Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy Recipe

Crispy, golden, and smothered in rich, smoky bacon gravy, Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy Recipe is the ultimate Southern comfort food that brings down-home cooking to your dinner table. This mouthwatering dish features tender pork chops coated in a perfectly seasoned breading, fried to crispy perfection, and topped with a creamy, bacon-studded gravy that’s pure indulgence. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas and has everyone gathering around for seconds.

Each bite delivers a satisfying combination of textures—crunchy coating, juicy pork, and that velvety bacon gravy that ties it all together beautifully. Whether you’re cooking for a hearty weekend breakfast, a comforting Sunday dinner, or feeding a crowd of hungry friends, this Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy Recipe is as simple to make as it is delicious. Serve it with your favorite Southern sides like mashed potatoes, biscuits, collard greens, or mac and cheese for a colorful, soul-satisfying meal that feels like pure Southern hospitality.

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

• Southern comfort classic: All the flavors of traditional country cooking with that irresistible bacon gravy upgrade.
• Impressive but easy: Looks and tastes like something from a fancy Southern restaurant, but it’s surprisingly simple to make at home.
• Budget-friendly: Pork chops are affordable and the ingredients are pantry staples, making this a wallet-friendly comfort meal.
• Perfect for any meal: Works beautifully for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner—versatile and always satisfying.
• Family favorite: Kids and adults alike love the crispy coating and savory bacon gravy—guaranteed clean plates all around.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, Plus Why They Matter)

Before diving into this delicious Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy Recipe, having the right tools on hand will make everything smoother—from prep to plating.

Essential Tools & Why You Need Them:

Large Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan (12-inch)
This is essential for frying. Cast iron maintains consistent heat for even cooking and creates that perfect golden crust on the pork chops.

Wire Cooling Rack with Baking Sheet
Keeps fried pork chops crispy by allowing air circulation underneath instead of sitting in oil and getting soggy.

Shallow Dishes or Pie Plates (3 total)
One for flour, one for egg wash, and one for the final breading—this three-step breading station is key to that crispy coating.

Meat Thermometer
Takes the guesswork out of cooking pork chops to perfect doneness—165°F is the safe internal temperature.

Whisk
Essential for making lump-free bacon gravy and incorporating the flour smoothly into the drippings.

Tongs or Meat Fork
For safely flipping pork chops without piercing the meat and losing those precious juices.

Having these items prepped and within reach makes the cooking process seamless and ensures perfect results.

Preparation Tips

• Pound the pork chops to even thickness before breading—this ensures they cook evenly and stay tender throughout.
• Let the breaded chops rest for 10 minutes before frying—this helps the coating adhere better and prevents it from falling off.
• Don’t skip the egg wash step—it’s the glue that holds the breading to the meat for maximum crispiness.
• Use reserved bacon drippings for the gravy—this is where all the smoky, savory flavor comes from.
• Let the gravy simmer and thicken properly before serving, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
• Rest the pork chops for 5 minutes after frying to allow juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.

These small touches make a big difference in achieving restaurant-quality Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy Recipe at home.

Ingredients for This Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this bold, satisfying Southern classic to life. Most of the ingredients are kitchen staples, making it both accessible and delicious.

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup buttermilk or whole milk
• Vegetable oil for frying (about 1 cup)

For the Bacon Gravy:

• 6 strips thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons reserved bacon drippings

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh chopped parsley
• Cracked black pepper
• Chopped green onions
• Hot sauce
• Extra crispy bacon crumbles
• Fresh thyme leaves

Everything in this list balances flavor and texture—the crispy pork chops pair perfectly with the rich, smoky bacon gravy. The garnishes are optional but add freshness and visual appeal.

Step 1: Prepare and Bread the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and pound them to an even ¾-inch thickness using a meat mallet. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.

Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes: In the first, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne. In the second, whisk together eggs and buttermilk. Place additional seasoned flour in the third dish.

Dredge each pork chop in the first flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, letting excess drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly in the second flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breading adheres. Place breaded chops on a wire rack and let rest for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Fry the Pork Chops

In a large cast iron skillet, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (or until a pinch of flour sizzles immediately when dropped in). Carefully place the breaded pork chops in the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

Fry for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, and internal temperature reaches 145°F. Transfer to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain. Keep warm in a 200°F oven while you prepare the bacon gravy.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

In the same skillet (or a separate saucepan), cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pan.

Step 4: Make the Bacon Gravy

Keep the heat at medium and sprinkle the flour over the reserved bacon drippings, whisking constantly to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously until the mixture turns light golden brown and smells nutty.

Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. It should coat the back of a spoon nicely.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Stir the crispy bacon pieces back into the gravy. Season with black pepper, garlic powder, and salt to taste. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash more milk; if too thin, simmer a bit longer.

Place the fried pork chops on serving plates and generously ladle the hot bacon gravy over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley, cracked pepper, or green onions as desired. Serve immediately while everything is hot and crispy.

Notes

Pork Chop Thickness: Thicker chops stay juicier but take longer to cook. Thinner chops cook faster but can dry out more easily—adjust frying time accordingly.

Buttermilk Benefits: Using buttermilk in the egg wash adds tanginess and helps tenderize the meat, but regular milk works fine too.

