Introduction:
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy is the ultimate comfort food dish that brings together crispy, golden-brown pork chops and a rich, savory bacon gravy. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly fried pork chop, its crunchy exterior giving way to juicy, tender meat, all smothered in a creamy gravy infused with smoky bacon goodness. This recipe is a celebration of Southern-inspired home cooking at its finest.
This dish is all about satisfying cravings and delivering a deeply flavorful experience. It’s a meal that’s both hearty and comforting, perfect for a family dinner or a special weekend feast. The combination of crispy pork chops and luscious bacon gravy is simply irresistible, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds.
What makes this recipe so beloved? It’s the contrast between the crispy, seasoned pork chops and the smooth, savory, bacon-laden gravy. It’s also the straightforward cooking process that yields impressive, restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. Prepare to be amazed by the simplicity and incredible deliciousness of these Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
To create these delectable Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy, you’ll need a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. These components work together to build layers of flavor and texture, resulting in a truly satisfying meal. Having everything measured and ready will ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking process.
For the succulent and crispy pork chops, you will need 4 boneless pork chops, about ¾ to 1-inch thick. Boneless pork chops are ideal for country frying as they cook evenly and are easy to serve. Choose chops that are thick and have good marbling for the best flavor and tenderness.
To create the flavorful and crispy breading, you’ll need a combination of:
* 1 cup all-purpose flour. All-purpose flour forms the base of the breading and provides structure.
* 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal. Yellow cornmeal adds a delightful crunch and a slightly nutty flavor to the breading, characteristic of country-fried dishes.
* 1 tablespoon paprika. Paprika adds a subtle smoky sweetness and vibrant color to the breading.
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Garlic powder provides a savory depth and aromatic note to the seasoning.
* 1 teaspoon onion powder. Onion powder enhances the savory flavors and adds a subtle sweetness.
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Dried thyme contributes an earthy, herbaceous flavor that complements pork beautifully.
* 1/2 teaspoon salt. Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients and seasons the pork chops.
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Black pepper adds a touch of spice and balances the flavors.
Buttermilk is essential for tenderizing the pork and helping the breading adhere. You’ll need 1 cup of buttermilk. Buttermilk tenderizes the pork chops, adds a slight tang, and creates a moist surface for the breading to stick to.
For frying, you will need 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or other neutral oil with a high smoke point). Vegetable oil is ideal for frying as it has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, allowing the pork chops to cook to a golden crisp without burning.
For the rich and savory bacon gravy, you will need:
* 6 slices bacon, chopped. Bacon is the star of the gravy, providing a smoky, savory flavor base. Choose thick-cut bacon for a meatier gravy.
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour. Flour is used to create a roux with the bacon fat, thickening the gravy.
* 2 cups milk. Milk forms the creamy base of the gravy, adding richness and smooth texture. Whole milk will result in the richest gravy, but 2% milk can also be used.
* 1/2 cup chicken broth. Chicken broth adds a savory depth of flavor to the gravy, complementing the bacon and milk. Opt for low-sodium broth to control the salt level.
* Salt and black pepper to taste. Seasoning the gravy is crucial for enhancing the flavors and achieving a well-balanced taste. Use salt to taste and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Fresh parsley, chopped, is for garnish. You’ll need 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous finish to the rich dish.
HOW TO MAKE “Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy”:
Creating Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy is a rewarding culinary process that involves a few key steps. The recipe is broken down into stages, from preparing and breading the pork chops to frying them to crispy perfection and crafting the flavorful bacon gravy. Each step is designed for ease of execution and maximum flavor payoff.
The process begins with preparing the pork chops by tenderizing them and coating them in a flavorful buttermilk bath. This tenderizing step ensures juicy and tender pork chops, while the buttermilk helps the breading adhere beautifully.
Next, the pork chops are dredged in a seasoned cornmeal and flour mixture, creating a crispy and flavorful crust. This breading is key to achieving the signature “country fried” texture.
Then, the breaded pork chops are fried to golden brown perfection, achieving a delightful crispy exterior and ensuring they are cooked through and juicy inside. Proper frying technique is essential for achieving crispy, non-greasy pork chops.
