Country Fried Pork Chops With Bacon Gravy Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about a plate of country fried pork chops with bacon gravy. The crispy, golden-brown crust enveloping tender, juicy pork chops paired with rich, creamy bacon-infused gravy makes for a meal that's pure Southern indulgence. The scent of sizzling pork and smoky bacon fills the kitchen, creating a nostalgic warmth that makes every bite taste like home.

I first made this recipe on a chilly Sunday afternoon when I wanted something hearty but easy to prepare. With just a few pantry staples and a bit of frying magic, I had a meal that felt like it had been slow-cooked all day. Now, it's a go-to for family dinners, and there are never any leftovers!

Why You'll Love This Country Fried Pork Chops Recipe

Get ready for a dish that will win over your taste buds and your dinner guests. These country fried pork chops are everything you love about comfort food, with a few extra touches that make them unforgettable.

First, the crisp, golden breading locks in the pork’s natural juices, giving you a satisfying crunch with every bite. No dry pork chops here—just juicy, flavorful meat wrapped in a crispy coating.

The bacon gravy takes this dish to the next level. Made with crispy bacon, pan drippings, and a creamy base, it’s smoky, savory, and downright addictive. You’ll want to smother your pork chops—and maybe even your mashed potatoes—in this rich sauce.

It's quick and easy to make. While it looks and tastes like a special occasion meal, you can have it on the table in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

Plus, it's budget-friendly. Using simple, inexpensive ingredients, this meal gives you restaurant-quality flavors without the hefty price tag.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what makes each component essential:

The pork chops are the star of the show. Bone-in or boneless both work well, but I prefer bone-in for extra juiciness. Aim for chops about ¾-inch thick so they cook evenly without drying out.

A combination of flour and cornstarch creates the ideal crispy coating. The cornstarch helps add an extra crunch, ensuring the breading stays crisp even after being smothered in gravy.

Seasonings are key to flavor-packed chops. A blend of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika enhances the meat’s natural taste and adds a little depth to the breading.

The bacon serves a dual purpose—it adds smoky flavor to the gravy and provides that irresistible crunch. Be sure to save the rendered bacon fat for making the roux.

Finally, whole milk and chicken broth form the creamy, savory base of the bacon gravy. The combination results in a velvety texture with layers of flavor that complement the crispy pork chops perfectly.

How To Make Country Fried Pork Chops With Bacon Gravy

Creating this dish is easier than you might think, and the process is well worth it.

Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once it’s done, remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the flavorful bacon fat in the pan.

While the bacon is cooking, season and dredge the pork chops. Pat them dry with a paper towel, then coat them in a seasoned mixture of flour and cornstarch. Shake off any excess so they fry up nice and crispy.

Heat the reserved bacon fat in the skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the pork chops in batches, about 4 minutes per side, until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. Transfer them to a wire rack to rest while you make the gravy.

For the bacon gravy, start by adding a bit more flour to the skillet, whisking it into the bacon drippings to create a roux. Slowly add chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce.

Crumble the crispy bacon into the gravy and stir well. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then pour that delicious, smoky gravy over the fried pork chops. Serve immediately!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), here’s how to store them properly.

Keep pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, store them separately from the gravy.

The bacon gravy can be refrigerated for 4-5 days in a sealed container. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.

For longer storage, freeze the pork chops in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Here are a few variations to try:

Prefer a spicy kick? Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or drizzle hot sauce into the gravy for some heat.

Want a lighter version? Try pan-searing the pork chops instead of deep frying them. You’ll still get a delicious crust without the extra oil.

For a gluten-free option, swap the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend and use cornstarch exclusively for the breading.

Need a dairy-free alternative? Replace the milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk, and use a butter substitute for the roux.

No pork chops on hand? This recipe works beautifully with chicken breasts or cubed steak, giving you plenty of delicious options to experiment with.

Ready to Dig In?

With its crispy, golden-brown coating and rich, savory bacon gravy, this country fried pork chops recipe is the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a Sunday feast, this dish is sure to bring smiles to your table. So grab your skillet, fry up some chops, and get ready to enjoy some serious Southern flavor!

Print