Name: Southern Delight Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy: A Must-Try Recipe!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 pork chops; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 4 slices of bacon; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 cups milk; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1/4 cup water

Introduction to Southern Delight Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy

Welcome to a culinary adventure that will warm your heart and fill your belly! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Southern Delight Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate. Perfect for busy moms and professionals, it’s quick to whip up yet impressive enough to wow your loved ones. Imagine crispy, golden pork chops smothered in rich, savory bacon gravy. It’s comfort food at its finest, ready to bring smiles to your dinner table!

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

This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights! It’s not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor that will make your taste buds dance. The crispy pork chops paired with creamy bacon gravy create a delightful harmony that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Trust me, this dish will become a family favorite in no time!

Ingredients for Southern Delight Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this mouthwatering dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Pork Chops: Choose bone-in or boneless, depending on your preference. Bone-in chops add extra flavor.
Buttermilk: This tenderizes the pork and adds a tangy flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix regular milk with a splash of vinegar.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for that crispy coating. You can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
Salt: Enhances the flavors. Feel free to adjust to your taste.
Black Pepper: Adds a bit of heat. Freshly ground is best for maximum flavor.
Garlic Powder: A must for that savory depth. You can use fresh garlic if you prefer.
Onion Powder: Complements the garlic and adds sweetness. It’s a pantry staple!
Bacon: The star of the gravy! Use thick-cut for a heartier flavor.
Butter: Adds richness to the gravy. You can use olive oil for a lighter option.
Milk: The base for the gravy. Whole milk gives the best creaminess, but any milk will work.
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the gravy. You can substitute with flour if you don’t have cornstarch.
Water: Used to dissolve the cornstarch for a smooth gravy.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find them available for printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Southern Delight Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process! This is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s easier than you might think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a plate of Southern Delight Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy that will make your family cheer!

Step 1: Marinate the Pork Chops

Start by marinating the pork chops in buttermilk for at least one hour. This step is crucial as it tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor. If you have time, let them soak overnight for even better results. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Step 2: Prepare the Flour Mixture

While the pork chops are soaking, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a bowl. This seasoned flour is what gives the pork chops that irresistible crispy coating. Make sure it’s well combined for even flavor distribution!

Step 3: Dredge the Pork Chops

Once the pork chops have marinated, it’s time to dredge them. Take each chop and coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour. This step is key to achieving that golden, crunchy exterior that we all love!

Step 4: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel to drain. Don’t discard the bacon grease; it’s going to add amazing flavor to your gravy!

Step 5: Fry the Pork Chops

In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the dredged pork chops. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. You want that perfect crispy crust!

Step 6: Make the Gravy

After removing the pork chops, it’s time to make the gravy. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the remaining flour mixture to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens. This should take about 5 minutes. Finally, crumble the cooked bacon into the gravy and stir well.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Now comes the best part! Serve the crispy pork chops on a plate and generously ladle the rich bacon gravy over the top. Pair it with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or biscuits, for a complete Southern feast. Enjoy every bite of this delicious comfort food!

Tips for Success

Let the pork chops marinate overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; fry in batches if necessary for even cooking.
For extra crispy chops, double-dip them in the flour mixture.
Adjust the seasoning in the flour to suit your taste preferences.

Equipment Needed

Large Skillet: A cast-iron skillet works wonders, but any heavy-bottomed pan will do.
Mixing Bowls: Use these for marinating and mixing your flour mixture.
Meat Thermometer: This ensures your pork chops are cooked perfectly.
Paper Towels: Great for draining excess grease from the bacon.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the flour mixture for a spicy twist.
Herb Infusion: Mix in dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to the flour for added flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a safe alternative.
Vegetarian Version: Replace pork chops with thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms, and use vegetable broth for the gravy.
Cheesy Gravy: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese to the gravy for a creamy, cheesy delight.

Serving Suggestions

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that soak up the delicious gravy.
Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are perfect for sopping up every last drop of that rich bacon gravy.
Green Beans: A side of sautéed green beans adds a fresh crunch to your meal.
Iced Tea: Serve with sweet iced tea for a true Southern experience.

FAQs about Southern Delight Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy

Can I use chicken instead of pork chops?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breasts or thighs for the pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach the right internal temperature.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Southern Delight Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I make the gravy ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the bacon gravy ahead of time. Just reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of milk to loosen it up if it thickens too much.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or even a fresh salad. The options are endless, so feel free to get creative!

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version of this Southern classic.

Final Thoughts

Cooking Southern Delight Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The crispy, golden pork chops paired with that rich, savory gravy bring a sense of comfort that feels like home. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or for a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. I hope you enjoy every bite as much as I do. So roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and let this delightful recipe bring joy and warmth to your kitchen!

Southern Delight Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy: A Must-Try Recipe!

Author: Maria
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A delicious recipe for Southern-style country fried pork chops served with a rich bacon gravy.

Ingredients

Scale

4 pork chops
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
4 slices of bacon
2 tablespoons butter
2 cups milk
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 cup water

Instructions

Marinate the pork chops in buttermilk for at least 1 hour.
In a bowl, mix flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Dredge the marinated pork chops in the flour mixture, coating them well.
In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy, then remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the pork chops and fry until golden brown on both sides.
Remove the pork chops and keep warm.
In the skillet, melt butter and add the remaining flour mixture to make a roux.
Slowly whisk in milk and cook until thickened.
Add crumbled bacon to the gravy and stir well.
Serve the pork chops topped with bacon gravy.