These Country Fried Pork Chops are crispy, golden perfection, smothered in a rich and savory bacon-infused gravy. A Southern-inspired classic, this dish combines tender pork chops with a crunchy breading and a creamy, flavorful gravy that’s sure to satisfy. Serve it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread for a hearty, comforting meal.
📋 Ingredients
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs , beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- ¼ cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Bacon Gravy:
- 4 strips of bacon , cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups whole milk (warmed)
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
- Trim any excess fat from the pork chops for a cleaner cook.
- Pat each chop dry with a paper towel to help the breading adhere better.
- If your chops are particularly thick, gently pound them with a meat mallet to even them out. This ensures more even cooking.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- Prepare three shallow dishes:
- Dish 1: Combine the flour , paprika , garlic powder , onion powder , salt , and black pepper .
- Dish 2: Beat the eggs .
- Dish 3: Add the breadcrumbs .
- Bread the pork chops:
- Dredge each pork chop in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip into the beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage.
- Coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure even coverage.
- Place the breaded pork chops on a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes to allow the coating to adhere better.
Step 3: Pan-Fry the Pork Chops
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat . The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
- Fry the pork chops one or two at a time (to avoid overcrowding) for 4–5 minutes per side , or until golden brown and reaching an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) .
- Remove the pork chops to a plate lined with paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Bacon Gravy
- In the same skillet (remove excess oil but leave the flavorful brown bits), melt the butter over medium-low heat .
- Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in the warm milk , whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Cook for 3–5 minutes , whisking frequently, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
- Stir in the crumbled bacon and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Plate each pork chop and spoon a generous amount of the hot bacon gravy over the top.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme if desired.
- Serve immediately with your favorite Southern sides, such as mashed potatoes, collard greens, or cornbread.
Tips for Success
- Pork Chop Thickness: Use evenly sized chops for consistent cooking. Thicker chops may require additional frying time—check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Breading Tip: For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Gravy Adjustments: If the gravy is too thick, thin it out with a splash of warm milk. If it’s too thin, simmer for an additional minute or two.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to the gravy if needed.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked breaded pork chops on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Prepare the gravy fresh when ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy recipe is a comforting, indulgent dish that brings the flavors of the South to your table. The crispy, golden breading pairs perfectly with the juicy pork chops, while the creamy, bacon-infused gravy adds a rich, savory touch. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving a cozy meal, this dish delivers big on flavor and satisfaction. Dive into this hearty, soul-warming creation and savor every bite!
⏱ Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~50 minutes
🍽 Servings:
4 servings
🔥 Calories (Approximate):
~450 kcal per serving (varies based on portion size and sides)