Country Fried Pork Chops With Bacon Gravy Recipe

There's nothing quite like the crispy, golden perfection of Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy sizzling in the skillet. This Southern classic delivers everything you crave in a comfort food meal—tender, juicy pork chops encased in a crunchy coating, all smothered in a rich, smoky bacon gravy that begs to be poured over mashed potatoes.

this Recipe

I first made this dish on a chilly Sunday afternoon when I wanted something hearty and satisfying. The moment that bacon-infused aroma filled my kitchen, I knew it would be an instant family favorite. Now, it’s a staple in our home, perfect for cozy dinners or when we’re craving a little Southern indulgence.

Why You'll Love This Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy

Get ready to fall head over heels for this ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress.

First, let’s talk about that crispy coating. The pork chops are dredged in a perfectly seasoned flour mixture that fries up to a beautiful golden brown, giving you the satisfying crunch you expect from a country-fried classic.

Then, there’s the bacon gravy. Unlike traditional white gravy, this version gets a smoky upgrade from crispy bacon, adding an irresistible depth of flavor. Every bite is a blend of creamy, salty, and savory goodness that takes the dish to the next level.

This recipe is also incredibly easy to make. You don’t need any fancy ingredients or techniques—just a few simple steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on your dinner table in under an hour.

Plus, it’s a great make-ahead option. The pork chops reheat beautifully in the oven, and the gravy can be stored separately, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy comes from a few simple ingredients that work together to create bold, comforting flavors.

Bone-in pork chops are the star of this dish. Opt for chops that are about ¾ to 1 inch thick to ensure they stay juicy on the inside while developing a crispy crust. Boneless chops work, too, but they may cook a little faster, so keep an eye on them.

Bacon is what makes this gravy stand out. Use thick-cut bacon for the best texture and flavor. It adds a smoky, savory depth that sets this gravy apart from traditional country-style versions.

Flour and seasonings create the perfect crispy coating. A mix of all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper gives the pork chops a well-balanced flavor. The smoked paprika is a key ingredient here—it adds a hint of smokiness that pairs beautifully with the bacon.

Whole milk and heavy cream make the gravy ultra-creamy. While you can use just milk, adding a splash of heavy cream gives it a richer texture that coats the pork chops perfectly.

Butter and bacon grease form the base of the gravy. Instead of using only butter, the rendered bacon fat adds an extra layer of flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.

How To Make This Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy

This recipe comes together in a few easy steps, and before you know it, you’ll have a plate of crispy, golden pork chops smothered in rich bacon gravy.

Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, but don’t discard the grease—you’ll use it to build the gravy later.

While the bacon is cooking, prepare your pork chops. In a shallow dish, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and a splash of milk.

Dredge each pork chop in the flour mixture, dip it in the egg wash, then coat it again in the seasoned flour. This double-dredging method ensures an extra crispy crust.

Heat a mix of oil and a little bacon grease in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.

Now, it’s time for the gravy. In the same skillet, melt butter with the remaining bacon grease. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.

Let the gravy simmer until it thickens, then crumble the cooked bacon and stir it in. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Pour that creamy, smoky bacon gravy over the crispy pork chops and serve immediately.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare with a dish this good!), they store well for later enjoyment.

For the pork chops, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the coating crispy, reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes instead of microwaving.

The bacon gravy can be stored separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to bring back its creamy consistency.

For freezing, wrap the pork chops individually in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. The gravy can also be frozen, but the texture may change slightly when thawed. Reheat gently while whisking to restore its smoothness.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. Here are a few ways to switch it up:

For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the flour mixture. You can also stir some red pepper flakes into the gravy for an extra layer of heat.

If you’re out of pork chops, try this recipe with chicken cutlets or cube steak for a delicious alternative. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on thickness.

For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s one designed for frying to maintain that crispy texture.

If you prefer a lighter gravy, substitute half-and-half or just use whole milk instead of heavy cream. The result will be slightly less rich but still incredibly flavorful.

Looking for a herby twist? Add fresh thyme or sage to the gravy for a more earthy, aromatic flavor. This works especially well for a fall-inspired version of this dish.

Final Thoughts

Once you try Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home. It’s the perfect mix of crispy, juicy, and creamy, bringing together the best of Southern comfort food in one irresistible dish.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or wowing guests at a weekend gathering, this dish is always a hit. So go ahead—whip up a batch, pour that luscious bacon gravy over the top, and enjoy every bite!

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