Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Keto Pork Chops

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This easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Keto Pork Chops Recipe is a delicious and healthy dinner option that is low-carb and keto-friendly. Juicy center-cut boneless pork chops are pan-seared to perfection, then smothered in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce made with heavy whipping cream, cream cheese, chicken broth, and a blend of cheddar and parmesan cheese. This recipe is quick and easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

pork chops with creamy sauce on white plate

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Keto Pork Chops

As much as I love experimenting with different meals and meats each week, it’s quite easy to fall into a rut and repeatedly cook the same things. Although I enjoy pork chops, they usually aren’t my top pick. But everything changed when I tried this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Keto Pork Chop recipe. This delectable and straightforward low-carb dish will have your taste buds singing, and you can have it on the table in 30 minutes or less! 

Can I Eat Pork Chops on a Keto Diet?

Yes! Pork Chops are keto-friendly and can be prepared in many different ways, such as in a slow cooker, Instant Pot (electric pressure cooker), air fryer, cast-iron skillet, baked in the oven, or on the grill. For most, fatty meats are a staple of the keto diet, so pork chops are an excellent choice.

Ingredients for Keto Pork Chops Recipes:

Center-cut boneless pork chops – The primary protein source in the recipe. The pork chops are seasoned with salt and pepper and cooked until browned on both sides.

Onion – Adds flavor and aroma to the dish. The onion is sliced and sautéed with minced garlic in olive oil until softened.

Garlic – Adds a rich and pungent flavor to the dish. The garlic is minced and sautéed with the onion in olive oil. You can also use garlic powder if you don’t have fresh garlic.

Olive oil – Used to cook the pork chops and sauté the onion and garlic.

Heavy whipping cream – Used to make the creamy sauce for the pork chops. It gives the sauce its creamy texture and rich flavor.

Cream cheese – Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.

Chicken broth – Adds a savory depth of flavor to the sauce and thins it out.

Parmesan cheese – Gives the sauce a nutty and salty flavor.

Cheddar cheese – Adds even more creaminess and flavor to the sauce.

Italian seasoning – Adds an herbal flavor and aroma to the dish.

Salt/Pepper –Enhances the flavors of the dish.

pork chops in a cast iron skillet with onions on top searing

How to Make Keto/Low-Carb Smothered Pork Chops

This skillet pork chop is easy to prepare. Follow the added tips in this picture tutorial, and you’ll master this recipe quickly. For the complete list of ingredients and detailed instructions, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

Step 1: Begin this recipe by heating the cast iron skillet on medium-high heat, then add the olive oil and allow it to get nice and hot before adding the pork chops, garlic, and chopped onions.

Next, sear the pork chops for a few minutes on each side. Although I generally use boneless thin-cut pork chops in this recipe, bone-in pork chops or thick-cut boneless are also options. In either case, the cooking time may need to be adjusted.

Tip: Getting a good sear to seal in the juices and for added flavor is essential. If they feel like they are sticking to the pan, it’s a sign they aren’t ready to turn. Leave them a bit longer, and they will turn over easily.

process pic of seared pork chops with onion in a skillet then resting on cutting board

Step 2: Once they are nice and browned on the top, bottom, and sides of the pork chops, set them aside. Leave as much of the onions and garlic as you can in the skillet as they add flavor to the delicious creamy garlic parmesan low-carb sauce.

ingredients for garlic parmesan sauce for keto pork chops

Step 3: Combine all of the ingredients of the creamy parmesan sauce in a bowl and pour into the cast iron skillet with the sauteed onions and garlic.

Tip: Make sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to get all the brown bits from searing the pork chops. They are full of flavor.

pork chops cooking in cream sauce for pork chops keto recipe

Step 4: You can’t get much more straightforward than dumping all the ingredients into the skillet and then allowing them to boil and thicken for this Pork Chop keto recipe. In this recipe, the whipping cream, cream cheese, and parmesan cheese all complement each other to form a creamy sauce.

Once the sauce thickens, add the pork chops back to the skillet and simmer for a few minutes before serving. You aren’t going to believe just how decadent these Easy Keto Pork Chops taste.

Tip: The sauce mixes so quickly, and it has incredible flavor. Don’t be afraid of spices, as they give so much depth to this recipe. You could also substitute onion powder and thyme for the Italian seasoning if you prefer. r.

low carb pork chops plated

Garnish with fresh parsley for a restaurant-quality look.