Gravy Consistency: Everyone likes their gravy different—cook it longer for thick, coat-the-spoon gravy, or add more milk for a thinner, pourable version.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Not pounding the pork chops evenly: Uneven thickness means some parts overcook while others undercook—take time to pound them uniform.
• Oil temperature too low: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the breading absorbs oil and becomes greasy instead of crispy and golden.
• Overcrowding the pan: Too many chops at once drops the oil temperature drastically, resulting in soggy, pale coating instead of crispy perfection.
• Skipping the resting period for breaded chops: Frying immediately causes the breading to fall off—patience pays off with better adhesion.
• Burning the flour roux: Watch the heat carefully when making the gravy base—burned roux tastes bitter and ruins the whole dish.
• Adding milk too quickly to the roux: Pour gradually while whisking constantly or you’ll end up with lumpy gravy that’s impossible to smooth out.
• Overcooking the pork: Pork is safe at 145°F (with a 3-minute rest)—cooking beyond 165°F makes it dry and tough.
• Not seasoning the gravy properly: Bacon adds salt, but you still need to taste and adjust—underseasoned gravy is bland and disappointing.

What to Serve With Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy Recipe?

This rich and satisfying Southern classic is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with traditional sides creates an unforgettable comfort food feast. Whether you want classic or creative, there’s a side for every preference.

8 Delicious Recommendations:

Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes are the perfect vehicle for soaking up every drop of that incredible bacon gravy.

Buttermilk Biscuits
Warm, flaky biscuits fresh from the oven complement the crispy pork chops and can be split and drizzled with extra gravy.

Southern-Style Collard Greens
Slow-cooked greens with ham hock add a slightly bitter, savory contrast to the rich, creamy main dish.

Macaroni and Cheese
Creamy, cheesy mac and cheese brings extra comfort and makes this meal even more indulgent.

Green Bean Casserole
Classic green beans with crispy onions on top add texture and a touch of vegetables to balance the plate.

Coleslaw
Tangy, crunchy coleslaw cuts through the richness and adds refreshing brightness to every bite.

Corn on the Cob or Creamed Corn
Sweet corn provides a pop of color and natural sweetness that complements the savory pork beautifully.

Peach Cobbler or Banana Pudding (for dessert)
Keep the Southern theme going strong with a classic sweet finish that everyone will love.

These pairings help round out the meal and bring authentic Southern dining to your table.

Storage Instructions

Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy Recipe tastes wonderful reheated—and it stores beautifully for enjoying later.

How to Store:

Refrigerator: Allow the pork chops and gravy to cool completely, then store them separately in airtight containers. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap cooled pork chops individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Store gravy separately in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

Oven (for pork chops): Reheat at 350°F (175°C) on a wire rack over a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Stovetop (for gravy): Reheat gravy in a saucepan over medium-low heat, whisking occasionally and adding milk if needed to restore consistency.

Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, though the coating won’t be as crispy.

Always ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when reheating.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)

Please note this is an approximate breakdown and may vary based on exact ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	680
Protein	42g
Carbohydrates	35g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugar	7g
Total Fat	42g
Saturated Fat	16g
Unsaturated Fat	24g
Trans Fat	0g
Cholesterol	195mg
Sodium	950mg

This dish delivers a hearty, protein-rich meal with satisfying fats and carbs—perfect for a filling comfort food dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy Recipe ahead of time?
You can bread the pork chops up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate them. The gravy can be made a day ahead and reheated. For best results, fry the chops fresh just before serving.

2. Can I use boneless pork chops instead?
Absolutely! Boneless chops work perfectly and often cook a bit faster. Just adjust cooking time and check internal temperature to avoid overcooking.

3. Is this dish very heavy?
The base recipe is rich and indulgent—true Southern comfort food. You can lighten it slightly by using less gravy or serving with lighter sides like salad.

4. Can I bake the pork chops instead of frying?
Yes, though they won’t be quite as crispy. Bake breaded chops at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, then broil for 2-3 minutes for extra crispness.

5. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No problem. Mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar into ¼ cup regular milk and let sit for 5 minutes—instant buttermilk substitute.

6. Can I make the gravy without bacon?
You can, but it won’t have that signature smoky flavor. Use butter or vegetable oil and add smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.

7. Can I use turkey bacon or chicken for a lighter version?
Certainly! Turkey bacon works well in the gravy, and you can substitute chicken cutlets for the pork chops using the same breading technique.

8. How do I keep the pork chops crispy after frying?
Place them on a wire rack instead of a plate so air circulates underneath, and keep them warm in a low oven until serving time.

Conclusion

Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy Recipe is the ultimate celebration of Southern comfort cooking—all crispy, juicy, and smothered in smoky bacon goodness. With its perfectly fried pork chops and rich, creamy bacon gravy, it’s everything you love about down-home cooking, made easy enough for any night of the week.

Perfect for weekend brunches, Sunday dinners, or any time you’re craving serious comfort food, this Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy Recipe is as satisfying as it is delicious. Plus, with classic Southern sides and endless customization options, you’ll want to make it again and again. So grab your skillet and make dinner something truly special with this incredible Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy Recipe.