Keto Baked Pork Chops and Cauliflower Rice Skillet
A one-pan skillet featuring seasoned thin-cut pork chops served over golden cauliflower rice. The pork is seared with a blend of warming spices including paprika, chili powder, and nutmeg, while Worcestershire sauce adds depth during cooking. The cauliflower rice absorbs the pan drippings and seasonings, creating a flavorful base that's finished with butter. This quick weeknight dinner comes together in about 15 minutes and offers a satisfying meal that's both protein-rich and vegetable-forward.
Ingredients
- 4 ounce thin sliced center cut pork chops, boneless
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon white pepper, ground
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon mustard powder
- ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg, ground
- ⅛ teaspoon onion powder
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
- 2 cup cauliflower rice
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
- 1
Season pork chops with salt, pepper, chili powder, paprika, mustard powder, nutmeg, onion powder, and garlic powder, pressing seasonings into meat
- 2
Heat olive oil in pan over medium-high heat and cook seasoned pork chops for 3 minutes per side until golden brown
- 3
Add worcestershire sauce when flipping chops to infuse with steam
- 4
Remove cooked pork chops and let cool, then slice
- 5
Add cauliflower rice and apple cider vinegar to same pan over high heat until golden brown
- 6
Reduce heat to low, stir in butter until rice is coated, then remove from heat
- 7
Return sliced pork chops over cauliflower rice and serve with optional green onion and lemon
Tips
Press seasonings firmly into pork chops before cooking to help them adhere and create a flavorful crust during searing.
Use high heat when cooking cauliflower rice to achieve golden browning and prevent it from becoming mushy.
Let pork chops rest briefly before slicing to retain juices and make cutting easier.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in airtight container
Season pork chops up to 2 hours ahead and refrigerate
Serve immediately while hot, garnished with chopped green onion and lemon wedges
Common Mistakes
Don't overcook thin pork chops to avoid drying out the meat
Avoid cooking cauliflower rice too long to prevent mushiness
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
Yes, but thaw and drain excess moisture first to prevent steaming instead of browning in the pan.
What if I don't have worcestershire sauce?
Substitute with soy sauce or balsamic vinegar, using slightly less to avoid overpowering the dish.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the pork.