Keto Low-Carb Smothered Pork Chops is a quick and easy pan-fried and seared recipe that uses either boneless or bone-in pork loin chops. This classic, southern dish is made using a cast-iron skillet to produce breaded chops with brown gravy. The traditional, glazed meal has been transformed into a keto-friendly dish. You can also bake or grill the pork chops, and throw in mushrooms if you wish!
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Table of Contents
The Secret to Making Tender Pork Chops
The secret to making tender pork chops comes down to a few key techniques:
- Choose the Right Cut: Go for bone-in, thick-cut pork chops (at least 1 to 1.5 inches thick). They stay juicier than thin, boneless chops, which dry out quickly.
- Don't Overcook: Pork dries out fast. Cook to 145 degrees and let it rest for 5 minutes before cutting. Use a meat thermometer to avoid guesswork.
- Sear, Then Finish Gently: Sear them in a hot pan for a golden crust, then finish over low heat with butter and spices.
- 5. Let Them Rest: Resting the chops for 5-10 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them moist when you cut into them.
Is Pork Keto Friendly?
Is pork keto approved? Absolutely. Pork is low in carbs and filled with healthy protein. Even if you are more low-carb/Atkins Diet focused pork chops are a great option. The number of carbs in fried pork chops can remain relatively low depending on how you prepare them.
What Type of Pork Chops to Use
You can use whatever type of pork chops you wish. I prefer to use bone-in thick, center-cut pork loin chops. Note, thick cut pork chops will take longer to cook in the skillet.
Thick cut chops are great for pan-searing, grilling, and broiling. They are about an inch to an inch and a half thick.
I typically use thick-cut because thin pork chops (especially breakfast chops) will cook really fast, it's easy to overcook them. This results in dry pork chops. Thin pork chops are about ⅛ to ¼ of an inch thick and are great for frying (because they cook so fast). Thin chops are sometimes labeled cutlets.
You can read more about Thick Cut Vs Thin Pork Chops here.
Boneless vs Bone-In Pork Chops
Boneless pork chops are a lot more convenient. Bone-in chops usually have more flavor. Boneless chops are leaner because most of the fat has been trimmed away. These will cook very quickly.
Rib chops are the most common of the bone-in chops. The chops have a curved bone. Most grocery stores will have it. Rib chops are less expensive than boneless or center cut chops. They also have the least amount of meat per chop. If you are looking for a super quick meal using bone-in chops this may be your best option.
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Center cut chops are also called loin chops have a bone that resembles a "T." They are more expensive and usually larger in size. Center cut chops usually have the most meat and will yield the longest cook time.
How to Season the Chops
I like to use paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can also use your favorite pork rub.
How to Make Keto Low Carb Smothered Pork Chops
Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Season both sides of the pork chops.
- Add olive oil to a cast iron skillet on medium heat.
- Add the pork chops and sear both sides. Remove the pork chops.
- Add butter to the skillet with sliced onions. Cook until translucent.
- Add broth and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir until the sauce thickens.
- Add the pork chops back to the skillet and serve.
Cook Time/How Long to Cook
Cook time will depend on how thick your chops are. As mentioned, I used thick-cut pork chops. They took about 10 minutes to cook, about 5 minutes each side. Always cook pork until it reaches at least a minimum internal temperature of at least 145 degrees. This will produce juicy pork.
What to Pair with the Pork Chops
Keto Cauliflower Mash
Keto Cauliflower Rice
Air Fryer Roasted Asparagus
Air Fryer Roasted Broccoli
Southern Fried Cabbage
Southern Collard Greens
More Keto Recipes
Keto Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
Keto Low-Carb Meatloaf
Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Big Mac Casserole
Keto Low-Carb Smothered Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 pork chops I used about 2 pounds (total) bone-in, thick center-cut pork loin chops
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup sliced onions I used a white onion
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Place a cast-iron skillet on medium heat to preheat while you season the pork chops.
- Season the pork chops with the garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper to taste.
- Drizzle the olive oil throughout the skillet. Ensure the pan is fully coated with oil.
- Add the pork chops to the pan. Cook each side for 4-5 minutes until the pork reaches an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees. Use a meat thermometer. Cook time will vary based on the size of your pork chops.
- Remove the pork chops from the pan. Set aside.
- Add the butter to the skillet with the onions.
- Spread the butter throughout the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Add the whipping cream and chicken broth to the pan. Stir.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes or until both have become incorporated and the sauce begins to thicken.
- Add the pork chops back to the skillet.
- Serve.
Betsy Kennedy says
So good!! Today is my first day of keto and I was trying to find an easy dinner to make and this was easy and delicious! Followed the recipe to a T.
staysnatched says
Awesome news! Glad you enjoyed it!
CELESTE A OUELLETTE says
I dont have heavy cream , can i use milk ?
staysnatched says
I wouldn't, it won't turn out the same. You can if you wish.
Suzanne says
@Betsy Kennedy, I remember my first day of keto four years ago. I'm still loving it. I really like my Keyto. getkeyto.com You blow into it and it tells you if you are in ketosis. Check it out. I also love perfectketo.com for delicious keto bars that have very healthy ingredients.
