Country Fried Pork Chops With Bacon Gravy Recipe

There's nothing quite like the crispy, golden perfection of country-fried pork chops smothered in rich, smoky bacon gravy. This Southern classic delivers the ultimate comfort food experience, combining juicy, seasoned pork chops with a creamy, flavorful sauce that takes them to the next level.

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I first fell in love with this dish on a trip through the South, where I had the best country-fried pork chops at a small diner off the highway. Ever since, I've been perfecting my own version at home—one that’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but special enough for Sunday dinner.

Get ready to dig into a plate of pure comfort. Let’s talk about why you’ll love this recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Country Fried Pork Chops With Bacon Gravy

Crispy, juicy, and drenched in savory bacon gravy, this recipe is bound to become a favorite at your table. Here’s why:

First, the crispy coating is absolutely irresistible. The pork chops are dredged in a seasoned flour mixture and fried to golden perfection, creating a crunchy crust that seals in the juices.

Next, the bacon gravy is a total game-changer. Made with crispy bacon, pan drippings, and a touch of cream, this rich and smoky gravy brings everything together in the most delicious way.

It’s surprisingly easy to make. While it might look like a fancy dish, the steps are simple and straightforward—just a little dredging, frying, and whisking. You’ll have everything ready in under an hour.

Plus, this dish is pure Southern comfort. If you’re craving a hearty, home-cooked meal that feels like a warm hug, this recipe is exactly what you need.

Now, let’s talk ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in bringing out that signature country-fried taste.

Bone-in pork chops are the best choice for this recipe. They stay juicier and more flavorful than boneless chops, thanks to the fat and bone that help keep the meat tender during cooking. If you only have boneless chops, just be careful not to overcook them.

All-purpose flour is the base of the crispy coating. A well-seasoned flour mixture ensures that every bite is packed with flavor, so don’t skimp on the salt, pepper, and spices.

Buttermilk helps tenderize the pork chops while also helping the flour stick for a thick, crunchy crust. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can mix regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for a similar effect.

Bacon is the star of the gravy. It adds smokiness, richness, and a deep savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy pork chops. Use thick-cut bacon for the best results.

Heavy cream gives the gravy its silky texture. You can substitute with half-and-half if needed, but the gravy won’t be quite as thick and creamy.

To make this dish, you’ll need a large cast-iron skillet for frying, a whisk for the gravy, and a shallow dish for dredging the pork chops. Now, let’s get cooking!

How To Make This Country Fried Pork Chops With Bacon Gravy

Making this dish is easier than you might think. Just follow these simple steps for crispy, golden pork chops and the creamiest bacon gravy.

Start by seasoning the pork chops with salt, pepper, and a little garlic powder. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes—this helps them cook more evenly.

In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne for a little kick. In a separate bowl, pour the buttermilk. Dredge each pork chop in the flour mixture, then dip it in the buttermilk, and finally coat it again in the flour for an extra crispy crust.

Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F), fry the pork chops in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

For the bacon gravy, start by cooking the bacon in the same skillet until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan. Whisk in a bit of flour to create a roux, then slowly pour in the heavy cream and stir constantly until the gravy thickens. Crumble the bacon back into the gravy and season to taste.

Once the gravy is ready, pour it generously over the fried pork chops. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious crunch of the pork with the smoky, creamy bacon gravy.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though that’s rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them properly.

For the pork chops, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the coating crispy, reheat them in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the breading soggy.

The bacon gravy can be stored separately in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. If it gets too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.

For longer storage, freeze the pork chops in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as directed above.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to make it your own!

For a spicy kick, add more cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or drizzle a little hot sauce into the buttermilk. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes into the gravy for extra heat.

If you prefer a lighter version, use boneless, skinless pork chops and pan-fry them in less oil. Swap the heavy cream in the gravy for whole milk, though keep in mind the texture will be thinner.

For a different protein, try this method with chicken or even cube steak for a chicken-fried steak twist. The crispy coating and bacon gravy work beautifully with other meats.

Want to make it gluten-free? Use a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the pork chops, and replace the all-purpose flour in the gravy with cornstarch.

No matter how you tweak it, this dish delivers crispy, savory goodness in every bite. Try it once, and it just might become your new favorite comfort food!

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