Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy

A Southern Classic with a Savory Twist

Crispy, golden-brown country-fried pork chops smothered in rich, smoky bacon gravy—this dish is a comforting Southern staple. The crispy breading encases tender, juicy pork, while the creamy bacon gravy adds layers of deep, savory flavor. Perfect for a family dinner or a hearty weekend meal, this dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or collard greens.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy & Juicy: The well-seasoned breading locks in moisture, keeping the pork chops juicy.
• Smoky, Creamy Gravy: Bacon adds a delicious depth of flavor to the rich, velvety gravy.
• Classic Comfort Food: A Southern favorite that never goes out of style.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps with pantry staples ensure a hassle-free meal.

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Ingredients

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about ¾ inch thick)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
• ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Bacon Gravy:

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 tablespoons bacon grease (reserved from cooking bacon)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (or more for desired consistency)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

1. Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel to help the coating stick better.
2. In a shallow dish, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. In another shallow dish, whisk the eggs and buttermilk together.

Step 2: Dredge and Fry

1. Dip each pork chop into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and back into the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure a thick coating.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Fry each pork chop for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Bacon Gravy

1. In the same skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, reserving 2 tablespoons of the grease.
2. Add butter to the skillet with the bacon grease. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
3. Slowly whisk in milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir in the cooked bacon.

Step 4: Serve

• Pour the bacon gravy over the fried pork chops and serve immediately with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or your favorite sides.

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Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add extra cayenne or hot sauce to the gravy for a fiery version.
• Creamy Upgrade: Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer texture.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the gravy for extra depth.
• Baked Alternative: Instead of frying, bake the pork chops at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.

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Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked pork chops (without gravy) for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm pork chops in an oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Reheat gravy on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless pork chops?

Yes, boneless pork chops work just as well. Adjust the cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking.

What oil is best for frying?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are great choices for frying due to their high smoke points.

How do I make the breading extra crispy?

Using cornstarch in the flour mixture and double-dipping in the coating process helps achieve extra crispiness.

Can I use pre-cooked bacon?

You can, but frying fresh bacon in the same skillet enhances the gravy’s flavor.

Is there a substitute for buttermilk?

Yes, mix ¼ cup milk with 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use cornstarch for frying.

How do I prevent the breading from falling off?

Pat the pork dry before dredging, press the coating firmly, and let the coated pork rest for a few minutes before frying.

Can I make the gravy ahead of time?

Yes, store the gravy in the fridge and reheat it with a splash of milk before serving.

What are the best sides for this dish?

Mashed potatoes, collard greens, cornbread, and roasted vegetables complement this dish perfectly.

Can I make this dish healthier?

For a lighter version, bake the pork chops instead of frying and use turkey bacon in the gravy.

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Conclusion

Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. With its crispy coating, juicy pork, and creamy bacon-infused gravy, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it up with your favorite Southern sides and enjoy a truly comforting meal!

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