Name: Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 bone-in pork chops; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 eggs; 1/4 cup milk; Vegetable oil for frying; 6 slices bacon, chopped; 2 cups milk; Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Imagine the sizzle of a hot skillet, the aroma of frying pork chops filling your kitchen, and the anticipation of a hearty meal that promises to delight your taste buds. Today, we dive into the realm of comfort food with a recipe that combines the crispy goodness of country-fried pork chops with the indulgent richness of bacon gravy. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a journey back to traditional flavors and homemade goodness that warms the soul.

Country fried pork chops with bacon gravy is a classic Southern dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a symphony of flavors. The crispy coating on the tender pork chops, paired with the creamy and savory bacon gravy, offers a culinary experience like no other. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving some down-home cooking, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Rooted in the rich culinary heritage of the Southern United States, this dish holds a special place in many households. It’s a dish that has been passed down through generations, with each family adding its unique touch to make it truly their own. Today, we unravel the secrets of this beloved recipe and invite you to create your own culinary masterpiece in the comfort of your kitchen.

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the essence of comfort food and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. Let’s roll up our sleeves, gather our ingredients, and get ready to create a meal that will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes country fried pork chops with bacon gravy stand out is its perfect combination of textures and flavors. The crispy exterior of the pork chops gives way to juicy, tender meat, while the bacon gravy adds a rich and savory finish that elevates the dish to new heights. This recipe is a true comfort food classic that never fails to impress.

One of the best features of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes like it came straight from a country kitchen. The ease of preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

For those looking to indulge in a hearty meal, country fried pork chops with bacon gravy ticks all the boxes. It’s a dish that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters, thanks to its winning combination of flavors. Additionally, this recipe can be easily customized to suit your preferences, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

From a dietary perspective, this recipe offers a protein-rich meal that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. By using high-quality pork chops and incorporating flavorful ingredients, you can create a dish that not only tastes delicious but also provides essential nutrients to fuel your day.

Ingredients

For the pork chops:

– 4 bone-in pork chops

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 2 teaspoons garlic powder

– 2 teaspoons onion powder

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 eggs

– 1/4 cup milk

– Vegetable oil for frying

For the bacon gravy:

– 6 slices bacon, chopped

– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

– 2 cups milk

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Feel free to adjust the seasonings and quantities according to your taste preferences. You can also substitute ingredients based on dietary restrictions or flavor preferences.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation:

1. Start by seasoning the pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

2. In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk to create an egg wash.

3. Place the flour in another dish and season it with salt and pepper.

4. Dredge each pork chop in the seasoned flour, then dip it into the egg wash, and coat it with flour again. Repeat this process for all the pork chops.

Cooking:

5. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the pork chops for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

7. In the same skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the drippings.

8. Sprinkle flour into the skillet with the bacon drippings and whisk to form a roux. Cook for a few minutes until the flour is golden brown.

9. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the gravy until thickened, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving:

10. Serve the country fried pork chops with the bacon gravy drizzled on top. Garnish with chopped green onions for an extra burst of flavor.

11. Pair this dish with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or your favorite side dishes for a complete meal that will delight your taste buds.

Expert Tips for Success

To ensure your pork chops are crispy, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding them to the skillet. You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of flour into it; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.

For a healthier alternative, you can bake the breaded pork chops in the oven instead of frying them. Place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until cooked through.

When making the bacon gravy, be patient and whisk the roux constantly to avoid burning. This will help you achieve a smooth and velvety gravy that pairs perfectly with the pork chops.

If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can adjust the amount of flour in the recipe. Add more flour for a thicker consistency or more milk for a thinner gravy.

Variations and Substitutions

For a gluten-free version of this recipe, you can use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of all-purpose flour.

If you’re not a fan of pork, you can also make this dish with chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Experiment with different seasonings to customize the flavor profile of the pork chops. You can add smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or herbs like thyme and rosemary for a unique twist.

For a spicy kick, you can incorporate hot sauce or cayenne pepper into the egg wash to add some heat to the pork chops.

Serving Suggestions

Country fried pork chops with bacon gravy are best served hot and fresh from the skillet. Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery biscuits, or tangy coleslaw for a complete Southern meal.

A side of green beans, cornbread, or collard greens can also complement the flavors of this dish and add a touch of freshness to the meal.

For a refreshing beverage pairing, consider serving sweet tea, lemonade, or a crisp apple cider to balance the richness of the pork chops and gravy.

Don’t forget to set the table with cozy napkins, rustic dinnerware, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a charming presentation that enhances the dining experience.

FAQs

Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?

Absolutely! While bone-in pork chops add extra flavor, you can certainly use boneless chops if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.

Can I make the bacon gravy ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bacon gravy in advance and reheat it before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently warm it on the stovetop, adding a little extra milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.

How can I prevent the breading from falling off the pork chops?

Make sure to press the flour mixture firmly onto the pork chops and let them rest for a few minutes before frying. This will help the breading adhere better and stay intact during cooking.

Can I freeze leftover pork chops?

Yes, you can freeze any leftover pork chops for future meals. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe container, and label them with the date. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Final Thoughts

Country fried pork chops with bacon gravy is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that celebrates the flavors of the South and the joy of homemade cooking. From the crispy pork chops to the velvety gravy, every bite tells a story of tradition, comfort, and love shared around the table.

As you embark on your cooking journey with this recipe, remember to savor each moment in the kitchen, from the sizzle of the pork chops to the aroma of the bacon gravy simmering on the stove. Let this dish be a reminder of the simple pleasures found in good food and the memories created when we gather together to enjoy a delicious meal.

So, gather your loved ones, set the table with care, and indulge in the warmth and flavor of country fried pork chops with bacon gravy. Embrace the tradition, create new memories, and savor the joy that comes with sharing a meal made with heart and soul.

Get ready to experience the comfort and satisfaction that only a homemade Southern meal can provide. Dive into this recipe, make it your own, and enjoy the delicious journey that awaits as you savor every bite of this classic dish.

Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy

Introduction

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients