Delicious Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with these Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy. This classic Southern dish takes humble pork chops and elevates them to a whole new level of deliciousness. The crispy, seasoned coating on the pork chops paired with the rich, savory bacon-infused gravy creates a mouthwatering combination that will have you coming back for seconds.

I first discovered this recipe during a visit to my grandmother in Tennessee, and it has since become a cherished favorite in my household. The aroma of these pork chops frying in a cast-iron skillet brings back fond memories of family dinners and cozy evenings spent around the table. The simplicity of the ingredients and the heartwarming flavors make this dish a true Southern classic.

Whether you’re looking to recreate a taste of the South or simply craving a comforting meal, these Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy are sure to hit the spot. Gather your loved ones around the table and savor each bite of this soul-satisfying dish.

Quick Benefits

• Ultimate comfort food experience: The crispy, seasoned coating on the pork chops combined with the savory bacon-infused gravy creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
• Convenient preparation: The pork chops can be coated ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 8 hours before cooking, making it a great make-ahead meal option.
• Versatile spicing: Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the level of spiciness to suit your taste preferences.
• Family favorite: This recipe is a true celebration of Southern comfort food and is guaranteed to become a staple on your family’s dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food Experience: This recipe transforms humble pork chops into a Southern classic topped with rich bacon gravy, promising a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
• Crispy and Savory: Enjoy the perfect combination of crispy, seasoned coating on the pork chops and a savory bacon-infused gravy that adds layers of flavor to each bite.
• Family Favorite: Passed down from generation to generation, this recipe is a cherished family favorite that brings loved ones together around the dinner table, creating unforgettable memories with every bite.
• Versatile and Make-Ahead: Prepare the pork chops up to the coating stage and refrigerate for up to 8 hours before cooking. Leftovers can be stored separately and reheated easily for a quick and delicious meal.
• Traditional Southern Pairings: Pair these country fried pork chops with classic Southern sides like creamy mashed potatoes, fresh green beans or collard greens, and buttermilk biscuits for a complete comfort food experience.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper in the recipe to suit your taste preferences, making it milder or spicier to cater to your desired level of heat.
• Tips for Lump-Free Gravy: Master the art of making lump-free gravy by incorporating cold milk into a hot roux gradually while whisking continuously, ensuring a smooth and velvety texture every time.
• Authentic Cooking Techniques: For an authentic touch, use a cast-iron skillet as recommended by the recipe to enhance the flavors and create a truly Southern dining experience.
• Perfectly Cooked Pork: Ensure your pork chops are cooked to perfection by using a meat thermometer to check for the ideal internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), guaranteeing juicy and tender meat every time.
• Memorable Family Dinners: Create lasting memories around the dinner table with this hearty and delicious dish that celebrates the best of Southern comfort food, promising to become a beloved family tradition.

Ingredients for Delicious Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy

For the Pork Chops

• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil for frying
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 4 boneless pork chops, about 1/2-inch thick
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Bacon Gravy

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 slices bacon, chopped

Pro Tips for Delicious Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy

To make the best country fried pork chops with bacon gravy, consider using a cast iron skillet for an added depth of flavor, just like grandma used to do. The seasoned pan truly enhances the taste of this Southern classic.

For lump-free gravy, remember to add cold milk gradually to your hot roux while whisking continuously. This technique helps prevent lumps from forming and ensures a smooth and velvety texture for your bacon-infused gravy.

To make meal prep easier, you can coat the pork chops ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 8 hours before frying. Additionally, store any leftovers by separating the pork chops and gravy in airtight containers. When reheating, use an oven to crisp up the pork chops and gently warm the gravy on the stovetop with a splash of milk for the perfect comfort food experience.

How to Make Delicious Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

Combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in one shallow dish. In a separate dish, whisk together eggs and milk. Coat each pork chop in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg mixture, and coat again in the flour mixture. Set aside.

Step 2: Fry the Pork Chops

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat vegetable oil until hot but not smoking. Fry pork chops for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C). Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Bacon Gravy

In the same skillet used for bacon, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until gravy thickens. Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add crispy bacon back to gravy.

