The sizzling sound of pork chops hitting a hot skillet is pure music to my ears. As I prepare to whip up my beloved Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy, I can already envision the smiles around the dinner table. This Southern comfort food staple isn’t just quick to make; it’s also a fantastic way to elevate your weeknight meals to something truly special. Each juicy, golden-brown chop is lovingly topped with a rich, homemade gravy that brings a delightful twist to your standard pork chop recipe. Whether you’re trying to escape the fast-food rut or simply want to indulge in some hearty goodness, this recipe will make your taste buds dance. Curious to learn how to create this mouthwatering dish from the comfort of your own kitchen? Let’s dive in!
Why is This Recipe a Must-Try?
Satisfaction Guaranteed: There's nothing quite like the satisfaction of biting into a crispy, juicy pork chop topped with rich bacon gravy.
Southern Comfort: Embrace the heartwarming flavors of Southern comfort food with this recipe that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Easy Cooking: With simple steps and ingredients, even novice cooks can impress their friends and family.
Time-Saver: In just 40 minutes, you can put this delicious meal on the table, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleaser: Watch as your loved ones gather around to enjoy this incredibly flavorful dish, leaving them craving seconds!
This is a fantastic opportunity to break away from fast food and explore delicious homemade options. For more comforting ideas, check out our Southern-style recipes and enhance your cooking repertoire!
Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy Ingredients
• Get ready to savor homemade goodness!
For the Pork Chops
- 4 bone-in pork chops – these provide rich flavor and juicy texture, essential for comfort food.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – this coats the chops for that crispy, golden crust that everyone loves.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds savory depth to every bite.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – brings a hint of sweetness and complexity to the seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – for an enticing color and smoky flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors and brings everything together.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – adds a gentle kick to elevate the seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons canola oil – this is perfect for frying, providing a neutral taste and high smoke point.
For the Bacon Gravy
- 4 slices bacon, chopped – infuses the gravy with irresistible smoky flavor, making it truly special.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for gravy) – thickens the gravy to a luscious consistency.
- 2 cups milk – creates a creamy base that's rich and comforting, essential for homemade gravy.
- Salt and pepper to taste – season to your preference for the perfect finishing touch.
Crafting these Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy is a true celebration of Southern comfort food that will warm the hearts and fill the bellies of your loved ones!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. This will keep your perfectly cooked pork chops warm while you prepare the delicious bacon gravy. Make sure your oven is ready to go, as it will help maintain the warm, comforting texture of the Country Fried Pork Chops.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Flour
In a shallow dish, mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This seasoned flour will give your pork chops a flavorful and crispy coating. Ensure everything is well combined so that every bite of your fried chops is bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Coat the Pork Chops
Take the bone-in pork chops and thoroughly coat them in the seasoned flour mixture. Gently shake off any excess flour to prevent clumping. As you do this, visualize the golden crust that will form when you cook the chops. This step is essential for achieving the classic, crunchy exterior you desire from your Country Fried Pork Chops.
Step 4: Heat the Skillet
Heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to shimmer, indicating it’s hot enough for frying. This is where the magic happens! The sizzling sound of the pork chops hitting the hot skillet will heighten your anticipation for that crispy, golden-brown crust.
Step 5: Fry the Pork Chops
Carefully add the coated pork chops to the skillet, cooking them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a lovely golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a baking sheet in the preheated oven to keep them warm.
Step 6: Cook the Bacon
In the same skillet with the leftover drippings, add 4 slices of chopped bacon. Cook over medium heat until the bacon is crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This will not only add flavor to your bacon gravy but also ensure a rich, smoky base that complements the pork chops beautifully.
Step 7: Make the Roux
Once the bacon is crispy, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the drippings in the skillet. Whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This crucial step will help thicken your gravy, ensuring a luscious texture that perfectly complements your Country Fried Pork Chops.
Step 8: Add the Milk
Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue whisking as the mixture begins to thicken, keeping an eye on the heat to prevent it from boiling too vigorously. After about 5-7 minutes, you should have a creamy, rich gravy that’s ready to be seasoned.
Step 9: Season the Gravy
Taste your bacon gravy and season it with salt and pepper to your liking. This final touch is where you can adjust the flavors to make sure it’s just right. Remember, this gravy is meant to enhance your Country Fried Pork Chops, so get it perfected!
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!
Now it’s time to serve up your mouthwatering Country Fried Pork Chops! Plate the chops and generously pour the creamy bacon gravy over the top. Feel the warmth and love in each bite as you enjoy this comforting dish, perfect for sharing with loved ones around the dinner table.
How to Store and Freeze Country Fried Pork Chops
Fridge: Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in the fridge to retain their juiciness.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy the country fried pork chops later, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the package!
Reheating: To reheat, place the pork chops in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or use a microwave for a quick fix, but be cautious as it may not retain as much crispiness.
Gravy Storage: Store leftover bacon gravy separately in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Make Ahead Options
These Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and coat the pork chops in flour up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate them until you're ready to cook. Also, the bacon gravy can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just reheat it gently on the stove, whisking to restore its creamy consistency. To maintain quality, ensure the pork chops are sealed well in plastic wrap or a container to prevent moisture loss. When you're ready to serve, simply cook the pork chops as directed and pour over the warm gravy for delicious, stress-free Southern comfort food!
