Getting started on a ketogenic diet can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to finding delicious and easy-to-make recipes. With so many options out there, it’s hard to know where to begin. That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 20 mouth-watering and easy keto recipes perfect for beginners. From savory meat dishes to creamy desserts, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track with your diet.
In the following pages, you’ll find a range of tasty and innovative recipes that use common ingredients and simple cooking methods. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option or a satisfying dinner idea, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the many benefits of a ketogenic lifestyle!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of tender steak bites smothered in a savory garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the steak cubes and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
4. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the softened butter to the skillet.
6. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
7. Return the steak cubes to the skillet and toss with the garlic butter sauce until coated.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Chicken
Savor the flavor of crispy bacon, melted cheese, and juicy chicken with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and salt.
3. Sprinkle the garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Wrap each chicken breast with 2 slices of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
5. Place the wrapped chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Top each piece of chicken with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Avocado Egg Salad
A creamy twist on a classic salad, this Avocado Egg Salad combines the richness of avocados with the creaminess of eggs and the tanginess of dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs, hard-boiled and diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the diced eggs, avocado, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time:
– 5-7 minutes to boil the eggs
– None (no additional cooking required)
– Total time: approximately 35-45 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
A perfect summer dish, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of zucchini noodles with the rich flavor of homemade pesto.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto (see note)
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your spiralizer or mandoline to create zucchini noodles.
2. Cook the zucchini noodles in a large skillet with a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re slightly tender but still crisp.
3. Add the pesto to the skillet and stir well to combine. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve the zucchini noodles hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Shrimp
Elevate your shrimp game with this rich and creamy Tuscan-inspired dish, infused with the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and white wine (if using). Bring to a simmer.
6. Stir in the dried basil, salt, and pepper.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the creamy sauce.
8. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe
Transform traditional macaroni and cheese into a low-carb masterpiece with this cauliflower-based recipe, packed with creamy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp works best)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Steam cauliflower florets until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add steamed cauliflower, salt, and pepper; stir until coated.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine cheddar and Parmesan cheese with heavy cream. Heat over low until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine cooked cauliflower mixture with cheese sauce in the skillet. Stir until well combined.
6. Transfer to a baking dish or individual ramekins. Top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and elegant dish, perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta, parsley, and garlic.
3. Lay each chicken breast flat and make a horizontal incision in the center of each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks if needed.
6. Brush the outside of the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-Carb Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A quick and delicious low-carb option that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp coconut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut oil, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Add the beef strips and marinate for at least 10 minutes.
2. Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
3. Add the beef to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
5. Return the beef to the skillet with the broccoli and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Egg Breakfast Muffins
Start your day with a savory twist on traditional breakfast muffins, packed with crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and warm spices.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, melted butter, milk, chopped onion, and crumbled bacon.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Keto-Friendly Chicken Alfredo
This creamy, rich, and indulgent dish is a twist on the classic Italian recipe, adapted to fit your keto lifestyle.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz (225g) zucchini noodles (zoodles)
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken in a large skillet with butter and garlic until cooked through, about 5 minutes.
2. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add zucchini noodles to the saucepan and toss to coat with the Alfredo sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until tender.
4. Combine cooked chicken and zoodles with the Alfredo sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Cauliflower Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot meal that combines spicy sausage with cauliflower rice, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the cauliflower to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until it starts to soften.
5. Stir in the smoked paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the cauliflower mixture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Parmesan-Crusted Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this crispy Parmesan crust, adding a nutty and savory twist to this delicate fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each salmon fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Keto Taco Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the best of Mexican cuisine with a keto twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup of cooked ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for variations)
– 1/2 cup of diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella or feta for variations)
– 1/4 cup of crushed tortilla chips (or keto-friendly alternatives like pork rinds or seeds)
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, cooked ground beef, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
2. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.
3. Add the crushed tortilla chips (or alternatives) and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1-2
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
This classic comfort food recipe combines the simplicity of steamed broccoli with the richness of melted cheese, all wrapped up in a satisfying casserole. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup of milk
– 1/2 cup of cream of mushroom soup
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– 1/4 cup of butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of french-fried onions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, steam broccoli until tender.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, combine cheese, milk, soup, onion, and melted butter.
4. Add steamed broccoli to the cheese mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with french-fried onions (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the brightness of lemon, the richness of butter, and the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, lemon juice, and softened butter until well combined.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the garlic-lemon butter mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each thigh.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, golden brown, and juicy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Keto Chocolate Avocado Mousse
This rich and creamy dessert is a game-changer for keto dieters, combining the health benefits of avocado with the decadence of dark chocolate. With only 5 ingredients and 10 minutes of prep time, you can indulge in this sweet treat without sacrificing your dietary goals.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sweetener (such as Swerve or Erythritol)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados, then place them in a blender.
2. Add the cocoa powder, sweetener, and salt to the blender.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and blend until well combined.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or ramekins.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
One-Pan Garlic Butter Mushroom Chicken
Savor the rich flavors of garlic butter, sautéed mushrooms, and tender chicken breast in one easy pan.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken; cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium; add garlic, mushrooms, and thyme. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start browning, about 5 minutes.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the pan, stirring to coat with mushroom mixture.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-Carb Pizza Casserole
A twist on traditional pizza, this casserole combines the flavors of Italy with a low-carb spin. Enjoy a satisfying and healthier take on your favorite comfort food!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey
– 1 cup frozen cauliflower “crust”
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup chopped pepperoni
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the cauliflower “crust” according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add marinara sauce and stir to combine.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Assemble the casserole by layering the cauliflower crust, meat sauce, and cheese mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with pepperoni and basil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Low-Carb Pizza Casserole!
Keto-Friendly BLT Lettuce Wraps
Keto-Friendly BLT Lettuce Wraps Recipe Summary:
Experience the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich with a low-carb twist using crisp lettuce wraps and savory ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 4 large lettuce leaves ( Romaine or Iceberg work well)
– 6 slices of cooked, crispy bacon
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise (make sure it’s sugar-free!)
– 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the lettuce leaves by washing and drying them thoroughly.
2. Cook the bacon until crispy, then chop it into smaller pieces.
3. In a bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes and mayonnaise.
4. Assemble the wraps by placing 1-2 slices of bacon, followed by some tomato-mayonnaise mixture, onto each lettuce leaf.
5. Top with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
None! This recipe is a no-cook affair, focusing on assembling delicious ingredients.
Coconut Flour Pancakes with Berries
Start your day with a deliciously fluffy and nutritious breakfast treat! These coconut flour pancakes are packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them the perfect way to fuel up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
– Fresh berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries)
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together coconut flour, eggs, and almond milk until smooth.
2. Add salt and melted coconut oil; mix well.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip pancakes and cook for another minute.
7. Serve warm with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup (if desired).
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Summary
Discover the delicious world of keto recipes with these easy-to-make and mouth-watering dishes! From Garlic Butter Steak Bites to Keto Chocolate Avocado Mousse, this collection of 20 recipes is perfect for beginners. Enjoy classic comfort foods like Creamy Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles with Pesto, or try something new like Coconut Flour Pancakes with Berries or Parmesan-Crusted Salmon. Whether you’re a keto pro or just starting out, these simple and flavorful recipes will keep you satisfied and on track with your low-carb lifestyle.