Finally, the bacon gravy is made using the rendered bacon fat as a base, creating a rich, savory, and creamy sauce that smothers the pork chops. The bacon gravy is the crowning glory of this dish, tying all the flavors together and adding ultimate comfort. Let’s delve into the step-by-step instructions to guide you through this delightful recipe.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Prepare and Tenderize Pork Chops.
Place the pork chops between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or heavy skillet, pound the pork chops to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. Pounding tenderizes the pork and ensures even cooking.
Place the pounded pork chops in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour the buttermilk over the pork chops, ensuring they are fully coated. Buttermilk tenderizes the meat and helps the breading adhere.
Marinate the pork chops in the buttermilk for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. Marinating time allows the buttermilk to tenderize the pork and infuse it with flavor.
Step 2: Prepare Breading Mixture.
In a shallow dish or pie plate, combine the all-purpose flour, yellow cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the dry ingredients together thoroughly to ensure even distribution of seasonings. This mixture forms the flavorful and crispy breading for the pork chops.
Step 3: Bread the Pork Chops.
Remove the pork chops from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess buttermilk drip off. There is no need to pat them completely dry as the moisture helps the breading stick.
Dredge each pork chop in the breading mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the breading adheres to all sides. Coat the pork chops evenly with the seasoned breading.
Shake off any excess breading to prevent clumping and ensure a light, crispy crust.
Step 4: Fry the Pork Chops.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep. Heat the oil until it is shimmering hot and a drop of breading sizzles immediately when dropped in.
Carefully place the breaded pork chops in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry in batches if necessary to maintain oil temperature and ensure even browning.
Fry the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the pork should reach 145°F (63°C). Frying time may vary depending on the thickness of the pork chops and the heat of the oil.
Remove the fried pork chops from the skillet and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. A wire rack helps keep the bottom of the pork chops crispy.
Step 5: Make the Bacon Gravy.
While the pork chops are frying, prepare the bacon gravy. In a separate large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Cook the bacon until it is crispy and has rendered its fat.
Remove the crispy bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving the bacon fat in the skillet. Leave about 2-3 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet for the gravy; discard any excess fat or reserve it for another use.
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour into the skillet with the bacon fat. Cook the flour, stirring constantly with a whisk, for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Cooking the roux removes the raw flour taste and helps thicken the gravy.
Gradually whisk in the milk into the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Slowly add the milk while whisking to create a smooth gravy base.
Whisk in the chicken broth into the gravy. Chicken broth adds savory depth and thins the gravy to the desired consistency.
Continue to cook the gravy, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Simmer the gravy gently until it thickens and becomes creamy.
Season the bacon gravy with salt and black pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasoning to your preference. Remember that bacon is already salty, so season carefully.
Stir the crispy bacon crumbles back into the gravy. Crispy bacon adds texture and intensifies the bacon flavor in the gravy.
Step 6: Serve.
Place the country fried pork chops on plates. Generously smother the pork chops with the bacon gravy. Spoon the bacon gravy over the crispy pork chops, ensuring each chop is well coated.
Garnish with fresh parsley, chopped, for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while the pork chops are crispy and the gravy is warm and creamy. Enjoy every delicious bite of your homemade Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy!
USEFUL TIPS:
To make your Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips. These suggestions can enhance both the flavor and the overall experience of preparing and enjoying this classic dish. Let’s explore some valuable insights to refine your cooking process.
For extra tender pork chops, marinate them in buttermilk for up to 4 hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. Longer marinating time further tenderizes the pork and infuses it with flavor. If marinating overnight, ensure the pork chops are well covered and refrigerated.
To ensure crispy pork chops, don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying. Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature and allow each pork chop to brown evenly and become crispy. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and can result in soggy pork chops.
Maintain the oil temperature between 325-350°F (160-175°C) for optimal frying. Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature for consistent results. If the oil is too hot, the pork chops will brown too quickly on the outside before cooking through. If it’s too cool, they will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
For a spicier breading, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the breading mixture. A little heat can balance the richness of the dish and add a pleasant kick. Adjust the amount of spice to your preference.
To ensure smooth bacon gravy, whisk the roux (bacon fat and flour mixture) constantly as you add the milk and chicken broth. Continuous whisking prevents lumps from forming and ensures a smooth and creamy gravy texture.
