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Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy (2)

Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy

A classic Southern comfort dish featuring crispy, golden-brown pork chops coated in seasoned flour and soaked in a rich, creamy bacon gravy. This hearty meal is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, offering tender pork chops paired with smoky, savory gravy.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinating Time 28 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 18 minutes
Course Comfort Food, Main Dishes
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Cast iron skillet For frying pork chops evenly and achieving a crispy crust.
  • 1 Mixing Bowls For preparing the buttermilk marinade and seasoned flour mixture.
  • 1 Whisk For making the bacon gravy smooth and lump-free.
  • Optional Meat Thermometer To ensure pork chops reach a safe internal temperature of 145°F.

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 4 pieces Bone-in pork chops (3/4-inch thick) Choose fresh, high-quality pork with good marbling for juiciness.
  • 1 cup Buttermilk Full-fat buttermilk for tenderness and flavor.
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour Base for the seasoned coating.
  • 2 large Eggs Beaten to help the flour adhere to the pork chops.
  • 6 slices Thick-cut bacon Cooked until crispy for the gravy base.
  • 2 cups Whole milk For creamy bacon gravy; half-and-half can be substituted for richness.
  • 2 tbsp Butter Added to the bacon grease for the roux.

Seasonings

  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste.
  • ½ tsp Black pepper Freshly ground for better flavor.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Smoked paprika adds depth; regular works too.
  • ½ tsp Garlic powder Enhances the seasoning blend.
  • ½ tsp Onion powder Adds aromatic notes to the coating.

Optional Garnishes

  • 1 sprig Fresh parsley for garnish. Optional

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Recipe

    Marinate the Pork Chops:

    • Place the pork chops in a shallow dish and pour buttermilk over them, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.

    Prepare the Seasoned Flour Coating:

    • In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.

    Dredge the Pork Chops:

    • Remove the pork chops from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dip each chop into the beaten eggs, then press into the seasoned flour mixture, coating thoroughly. Shake off excess flour for an even crust.

    Fry the Pork Chops:

    • Heat oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat (around 350°F). Fry the pork chops for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F). Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

    Make the Bacon Gravy:

    • Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove and set aside, reserving 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan.
    • Add butter to the bacon grease and whisk in flour to form a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
    • Gradually whisk in milk, continuing to stir until the gravy thickens and becomes smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the reserved bacon bits.

    Serve and Enjoy:

    • Serve the fried pork chops with the bacon gravy generously spooned over the top. Pair with mashed potatoes, collard greens, and biscuits or cornbread for a complete Southern meal.

    Notes

      • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain crispiness.
      • Substitutions: Boneless pork chops or chicken breasts can be used as alternatives, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
      • Gravy Thickness: For thicker gravy, add more flour; for thinner gravy, whisk in additional milk.
     
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. How do you prepare the breading for country fried pork chops?
      • Soak the pork chops in buttermilk, then dredge them in a seasoned flour mixture containing salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
       
    2. What ingredients are necessary for authentic Southern bacon gravy?
      • Crispy bacon, bacon grease, butter, flour, milk, salt, and black pepper. The bacon fat is key for flavor.
       
    3. Can you substitute another cut of pork in the country fried pork chops recipe?
      • Yes, boneless pork chops or chicken breasts work well. Adjust cooking time to avoid drying out the meat.
       
    4. What are the key spices for achieving true Southern flavor in pork chop dishes?
      • Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cayenne can be added for heat.
       
    5. How do you ensure pork chops remain juicy and tender when frying?
      • Marinate in buttermilk, maintain oil temperature around 350°F, and avoid flipping too often to develop a crisp crust.
       
    6. What are some traditional sides to serve with country fried pork chops and bacon gravy?
      • Mashed potatoes, collard greens, green beans, buttermilk biscuits, and cornbread.
     
     

    Tips & Tricks

    • Flavor Enhancement: Add a pinch of cayenne to the seasoned flour for extra heat. Use smoked paprika for deeper smokiness.
    • Presentation: Arrange the pork chops on a platter with mashed potatoes and gravy poured over. Garnish with parsley for freshness.
    • Leftovers: Transform leftover pork chops into a sandwich by slicing them thinly and layering with gravy and greens.
     
     

    Plating and Garnishing

    • Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cracked black pepper over the dish for a finishing touch.
    • Serving Style: Serve on rustic plates or wooden boards with mashed potatoes, collard greens, and biscuits for a complete Southern comfort meal.
    • Pairings: Include creamy mashed potatoes, slow-cooked collard greens, and warm cornbread to balance the richness of the pork chops and gravy.
     
    Keyword Bacon Gravy, Country Fried Pork Chops, Southern Comfort Food