Keto Pork Chops with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is the ultimate comfort food for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle. This dish combines juicy, pan-seared pork chops with a rich, velvety mushroom sauce made from cream, butter, and savory aromatics. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and feels like a restaurant-quality meal—yet it’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
Pork chops are often overlooked in keto cooking, but they are an excellent protein source that pairs beautifully with creamy sauces. When cooked correctly, pork chops are tender and flavorful, not dry or tough. The creamy mushroom sauce elevates the dish by adding depth, richness, and a luxurious mouthfeel without adding unnecessary carbs.
This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even meal prep. It uses simple ingredients that are easy to find and transforms them into a hearty, comforting dish that feels far more indulgent than it actually is. Best of all, it’s naturally gluten-free and low-carb, making it ideal for keto, low-carb, and diabetic-friendly diets.
Whether you’re new to keto cooking or a seasoned low-carb enthusiast, this Keto Pork Chops with Creamy Mushroom Sauce recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–6 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Place the pork chops back into the skillet, spooning sauce over them. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the pork chops are fully cooked and tender.
- Sprinkle fresh thyme or parsley over the dish before serving.
Notes
Nutritional Facts and Total Calories
(Approximate per serving)- Calories: 420
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Keto Pork Chops with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Ingredient Notes
Pork Chops
Pork chops are the star of this dish. Bone-in pork chops are preferred because they tend to stay juicier during cooking, but boneless chops also work well. Choose chops that are at least 1 inch thick for the best texture. Thin pork chops cook too quickly and can dry out easily.
Salt and Black Pepper
Basic seasoning is essential for enhancing the natural flavor of the pork. Salt helps retain moisture, while black pepper adds a mild heat that balances the creamy sauce.
Garlic Powder and Paprika
Garlic powder provides even seasoning across the surface of the pork chops, while paprika adds warmth and subtle smokiness. Smoked paprika can be used for extra depth.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is used to sear the pork chops and create a golden crust. It has a high enough smoke point for pan-searing and adds a light, savory flavor.
Butter
Butter adds richness to both the pork chops and the mushroom sauce. It also helps brown the mushrooms and enhances the overall creaminess of the dish.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms bring an earthy, umami-rich flavor to the sauce. Button mushrooms are mild, cremini mushrooms add depth, and baby bella mushrooms provide a more intense flavor. Slice them evenly for consistent cooking.
Garlic
Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth and sharpness to the sauce. Minced garlic blends seamlessly into the creamy base and enhances the mushroom flavor.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream is essential for creating a rich, keto-friendly sauce. It thickens naturally without flour or starch, making it perfect for low-carb cooking.
Chicken Broth
Chicken broth adds flavor and helps thin the sauce to the perfect consistency. Always use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
Dijon Mustard (Optional)
Dijon mustard adds tang and complexity to the sauce. It’s optional but highly recommended for added depth.
Fresh Herbs
Fresh thyme or parsley adds brightness and freshness, balancing the richness of the cream and butter.
Serving Instructions
Serve Keto Pork Chops with Creamy Mushroom Sauce hot, straight from the skillet. Pair with keto-friendly sides such as cauliflower mash, zucchini noodles, sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or green beans. Spoon extra sauce over the pork chops for maximum flavor.
Tips
- Use thick-cut pork chops to prevent drying out.
- Let pork chops rest briefly before serving to retain juices.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing.
- Use full-fat heavy cream for best results.
- Adjust sauce thickness by adding more broth or cream.
- Add parmesan cheese for extra richness if desired.
Storage Information
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Freezing is not recommended, as cream-based sauces may separate.
FAQs
1. Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops work well, but monitor cooking time closely to avoid overcooking.
2. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly when made as written.
3. Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Heavy cream is recommended, but coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free option.
4. What mushrooms work best?
Cremini or baby bella mushrooms provide the best flavor, but any variety works.
5. How do I know when pork chops are done?
Pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and are tender.
