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:
- 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.
- In a shallow dish, add the pork chops and cover with whole milk. Allow them to soak for 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- In another shallow dish, combine flour, panko crumbs, and the other half of the spices. Blend well and set aside.
- 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.
- 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).
- Drain excess oil on a wire rack over a sheet pan or on paper towels.
For the Mac:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and macaroni, and cook until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
- Add butter to the macaroni and stir until melted. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together evaporated milk, milk, eggs, and garlic salt until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Layer 1/3 of the macaroni, then 1/3 of the cheese. Repeat with the remaining macaroni and cheese mixture.
- Pour the milk mixture over the top and sprinkle paprika evenly.
- 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!