Yum! These mouthwatering pork chops turned out better than I imagined. The sauce is rich, creamy, and full of robust flavor. If you don’t love pork chops, this recipe can be altered to use chicken thighs or chicken breasts instead.

What Type of Pork Chops to Use

While center-cut boneless pork chops are recommended for this recipe, you could also use bone-in pork chops or thick-cut pork chops. Just note that cooking times may need to be adjusted accordingly.

Boneless vs. Bone-In Pork Chops

I used Boneless pork chops for this recipe because they are leaner and cook more evenly, making them easier to work with. This allows you to achieve the perfect level of doneness without overcooking the meat. Additionally, the leaner meat of the boneless pork chops pairs well with the rich and creamy garlic parmesan sauce.

On the other hand, bone-in pork chops have a richer flavor and can be more tender due to the presence of the bone. Ultimately, the decision of which type of pork chops to use comes down to personal preference.

The secret to juicy pork chops

The secret to juicy pork chops in this recipe is not to overcook them, which is always a challenge for me unless I use a meat thermometer. It’s important to sear the pork chops on both sides until they are browned and caramelized, but then to remove them from the pan to prevent them from drying out. When you add the pork chops back to the pan to simmer in the sauce, make sure to keep the heat low and monitor the temperature carefully. This will help to ensure that the pork chops stay moist and tender.

Tips to make the best Keto Pork Chops

  • Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that your pork chops are cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F.
  • Grate your cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents and fillers, which can affect the texture and taste of the dish. To get the best flavor and texture, grate your cheese from a block.
  • Add vegetables: This recipe pairs well with various vegetables, such as asparagus, chopped cauliflower, cauliflower rice, broccoli, or green beans. To add extra nutrition to the dish, sauté the vegetables in the same skillet before making the sauce.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste: The seasoning measurements in the recipe are just a guideline. Feel free to adjust the amounts of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to your liking.

Variations to the easy creamy garlic parmesan pork chops recipe:

  1. Swapping out the boneless pork chops for bone-in or boneless chicken breasts or thighs would work, too, for a delicious and equally low-carb alternative.
  2. Add vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or mushrooms to the skillet to boost fiber and nutrients.
  3. For a more tangy flavor, substitute the chicken broth with white wine.
  4. Experiment with different types of cheese, like asiago or gouda, in place of cheddar cheese. Mix up the seasonings by adding some smoked paprika, cumin, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Can You Make Keto Pork Chops in the Slow Cooker?

Yes! You can make this Pork Chop keto recipe in the slow cooker. The last time I made this family favorite dish, I cooked the pork chops on low, covered with vegetable broth and salt and pepper in my slow cooker for 5-6 hours. Right before dinner, I made the sauce in my skillet and then nestled the pork chops in the creamy parmesan garlic sauce. They turned out so tender and flavorful, making cooking dinner a breeze.

Storing, freezing, and reheating instructions.

If you have any leftover creamy garlic parmesan keto pork chops, don’t worry, they can be stored and reheated easily. Here are some step-by-step instructions to help you store and reheat them like a pro:

How to Store in the Fridge:

  • Transfer the pork chops to an airtight container or a resealable storage bag. If using a resealable storage bag, remove as much air as possible to prevent the meat from drying out.
  • Place the container or bag in the refrigerator and store for up to 3-4 days.

How to Reheat:

  • Heat the pork chops in the microwave on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
  • If the sauce has thickened while in the fridge; you can add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to loosen it up. Pour the liquid into the skillet with the pork chops and stir until the sauce is heated through and smooth.

I do not recommend freezing these pork chops due to the dairy content, as it would comprise the taste and texture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, as none of the ingredients contain gluten. However, if you are sensitive to gluten or have celiac disease, ensure that all of your ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially the chicken broth and Italian seasoning, as some brands may contain gluten.

How to Make Keto Pork Chops with Parmesan Cheese Sauce Dairy Free

To make this recipe dairy-free, you can make some substitutions. Instead of heavy whipping cream, you can use coconut cream, almond milk, or any other plant-based milk of your choice. Instead of cream cheese, you can use dairy-free cream cheese or silken tofu. For the cheese, you can use a vegan cheese substitute made from soy, nuts, or vegetables.

** I am not dairy free these are only suggestions. Be sure to check the labels to make sure they are free from any animal-derived ingredients.

