsu sauce often contains ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and soy sauce, adding flavor complexity while delivering small amounts of beneficial minerals and umami compounds.

Cooking Tips

To achieve the perfect Cheese Donkatsu at home, pay attention to a few key details during preparation and cooking. First, pounding the pork loin evenly ensures quick, uniform cooking and allows for better cheese enclosure. Make sure the pork isn’t too thin, as this can cause the cheese to leak during frying. When sealing the cheese inside, pressing the edges firmly together helps keep the filling secure. Some cooks recommend lightly scoring the edge of the meat to help it fold and seal more easily. The breading process is crucial—coating thoroughly with flour, egg, and panko helps create a durable crust that holds up to frying. Letting the breaded cutlets rest for a few minutes before frying can help the coating adhere better. Oil temperature is another important factor: maintaining it at around 350°F ensures the exterior crisps up quickly without overcooking the inside. Too low a temperature will make the cutlets greasy, while too high can burn the outside before the cheese melts. Using a deep skillet or pan rather than a shallow one gives more control over frying. Once cooked, draining the cutlets on a wire rack rather than paper towels helps maintain crispness by preventing steam from softening the crust. For a cleaner cut and to reveal the melted cheese attractively, let the cutlets rest for a minute or two before slicing. Pairing with tonkatsu sauce is traditional, but you can experiment with different condiments like spicy mayo or a light mustard sauce for variety.

Serving Suggestions

Cheese Donkatsu is best enjoyed hot and freshly cooked, but thoughtful presentation and sides enhance the overall experience. Typically, it’s served sliced into thick strips, revealing the melted cheese inside each piece. Arrange the slices on a plate alongside a mound of finely shredded cabbage, which provides a refreshing contrast to the rich cutlet. A small bowl of steamed white rice is the usual accompaniment, rounding out the meal with a neutral flavor base. Drizzle tonkatsu sauce over the cutlet or serve it on the side for dipping. For extra variety, include pickled vegetables such as daikon radish or pickled ginger, which help cleanse the palate between bites. Cheese Donkatsu pairs well with light soups such as miso or clear broth, which balance the fried texture with something warm and soothing. If serving as part of a larger meal, consider adding dishes like Japanese potato salad or edamame for a complete table spread. Beverages that complement this dish include cold green tea, lightly sweetened iced tea, or even a crisp beer or sake, which cut through the richness of the pork and cheese. If preparing Cheese Donkatsu for a party or special occasion, arrange individual portions on small plates with garnish for a restaurant-style presentation. Leftovers can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to restore crispness, although microwaving is not recommended as it can make the coating soggy.

Conclusion

Cheese Donkatsu is an indulgent yet approachable dish that blends the satisfying crunch of traditional Japanese tonkatsu with the creamy richness of melted cheese. Its popularity comes not just from its unique flavor but also from its ability to turn a simple fried cutlet into a memorable meal. The contrast of textures—crispy outside, melty inside—makes every bite enjoyable, while the combination of lean pork, cheese, and fresh sides creates a balanced plate. Nutritionally, it offers a good mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber when paired with vegetables like cabbage. The recipe is straightforward enough for home cooks yet special enough for dinner parties or family gatherings. Mastering the technique of sealing the cheese and frying at the right temperature ensures success every time. Versatile in serving options and customizable with different sauces or sides, Cheese Donkatsu can easily become a regular favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking to impress guests with a dish that feels both familiar and unique, this cheese-stuffed pork cutlet delivers on all fronts.