Country Fried Pork Bacon Gravy

Country fried pork with creamy bacon gravy is that kind of nourishing comfort food everyone craves on cold weekends I love how the crackling pork chop crust gives way to juicy tender meat and the gravy has a smoky richness from crisp bacon just like I remember from my grandmother’s table This recipe is the perfect way to bring the spirit of a cozy diner breakfast right into your own kitchen

The first time I made this for my partner they declared it better than any restaurant version Since then it has become our special occasion meal

Gather Your Ingredients

• Pork chops: bone in adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy opt for medium thickness with a pinkish color
• Buttermilk: tenderizes and gives pork subtle tang look for real cultured buttermilk
• All purpose flour: forms the crispy crust choose unbleached for best results
• Salt: crucial for seasoning both pork and gravy use kosher or sea salt
• Black pepper: freshly ground adds bright bite
• Paprika: brings warmth use sweet or smoked for richer flavor
• Garlic powder: boosts savoriness check for bright white color and fresh aroma
• Onion powder: gives subtle sweetness choose a fine powder for even coating
• Vegetable oil: neutral taste high smoke point ideal for frying
• Bacon: smoked or thick cut delivers rich flavor and crunch look for meaty strips
• Unsalted butter: blends with bacon fat for gravy and keeps salt level balanced
• Whole milk: gives the gravy creamy body choose full fat for richness

How to Make It

Marinate the Pork:

Let pork chops soak in buttermilk in a shallow dish for 30 minutes at room temperature The acid in the buttermilk breaks down proteins for tender meat

Mix the Seasoned Flour:

In another dish thoroughly combine flour salt pepper paprika garlic powder and onion powder Whisk well to ensure even seasoning so every bite pops with flavor

Heat the Oil:

Pour oil into a large skillet Heat over medium until it shimmers Hot oil is essential for a crisp crust without absorbing excess grease

Dredge and Fry:

Lift pork chops from the buttermilk dip each into seasoned flour making sure to coat all sides and gently shake off excess Lay in hot oil Fry each chop about 4 to 5 minutes per side Flip only once for best color Transfer finished chops to a plate lined with paper towels This keeps them crispy

Crisp the Bacon:

Using a clean skillet cook chopped bacon over medium heat Stir frequently until pieces are golden and crisp Transfer to paper towels Save the bacon fat in the pan for the next step

Make the Gravy Base:

Add butter to the skillet with bacon fat Allow to melt fully then whisk in flour Stir constantly for a minute to cook off any raw flour taste

Finish the Gravy:

Gradually whisk in milk until no lumps remain Keep whisking until the mixture starts to thicken Season with salt and pepper Simmer a few more minutes then stir in all the crispy bacon

Serve it Up:

Arrange fried pork chops on plates Spoon generous amounts of the warm bacon gravy over the top For extra comfort scatter a few bacon bits on every serving

I am always amazed how just a small spoonful of that bacon gravy transforms plain pork into a showstopping meal Sometimes my little brother eats the gravy with a spoon right from the pan and I cannot blame him

Flavor Boosters

Use fresh summer herbs like sage or thyme in the gravy for warmth If you are out of buttermilk use regular milk with a splash of vinegar Instead of bacon try diced ham or chorizo for a different savory note

Serving Suggestions

This is classic Southern hospitality on a plate Serve with creamy mashed potatoes steamed green beans or even cornbread For breakfast I love it beside two fried eggs

Creative Twists

Chicken cutlets make a lighter alternative for the pork In cooler months add a side of roasted root vegetables Freeze pork chops and gravy for easy meal prep reheat pork in a hot oven and gravy with a splash of milk

Give this comforting pork and bacon gravy a try the next time you need cozy diner style flavor A little extra bacon on the side never hurts

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ How do I get the pork chops extra crispy?

Coat pork chops well in seasoned flour and ensure your oil is hot before frying. Avoid overcrowding the pan for a crisp finish.

→ Can I use boneless pork chops?

Yes, boneless pork chops can be substituted. Adjust frying time as they may cook faster than bone-in cuts.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Popular sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, coleslaw, or biscuits, which complement the rich flavors nicely.

→ Is there a substitute for buttermilk?

You can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a quick buttermilk substitute.

→ How thick should the bacon gravy be?

The gravy should be creamy and coat the back of a spoon. Simmer until desired thickness is reached, stirring frequently.

→ Can I make the bacon gravy ahead?

Yes, prepare the bacon gravy in advance and gently reheat on the stove, stirring to maintain a smooth texture.