When I think of classic Italian dishes that warm the soul, Veal Marsala with Mushrooms always comes to mind.

This dish hails from Sicily and combines tender veal with a rich, savory Marsala wine sauce, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

The earthy flavors of mushrooms elevate the dish, adding a delightful depth that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Table of Contents

Ingredient List

To create a delicious Veal Marsala with Mushrooms, gather the following ingredients:

Veal cutlets – 1 pound, thinly sliced
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
All-purpose flour – ½ cup, for dredging
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Butter – 2 tablespoons
Mushrooms – 8 ounces, sliced (I prefer cremini or button mushrooms)
Shallots – 2, finely chopped
Marsala wine – ¾ cup, dry variety
Chicken broth – ½ cup
Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped for garnish

Ensure that your veal is tender and pounded to an even thickness for the best results. The combination of Marsala wine and mushrooms creates a rich sauce that ties the dish together beautifully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by gathering all the ingredients. I recommend having everything within reach to streamline the cooking process. Slice the veal cutlets into even portions, about a quarter inch thick. Clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel, and then slice them into thick pieces. Finely chop the shallots, and measure out the Marsala wine.

Pound the Veal

Place the veal cutlets between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound them with a meat mallet until they are uniform in thickness. This step helps to tenderize the meat and ensures even cooking. Season both sides with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Dredge the Veal

On a large plate, spread out the flour. Lightly dredge each pounded veal cutlet in the flour. Shake off any excess flour to prevent a gummy texture during cooking.

Sauté the Veal

In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil and one tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the flour-dusted veal cutlets. Cook for about three to four minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Cook the Mushrooms and Shallots

In the same skillet, add two more tablespoons of olive oil. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and chopped shallots. Sauté for about five minutes or until the mushrooms are browned and the shallots are translucent. This step evokes an enticing aroma that fills the kitchen.

Add the Marsala Wine

Pour the Marsala wine into the skillet over the mushroom mixture. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pan, deglazing any flavorful browned bits. Allow the wine to simmer for about three to five minutes until it reduces by half, creating a rich sauce.

Combine and Finish

Return the cooked veal cutlets to the skillet. Coat them thoroughly in the mushroom and Marsala sauce. Let the veal simmer in the sauce for an additional two to three minutes to absorb the flavors.

Serve

Recipe Notes & Variations

When making Veal Marsala with Mushrooms, there are a few notes and variations to keep in mind for an even more delightful dish.

Cooking Method

I love using a heavy skillet for this recipe as it retains heat well, ensuring even cooking. If you prefer a healthier option, you can grill the veal instead of sautéing it. Just make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

Wine Selection

Marsala wine is essential for this dish, but you can experiment with different types. Dry Marsala provides a rich depth while sweet Marsala adds a touch of sweetness. For a different flavor profile, you could even try using Madeira or Sherry in place of Marsala.

Mushroom Varieties

While I often use cremini or button mushrooms, feel free to switch it up. Shiitake or portobello mushrooms can add a unique taste and texture that complements the veal beautifully.

Additional Ingredients

For a twist, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. I personally enjoy sprinkling in some fresh herbs right before serving for added freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Veal Marsala pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or polenta for a hearty meal. I also like to serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Gluten-Free Options

To make the dish gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for dredging the veal. The sauce still turns out rich and flavorful!

Make-Ahead Tips

If I’m hosting a dinner, I often prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just reheat it gently and add the sautéed veal before serving to keep everything warm and delicious.

These notes and variations allow me to tailor the Veal Marsala with Mushrooms to my taste preferences, making the dish versatile yet always delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Veal Marsala with Mushrooms is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions that elevate this meal.

Classic Pairings

I love serving Veal Marsala alongside creamy mashed potatoes. The richness of the Marsala sauce perfectly complements the smoothness of the potatoes. Another great option is polenta, which adds a delightful texture and absorbs the sauce wonderfully.

Vegetable Sides

To add some freshness to the meal, I recommend serving a light vegetable side. Steamed green beans or sautéed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice bring brightness and balance to the dish. Garlic roasted broccoli also adds a lovely crunch and enhances the flavors.

Bread Choices

A crusty Italian bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. I often set a warm basket of bread on the table, allowing everyone to enjoy every last drop of the delectable flavor.

Salad Options

To round out the meal, consider offering a simple arugula salad. Tossed with a light vinaigrette, the peppery arugula cuts through the richness of the veal and provides a refreshing contrast. Adding some shaved Parmesan can elevate the salad even more.

Wine Pairing

For the ideal drink companion, a glass of dry white wine or a light red works wonders. I usually opt for a Pinot Grigio or a Chianti, as the acidity in these wines balances the savory flavors of the Marsala sauce beautifully.

These serving suggestions not only enhance the overall presentation but also elevate the dining experience, making my Veal Marsala a meal to remember.

Nutrition Information

When I whip up a delicious plate of Veal Marsala with Mushrooms, I always find it helpful to consider the nutritional value of this savory dish.

Here’s a breakdown of the key nutritional components per serving.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350 kcal
Protein	35 g
Total Fat	10 g
Saturated Fat	3 g
Carbohydrates	20 g
Dietary Fiber	1 g
Sugars	2 g
Sodium	600 mg

Key Nutritional Highlights

Calories: At about 350 calories per serving, Veal Marsala can fit comfortably into a balanced meal plan.
Protein: With around 35 grams of protein, this dish is excellent for muscle maintenance and overall health.
Fat Content: The total fat content is moderate, making it a flavorful yet reasonably healthy choice. I keep an eye on the saturated fat for heart health.
Carbohydrates: The carbohydrates, primarily from flour used for dredging, offer a nice energy boost without being excessive.
Sodium: The sodium level can vary based on the ingredients used. For a lower-sodium option, I recommend using low-sodium broth or adjusting the seasoning as preferred.

Incorporating Nutrition Into My Meal

When I prepare Veal Marsala, I often round out the meal with fresh vegetables to increase fiber and vitamins.

Steamed green beans or a simple arugula salad adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color to the plate.

It’s an enjoyable way to boost the nutritional profile while enhancing the flavor experience.

By considering portion sizes and accompanying sides, I can create a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet stays mindful of health.

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited to try making Veal Marsala with Mushrooms as I am.

This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings a taste of Sicily right into your kitchen.

The tender veal paired with that rich Marsala sauce and earthy mushrooms creates a flavor profile that’s hard to resist.

Don’t forget to play around with the ingredients and make it your own.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress.

So grab your skillet and get cooking, your taste buds will thank you!