Karen P. says
I had made pork chops the other night and was looking for ideas for how to reheat them without them drying out. I found your recipe and just made the sauce, starting with adding the butter (I used ghee) to a pan and sauteing onions. I also added some wild mixed frozen mushrooms. After following the rest of your recipe, adding the cream and broth (with some chopped sage) and letting it thicken, I added the pork chops to heat through. Not only was it delicious but my husband swears it was better and MORE moist than the original. Will definitely try the entire recipe next time. Thank you!
staysnatched says
That's so good to hear! Glad you guys enjoyed them!
Cher Vormwald says
I made these chops for dinner tonight and my husband is still raving about them. I added 4 strips of bacon that was chopped up sauteed with the onions and mushrooms. Absolutely delishous!
staysnatched says
Sounds amazing!
Robin says
Delicious! I am dairy free so I used coconut cream. You couldn't taste the coconut.
staysnatched says
Wonderful! So glad that worked out.
Michael C Smith ii says
Such a wonderful and easy new way to cook a yummy dinner. I pair it with cauliflower rice and another veggie side for the ultimate keto friendly dinner and my non keto friends enjoy it all the same. Thank you for sharing!!
staysnatched says
I love your pairings! Sounds so good!
Judy says
Your recipe is so delicious and easy! My husband loved it too! Thank you!
staysnatched says
Yay! I’m glad you liked it!
Anonymous says
It was very good! I added a tablespoon of sour cream. We will be making it again.
staysnatched says
Wonderful! I’m glad you liked it.
Sophia says
This recipe is so simple but delicious!! If I can make this, anyone can. My husband and three year old both devoured it. It had tons of flavor so it went well with plain white rice as suggested. We will be incorporating this into our meal plans for sure.
staysnatched says
Wonderful! I'm so glad even the 3 year old enjoyed it!
Anonymous says
Absolutely delicious, my husband loved it too. I can't wait to try it again!
staysnatched says
Awesome! I'm glad you enjoyed them!
Steve says
Brandi,
Thanks for this recipe. So easy to make and a lot of flavor I had thick boneless pork chops and they came out great. Served them with roasted cauliflower.
staysnatched says
That sounds so good!
Lisa Kaye says
My husband says thank you! He LOVED this meal with the southern green beans you have on your site (instant pot). He was so happy!! This is definitely a keeper.
staysnatched says
That's an excellent pairing!
Mom of Four Grown Sons and Wife says
So I asked before preparing dinner for my five guys, “how many chips do you want because they are thick?” They reply one. Well that was the wrong answer. They cleaned the skillet. Gravy and all. These pork chops are EVERYTHING. Thanks for sharing. I wanted to send a picture but the vultures beat me to the stove.
staysnatched says
Ha ha now you know for next time!
Shannon says
Fantastic recipe. Easy to follow, delicious outcome! My husband quickly claimed the leftovers for his lunch tomorrow. Will definitely make again!!
staysnatched says
Yay! I can't wait for you to make the pork chops again.
Micki Pugliese says
This was a delicious quick meal to make and everyone enjoyed it. Definitely adding the to our repertoire. Just curious about how many net carbs per serving.
Thank you.
staysnatched says
Glad you enjoyed it! Nutrition is provided for every recipe at the bottom of the recipe card.
Sabrina says
So easy to follow the recipe and turned out sooo good! Will definitely be making again!
Sabrina says
Super easy to follow the recipe and turned out sooo good! I will definitely be making again!
staysnatched says
I'm so glad you enjoyed it!
Kimberley says
Delicious, and so easy!
staysnatched says
I'm glad you enjoyed them!
Christina says
I was excited to try these because I have been looking for keto options. As a southern girl I was skeptical at first but this will in regualr roation while trying this keto lifestyle! I know I will be trying more!
staysnatched says
I’m so glad you enjoyed them!
AngieNYC says
Thank you so much for this recipe-- best pork chops I have ever made! This one is a keeper! 🙂
I followed your recipe exactly except I used half and half in place of heavy cream. My sauce was probably a tad thinner but it was still delicious. I added mushrooms with the onions, per your suggestion and they were a great addition. I also brined the pork chops for a few hours in a simple salt water brine before cooking them.
staysnatched says
This sounds amazing! Thanks for sharing.
Dawn says
Made these tonight for dinner and they were absolutely great! Good flavor!!
staysnatched says
Yay! I'm glad you enjoyed the pork chops.
Angela B says
I made these a week or two ago, they were great but my chops were too thin. My husband couldn't get enough of them. The sauce was AMAZING and I'm making them again tonight with thicker chops, can't wait!
staysnatched says
Thicker pork chops for the win!
Les J says
This recipe is amazing! I ate seconds and I normally don’t go back for seconds!
staysnatched says
haha I'm so glad you enjoyed the recipe!
