If there’s a dish that screams comfort food, it’s Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy. Tender pork chops fried to golden perfection and smothered in rich, creamy bacon gravy—it’s the ultimate Southern feast. Paired with mashed potatoes or biscuits, this dish is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy, Juicy Chops: The double-dredging method ensures a perfectly crispy coating while keeping the pork chops tender and juicy.
- Decadent Bacon Gravy: Creamy, smoky, and rich, the gravy takes this dish to a whole new level.
- Easy and Versatile: Simple ingredients come together to create a meal fit for any occasion, from family dinners to celebrations.
Ingredients for Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Bacon Gravy:
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 tablespoons bacon grease (from cooked bacon)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork Chops
- In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk to create an egg wash.
- Dredge each pork chop in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Dip into the egg wash, then dredge again in the flour mixture. This double-dredging creates a thick, crispy crust.
2. Fry the Pork Chops
- Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot (test with a small pinch of flour—it should sizzle), fry the pork chops for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the pork chops and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
3. Make the Bacon Gravy
- In the same skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon bits and set aside, reserving 3 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the skillet.
- Stir in the flour, whisking constantly to create a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. Stir the cooked bacon bits back into the gravy for added flavor.
4. Serve and Enjoy
- Place the fried pork chops on serving plates and generously pour the warm bacon gravy over the top.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley for color, if desired. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or buttermilk biscuits.
Tips for Perfect Country Fried Pork Chops
- Temperature Control: Keep the oil temperature steady at medium-high for even frying. Too hot, and the crust may burn; too cool, and the chops may become greasy.
- Don’t Skip the Rest: Let the fried pork chops rest on paper towels for a minute or two. This keeps them crisp while draining excess oil.
- Creamy Gravy: To ensure a smooth gravy, whisk continuously while adding the milk and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, but bone-in chops tend to stay juicier during frying and add more flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
What’s the best oil for frying?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil works well due to their high smoke points.
How do I store leftovers?
Store fried pork chops and gravy separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chops in an oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness.
Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the gravy in advance and reheat it over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Conclusion: Southern Comfort at Its Finest
Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy is the epitome of Southern comfort food. The crispy, golden pork chops paired with the rich, smoky gravy create a dish that’s indulgent, hearty, and downright delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.
So grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy this Southern classic—because nothing says comfort quite like crispy pork chops smothered in bacon gravy.