“My husband is always requesting these, but he usually only gets them on holidays. Last night I caved and halved the recipe just for our dinner. It may have been a mistake because now he’s going to want them all the time haha!”

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Protein

1. If you’re using chicken, slice the breasts into thinner cutlets. For pork or beef, you can use thinly sliced steaks or chops. This ensures the meat cooks quickly and evenly.
2. Season the protein with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Dredge the Protein

3. Set up a dredging station. In one bowl, combine the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In another bowl, beat the egg. In a third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano.
4. Dredge each piece of protein in the flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.

Step 3: Fry the Protein

5. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded protein to the pan in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
6. Cook the protein for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese

7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Arrange the fried protein in a single layer in a baking dish. Top each piece with a spoonful of marinara sauce and a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
9. Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

10. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately! This dish pairs perfectly with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Tips for the Best “Holiday-Only” Recipe, Now Made Regularly:

• Halve the Recipe: If you don’t want to make a full batch, simply halve the recipe—like I did—so it’s more suitable for a weeknight dinner. But beware: once you start making this regularly, it might become a household favorite!
• Customize the Protein: You can use chicken, pork, or beef for this dish, or even a vegetarian option like eggplant or zucchini for a twist. The key is the crispy, cheesy topping, which will make anything taste amazing.
• Add Extra Veggies: You can sneak in some vegetables into the sauce—like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers—if you want to add some extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make Ahead: This recipe can be prepared ahead of time! You can bread and fry the protein earlier in the day and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply add the sauce, cheese, and bake.

Why This Recipe Will Always Be a Family Favorite

I’m now fully aware that by halving this recipe for our regular dinner, I might have created a problem. My husband loves it so much that he’s already asking for it again next week! And to be honest, I can’t blame him—this dish is just too good to resist.

There’s something about the crispy exterior, the rich marinara sauce, and the gooey mozzarella that makes it impossible to stop at just one bite. While I had always kept it as a special-occasion meal, it’s clear that it has now become a staple in our household. And even though I may be paying the price in constant requests, it’s totally worth it.

This dish is perfect for anyone who loves comforting, cheesy meals that bring family together. So, whether you’re making it for a holiday or a regular weeknight, be prepared for it to become a hit—just don’t be surprised when you’re asked to make it on a regular basis!

Enjoy!