Are you new to the ketogenic diet? Or perhaps you’re just looking for some delicious and easy-to-make recipe ideas to spice up your low-carb lifestyle? Either way, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering keto recipes that are perfect for beginners. From savory steak bites to decadent chocolate mousse, these dishes will satisfy your cravings while keeping you within your daily carb limit.
Whether you’re a busy professional or a stay-at-home parent, cooking can seem daunting when following a specific diet. But don’t worry – we’ve done the hard work for you! Below, you’ll find a collection of simple and satisfying keto recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to dive into the world of deliciously low-carb cooking!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Elevate your dinner game with this straightforward recipe that yields tender and aromatic steak bites smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef steak (such as ribeye or sirloin), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter.
3. Toss steak cubes with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Place steak bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Top each bite with a spoonful of garlic butter mixture.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
This rich and flavorful dish combines the bold flavors of Italy with a creamy twist, making it perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. This recipe yields four servings and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the creamy sauce over each breast.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Keto Bacon and Cheese Cauliflower Muffins
Transform your cauliflower into a delicious breakfast or snack with these crispy, cheesy, and smoky muffins.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon (such as prosciutto or pancetta)
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice.
3. In a bowl, combine cauliflower “rice,” melted butter, egg, salt, and baking powder. Mix well.
4. Stir in grated cheese and crumbled bacon.
5. Divide mixture into 6-8 muffin cups or mini cast-iron skillets.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Avocado and Egg Breakfast Bowl
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast bowl packed with creamy avocado, rich eggs, and crunchy whole grains.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa or brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a non-stick skillet, scramble the eggs over medium heat until cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Warm the cherry tomatoes in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the breakfast bowl by layering the cooked quinoa or brown rice, scrambled eggs, mashed avocado, and warmed cherry tomatoes in a bowl.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cheesy Keto Meatballs
Elevate your keto game with these creamy, cheesy meatballs that will become a staple in your low-carb household. Made with ground beef, Parmesan cheese, and almond flour, these bite-sized treats are not only delicious but also fit perfectly within your daily keto macros.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Parmesan cheese, almond flour, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Chicken
Savor the taste of summer with this quick and easy recipe that combines tender zucchini noodles, flavorful pesto, and juicy chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto (or store-bought)
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let cool.
3. Spiralize zucchinis into noodles.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add pesto and stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Add zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss with pesto sauce for 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
6. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to the skillet. Toss everything together.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Keto-Friendly Buffalo Chicken Dip
Satisfy your cravings with this creamy, spicy dip that’s perfect for game days or parties. This keto-friendly recipe combines the flavors of buffalo chicken with a rich and tangy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1 pound cooked, shredded chicken breast
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and ranch dressing. Mix until smooth.
3. Add buffalo wing sauce and mix until well combined.
4. Stir in shredded chicken breast, green onions, and blue cheese.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
6. Serve with celery sticks, crackers, or keto-friendly chips.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Low-Carb Cheeseburger Casserole
This recipe takes the classic cheeseburger casserole to new heights by reducing carbs and adding a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese and heavy cream until smooth.
4. Combine cooked ground beef, cream cheese mixture, cheddar cheese, onion, mushrooms, and oregano in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with zoodles or shirataki noodles.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive dish that combines the richness of salmon with the brightness of lemon and butter. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, lemon juice, garlic, and parsley.
5. Spoon the lemon butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Keto Chocolate Avocado Mousse
Rich and creamy, this low-carb dessert combines the best of both worlds: the velvety texture of avocado and the deep flavor of dark chocolate. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while staying keto-friendly.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sweetener (such as Swerve or Erythritol)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados, then place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the cocoa powder, sweetener, and salt to the blender. Blend until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the egg whites into the avocado mixture until well combined.
