Oh, the joy of cooking breaded pork chops and gravy! There’s something so satisfying about the crunch of that golden-brown coating paired with a rich, savory gravy that just makes my heart sing. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings back warm memories of family dinners at my grandma’s house, where the aroma filled the air and everyone gathered around the table, eagerly waiting to dig in. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the first bite—juicy pork, crispy exterior, and velvety gravy all coming together in one delicious mouthful. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate, perfect for cozy nights or when you just need a little pick-me-up. You’re going to love how easy it is to whip up this classic!
Ingredients for Breaded Pork Chops and Gravy
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these scrumptious breaded pork chops and gravy. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (I love using seasoned ones for an extra kick!)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk works best for richness)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil (I prefer olive oil, but any oil will do)
- 2 cups beef broth (homemade or store-bought, whichever you have on hand)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening the gravy)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds a delicious depth of flavor)
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go, as it makes the cooking process so much smoother and enjoyable!
How to Prepare Breaded Pork Chops and Gravy
Now, let’s dive into the heart of the matter—preparing these mouthwatering breaded pork chops and gravy! Trust me, it’s simpler than you might think, and the end result is absolutely worth it. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to a fabulous meal.
Prepping the Pork Chops
First up, let’s get our pork chops ready for their delicious transformation! Start by seasoning each chop generously with salt and pepper; this is where the flavor begins, so don’t be shy! Then, set up a little assembly line for the breading process: one plate for flour, one for the beaten egg (mix in the milk for a creamy consistency), and one for the breadcrumbs. This makes everything so much easier!
Take each chop and dip it into the flour first, coating it lightly. This helps the egg stick. Next, dunk it into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off before finishing with a good roll in the breadcrumbs. Make sure you press the breadcrumbs onto the chop to get a nice, even coating. The more crunchy goodness, the better! Once you’ve breaded all the chops, let them rest for just a few minutes to set the coating. This little step makes a world of difference!
Cooking the Pork Chops
Now it’s time to bring that gorgeous breading to life! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready to go. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat—just enough to coat the bottom. Once the oil is shimmering, gently place the pork chops in the skillet. Wow, that sizzle is music to my ears!
Brown the chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want them to get that beautiful golden color, as this adds flavor and texture. Once both sides are nicely browned, carefully transfer the chops to a baking dish. Pop them in the oven and let them bake for 20 minutes. This not only ensures they’re cooked through but also keeps them juicy!
Making the Gravy
While those pork chops are baking, let’s whip up that luscious gravy that’s going to tie everything together! In the same skillet you just used (don’t you love less cleanup?), pour in the beef broth and add the Worcestershire sauce for that rich flavor boost. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
Next, mix the cornstarch with a little bit of water in a bowl to create a slurry. This is your secret weapon for thickening the gravy! Slowly whisk this mixture into the simmering broth, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens up to your desired consistency. If it gets too thick, just add a splash more broth or water to loosen it up. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—this is your chance to make it perfect!
Once your chops are done baking, serve them hot, drizzled with that dreamy gravy. Ahh, I can almost taste it now! Your family will be begging for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: You can have this comfort food on the table in just 45 minutes!
- Rich, satisfying flavor: The juicy pork chops paired with the savory gravy create a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.
- Perfect for family meals: This dish brings everyone together, making it ideal for cozy dinners or special occasions.
- Easy to customize: Adjust the seasonings and gravy thickness to fit your family’s taste preferences.
- Simple cooking method: With both frying and baking, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked chops without any fuss.
- Leftover-friendly: Enjoy the deliciousness the next day—if there are any leftovers!
- Comforting nostalgia: Each bite brings back memories of home-cooked meals that warm your heart.
Tips for Success
Let me share some of my favorite tips to make your breaded pork chops and gravy absolutely perfect! These little nuggets of wisdom can elevate your dish from good to great, trust me!
- Choose bone-in chops: Using bone-in pork chops adds so much flavor and juiciness. The bone helps retain moisture while cooking, giving you that tender, succulent bite.
- Don’t skip the resting time: After you bread the chops, let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the coating adhere better during cooking, resulting in less mess and more crunch!
- Season generously: Make sure to season your flour, egg mixture, and breadcrumbs. A little extra salt and pepper can go a long way in enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- Adjust the gravy thickness: If you prefer a thicker gravy, add more cornstarch slurry gradually until you reach your desired consistency. On the flip side, if it’s too thick, a splash of beef broth will fix it right up!
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to mix in your favorite spices or herbs into the breadcrumb coating. Paprika, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning can add an extra layer of flavor to the chops.
- Serve with sides: Pair these chops with classic sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. The combination will not only complete your meal but also enhance those delicious gravy flavors.
- Don’t be afraid to taste: As you cook the gravy, keep tasting it! This is your chance to adjust any seasonings to make it just right for your palate.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re going to nail this recipe and impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking!
