Name: Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 bone-in pork chops (1 inch thick); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup milk; 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying); 4 slices thick-cut bacon; 2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

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Let’s talk about country fried pork chops with bacon gravy—a dish so comforting and indulgent that it feels like a warm hug from grandma’s kitchen. The crispy, golden-brown coating on the pork chops paired with the smoky, creamy bacon gravy is nothing short of magical. If you’ve ever wondered how to make this southern classic at home, you’re in for a treat. This recipe brings together simple ingredients and straightforward steps to create a meal that’s perfect for Sunday dinners or any day you need a little comfort food.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just dipping your toes into frying, this recipe is approachable and oh-so-rewarding. Trust me, the aroma of sizzling pork and bacon wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathered around asking, “Is it ready yet?” So, grab your apron—it’s time to dive into the delicious world of country fried pork chops with bacon gravy!

The Story Behind Country Fried Pork Chops

Country fried pork chops are the epitome of southern cooking—rich, hearty, and full of flavor. This dish finds its roots in the South, where the technique of breading and frying meats has been passed down through generations. It’s often considered a cousin to chicken-fried steak, another southern staple, but pork chops bring their own unique flavor to the table.

I first encountered this dish at a small diner during a road trip through Tennessee. The pork chops were tender, the crust perfectly crisp, and the gravy—oh, the gravy—packed with smoky bacon goodness. I couldn’t stop thinking about it, and when I got home, I decided to recreate it. After a few experiments in my kitchen, I found the perfect balance of seasoning and crunch.

This recipe is a celebration of comfort food, the kind of meal that warms your soul and makes you feel connected to tradition. It’s especially wonderful during cooler months when rich, hearty dishes are just what you need. But honestly, I’ll make this year-round because, let’s face it, who can resist crispy pork chops and bacon gravy?

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the lineup of ingredients for this mouthwatering recipe, along with some tips and substitutions to make sure you get the best results:

Pork Chops: Look for bone-in pork chops that are about 1 inch thick. The bone adds extra flavor, and the thickness helps keep them juicy. You can use boneless chops if you prefer, but they cook faster, so keep an eye on them.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the base for the breading. If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
Seasonings: A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper gives the breading a flavorful kick. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking.
Eggs: These help the breading stick to the pork chops. Large eggs work best, but you can use egg whites or an egg substitute if needed.
Milk: Whole milk is ideal for richness, but you can use buttermilk for an extra tangy flavor or even plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds smokiness to the gravy. Turkey bacon works if you’re looking for a leaner option.
Chicken Broth: This forms the base of the gravy. Homemade broth or low-sodium store-bought broth works well.
Heavy Cream: Essential for making the gravy creamy. You can substitute half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. And don’t forget to have some crusty bread or mashed potatoes on hand to soak up the gravy!

Equipment Needed

To make country fried pork chops with bacon gravy, you don’t need a fancy kitchen setup. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cast Iron Skillet: This is perfect for frying because it retains heat evenly. If you don’t have one, a heavy-bottomed frying pan will work.
Tongs: Essential for flipping the pork chops without damaging the crust.
Mixing Bowls: You’ll need these for dredging the pork chops.
Whisk: For making the gravy smooth and lump-free.
Meat Thermometer: To ensure the pork chops are cooked to the perfect internal temperature (145°F or 63°C).

If you don’t own a cast iron skillet, I highly recommend investing in one—it’s a game-changer for frying and searing. They’re practically indestructible and worth every penny.

Preparation Method

Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your country fried pork chops with bacon gravy:

Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to help the breading stick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Set Up Dredging Station: In one bowl, beat the eggs with milk. In another bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Dredge the Pork Chops: Dip each pork chop into the egg mixture, then coat it in the seasoned flour. Press the flour firmly onto the chops to ensure a good crust.
Heat the Skillet: Heat ¼ cup of oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Test the oil by dropping in a pinch of flour—it should sizzle.
Fry the Pork Chops: Fry the pork chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove and set aside.
Cook the Bacon: In the same skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and crumble it, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan.
Make the Gravy: Whisk 3 tablespoons of flour into the bacon fat. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking to avoid lumps, then stir in heavy cream. Simmer until thickened.
Add Bacon to Gravy: Stir the crumbled bacon into the gravy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve: Pour the bacon gravy over the fried pork chops and garnish with parsley. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some pro tips to help you nail this recipe:

Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the pork chops in batches if needed to maintain a consistent oil temperature.
Use a meat thermometer: This ensures your pork chops are perfectly cooked without being dry.
Deglaze the pan: If the gravy starts sticking, add a splash of broth and scrape up the flavorful bits.
Double-coat for extra crunch: For an even crispier crust, repeat the dredging process.

And if your gravy turns out too thick, just whisk in a little more broth or cream until it reaches the desired consistency.

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to adapt it:

Dietary Variation: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a low-carb version.
Spicy Twist: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a hint of heat.
Seasonal Adaptation: Serve with sautéed apples or roasted root vegetables in the fall.
Cooking Method: If frying isn’t your thing, bake the breaded pork chops at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Personally, I’ve tried adding fresh thyme to the gravy for an herby flavor—it’s a subtle but delightful addition.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Here’s how to serve and store your country fried pork chops:

Serving Temperature: Serve the pork chops hot with the gravy poured generously on top.
Presentation Tips: Garnish with parsley and pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, or buttery biscuits.
Storage Instructions: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.

Fun fact: The gravy’s flavors deepen after a day, making leftovers even better!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a snapshot of the nutritional breakdown (per serving):

Calories: Approximately 450-500
Protein: 30g
Carbs: 20g
Fat: 30g

The pork chops are packed with protein, while the bacon gravy adds a dose of indulgence. If you’re watching your sodium, opt for low-sodium chicken broth and reduce the added salt. This dish is a treat, so enjoy it as part of a balanced diet!

Conclusion

Country fried pork chops with bacon gravy are the ultimate comfort food—crispy, savory, and downright satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or treating yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to tweak for different tastes and dietary needs.

Personally, I love this recipe because it reminds me of family dinners filled with laughter and good food. So, what are you waiting for? Try it out, and don’t forget to share your results in the comments below. I’d love to hear how you make it your own!

Happy cooking, and here’s to creating delicious memories!

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil.

Can I use boneless pork chops?

Absolutely! Just be aware they cook faster, so adjust the frying time accordingly.

How do I know if the pork chops are done?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

What sides go best with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, green beans, buttery biscuits, or even a simple side salad are great options!

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