If your bacon gravy becomes too thick, thin it out by adding a little more milk or chicken broth, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Add liquid gradually and stir well to incorporate it smoothly.
For a richer bacon gravy, use heavy cream instead of milk, or substitute half of the milk with heavy cream. Heavy cream will result in an even more decadent and luxurious gravy texture.
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to slightly thicken and curdle before using. This quick buttermilk substitute works well for tenderizing and breading purposes.
DETAILS:
Prep Time: 30 minutes (including marinating)
The preparation time for Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy is approximately 30 minutes, which includes about 30 minutes of marinating time for the pork chops. Active prep time, such as pounding the pork, mixing breading, chopping bacon and vegetables is around 20 minutes. Marinating time is crucial for tenderizing the pork and enhancing flavor.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
The cooking time for this recipe is approximately 25 minutes. This encompasses the time to fry the pork chops until golden brown and cooked through, and to make the bacon gravy until thickened and creamy. Frying and gravy making are relatively quick cooking processes.
Total Time: 55 minutes
The total time from start to finish for Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy is approximately 55 minutes. This includes both the prep time and the cooking time, making it a relatively quick and satisfying meal option, especially considering the rich flavors and comforting nature of the dish.
Yield: 4 servings
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, with one country fried pork chop and a generous portion of bacon gravy per serving. It’s ideally suited for serving a family or a small group. The recipe can be easily scaled up or down if you need to make more or less pork chops and gravy.
Category: Main Course
This dish is categorized as a main course, specifically a hearty fried meat dish with gravy. It is substantial and satisfying enough to serve as the central component of a meal, providing both protein from the pork and carbohydrates from side dishes like mashed potatoes or biscuits. Country fried pork chops with gravy is a classic and complete main course.
Method: Frying and Simmering
The primary cooking methods used in this recipe are frying (for the pork chops) and simmering (for the bacon gravy). Frying achieves the crispy exterior of the pork chops, while simmering creates the creamy and flavorful gravy. These methods are classic techniques for Southern-inspired comfort food.
Cuisine: American (Southern Inspired)
The cuisine of this recipe is best described as American, specifically Southern-inspired. Country fried dishes and bacon gravy are staples of Southern cooking, known for their rich flavors, comforting nature, and hearty portions. This recipe embodies the spirit of classic Southern home cooking.
Diet: Not specified
The diet classification for this recipe is not specifically limited. However, it is not inherently low-fat or low-calorie due to the frying and bacon gravy. It can be modified to be gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and cornmeal blend, and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free. For a lower-carb version, serve the pork chops and gravy with cauliflower mash instead of mashed potatoes.
NOTES:
Serving Suggestions: Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy is traditionally served with classic Southern sides. Excellent pairings include creamy mashed potatoes, buttery biscuits, collard greens, green beans, or corn on the cob. These sides complement the richness of the pork chops and gravy, creating a well-rounded and comforting meal.
Make it Ahead: While the fried pork chops are best enjoyed fresh and crispy, the bacon gravy can be made ahead of time. Prepare the bacon gravy up to 1-2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving. Reheating the gravy ahead of time can save time on the day of cooking.
Reheating Leftovers: Leftover country fried pork chops can be reheated, but they will lose some of their crispiness. For best results, reheat them in the oven or an air fryer to help crisp them up again. Oven reheating: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat pork chops on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Air fryer reheating: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and heated through. Reheat leftover bacon gravy gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to thin it out.
Variations & Additions: Feel free to customize your Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy! For a richer flavor, use bone-in pork chops, which tend to be more flavorful. For a creamier gravy, add a tablespoon of heavy cream or sour cream at the end of cooking. For a different herb profile, use sage, rosemary, or Italian seasoning in the breading. For a touch of sweetness in the gravy, add a pinch of brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops for this recipe. Bone-in pork chops tend to be more flavorful and stay juicier during frying. However, bone-in chops may take slightly longer to cook through than boneless chops of the same thickness. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I bake the pork chops instead of frying?
While country fried pork chops are traditionally fried, you can bake them for a slightly healthier option, though the texture will be different and less crispy. To bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place breaded pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle or spray generously with oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. Baking will not achieve the same crispy crust as frying, but it is a lighter alternative.