5. Stir in the melted coconut oil and vanilla extract.
6. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep), 2 hours (chilling)
Spicy Shrimp and Cauliflower Rice
This spicy shrimp dish combines succulent seafood with the earthy flavor of cauliflower “rice”. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cauliflower florets; cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add shrimp, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Keto Almond Flour Pancakes
Start your day with a stack of fluffy and delicious keto pancakes, made with almond flour and a touch of sweetness. These pancakes are perfect for low-carb dieters who still want to enjoy the comfort of a warm breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 cup granulated sweetener (such as Swerve or Erythritol)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup melted butter, cooled
– Flavorings of your choice (e.g. vanilla extract, cinnamon)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour, eggs, granulated sweetener, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter and any desired flavorings; mix until smooth.
4. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 pancakes total, depending on size
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the savory goodness of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
4. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the asparagus is tender and the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Keto Chicken Alfredo with Zoodles
Transform your favorite pasta dish into a low-carb masterpiece with this easy recipe. Enjoy the rich flavors of chicken, mushrooms, and creamy sauce wrapped around zucchini noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, divided
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 medium zucchinis
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook chicken breast in a skillet with 1/8 cup butter, garlic, salt, and pepper until cooked through.
3. In the same skillet, add mushrooms and cook until tender. Remove from heat.
4. In a separate pot, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; stir until smooth.
5. Combine chicken, mushroom mixture, lemon juice, and sauce in a bowl. Stir to combine.
6. Spiralize zucchinis into noodles. Cook in boiling water for 3-4 minutes or sauté with 1 tbsp butter until tender.
7. Toss cooked zoodles with the Chicken Alfredo mixture. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Peanut Butter Fat Bombs
These bite-sized treats are perfect for satisfying your cravings while staying within your keto diet guidelines. With just a few ingredients and no baking required, you can whip up a batch in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1 tablespoon honey or sweetener of choice (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the peanut butter and coconut oil. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. If using, add in your preferred sweetener and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.
4. Once firm, use a spoon or small cookie scoop to portion out the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the peanut butter fat bombs on a parchment-lined plate or tray and refrigerate for an additional 15-20 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These treats are ready straight from the fridge.
Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make Peanut Butter Fat Bombs!
Cheesy Keto Broccoli Soup
This creamy and comforting soup is a perfect combination of broccoli, cheese, and spices, all within the keto diet guidelines. With only 5g of carbs per serving, you can enjoy this deliciousness guilt-free.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (dairy or dairy-free alternative)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add broccoli, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
3. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Carbs per serving: 5g
Keto Taco Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional tacos, these stuffed peppers are a great low-carb option for your next meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 70/30 lean to fat ratio works best)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (dairy or dairy-free alternative)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, and taco seasoning to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, topping with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-Carb Pizza with Fathead Crust
Experience the classic flavors of pizza without the high-carb crust. This recipe uses a Fathead crust made from almond flour and mozzarella cheese, perfect for low-carb dieters.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 1 egg
– Salt, to taste
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, olives)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together almond flour, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cream cheese until well combined.
3. Add the egg and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Top with your desired toppings and season with salt.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Keto Coconut Flour Bread
This keto coconut flour bread recipe is a game-changer for low-carb enthusiasts, offering a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional bread. With only 5g of net carbs per slice, this recipe is perfect for those following a ketogenic diet.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut flour
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped herbs or garlic for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine coconut flour, melted butter, heavy cream, egg, apple cider vinegar, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Knead the dough with your hands for about 5 minutes, until it forms a sticky ball.
4. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms with Cheese
Savor the earthy flavor of Portobello mushrooms filled with a rich and creamy cheese mixture.
Ingredients:
- 4 large Portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Freshen the mushroom caps by brushing with butter and sprinkling with salt.
- In a bowl, combine cheddar, Parmesan, garlic, and parsley. Mix well.
- Stuff each mushroom cap with the cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
- Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious and easy-to-make keto recipes perfect for beginners. From savory dishes like Garlic Butter Steak Bites, Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken, and Keto Bacon and Cheese Cauliflower Muffins to sweet treats like Keto Chocolate Avocado Mousse and Keto Almond Flour Pancakes, these 20 mouthwatering recipes are sure to please even the most discerning palates. With a range of options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, you’ll never feel deprived on the keto diet. Get ready to indulge in flavor without sacrificing your dietary goals!
