A Flavorful Feast: Southern Fried Pork Chops and Cheesy Mac

Indulge your taste buds in a Southern culinary delight with our recipe for Southern Fried Pork Chops paired with a creamy and cheesy Mac. This savory and comforting dish brings together perfectly seasoned bone-in pork chops and a decadent macaroni and cheese casserole. The combination of crispy fried goodness and gooey cheese makes for a meal that will satisfy both your Southern food cravings and your love for comfort food classics.

Ingredients:

Southern Fried Pork Chops:

  • 1 1/4 lb bone-in pork chops
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup panko crumbs
  • 2 tbsp paprika
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp mustard powder
  • 1 tsp parsley flakes
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Oil for frying

For the Mac:

  • 3 cups dry elbow macaroni
  • 4 tbsp salted butter
  • 2 (370 mL/12 oz) cans evaporated milk
  • 1/3 cup milk of choice
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 tsp garlic salt
  • 4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 tsp paprika

Directions:

Southern Fried Pork Chops:

  1. Mix spices together in a spice or coffee grinder, then divide in half. Sprinkle one-half of the spices on both sides of the pork chops.
  2. In a shallow dish, add the pork chops and cover with whole milk. Allow them to soak for 1 hour in the refrigerator.
  3. In another shallow dish, combine flour, panko crumbs, and the other half of the spices. Blend well and set aside.
  4. Remove pork chops from the milk and coat with the flour mixture on both sides. Allow them to rest on a clean tray for about 10-15 minutes.
  5. Heat about 3 cups of cooking oil, such as canola oil or lard, in a cast-iron skillet over low to medium heat. Once the oil reaches 300-325 degrees, add the chops in batches to fry until the temperature is 145 degrees and they are golden brown on the outside (approximately 3-4 minutes per side).
  6. Drain excess oil on a wire rack over a sheet pan or on paper towels.

For the Mac:

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and macaroni, and cook until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
  2. Add butter to the macaroni and stir until melted. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, mix together evaporated milk, milk, eggs, and garlic salt until fully combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
  5. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking pan.
  6. Layer 1/3 of the macaroni, then 1/3 of the cheese. Repeat with the remaining macaroni and cheese mixture.
  7. Pour the milk mixture over the top and sprinkle paprika evenly.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.

Conclusion:

This Southern-inspired feast of crispy fried pork chops and lusciously cheesy macaroni is a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the delicious blend of Southern tradition and comfort in every bite!

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