Country Fried Pork Chops With Bacon Gravy Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting taste of country-fried pork chops smothered in rich, savory bacon gravy. The crispy golden crust gives way to juicy, tender meat, while the creamy gravy adds an irresistible smoky depth. It's the perfect dish to bring a little Southern charm to your dinner table.

this Recipe

I first learned to make this recipe from my grandmother, who always said that the secret to the best country-fried pork chops was a well-seasoned breading and a hot, sizzling skillet. Over the years, I've fine-tuned it to be both easy and foolproof, ensuring a delicious meal every time. If you're looking for a hearty, satisfying dinner that feels like a warm hug, this is it.

Why You'll Love This Country Fried Pork Chops With Bacon Gravy

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite comfort food. This dish is packed with flavor, crunch, and the kind of rich, homemade goodness that turns an ordinary meal into something special.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. Even if you're new to frying, this recipe walks you through step by step to achieve perfectly crispy pork chops every time.

It’s also a budget-friendly meal. Pork chops are an affordable protein, and the rest of the ingredients are pantry staples, making this dish a great option for feeding the whole family without breaking the bank.

The combination of textures and flavors is unbeatable. The crispy coating on the pork chops contrasts beautifully with the creamy, smoky bacon gravy, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

Best of all, it’s a versatile recipe. Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or even biscuits to soak up every last drop of that delicious gravy.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture.

The pork chops are the star of the show. I recommend using bone-in pork chops that are about ¾-inch thick. They stay juicier than boneless chops and have a richer flavor. If you use thinner chops, just be mindful of cooking time to avoid drying them out.

The seasoned breading is what gives the pork chops their irresistible crunch. A combination of all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and a touch of garlic powder creates a coating that crisps up beautifully in the skillet.

Bacon not only adds smoky goodness to the gravy but also provides the fat needed to cook the flour for a perfect roux. Thick-cut bacon works best for deeper flavor and meaty bites in the gravy.

For the gravy, whole milk is my go-to for a creamy texture. You can substitute half-and-half for a richer sauce or use a bit of chicken broth for a lighter variation.

You’ll need a large, heavy-bottomed skillet to fry the pork chops evenly and a wire rack to drain them, ensuring they stay crispy before serving.

How To Make This Country Fried Pork Chops With Bacon Gravy

Making this dish is simpler than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step for foolproof results.

Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving about two tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan. This flavorful fat will be the base for your gravy later.

While the bacon cooks, prepare your breading station. In one shallow dish, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. In another, beat a couple of eggs with a splash of milk. Dip each pork chop into the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, then back into the flour for a double coating. This ensures maximum crispiness.

Heat oil in the skillet and carefully place the breaded pork chops in a single layer. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Work in batches if needed, and let the fried chops rest on a wire rack to maintain their crunch.

Now, it’s time for the bacon gravy. Sprinkle a couple of tablespoons of flour into the skillet with the remaining bacon grease, whisking continuously to create a roux. Cook for about a minute, then gradually add warm milk while stirring to prevent lumps. Keep stirring until the gravy thickens, then crumble in the crispy bacon for added flavor.

Serve the pork chops smothered in the creamy bacon gravy, and get ready for the ultimate comfort food experience. This whole process takes about 30-40 minutes, making it a great option for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, you’ll be happy to know that this dish stores well. Keep any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

The bacon gravy can also be stored separately in a sealed container for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk and warm it over low heat, stirring until smooth.

For longer storage, the pork chops can be frozen for up to two months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is already packed with flavor, but there are plenty of ways to customize it to your taste.

If you prefer a lighter version, use boneless pork chops and pan-fry them with less oil. You can also substitute turkey bacon for a leaner gravy option.

For an extra crispy coating, try adding a bit of cornstarch to the flour mixture. This trick enhances the crunch factor, making the pork chops even crispier.

Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breading or a few dashes of hot sauce to the egg mixture before dredging the pork chops.

The bacon gravy can also be made with sausage instead. Simply swap out the bacon for crumbled breakfast sausage, and you’ll have a rich sausage gravy that pairs perfectly with the pork chops.

No pork on hand? This same technique works wonderfully with chicken or even cube steak for a classic chicken-fried steak variation.

No matter how you tweak it, this country-fried pork chop recipe is sure to become a favorite. Experiment, make it your own, and enjoy every crispy, gravy-covered bite.

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