Can I make the bacon gravy without bacon fat?
While bacon fat is essential for authentic bacon gravy flavor, you can make a gravy using butter or vegetable oil if needed. However, the flavor will be different and less distinctly “bacon” flavored. To make gravy without bacon fat, melt butter or heat vegetable oil in the skillet, then proceed with making the roux and gravy as directed. For a bacon flavor, you can add bacon bits or bacon bouillon to the gravy made with butter or oil, but it won’t fully replicate the depth of flavor from rendered bacon fat.
Can I use a different type of milk for the gravy?
Whole milk is recommended for the richest and creamiest bacon gravy, but you can use 2% milk or even evaporated milk as alternatives. Lower fat milk will result in a less rich gravy, but still flavorful. Avoid using skim milk as it may not thicken as well and will lack richness. Evaporated milk can create a richer gravy compared to 2% milk but will have a slightly different flavor profile.
How do I keep the pork chops crispy while making the gravy?
To keep the fried pork chops crispy while making the gravy, place the fried pork chops on a wire rack in a warm oven (around 200°F or 90°C). This will keep them warm without steaming and help maintain their crispy crust while you prepare the bacon gravy. Avoid stacking the pork chops as this can make them steam and lose crispiness.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:
To store leftover Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy, allow the pork chops and gravy to cool completely to room temperature first. Cooling before storage prevents condensation and helps maintain food quality. Do not leave cooked food at room temperature for more than two hours to avoid bacterial growth.
Once cooled, store the pork chops and bacon gravy separately for best results. Store the pork chops in an airtight container and the bacon gravy in a separate airtight container. Storing them separately helps prevent the pork chops from becoming soggy from the gravy.
Refrigerate both the airtight containers of leftover pork chops and bacon gravy promptly after cooling. Refrigerate at or below 40°F (4°C) to maintain food safety and prevent spoilage. Leftovers can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Consume leftovers within this timeframe for optimal quality and safety.
For reheating leftover pork chops, oven or air fryer reheating is recommended to help restore some crispiness. Reheat pork chops in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and slightly crispy again. Reheat leftover bacon gravy gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of milk or broth if needed to thin it out to your desired consistency during reheating.
RELATED RECIPES
If you enjoyed these Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy, you will surely love these other comforting and Southern-inspired recipes:
Chicken Fried Steak with Cream Gravy.
A classic Southern dish featuring tender steak, breaded and fried to golden perfection, and smothered in a creamy, peppery cream gravy. This dish is a close cousin to country fried pork chops and equally comforting and delicious.
Fried Chicken with Mac and Cheese.
A quintessential Southern comfort food meal, featuring crispy, juicy fried chicken paired with creamy, cheesy mac and cheese. This combination is a beloved classic for good reason.
Southern Style Meatloaf with Brown Gravy.
A hearty and flavorful meatloaf, seasoned Southern style and baked until tender, served with a rich and savory brown gravy. Meatloaf and gravy are classic comfort food staples.
Creamy Shrimp and Grits with Bacon.
A Southern delicacy featuring creamy, cheesy grits topped with sautéed shrimp and crispy bacon. This dish offers a delightful combination of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, with the satisfying texture of grits.
CONCLUSION
Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of Southern comfort food, a hearty and deeply satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. From the crispy, perfectly seasoned pork chops to the creamy, smoky bacon gravy, this dish is designed to bring joy to your kitchen and your dining table. It’s a recipe that truly delivers on both flavor and that comforting, home-cooked feeling.
This recipe beautifully balances simple techniques with exceptional results, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. The readily available ingredients and clear, easy-to-follow steps mean that anyone can confidently create this restaurant-quality Southern classic at home. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, you can achieve country fried pork chop perfection with this recipe.
So gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and prepare to indulge in the crispy, juicy, and gravy-smothered goodness of this Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy masterpiece. Enjoy the process of cooking and the immense pleasure of sharing this truly delicious and comforting meal with family and friends. This is one recipe that is destined to become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire, a beloved classic that you’ll return to again and again for its simple perfection and timeless appeal. You’ll be making Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy for generations to come!
