Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Southern-Style Pork Chops?
They are seasoned, pan-fried pork chops served with a rich, savory cream gravy made from pan drippings.
What type of pork chops should I use?
You can use either boneless or bone-in pork chops, depending on your personal preference.
How many pork chops does this recipe call for?
The recipe is designed for 6 pork chops.
What ingredients are needed for the breading?
The breading consists of flour, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and buttermilk.
How much flour is used in total?
One cup of flour is used in total, with 2 tablespoons of that amount reserved specifically for the gravy.
What is the purpose of the buttermilk in this recipe?
Buttermilk is used as a dip to help the seasoned flour adhere to the pork chops and create a crispy crust.
What temperature should the pork chops reach when cooked?
The internal temperature of the pork chops should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long do I cook the pork chops on each side?
Brown each chop for approximately 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
Should I drain the pan drippings after frying the pork?
No, do not drain the pan drippings as they provide the essential flavor base for the cream gravy.
Can I make the gravy without onions?
Yes, you can omit the onion if you prefer a simpler flavor profile.
What liquid is used to make the gravy?
The gravy is made by whisking in either half-and-half cream or milk.
How do I thicken the savory cream gravy?
The gravy is thickened by stirring the reserved 2 tablespoons of flour into the sautéed onions and drippings before adding the cream.
What kind of oil is best for frying the chops?
A combination of vegetable oil and butter is used to heat the skillet for frying.
What seasonings are added to the gravy?
The gravy is seasoned to taste with seasoned salt and plenty of black pepper.
What is a recommended side dish for this meal?
Mashed potatoes are highly recommended to soak up the extra savory gravy.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 257 calories.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides about 11 grams of protein.
What is the fat content of this dish?
The dish contains 17 grams of fat per serving.
Are there many carbohydrates in this recipe?
There are 20 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How do I keep the pork chops warm while making the gravy?
Transfer the cooked chops to a plate and cover them loosely with foil to retain heat.
How long should I sauté the onions for the gravy?
Sauté the finely chopped onion for 3 to 4 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
What heat setting should I use for frying?
The pork chops should be cooked over medium-high heat.
Is this recipe considered a Southern classic?
Yes, it is described as the epitome of Southern comfort food.
Can I use garlic salt instead of garlic powder?
The recipe specifies garlic powder; using garlic salt may require you to reduce other salt in the recipe.
What should the oil look like before adding the pork?
The oil and butter should be heated until shimmering before adding the pork chops.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 total ingredients required for this recipe.
Is the gravy smooth or chunky?
The gravy is described as velvety and creamy, though it contains bits of sautéed onion.
Can I use heavy cream for the gravy?
The recipe suggests half-and-half or milk, but heavy cream could be used for an even richer result.
Does this recipe include sugar?
No, there is no sugar listed in the ingredients or nutritional information.
Is this a good meal for a weeknight?
Yes, it is suitable for both special occasions and cozy weeknight dinners.