What to serve with this Keto Pork Chops Recipe:

Many keto side dishes pair perfectly with this recipe. You can keep it simple and make a simple garden salad or one of the recipes below.

More 30-Minute Meals:

How Many Carbs in this Pork Chop Keto Recipe?

The nutritional information is provided for this recipe below in the recipe card. To calculate net carbs, subtract the fiber from the total carbs. Each serving is 2.7 g carbs minus .2 g of fiber, making it 2.5 g per serving. This information is only an estimate as it will depend on the size and kind of pork chops you use.

pork chops plated with sauce on top garnished with parsley
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4.77 from 302 votes

Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Keto Pork Chops

These creamy garlic parmesan keto pork chops are a flavorful and healthy dinner option that is low-carb and keto-friendly. Pan-seared pork chops are smothered in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce made with heavy cream, cream cheese, and cheddar and parmesan cheese. 
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Dinner, lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, casual
Servings: 6
Calories: 438kcal
Author: Kasey Trenum

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and let it heat up for a minute.
  • Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
  • Add the seasoned pork chops, onions, and garlic to the skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. If needed, cook the pork chops in batches to cook them evenly.
  • Remove the cooked pork chops from the skillet and place them on a plate. Set aside.
  • Reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy whipping cream, cream cheese, chicken broth, parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, Italian seasoning, pepper, and salt to the skillet. Use a whisk to combine the ingredients until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
  • Continue to stir the sauce continuously over medium heat until it thickens. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
  • Once the sauce has thickened, add the pork chops back to the skillet, making sure they are coated with the sauce.
  • Reduce the heat to low and let the pork chops simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes or until the pork chops are cooked through and the sauce has thickened even further.
  • Once done, serve the pork chops hot with the creamy garlic parmesan sauce drizzled over them.

Video

Notes

Tips to make the best Keto Pork Chops
  • Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that your pork chops are cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F.
  • Grate your cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents and fillers, which can affect the texture and taste of the dish. To get the best flavor and texture, grate your cheese from a block
  • Add vegetables: This recipe pairs well with a variety of vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans. To add some extra nutrition to the dish, sauté the vegetables in the same skillet before making the sauce.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste: The seasoning measurements in the recipe are just a guideline. Feel free to adjust the amounts of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to your taste.
How to Store in the Fridge:
  • Transfer the pork chops to an airtight container or a resealable storage bag. If using a resealable storage bag, make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent the meat from drying out.
  • Place the container or bag in the refrigerator and store for up to 3-4 days.
How to Reheat:
  • Heat the pork chops in the microwave on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
  • the sauce has thickened while in the fridge; you can add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to loosen it up. Simply pour the liquid into the skillet with the pork chops and stir until the sauce is heated through and smooth.
I do not recommend freezing these pork chops due to the dairy content, as it would comprise the taste and texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 438kcal | Carbohydrates: 2.7g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 33g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Cholesterol: 149mg | Sodium: 280mg | Potassium: 502mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Vitamin A: 800IU | Vitamin C: 2.1mg | Calcium: 189mg | Iron: 1mg
Tried this recipe?Mention @kaseytrenumblogger or tag #kaseytrenumblogger!

More Keto Pork Chops Recipes:

collage of low carb pork shops in a skillet and plated

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325 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    This is awesme and easy to make. I cut the pork chops about an inch long before cooking them so they would be fully cooked. Glad I did, less time to cook and thet turned out perfect.

  2. 4 stars
    Quick, easy and delicious, but honey; if tiktok has taught us anything, YOU’VE GOT TO SEASON YOUR MEAT before you cook it. 😉

    1. Hey Kim, the short answer is yes. There is a section in the recipe titled Can You Make Keto Pork Chops in the Slow Cooker? that will give you more detailed instructions about what I have done in the slow cooker. Hope you enjoy it!

  3. 5 stars
    Loved this recipe. Do you think you could cook it in the oven instead of on the stove top – especially for a bigger amount?

    1. Hi, Wendy. I have not cooked this recipe in the oven. I have cooked it on the stovetop and the slow cooker. I am sure you can play around with the recipe and figure out how to cook it in the oven. Let me know how it turns out! I would love to hear about it.

    1. Ellis, I’m glad you enjoyed this recipe! Good job with working what you have in the pantry! Thanks for leaving a rating.

  4. I sear the pork chops, make the sauce, and then put the pork chops in the sauce in the oven at 400 degrees for 20 minutes! Delicious!

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