Variations on Breaded Pork Chops and Gravy
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix things up with these breaded pork chops and gravy! Here are some of my favorite variations that can take this comfort food classic to a whole new level:
- Herb-Infused Breading: Add a tablespoon of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the breadcrumbs for a fragrant twist. It not only enhances the flavor but also gives the dish a delightful aroma!
- Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the flour or breadcrumb mixture. This will give your chops a nice little spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the creamy gravy.
- Cheesy Goodness: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumbs for a deliciously cheesy crust. It adds a savory depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible!
- Mushroom Gravy: For a richer gravy, sauté some chopped mushrooms in the skillet before adding the beef broth. This will create a deliciously hearty mushroom gravy that takes the dish to the next level.
- Mustard Glaze: Brush the pork chops with a bit of Dijon mustard before breading. This adds a tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the gravy beautifully.
- Asian Twist: Swap out the Worcestershire sauce for soy sauce and add a dash of sesame oil to the gravy for an Asian-inspired flavor profile. Serve it over rice instead of mashed potatoes for a fun twist!
- BBQ Style: After baking the chops, brush them with your favorite BBQ sauce before serving. This adds a sweet and smoky flavor that’s perfect for summer nights!
Don’t hesitate to experiment and find your favorite flavor combinations. These variations are a great way to keep this dish fresh and exciting, and I can’t wait to hear what you come up with!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made these delicious breaded pork chops and gravy, and now you have some leftovers (if there are any left, that is!). Storing them properly is key to keeping that flavor and texture just right for your next meal. Here’s how to do it:
First, let the pork chops cool down to room temperature. Once they’re cool, transfer them to an airtight container. I like to separate the gravy and pork chops to prevent the breading from getting soggy. If you do combine them, just be mindful that the coating may lose its crunch.
Store the container in the refrigerator, and they should be good for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the pork chops! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
When it’s time to reheat, I recommend using the oven to keep that crispy texture intact. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pork chops on a baking sheet. I like to cover them loosely with aluminum foil to avoid over-browning while they warm up. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re heated through. If you’re reheating the gravy, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s nice and hot.
And there you have it! You can enjoy your comforting breaded pork chops and gravy even on a busy day. Just like the first time, I promise it’ll taste amazing!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
While I strive to provide accurate nutritional information for my breaded pork chops and gravy recipe, please keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Factors like the type of pork chops, the oil chosen, and even variations in the gravy can all influence the overall nutrition. So, it’s always a good idea to double-check with your own ingredients if you’re tracking your intake closely. Enjoy your cooking, and remember that the joy of a meal often goes beyond just the numbers!
FAQ About Breaded Pork Chops and Gravy
Got questions? Don’t worry! I’ve got you covered with some common inquiries about my breaded pork chops and gravy recipe. Let’s dive in!
How long do I need to cook the pork chops?
You’ll want to brown the pork chops in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side, then bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. This ensures they’re cooked through and stay juicy!
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine, but I suggest bone-in for the juiciness and flavor. If you go boneless, just keep an eye on them as they may cook a bit faster.
What can I substitute for beef broth?
If you don’t have beef broth on hand, chicken broth or vegetable broth will work beautifully too. Each will give a slightly different flavor, but they’ll still be delicious!
Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
Sure! You can make the gravy ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving. If it thickens too much in the fridge, you can always add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
What sides pair well with breaded pork chops?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! Classic mashed potatoes or rice are my go-to, but you can also serve it with roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or a simple green salad for a fresh crunch. It’s all about what you love!
Can I freeze leftover pork chops and gravy?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to separate the gravy from the pork chops to keep the breading crisp. Wrap the chops tightly and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Perfect for meal prep!
How do I know when the pork chops are done?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer! You want the internal temperature to reach 145°F (63°C). If you don’t have one, just make sure they’re no longer pink in the middle and the juices run clear.
Can I add other seasonings to the breading?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your spices. Garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning can add delicious flavors to the breadcrumb coating. Spice it up to match your taste!
Got more questions? Feel free to reach out! I’m always happy to help you perfect this comforting dish. Happy cooking!
Print
Breaded Pork Chops and Gravy: 7 Comforting Secrets Inside
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Juicy breaded pork chops served with rich gravy.
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup flour
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
- Dip each chop in flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Brown pork chops on both sides, about 3-4 minutes each.
- Transfer chops to a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes.
- In the same skillet, add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
- Mix cornstarch with a little water and add to the broth.
- Stir until gravy thickens.
- Serve pork chops topped with gravy.
Notes
- Use bone-in chops for more flavor.
- Adjust seasoning based on your preference.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or rice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking and frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop with gravy
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: breaded pork chops, gravy, pork recipes, comfort food