Polish Egg Cutlets (Kotlety Jajeczne)
If you’ve never tried Polish Egg Cutlets, get ready for a delightful surprise! These little patties are a cozy, comforting staple in Polish kitchens crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside. Imagine perfectly boiled eggs combined with herbs and breadcrumbs, pan-fried to golden perfection. They’re a perfect snack, appetizer, or light meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again.
Why You’ll Love Polish Egg Cutlets (Kotlety Jajeczne)
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Serve as a snack, side dish, or even a main with a fresh salad.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples like eggs and breadcrumbs.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: Crispy, tasty, and perfect for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients in Polish Egg Cutlets (Kotlety Jajeczne)
Here’s what brings these cutlets to life:
Hard-Boiled Eggs: The hearty base, mashed to a creamy texture.
Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Help bind and give the cutlets their crispy crust.
Egg (for coating): Used to help the breadcrumbs stick.
Fresh Parsley: Brings a bright, herbaceous note.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balance.
Oil: For frying to golden, crispy perfection.

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add oil for frying.
Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mash the hard-boiled eggs with finely chopped onion, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir in enough breadcrumbs to form a firm mixture that holds together when shaped.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Have a plate ready with beaten egg and another with breadcrumbs for coating.
Assemble the Dish: Shape the egg mixture into small patties. Dip each patty into the beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Cook to Perfection: Fry the cutlets in the hot oil for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Finishing Touches: Remove and drain on paper towels to soak up any excess oil.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm with mustard, a dollop of sour cream, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 220
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
How to Serve Polish Egg Cutlets (Kotlety Jajeczne)
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Serve alongside a fresh green salad, pickled vegetables, or alongside rye bread for a traditional touch. They also make a fantastic appetizer at gatherings or a quick lunch option with some creamy horseradish or mustard sauce.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– Use fresh breadcrumbs for the best texture or make your own by toasting bread slices.
– Adjust seasoning to taste don’t be shy with herbs!
– For a lighter version, bake the cutlets instead of frying.
– Make sure the patties are firm before coating to prevent them from falling apart.
– Leftovers reheat well in a skillet or oven to keep the crispiness.
FAQ’s
1 Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs?
Yes, store-bought breadcrumbs work perfectly.
2 Can I prepare the cutlets in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and refrigerate it before frying.
3 Are these gluten-free?
Not if you use regular breadcrumbs; substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs to make it gluten-free.
4 Can I bake instead of fry?
Absolutely! Bake at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
5 Can I add cheese to the mixture?
Yes, a little grated cheese like cheddar or parmesan adds extra flavor.
6 What can I serve with Polish Egg Cutlets?
They go well with salads, pickles, or creamy dips.
7 How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
8 Can I freeze these cutlets?
Yes, freeze before frying for best results. Reheat in the oven.
9 What if my mixture is too wet?
Add more breadcrumbs to firm it up.
10 Can I add spices like paprika or garlic powder?
Definitely! Customize the flavor to your liking.
Conclusion
Polish Egg Cutlets (Kotlety Jajeczne) are a simple, satisfying dish that brings a little piece of Polish comfort food to your table. Crispy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, these cutlets are perfect for any occasion, from a quick snack to a light meal. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll have a new favorite that’s both nostalgic and delicious.
Print
Polish Egg Cutlets (Kotlety Jajeczne)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 cutlets 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Polish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Polish Egg Cutlets, or Kotlety Jajeczne, are crispy, golden patties made from boiled eggs, breadcrumbs, and herbs. These savory cutlets are a traditional Polish appetizer or side dish, perfect for brunch or a light meal.
Ingredients
- 6 large hard-boiled eggs, peeled
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or sour cream
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten (for coating)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Chop the hard-boiled eggs finely or pulse briefly in a food processor to break them up.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chopped eggs, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, parsley, mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a thick mixture.
- Shape the mixture into small oval or round patties.
- Dip each patty into the beaten eggs, then coat with additional breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the patties for 3–4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For a lighter version, bake the cutlets at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Add chopped dill or chives for extra flavor.
- Serve as a side dish, appetizer, or part of a buffet spread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cutlet
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Polish egg cutlets, kotlety jajeczne, egg patties, fried egg cutlets