Country Fried Pork Chops With Bacon Gravy Recipe

There's nothing quite like the crispy, golden crust of country fried pork chops smothered in a rich, savory bacon gravy. The combination of tender, juicy pork and creamy, smoky sauce is pure Southern comfort on a plate.

I first discovered this dish at a small diner during a road trip through Tennessee. One bite, and I was hooked—the crispy breading, the peppery gravy, and that perfect balance of crunch and creaminess. Now, it's a staple in my kitchen whenever I crave a satisfying, home-cooked meal.

Why You'll Love This Country Fried Pork Chops Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with this hearty, flavor-packed dish. Whether you're making it for a special Sunday supper or a weeknight treat, these country fried pork chops never disappoint.

First off, it's pure comfort food. Every bite delivers a crispy, golden crust and succulent pork, followed by the silky, smoky goodness of bacon gravy.

It's also budget-friendly. Pork chops are an affordable cut of meat, and the rest of the ingredients—flour, milk, bacon—are pantry staples you likely already have.

This recipe is easier than you think. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have restaurant-quality fried pork chops on your table in under an hour.

Finally, it's versatile. Serve it with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or even over rice for a meal that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish comes from a few well-chosen ingredients that work together to create layers of flavor.

Pork Chops: Boneless or bone-in pork chops work well, but aim for about ¾-inch thickness. Too thin, and they'll dry out; too thick, and they won't fry evenly.

Flour & Seasonings: The crispy breading starts with all-purpose flour, seasoned with a mix of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for that perfect Southern-style crust.

Egg & Buttermilk: A combination of beaten eggs and buttermilk creates a rich coating that helps the breading stick, while adding a subtle tangy flavor.

Bacon & Drippings: The secret to the ultra-savory gravy is crispy bacon and its drippings. They infuse the sauce with a smoky depth that sets this gravy apart.

Milk & Heavy Cream: A mix of milk and a touch of heavy cream gives the gravy a luxurious, velvety texture.

You'll also need a large skillet for frying and a sturdy whisk to ensure a smooth, lump-free gravy.

How To Make Country Fried Pork Chops With Bacon Gravy

Creating this mouthwatering dish is easier than you might think. Follow these steps, and you'll have a meal that'll make you feel like you're in the heart of the South.

Start by seasoning the pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides. This helps the seasoning penetrate the meat, adding flavor from the inside out.

Next, prepare your breading station. In one shallow dish, whisk together eggs and buttermilk. In another, combine flour with garlic powder and additional seasonings. Dredge each pork chop in the flour mixture, dip it into the egg wash, then coat it again in the seasoned flour for an extra crispy crust.

Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat and add about ½ inch of vegetable oil. Once hot, fry the pork chops for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (145°F internal temperature). Transfer to a wire rack to stay crispy while you make the gravy.

In the same skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon, leaving the drippings behind. Whisk in a few tablespoons of flour, cooking for a minute until golden and bubbly. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly, until a smooth, thick gravy forms. Stir in the crispy bacon and a splash of heavy cream for extra richness.

Serve the fried pork chops smothered in bacon gravy, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it's hard to imagine!), store them properly to enjoy later.

Refrigeration: Place the fried pork chops in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the bacon gravy in a separate container.

Freezing: You can freeze the pork chops by wrapping them tightly in foil and placing them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. The gravy is best made fresh, but you can freeze it in a separate container if needed.

Reheating: To keep the chops crispy, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. Warm the gravy on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen it up.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is! Here are a few variations to try:

Swap the Protein: If you’re out of pork chops, try this same method with chicken breasts or even cube steak for a classic chicken-fried steak variation.

Spice It Up: Love heat? Add a pinch of cayenne to the flour mixture or drizzle the finished dish with hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Lighter Option: For a less heavy version, use a milk-only gravy instead of heavy cream, and bake the pork chops instead of frying them.

Different Gravy: Not a bacon fan? Make a classic peppered white gravy instead by using butter in place of the bacon drippings.

No matter how you tweak it, this country fried pork chops with bacon gravy recipe is bound to become a favorite in your home. So grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy a true Southern classic!

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