Keto Low-Carb Smothered Pork Chops

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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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 1/8 to 1/4 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.

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.

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1. Season both sides of the pork chops.
2. Add olive oil to a cast iron skillet on medium heat.
3. Add the pork chops and sear both sides. Remove the pork chops.
4. Add butter to the skillet with sliced onions. Cook until translucent.
5. Add broth and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir until the sauce thickens.
6. 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