Introduction
Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy is a classic comfort food dish that embodies the essence of hearty Southern cooking. This recipe features tender, breaded pork chops that are pan-fried to golden perfection, topped with a rich and savory bacon gravy that elevates the dish to new heights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comforting Flavors: The combination of crispy pork and creamy gravy creates a delightful contrast that warms the soul.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this dish is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
Versatile Meal: Ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
4 boneless pork chops
1 cup flour
1 tsp paprika
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour (for gravy)
1 ½ cups milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Pork Chops:
In a shallow dish, mix together 1 cup of flour and 1 tsp of paprika.
Dredge each pork chop in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
Dip the floured pork chops in the beaten eggs, then coat them with 1 cup of breadcrumbs.
Fry the Pork Chops:
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Fry the pork chops for about 5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Make the Bacon Gravy:
In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
Stir in 2 tbsp of flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute until it turns light golden.
Slowly whisk in 1 ½ cups of milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens.
Add the crumbled bacon to the gravy and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Method for Storing
Proper storage of your Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy ensures that the dish remains delicious and safe to eat. Here’s how to store and reheat it effectively:
Storing Leftovers
Cool Down:
Allow the pork chops and gravy to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation in the storage container.
Use Airtight Containers:
Transfer the leftovers to airtight containers. This keeps the pork chops and gravy fresh and prevents them from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
Refrigerate:
Store the containers in the refrigerator. The dish can be kept for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing (Optional):
If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the pork chops and gravy.
Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
Label the containers with the date to keep track of freshness. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Leftovers
Thawing (if frozen):
If frozen, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating in the Oven:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the pork chops and gravy in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to retain moisture, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
Reheating on the Stovetop:
Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil or butter, and add the pork chops and gravy.
Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
Microwave Reheating:
Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Tips for Best Results
Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, be careful not to overcook the pork chops, as they can become dry.
Add Moisture: If the gravy seems thick after reheating, you can add a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy texture.