Keto Smothered Pork Chops: A Delicious and Comforting Low-Carb Recipe

These keto smothered pork chops are a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal that's perfect for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. They offer the comforting flavors of traditional smothered pork chops without the added carbs from flour-based gravies. This recipe is easy to make, customizable, and a great way to enjoy a lean protein source.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: Perfect for those watching their carb intake.
• Comfort Food: Rich, velvety gravy and tender pork chops create a comforting and satisfying meal.
• Quick and Easy: Many variations can be ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Versatile: Adaptable to different cuts of pork and various flavor preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers taste even better the next day.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into specific recipes, let's cover some key aspects of making keto-friendly smothered pork chops:

Choosing the Right Pork Chops

• Cut: Boneless or bone-in pork chops can be used. Bone-in chops tend to be more flavorful, while boneless chops are leaner and cook faster. Center-cut chops are meatier, while rib chops are more economical.
• Thickness: Aim for chops that are between ¾-inch and 1.5 inches thick. Thinner chops cook quickly but can easily dry out.
• Freshness: Look for pork chops that are pink in color and have good marbling (flecks of fat within the meat).

Keto-Friendly Ingredients

• Fats: Olive oil, avocado oil, butter, bacon fat, and coconut oil are all suitable for searing the pork chops.
• Thickeners: Cream cheese, heavy cream, xanthan gum, and parmesan cheese can create a thick and creamy gravy without the need for flour or cornstarch.
• Liquids: Chicken broth (low-sodium), white wine, and heavy cream form the base of the gravy.
• Vegetables: Mushrooms, onions, garlic, and spinach add flavor and nutrients.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, Italian spices, and Dijon mustard are commonly used to enhance the flavor of the pork chops and gravy.

Keto Smothered Pork Chops Recipes

Pan-Seared Keto Smothered Pork Chops with Creamy Mushroom Gravy

This recipe features pan-seared pork chops smothered in a rich and savory mushroom gravy.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless or bone-in pork chops (¾-1 inch thick)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
• 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Pork Chops: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F). Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Add the sliced mushrooms and onions to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened and lightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. Make the Gravy: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and softened cream cheese. Cook, stirring constantly, until the cream cheese is melted and the gravy is smooth and thickened.
6. Season the Gravy: Stir in the dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Smother the Pork Chops: Return the pork chops to the skillet and nestle them into the gravy. Spoon the gravy over the pork chops to coat.
8. Simmer: Let the pork chops simmer in the gravy for 3-5 minutes, until heated through.
9. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot.

Instant Pot Keto Smothered Pork Chops with Mushroom Gravy

This recipe utilizes the Instant Pot for a quick and easy way to make tender and flavorful smothered pork chops.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless pork chops (¾-1 inch thick)
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or olive oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ¼ teaspoon xanthan gum (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork Chops: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rinse the pork chops and pat them dry. Sprinkle both sides of the pork chops with the spice mixture, rubbing it into the meat.
2. Sear the Pork Chops: Heat the coconut oil in the Instant Pot on the "Sauté" setting. Brown the pork chops in the hot oil for about 3 minutes per side. Remove the pork chops and set aside. Turn off the Instant Pot.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Add the sliced onions to the pot base, then add the mushrooms. Top with the browned pork chops.
4. Pressure Cook: Add the lid to the Instant Pot, making sure the vent is sealed. Cook on the "Manual/Pressure Cook" setting for 25 minutes on HIGH pressure. Once cooked, allow the pressure to release naturally or manually.
5. Make the Gravy: Remove the pot lid and place just the pork chops on a serving plate. Press the "Sauté" setting again. Whisk the butter and heavy cream into the hot liquid.
6. Thicken the Gravy: If desired, sprinkle ¼ teaspoon of xanthan gum into the liquid and whisk immediately. Let the gravy simmer for 3-5 minutes until the butter is melted and the sauce starts to thicken. Turn off the Instant Pot.
7. Smother and Serve: Top the pork chops with the onion and mushroom gravy. Serve hot.

Keto Smothered Pork Chops with Dijon Cream Sauce

This recipe offers a tangy and flavorful twist on smothered pork chops with a Dijon cream sauce.

Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless pork chops (6 oz each)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Season the Pork Chops: Sprinkle both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Pork Chops: Heat the olive oil in a skillet (cast iron preferred) over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook for about 5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Dijon Sauce: Add the chicken broth to the hot skillet and whisk to scrape up any browned bits of pork on the bottom of the pan.
4. Add Dijon and Cream: Add the Dijon mustard and heavy cream to the skillet. Cook, stirring often, until the sauce has reduced and thickened to your liking.
5. Smother and Serve: Return the seared pork chops to the pan, drizzle with the Dijon sauce, and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve hot.

Keto Breaded Smothered Pork Chops with Mushroom Onion Gravy

This recipe provides a breaded option for those who enjoy a crispy coating on their pork chops.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless pork chops (¾-1 inch thick)
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup almond flour
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian spices
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon water
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil (olive oil or avocado oil)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Breading: In a small shallow bowl, combine the almond flour, Parmesan cheese, Italian spices, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In another small shallow bowl, whisk the egg with the water.
2. Bread the Pork Chops: Carefully dip each pork chop in the egg wash, then dredge it in the almond flour mixture, pressing to coat well. Shake off any excess breading.
3. Cook the Pork Chops: Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each pork chop for about 3 minutes per side, until lightly golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and set aside.
4. Make the Mushroom Sauce: In the same pan, add the butter over medium-high heat. Cook the mushroom slices, onion, and garlic for a few minutes until they are golden brown and any liquid has evaporated.
5. Deglaze and Simmer: Add the chicken broth and heavy cream to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
6. Smother and Serve: Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Allow everything to simmer together for a couple more minutes. Serve hot.

Tips for Perfect Keto Smothered Pork Chops

• Don't Overcook: Pork chops can dry out easily. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
• Sear for Flavor: Searing the pork chops before smothering them adds a delicious crust and locks in flavor.
• Deglaze the Pan: Deglazing the pan with chicken broth or white wine after searing the pork chops and sautéing the vegetables is crucial for developing a flavorful gravy.
• Adjust Thickness of Gravy: If the gravy is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce it, or add a small amount of xanthan gum (start with ¼ teaspoon) to thicken it. If the gravy is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or heavy cream to thin it out.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary add a bright and aromatic flavor to the gravy.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings, vegetables, and cheeses to create your own unique version of keto smothered pork chops.

Serving Suggestions

Keto smothered pork chops are delicious served with a variety of low-carb side dishes, including:

• Cauliflower mash
• Cauliflower rice
• Zucchini noodles
• Roasted green beans
• Italian antipasto Brussels sprouts salad
• Steamed broccoli

Storing and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover pork chops and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Add a little broth or water if the gravy has thickened too much.

Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide

Read also: Magnesium Supplements for Keto

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