What to Serve with Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy
A heartwarming meal is not complete without delightful sides that complement your main dish elegantly.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The luscious texture of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the rich bacon gravy, creating a comforting union on your plate.
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Southern Green Beans: Freshly sautéed green beans add a crisp, vibrant contrast, lightening the meal while preserving that scrumptious Southern charm.
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Honey-Butter Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread is a classic side that perfectly balances the savory flavor of the fried pork chops. Don't forget to slather on that honey butter!
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Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy dish acts as a refreshing palate cleanser that beautifully offsets the rich heaviness of the pork and gravy.
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Fried Green Tomatoes: Their crispy exterior and tartness make fried green tomatoes an ideal sidekick, enhancing the Southern feel of this comfort food feast.
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Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits can provide a sweet and refreshing contrast, adding a lightness that enhances the overall meal experience.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: Serve a tall glass of sweet iced tea or refreshing lemonade to wash it all down, offering a delightful balance to the savory dishes.
Country Fried Pork Chops Variations
Feel free to personalize your Country Fried Pork Chops with these enticing ideas that'll elevate your meal!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a fiery twist that will tickle your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
- Herb Infusion: Mix dried herbs like thyme and rosemary into the seasoned flour for an aromatic depth that complements the pork beautifully.
- Bacon Alternatives: Swap bacon for smoked sausage to create a different flavor profile and enjoy a unique twist to your gravy.
- Creamy Variation: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese into the gravy for a velvety texture and an irresistible tang.
- Vegetarian Option: Use eggplant or portobello mushrooms instead of pork chops for a hearty, plant-based alternative that still delivers on texture and flavor.
- Extra Crunch: Top your pork chops with crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs before frying to add an extra layer of crunch that’s absolutely delightful.
- Savory Citrus: Incorporate lemon zest into the seasoning mix for a refreshing pop that brightens the dish wonderfully.
Remember, cooking is all about exploring flavors, so have fun with these variations! For more scrumptious inspiration, don't forget to check out our collection of Southern-style recipes or try your hand at other delightful homemade gravies to complement your meal.
Expert Tips for Country Fried Pork Chops
Crispy Coating: Ensure the pork chops are fully coated with the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess to prevent a gummy texture while frying.
Oil Temperature: Use medium-high heat to fry the pork chops. If the oil isn't hot enough, the coating can become soggy. A hot skillet is key for that crispy crust in your Country Fried Pork Chops.
Perfect Timing: Don't overcrowd the skillet. Fry one or two chops at a time to maintain consistent heat, ensuring even cooking and browning.
Milk Gradually: When making the gravy, pour in the milk slowly while whisking. This helps prevent lumps and gives you that silky texture for the bacon gravy.
Taste and Adjust: Always taste your bacon gravy before serving. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, ensuring it perfectly complements the rich pork flavor.
Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pork chops for frying?
Absolutely! Look for bone-in pork chops as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. When selecting, ensure the chops have a rosy pink color and minimal dark spots. Avoid chops that appear dull or have excessive discoloration.
How should I store leftover pork chops and gravy?
Very simply! Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the bacon gravy, keep it in a separate container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Make sure both are completely cooled before storing to maintain their quality.
Can I freeze the pork chops and gravy?
You sure can! Wrap leftover pork chops tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, placing them in the freezer for up to 3 months. For gravy, allow it to cool, then store in a freezer-safe container. Just remember to label everything with the date!
What’s the best way to reheat the pork chops?
To reheat the pork chops while keeping them crispy, preheat your oven to 350°F and place them on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. If you prefer, you can use a microwave, but keep in mind the pork chops may lose some of their crunch.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely, if you or someone in your family has gluten allergies! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour, and ensure the bacon used is gluten-free. The resulting dish will still be comforting and just as delicious!
Is this recipe safe for my pets?
While the pork chops themselves are safe, it’s best to avoid giving your pets the bacon gravy. Bacon can be high in fat and seasonings that are not recommended for pets, so stick to plain pork as an occasional treat, but always consult your vet if uncertain.
Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy That's Comfort Food Bliss
Equipment
- large skillet
- Oven
- shallow dish
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops
- 4 pieces bone-in pork chops provides rich flavor and juicy texture
- 1 cup all-purpose flour for crispy coating
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder adds savory depth
- 1 teaspoon onion powder brings sweetness and complexity
- 1 teaspoon paprika for color and smoky flavor
- 0.5 teaspoon salt enhances flavors
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper adds gentle kick
- 2 tablespoons canola oil for frying
For the Bacon Gravy
- 4 slices bacon, chopped infuses gravy with smoky flavor
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour to thicken gravy
- 2 cups milk for creamy base
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°F to keep cooked pork chops warm.
- In a shallow dish, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the pork chops in the seasoned flour mixture.
- Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the pork chops for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- In the same skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy.
- Sprinkle flour over drippings in the skillet and whisk to make a roux.
- Gradually add milk while whisking until the gravy thickens.
- Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the pork chops topped with bacon gravy.