Shay says
Holy CRAP! This is AMazing!!!!
staysnatched says
Wonderful! I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Kristina Highlander says
This recipe is my go to when making pork chops, my family loves it. Even my picky eater, tonight I made it again and paired it with garlic and herb cauliflower rice. It’s also very quick and easy to make. I had Bariatric surgery a few years ago and I love this one because everyone can eat it.
staysnatched says
I love when I can satisfy a picky eater!
Jenn says
LOVE this recipe. Made it for the first time last week and we are making it again tonight. SO easy and SO flavorful. Thank you for sharing!
staysnatched says
You're welcome! I'm glad you enjoyed the recipe.
Tiffany O. says
This recipe was absolutely amazing simple, quick, and delicious! Will be adding this to the rotation!
staysnatched says
yes! Get it in the rotation.
Megan L says
This was SUPER good. I used thick cut boneless pork chops and it was perfect.
staysnatched says
Awesome! I'm glad you enjoyed them.
ShaCara Telemaque says
I made this for dinner last week and forgot to tell yall how good it is. I don't consider myself a good cook but the StaySnatched recipes got me feelin myself! 🙂 I made it as listed above and followed the seasoning recipe for the pork chops for another meal (not smothered). This recipe will be in rotation!
staysnatched says
Glad to hear it's in the rotation.
Jackie says
Best Porkchops I’ve EVER eaten! I also throw in asparagus and make it a one dish meal. Fabulous!
staysnatched says
I love to hear that!
Lesli N. says
Absolutely delicious!
staysnatched says
So glad you enjoyed them.
SmileyInFriendswood says
I don't only have non stick pans and you said you don't recommend them. I was excited to make this, but now I'm rethinking it. What is wrong with using non stick?
staysnatched says
It won't get the crust that the recipe is known for. You can use it if you want.
Sara says
Started following a keto lifestyle recently and this was an amazing dinner I will definitely make again! It was so easy and so tasty. Our whole family enjoyed this meal.
staysnatched says
Wonderful! Glad you enjoyed it!
TINZ says
My husband is not on keto and wasn't home for dinner. He found the remainer of the dinner in the fridge the next day and ate it. He said, "those were the best pork chops you ever made, I'm glad you are off that diet". LOL! Needless to say I'm making them tonight.
CAN YOU PLEASE POST MORE MARVELOUS RECIPES SUCH AS THIS?
staysnatched says
Ha. Glad you both enjoyed them.
Suzanne says
Oh, so good. Best chop we have had in a long time. Next time we'll add mushrooms but maybe not bacon as the calories are pretty high already.
staysnatched says
I’m glad you enjoyed it!
Crystal says
As soon as I saw this hit my email box, I ran to get the ingredients. This was delicious! The gravy was flavorful and I'm glad I got the thicker cut pork chops. This came together quickly and makes a great weeknight meal. I made it with cauliflower rice and green sans.
staysnatched says
Awesome! So glad you enjoyed it.
Beverly says
This is so delicious! I found out the leftovers are even better the next day. Yum!!
staysnatched says
This is so great for leftovers!
Amanda says
I made these pork chops as part of this week’s lunch prep, and let me tell you I have no regrets. It’s quick, simple to follow directions, and DELICIOUS. I have no objections to eating this 3 days in a row for lunch. I threw sliced mushrooms in with the onions.
staysnatched says
This is something I can eat over and over!
Trista says
A crowd pleaser!! Break out your granny's giant cast iron for this one because you're going to want to double the recipe. Kids even gobble these pork chops up! I make this recipe regularly, and also will swap the onions for mushrooms depending on what I have on hand.
staysnatched says
Yay! I'm glad you enjoyed this.
Cathy says
This was delicious ! So easy to prepare with staple ingredients. Pork was moist, tender and sauce was flavorful !
staysnatched says
Wonderful! I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Betsy Martin says
Made these for dinner tonight, and wow! They were fantastic. I served them with some roasted vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, green beans and red peppers). The vegetables were a great complement to the pork. And that onion gravy! Oh my, I will certainly be keeping this recipe in my regular rotation. Thank you!
staysnatched says
I'm glad you enjoyed it!
Dana says
@staysnatched, Do you have a carb count on these?
staysnatched says
Macros are in the recipe card.
Irene Wright says
I made these last night and they were so good I am getting more pork chops today to make again tonight. I am going to double the sauce this time. I made it exactly as written and it was excellent!
staysnatched says
Awesome! That's so good to hear.
Nancy says
I tried this pork chop recipe tonight was delicious and tender would recommend to anyone. It is quick and easy also .
staysnatched says
Wonderful! I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Sherry K says
ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS!!! Definitely going on the "do-over" list whether I am on Keto or not. I followed the recipe exactly.
staysnatched says
Wonderful. I'm glad you enjoyed them.
Dee B says
My new go to recipe for pork chops. Followed the recipe and used smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika. Hubby has no idea it is Keto. Win, win!
staysnatched says
I'm glad you enjoyed it!
Kristin says
Absolutely amazing!!! Such a simple and delicious recipe!
staysnatched says
I'm glad you enjoyed it!
Frances says
I substituted water for the broth. Will definitely be making this again.
staysnatched says
Glad to hear it!