Craving a hearty, satisfying meal that fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle? Look no further than these incredible Keto Smothered Pork Chops.
This recipe transforms classic Southern comfort food into a delicious low-carb pork chop recipe that’s surprisingly easy to make. Imagine tender, juicy pork chops pan-seared to perfection and then generously smothered in a rich, creamy onion gravy – all completely keto-friendly!
Whether you’re looking for an easy keto dinner idea or a comforting meal that won’t derail your progress, these pork chops with gravy keto style are sure to become a new favorite. Get ready to impress your family and yourself with this flavorful dish, cooked perfectly in a cast-iron skillet.
Why You’ll Love This Keto Smothered Pork Chop Recipe
- Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of perfectly seasoned pork chops and savory onion gravy is simply irresistible.
- Perfectly Tender: We share the secrets to achieving melt-in-your-mouth tender keto pork chops every time.
- Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it ideal for a weeknight easy keto dinner.
- Keto & Low-Carb: With minimal carbs, this dish fits seamlessly into ketogenic and low-carb diets.
- Comfort Food Classic: Enjoy all the comforting flavors of traditional smothered pork chops without the carbs!
Ingredients You’ll Need For The Pork Chops
For the Pork Chops:
- Pork Chops: 4 thick-cut (1-1.5 inch), bone-in pork chops (center-cut or rib chops recommended for flavor and moisture)
- Olive Oil: 1-2 tablespoons (for searing)
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
For the Keto Onion Gravy:
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 medium, thinly sliced
- Beef or Chicken Broth: 1 cup (ensure it’s low-sodium and sugar-free)
- Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup
- Optional: Xanthan Gum (1/4 – 1/2 tsp for thicker gravy, whisked into broth before adding cream)
- Optional: Sliced Mushrooms (8 oz, added with onions)
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Keto Smothered Pork Chops
- Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops completely dry with paper towels (this helps achieve a better sear). Season both sides generously with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the Pork Chops: Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet (or other heavy-bottomed skillet) over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the seasoned pork chops in the hot skillet. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Don’t overcrowd the pan; sear in batches if necessary. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 140-145°F. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté Onions (and Mushrooms): Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the sliced onions (and mushrooms, if using). Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are softened, translucent, and lightly caramelized.
- Make the Keto Gravy: Pour the broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom – this adds amazing flavor! Bring the broth to a simmer. (If using xanthan gum, whisk it into the cold or room temperature broth before adding it to the hot pan to prevent clumping, then bring to a simmer). Stir in the heavy cream. Continue to simmer gently, stirring constantly, for 3-5 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened slightly.
- Smother and Finish: Return the seared pork chops (and any accumulated juices from the plate) to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Spoon some of the gravy and onions over the top of the chops. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet loosely, and let the pork chops simmer gently in the gravy for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and ensuring the pork is cooked through (final internal temperature should be 145°F).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Let the keto smothered pork chops rest in the gravy for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness. Serve hot, spooning extra onion gravy over the top.
Tips for the Best Tender Keto Pork Chops
- Choose Thick, Bone-In Chops: As mentioned in the ingredients, thick-cut (1-1.5 inches) bone-in chops retain moisture better than thin or boneless cuts.
- Don’t Overcook: This is crucial! Use a meat thermometer. Cook pork chops to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), then let them rest. They will continue to cook slightly as they rest.
- Sear Hot, Finish Gently: A hot sear creates a flavorful crust, while simmering gently in the gravy keeps them tender.
- Resting is Key: Always let the pork chops rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
- Mushrooms: Add sliced cremini or button mushrooms along with the onions for an earthier flavor.
- Seasoning: Feel free to add other keto-friendly seasonings like onion powder, dried thyme, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Broth: Chicken or beef broth both work well. Vegetable broth can also be used.
- Thicker Gravy: For a thicker pork chop gravy keto style, use a small amount of xanthan gum as noted in the ingredients, or allow the gravy to simmer and reduce for longer.
Nutritional Info
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 kcal
- Protein: Approximately 23-28 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams
- Saturated Fat: Will vary, but typically around 3-5 grams
- Total Carbohydrates: 2-3 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Sugars: 0 grams
Serving Suggestions
These keto smothered pork chops are fantastic served over:
- Cauliflower Mash
- Steamed Green Beans
- Roasted Asparagus
- Zucchini Noodles
- A simple side salad
Storage and Reheating
- Store: Keep leftover smothered pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if the gravy is too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is pork keto-friendly? Yes, pork is naturally low in carbohydrates and a great source of protein, making it ideal for a keto diet.
- Can I use boneless pork chops? You can, but be aware they cook much faster and can dry out easily. Reduce searing and simmering times accordingly and watch the internal temperature closely.
- How do I know when the pork chops are done? The safest and most accurate way is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Enjoy this delicious and satisfying low-carb smothered pork chop recipe!