What Are Sweetbreads and How Can I Use Them?

Sweetbreads is easier to cook with than it looks. Here's how to choose, use, and store them, what to substitute, and 6 recipes to get you started.

Recipes using sweetbreads

There are 6 recipes that contain this ingredient.

Sweetbread Bake

Pan-fried sweetbreads and button mushrooms baked under a golden yogurt, egg, and cheese gratin. A refined dinner for two that's ready in an hour.

Caribbean Guacamole

Caribbean guacamole: a tropical twist on classic guac with diced avocado, sweet papaya, lime, red chiles, and toasted coconut, served with crisp bread points. Island sunshine on a cracker.

Creamed Sweetbreads

Tender sweetbreads poached in milk, cubed, and served in a classic béchamel sauce. A refined old-world appetizer for adventurous cooks who appreciate offal done right.

Sweetbread Casserole

Tender sweetbreads nestled in a velvety cream sauce with mushrooms and water chestnuts, topped with golden breadcrumbs and cheese. A classic offal casserole that turns humble organ meat into an elegant dinner.

Ravioli with Sweetbreads Filling

Ravioli with sweetbreads filling: a classic French-Italian preparation of ground veal sweetbreads, shoulder, shallots, and Cognac baked into a rich pasta stuffing. Old-world fine dining at home.

Braised Sweetbreads

Golden-crusted sweetbreads braised in dry sherry and chicken broth, finished with cream and butter. A classic French bistro dish with a warm hint of mace that's easier than you think.

All 6 recipes