Southern fried pork chops with creamy bacon gravy is the ultimate comfort food! The pork chops are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, while the bacon gravy adds a rich, savory twist that’s hard to resist. This dish is perfect for a hearty family meal or a special weekend treat, capturing the essence of traditional Southern cuisine. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a meal that will satisfy and impress. Let’s dive in and create this mouthwatering dish!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Bacon Gravy:

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 3 tablespoons bacon grease (from cooked bacon)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

1. Season the Flour: In a large bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth.
3. Coat the Pork Chops: Dredge each pork chop in the seasoned flour, ensuring it’s well-coated. Shake off any excess flour, then dip each chop in the egg mixture. Finally, dredge the pork chops in the flour again for a double coating.

Step 2: Fry the Pork Chops

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking (approximately 350°F).
2. Fry the Pork Chops: Carefully place the pork chops in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 145°F.
3. Drain the Pork Chops: Remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Keep warm while you prepare the gravy.

Step 3: Make the Bacon Gravy

1. Cook the Bacon: In a clean skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 3 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan.
2. Make a Roux: Add 3 tablespoons of flour to the bacon grease and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and golden brown. This is the base of your gravy.
3. Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue stirring until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season and Finish: Add salt and pepper to taste, then stir in the cooked bacon pieces. Once the gravy reaches your desired consistency, remove it from heat.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate the Pork Chops: Place each pork chop on a plate and spoon the bacon gravy generously over the top.
2. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve with mashed potatoes or green beans for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 590 kcal
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fat: 41g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 820mg Please note that nutritional values may vary based on the specific ingredients and portions used.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this recipe with boneless pork chops?
A: Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but keep in mind they may cook faster. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as overcooking can lead to dry pork.

Q2: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free all-purpose flour for dredging the pork chops and making the gravy. Ensure your seasonings are also gluten-free.

Q3: Can I use a different type of milk for the gravy?
A: Whole milk is recommended for a rich, creamy gravy, but you can substitute with low-fat milk or even dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Q4: What’s the best way to reheat leftover pork chops?
A: The best way to reheat pork chops is in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them tough. Warm the gravy separately and drizzle over the chops just before serving.