Storage Tips

Once you have cooked and enjoyed the country fried pork chops with bacon gravy, it’s important to properly store any leftovers. If you have pork chops remaining, store them separately from the gravy. Place them in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, place the pork chops on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.

For the bacon gravy, also store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, gently warm the gravy on the stovetop over low heat. To adjust the consistency, add a splash of milk while stirring until you reach the desired thickness. Remember that reheating the gravy slowly will help maintain its flavor and texture.

To prepare the country fried pork chops in advance, you can coat them up to 8 hours before cooking. Lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure to leave space between each chop to prevent sticking. This makes it convenient to have them ready to fry when you’re ready to enjoy this delicious Southern classic.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make this recipe a bit lighter, you can opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of pork chops. The chicken can be pounded to an even thickness to ensure quick and uniform cooking. Additionally, you can use a mixture of whole wheat flour and cornmeal in place of all-purpose flour for a slightly nuttier and heartier coating.

For a vegetarian twist on this classic dish, you can swap the pork chops for thick slices of firm tofu. Press the tofu beforehand to remove excess moisture, then coat and fry it as you would the pork chops. To enhance the tofu’s flavor, consider marinating it in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika before breading and frying.

If you’re looking to make the gravy vegetarian or simply prefer a different flavor profile, you can omit the bacon and use butter or vegetable oil as the base for the roux. To enhance the umami depth, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast to the gravy. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices such as thyme, sage, or smoked salt to customize the seasoning to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try plating the country fried pork chops with bacon gravy on a bed of creamy mashed sweet potatoes instead of the traditional mashed potatoes. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes will complement the savory flavors of the dish beautifully, adding a unique twist to this classic Southern comfort food.

Another fun idea is to serve the country fried pork chops in slider form by placing a crispy pork chop on a small toasted biscuit or slider bun, drizzling with a spoonful of warm bacon gravy, and topping with a tangy slaw made of shredded cabbage and carrots dressed with a creamy buttermilk dressing. These mini country fried pork chop sliders are perfect for parties or gatherings, offering a delicious and convenient way to enjoy this beloved comfort food dish in a bite-sized format.

FAQs for Delicious Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy

Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as bone-in chops may take a bit longer to cook through.

Can I make this recipe without bacon for a vegetarian version?

Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and still make a delicious gravy using vegetable broth or stock instead. The key is to infuse the gravy with savory flavors through herbs and seasonings.

What can I serve as a side dish with these country fried pork chops?

This dish pairs well with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, collard greens, and buttermilk biscuits. For a sweet contrast, homemade applesauce makes a great accompaniment to this savory meal.

Is it possible to freeze the cooked pork chops with gravy for later consumption?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork chops and gravy separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy is a soul-warming dish that brings together the best of Southern flavors in a single bite. The crispy pork chops smothered in rich bacon-infused gravy are a true comfort food delight that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you’re making this for a special family dinner or just a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your household.

So, gather your ingredients, heat up that cast iron skillet, and get ready to create a memorable meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With its nostalgic flavors and heartwarming appeal, Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy is more than just a recipe—it’s a taste of home and tradition that you’ll want to savor time and time again. Enjoy every bite and relish in the joy of sharing this comforting dish with your loved ones.

Delicious Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy

“Transform humble pork chops into a comforting Southern classic with crispy coating and savory bacon gravy – a true celebration of Southern comfort food!”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time20 Minutes

Cook Time25 Minutes

Total Time45 Minutes

CuisineSouthern

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops

• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil for frying
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 4 boneless pork chops, about 1/2-inch thick
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Bacon Gravy

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 slices bacon, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork Chops: Combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in one shallow dish. In a separate dish, whisk together eggs and milk. Coat each pork chop in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg mixture, and coat again in the flour mixture. Set aside.
2. Fry the Pork Chops: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat vegetable oil until hot but not smoking. Fry pork chops for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C). Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
3. Make the Bacon Gravy: In the same skillet used for bacon, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until gravy thickens. Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add crispy bacon back to gravy.