Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy. This Southern classic isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together. Imagine crispy, golden pork chops smothered in a rich, smoky bacon gravy—pure bliss on a plate! Whether you’re craving a nostalgic dish from your childhood or looking for the ultimate indulgent dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.
So, let’s dive into the delicious world of Southern fried goodness and make a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love Country Fried Pork Chops
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this dish:
- Flavor Explosion: The crispy pork chops paired with creamy, smoky bacon gravy create a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
- Easy to Make: No fancy techniques required—just simple, comforting cooking.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a weeknight meal or a family gathering, this dish is always a hit.
- Customizable: Adjust seasonings, swap proteins, or add extra spice to suit your taste.
Ingredients 🛒
For the Pork Chops:
- 🥩 4 boneless pork chops (about 150g each)
- 🍞 100g all-purpose flour
- 🧂 5g salt
- 🌶️ 5g black pepper
- 🌶️ 2g paprika
- 🧄 2g garlic powder
- 🥛 150ml buttermilk
- 🛢️ 250ml vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Bacon Gravy:
- 🥓 4 strips bacon, chopped (about 80g)
- 🧈 30g unsalted butter
- 🍞 30g all-purpose flour
- 🥛 500ml whole milk
- 🧂 5g salt
- 🌶️ 5g black pepper
Necessary Tools 🛠️
- Large skillet 🍳
- Mixing bowls 🥣
- Shallow dishes for dredging 🍽️
- Whisk 🔄
- Paper towels for draining 🏵️
- Tongs or spatula for flipping 🔥
Ingredient Swaps and Additions ✨
- Swap Pork for Chicken: Prefer chicken? This recipe works beautifully with chicken breasts or thighs.
- Add Some Heat: A dash of cayenne pepper in the flour mix will give a spicy kick.
- Extra Flavor in the Gravy: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese or a pinch of cayenne for a rich and spicy twist.
- Go Gluten-Free: Use almond flour and cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
Step-by-Step Instructions 👩🍳
1. Prep the Pork Chops
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Pour buttermilk into another shallow dish.
- Dip each pork chop into the buttermilk, then dredge in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to coat evenly.
2. Fry the Pork Chops
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 180°C (350°F).
- Carefully place the pork chops in the skillet and fry for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
3. Make the Bacon Gravy
- In the same skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and add butter to the pan. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until golden.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Let simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the crispy bacon.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
- Plate the crispy pork chops and generously smother with bacon gravy.
- Serve hot and enjoy every bite!
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
Pair these Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy with:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes 🥔
- Southern Buttermilk Biscuits 🍞
- Steamed Green Beans 🥬
- Corn on the Cob 🌽
Pro Tips for Success 💡
- Crispier Coating: Let the coated pork chops rest for 10 minutes before frying.
- Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays around 180°C (350°F) for even frying.
- Adjust Gravy Thickness: If the gravy is too thick, whisk in a little more milk until desired consistency is reached.
Storing and Reheating 🥡
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for 30 seconds.
- Freeze: The fried pork chops can be frozen for up to a month. Reheat in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes.
FAQ ❓
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes! Fry the pork chops in advance and store them in the fridge. Reheat in the oven before serving.
2. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
- Substitute with regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let sit for 5 minutes before using.
3. Can I use bone-in pork chops?
- Absolutely! Just increase the frying time by 2-3 minutes per side.
4. How do I make the dish less greasy?
- Drain fried pork chops on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep them crispy.
5. Can I make the gravy dairy-free?
- Yes! Use unsweetened almond or oat milk and replace butter with a dairy-free alternative.
Conclusion 🎉
And there you have it! A Southern-inspired dish that delivers crispy, flavorful pork chops topped with an irresistibly creamy bacon gravy. Whether for a family dinner, Sunday feast, or comfort meal, this recipe is bound to become a household favorite.
Give this recipe a try and share your photos! Tag us on Instagram or Pinterest and let us know how it turned out. Happy cooking! 🍽️
