These Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy are the epitome of Southern comfort food. Juicy pork chops are coated in a crispy, golden crust and smothered in a rich, creamy bacon-infused gravy. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Crispy & Tender: The buttermilk soak ensures juicy pork chops with a perfectly crunchy coating.
- Flavorful Gravy: The bacon gravy adds a smoky, savory touch that ties the dish together.
- Classic Comfort: A hearty meal that’s simple to prepare yet feels indulgent and satisfying.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops 🍖
- 1 cup buttermilk 🥛
- 1 cup all-purpose flour 🌾
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ cup vegetable oil (for frying ) 🫒
For the Bacon Gravy:
- 4 slices bacon , chopped 🥓
- 2 tbsp butter 🧈
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups milk 🥛
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Soak the Pork Chops 🥄
- Place the pork chops in a shallow dish and pour the buttermilk over them, ensuring they’re fully submerged.
- Let the pork chops soak for 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This step tenderizes the meat and helps the coating stick better.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating 🥣
- In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the flour , salt , black pepper , paprika , garlic powder , and onion powder .
Step 3: Fry the Pork Chops 🔥
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat .
- Remove the pork chops from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each chop in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Fry the pork chops in the hot oil for 4–5 minutes per side , or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C ).
- Transfer the fried pork chops to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Bacon Gravy 🥓
- In the same skillet (or a clean one), cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
- Add the butter to the skillet with the bacon grease and let it melt. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute , stirring constantly to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk , ensuring no lumps remain. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.
- Season the gravy with salt and black pepper . Simmer for 3–5 minutes , or until thickened.
- Stir in the reserved crispy bacon and remove from heat.
Step 5: Serve 🍽️
- Place the fried pork chops on a serving platter or individual plates.
- Spoon the warm bacon gravy generously over the pork chops.
- Serve alongside mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread for a complete Southern-style meal.
Tips for Success:
- Add Veggies: Stir sautéed mushrooms or onions into the gravy for extra flavor.
- Make Ahead: The pork chops can be soaked in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
- Freeze Option: Freeze cooked pork chops without the gravy for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving with fresh gravy.
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 4):
- Calories: ~500
- Protein: ~35g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fat: ~30g
Enjoy these Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy as a comforting, hearty meal that’s packed with bold flavors and textures. The crispy pork chops paired with the creamy, smoky bacon gravy create a dish that’s pure Southern magic. Whether you’re serving it for Sunday supper or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds. Dig in and savor the deliciousness!