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Classic Southern Pan Fried Pork Chops served with rich onion gravy and sides.

Smothered Pork Chops

A Southern-style recipe for perfectly cooked country fried pork chops with velvety homemade pan gravy. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, it's a cozy comfort food dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pork Chops
  • 4 pieces Pork chops, about 3/4 to 1 inch thick Bone-in is preferred for flavor, but boneless works too.
  • to taste Salt and black pepper Used to season the pork chops.
  • to taste Garlic powder and onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Optional, adds color.
  • 1/2 cup All purpose flour Used for coating and thickening the gravy.
  • as needed tablespoons Oil for frying, like vegetable or peanut oil For frying the pork chops.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter For making the gravy.
For the Gravy
  • 1 cup Chicken broth or water Chicken broth adds flavor; water can be used in a pinch.
  • 1/2 cup Milk or heavy cream substitute Such as whole milk, evaporated milk, or half and half.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the pork chops dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika if using.
  2. Put flour in a shallow dish and coat each chop on both sides. Press lightly and shake off the extra flour.
Cooking
  1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. When hot, add the chops and cook until golden brown, about 4 to 6 minutes per side.
  2. Move chops to a plate and let them rest while you make the gravy.
  3. Pour off excess oil, leaving about 2 to 3 tablespoons in the pan. Add butter if needed.
  4. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour, stirring around for about 1 minute to cook slightly.
  5. Slowly pour in broth while stirring continuously. Add milk, scraping brown bits from the bottom.
  6. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. Let it bubble gently until thickened, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  7. Put the pork chops back in the pan and spoon gravy over them. Simmer on low for 3 to 5 minutes.

Notes

For the best results, do not rush the gravy. If it gets too thick, add more milk or broth. Reheat gently if needed.