Keto Apple Pork Chops is a mouthwatering low-carb dish that perfectly balances savory and sweet flavors. Juicy pork chops are seared to golden perfection and paired with tender sautéed apples, seasoned with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Keto-Friendly: Traditional apple pork chop recipes often include sugary sauces, but this version uses low-carb ingredients to keep your macros in check.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners, it’s ready in under 30 minutes!
- Flavorful and Balanced: The combination of juicy pork chops, caramelized apples, and aromatic spices makes this a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make keto apple pork chops:
- Pork Chops: Bone-in or boneless chops, about 1 inch thick, for the best texture.
- Apples: Opt for low-carb varieties like Granny Smith or Golden Delicious.
- Butter or Ghee: Adds richness to the dish and helps caramelize the apples.
- Onion: A small amount adds depth to the flavor without overwhelming the dish.
- Garlic: Minced garlic elevates the savory notes.
- Chicken Broth: For a flavorful sauce base.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds tanginess and enhances the apple flavor without adding carbs.
- Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These warm spices complement the apples beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning.
Tips and Tricks
- Choose the Right Pork Chops: Thick-cut chops stay juicier during cooking. Bone-in options tend to have more flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Pork chops can quickly become dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the perfect internal temperature.
- Caramelize Slowly: Cook the apples and onions on medium heat to bring out their natural sweetness without burning them.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Swap butter for coconut oil or avocado oil for a dairy-free version.
Variations to Try
- Add Herbs: Fresh rosemary or thyme works wonders in enhancing the aroma.
- Swap Apples for Pears: If you want a slightly different flavor, low-carb pears like Bosc can be a great alternative.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Keto-Friendly Sweetener: If you prefer a touch of added sweetness, use a sprinkle of erythritol or stevia.
How to Serve Keto Apple Pork Chops
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of low-carb sides:
- Cauliflower Mash: A keto-friendly take on mashed potatoes.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor complements the dish beautifully.
- Zucchini Noodles: A light and refreshing base for the rich sauce.
- Side Salad: Keep it simple with mixed greens, olive oil, and lemon juice.
How to Store and Reheat
- Storage: Place leftover pork chops and apple mixture in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked pork chops without the apples in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Add fresh apples when reheating.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.
Recipe FAQs
1. Are apples keto-friendly?
While apples are higher in carbs than other fruits, using a small amount of low-carb varieties like Granny Smith keeps this recipe keto-friendly.
2. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Absolutely! Sear the pork chops first, then transfer them to a slow cooker along with the apples, onions, and sauce ingredients. Cook on low for 4–6 hours.
3. What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
You can reduce the sauce by simmering it or add a pinch of xanthan gum for a keto-friendly thickener.
4. Can I use pork loin instead of chops?
Yes, pork loin works well in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time to ensure it doesn’t dry out.
Keto Apple Pork Chops (LOW CARB DINNER)
Keto Apple Pork Chops is a mouthwatering low-carb dish that perfectly balances savory and sweet flavors. Juicy pork chops are seared to golden perfection and paired with tender sautéed apples, seasoned with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Ingredients
- 16 oz boneless pork loin chops (two 8 oz pieces)
- 1 tbsp ghee
- 1/6 medium white onion, minced
- 1 slice bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp pink Himalayan salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 35 drops liquid stevia
Instructions
- Season pork chops with salt and pepper. Heat ghee in a hot pan over medium-high heat.
- Sear chops for 3 minutes per side until golden. Crisp the fat edge if needed.
- Transfer chops to a 400°F oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. Let them rest when done.
- Return the skillet with drippings to the stovetop. Add chopped bacon and cook until nearly done. Toss in onion and grated ginger, letting it soften for 2–3 minutes.
- Add apple cider vinegar, stevia, and cinnamon. Simmer on high heat until thickened into a sticky sauce. Stir in butter for a silky finish.
- Plate the pork chops and spoon the rich sauce on top. Serve warm and enjoy every bite!
Nutrition Information
Yield
2Serving Size
1 gramsAmount Per Serving Calories 639Total Fat 40gSaturated Fat 18gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 17gCarbohydrates 1gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 62g
TastyFitnessRecipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although tastyfitnessrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Keto Apple Pork Chops are a delightful way to enjoy the comforting flavors of fall while sticking to your low-carb lifestyle. This dish is easy to customize, packed with flavor, and sure to impress your family or dinner guests. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is a must-try.
Still hungry! Try my other keto recipes: