Name: Country Fried Pork Chops With Bacon Gravy Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 bone-in pork chops; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup milk; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 4 slices bacon, chopped; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp flour (for gravy); 1 1/2 cups whole milk; Salt and pepper, to taste

There's nothing quite like the crispy, golden perfection of Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy to bring warmth and comfort to your dinner table. The irresistible crunch of the breaded pork, paired with the smoky richness of homemade bacon gravy, makes this dish a true Southern classic.

I first learned to make this recipe from my grandmother, who always had a knack for turning simple ingredients into unforgettable meals. The combination of seasoned, fried pork chops smothered in creamy, bacon-infused gravy is pure comfort food at its finest.

Why You'll Love This Country Fried Pork Chops Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with one of the best comfort food dishes you'll ever make. This recipe is all about rich, satisfying flavors that will have your family begging for seconds.

First, it's quick and easy. From start to finish, you can have these pork chops on the table in under 40 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.

Second, it's budget-friendly. Pork chops are often more affordable than other cuts of meat, making this dish a great option for feeding the whole family without breaking the bank.

And finally, the flavor is out of this world. The crispy, seasoned breading locks in moisture, keeping the pork tender, while the bacon gravy adds a smoky, savory depth that elevates the entire meal.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a mouthwatering meal.

Pork Chops: For the best results, use bone-in pork chops about ½ to ¾ inch thick. The bone helps retain moisture, keeping the meat juicy while frying. If you prefer boneless, reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent dryness.

Flour and Seasonings: A mix of all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper creates a flavorful coating that turns into a crispy, golden crust when fried. Don't skip the smoked paprika—it adds a subtle depth that makes a difference.

Buttermilk and Egg: This combination helps the breading stick to the pork and creates a tender, flaky coating. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make your own by mixing milk with a little lemon juice or vinegar.

Bacon and Bacon Grease: Cooking bacon first not only gives you crispy bits to add to the gravy, but also provides a rich, smoky base for the sauce. Be sure to save the rendered bacon fat—it adds unbeatable flavor.

Milk and Heavy Cream: These ingredients create a rich and creamy gravy. You can adjust the ratio depending on how thick or light you prefer the sauce.

How To Make Country Fried Pork Chops With Bacon Gravy

Making this dish is easier than you might think. Follow these steps for the perfect crispy pork chops with creamy bacon gravy.

Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove it from the pan, leaving the bacon grease behind—this will be the base of your gravy later. Chop the bacon into small pieces and set aside.

Next, prepare your breading station. In one bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. In another, combine the flour and seasonings. Dredge each pork chop in the flour mixture, dip it into the buttermilk, then coat it again in the flour for an extra crispy crust.

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops, frying for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

For the gravy, sprinkle a few tablespoons of the leftover seasoned flour into the skillet with the bacon grease. Whisk constantly to create a smooth roux, then slowly add the milk and heavy cream, stirring until thickened. Finally, stir in the crispy bacon pieces for extra flavor.

Serve the pork chops hot, smothered in that rich, creamy bacon gravy.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), store them properly to keep them delicious for later.

Refrigerate fried pork chops in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain crispiness, reheat them in an oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes rather than microwaving.

The bacon gravy can be stored separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to thin it out.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tweak it based on your preferences or dietary needs.

If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. It gives the crust a slight heat that pairs well with the richness of the gravy.

For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Make sure your buttermilk is also gluten-free.

Want a lighter option? Instead of frying, you can bake the pork chops at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. While they won’t be as crispy, they’ll still be full of flavor.

No buttermilk on hand? Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes. This homemade substitute works just as well.

Give this Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy a try, and don't be surprised when it becomes a new family favorite. There's just something about the crispy, juicy pork smothered in smoky, creamy gravy that makes every bite unforgettable!