Are you new to the ketogenic diet and looking for some inspiration in the kitchen? With the right recipes, you can make the transition to a low-carb lifestyle easy and enjoyable. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering keto recipes perfect for beginners. From savory dishes like Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Chicken, to sweet treats like Keto Chocolate Fat Bombs and Keto Chocolate Chip Cookies, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast or a quick snack, we’ve got you covered with our collection of keto-friendly recipes. And don’t worry if you’re new to cooking or have limited kitchen experience – these recipes are designed to be easy to make and require minimal preparation.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Satisfy your cravings with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the rich flavors of garlic and butter with tender steak bites. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Place steak bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the garlic-butter mixture evenly over the steak pieces.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this decadent recipe that combines crispy bacon, melted cheese, and juicy chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto 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. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle shredded cheese over each chicken breast.
8. Return to oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 27-33 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Shrimp
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this decadent seafood dish, featuring succulent shrimp smothered in a creamy Tuscany-inspired sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low. Whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss with the creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese: A Creamy Twist on a Classic Comfort Food!
This recipe transforms traditional macaroni and cheese into a keto-friendly, cauliflower-based masterpiece. With a rich and creamy sauce made from heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and spices, you’ll forget all about the pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp work best)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika for color
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse cauliflower florets and pulse in a food processor until they resemble macaroni.
3. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cauliflower and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender (about 5-7 minutes).
4. In a separate saucepan, combine cheddar, Parmesan, and heavy cream. Heat over low heat, whisking constantly, until the cheese is fully melted.
5. Combine cooked cauliflower with the cheese sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a pinch of paprika for color.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Avocado Egg Salad
Elevate your classic egg salad game with the addition of creamy avocado! This unique twist on a brunch staple combines the richness of ripe avocados with the tanginess of fresh eggs.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (or to your liking)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped eggs, diced avocado, and red onion.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper.
3. Fold in the mayonnaise until the salad is creamy but still chunky.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve on toasted bread, crackers, or enjoy as a snack.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in under 10 minutes, with most of that time spent chilling in the fridge.
Enjoy your delicious Avocado Egg Salad!
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Pasta doesn’t have to mean heavy and carb-heavy; zucchini noodles are a great alternative! This recipe combines the freshness of zucchini with the richness of pesto for a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your spiralizer or julienne peeler and spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the zucchini noodles and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the pesto sauce and cook for an additional minute, until the noodles are well coated.
4. Season with salt to taste. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it on top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Servings: 1-2
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Zucchini Noodles with Pesto!
Keto Chocolate Fat Bombs
Satisfy your sweet tooth while staying keto-friendly with these rich and creamy chocolate fat bombs. Made with healthy fats, dark chocolate, and a touch of sweetness, they’re the perfect indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sweetener (such as Swerve or Erythritol)
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Dark chocolate chips or shavings, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cream cheese and butter. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the granulated sweetener, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll tablespoon-sized balls of the mixture between your hands until they’re smooth and even.
4. Place the fat bombs on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Garnish with dark chocolate chips or shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! These fat bombs are best served chilled.
Bacon and Egg Breakfast Muffins
Start your day off right with these savory breakfast muffins packed with crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 teaspoons baking powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and shredded cheese until smooth. Stir in crumbled bacon.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip
A flavorful and spicy twist on classic chicken dip, perfect for game-day gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tablespoon ranch dressing
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and shredded chicken. Mix until well combined.
3. Add Frank’s RedHot sauce, ranch dressing, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly puffed.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Keto-Friendly Pizza Casserole
Elevate your pizza night with this creative casserole that combines the flavors of Italy with the benefits of a ketogenic diet. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (Keto-friendly)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, combine mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cream cheese.
7. Layer the casserole: beef mixture, cheese mixture, and parsley.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful and aromatic Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, softened butter, and minced garlic.
5. Spoon the lemon-garlic butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
A comforting and flavorful side dish that combines steamed broccoli with a rich and creamy cheese sauce, all wrapped up in a crispy breadcrumb topping. This casserole is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Steam broccoli until tender.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, then gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes or until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange broccoli in an even layer. Pour cheese sauce over the broccoli.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top and drizzle with melted butter.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Keto Bread with Almond Flour
This recipe yields a delicious and crumbly keto bread using almond flour as the base ingredient, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or snacking on its own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sweetener (such as Swerve or Erythritol)
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together almond flour, granulated sweetener, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs until well-beaten.
4. Add melted coconut oil to the egg mixture and whisk until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
6. Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines flavorful ground beef with sautéed onions and bell peppers, all wrapped up in a crunchy bell pepper shell.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Coconut Flour Pancakes
Start your day with a delicious and healthy breakfast option by making these coconut flour pancakes. This recipe is gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, almond milk, and melted coconut oil until smooth.
3. Add coconut flour, honey or maple syrup (if using), and salt to the bowl. Whisk until well combined.
4. The batter should still be slightly lumpy. If too thick, add a little more almond milk.
5. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 5-7 minutes per batch (depending on number of pancakes).
Enjoy your delicious coconut flour pancakes!
Keto Meatballs with Marinara
Elevate your meatball game with this keto-friendly recipe that combines rich flavors and textures. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (90% lean)
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, almond flour, garlic, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
6. Once the meatballs are done, remove from oven and add to the marinara sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado Stuffed with Tuna Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional tuna salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the savory flavor of tuna.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Gently scoop out some of the avocado flesh to make room for the tuna salad.
3. Spoon the tuna mixture into the avocado halves, mounding it slightly in the center.
4. Sprinkle with chopped fresh dill and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (depending on how quickly you can mix the ingredients together!)
Cauliflower Fried Rice
This recipe transforms cauliflower into a delicious fried rice substitute, perfect for low-carb diets or those looking for a gluten-free option. With its subtle flavor and satisfying texture, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: scrambled eggs or cooked chicken for added protein
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
2. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the processed cauliflower, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender but still slightly crunchy.
7. Serve hot with optional scrambled eggs or cooked chicken.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Keto Chocolate Chip Cookies
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these rich and chewy keto chocolate chip cookies!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sweetener (such as Swerve or Erythritol)
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine almond flour, granulated sweetener, and melted coconut oil. Mix until well combined.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add baking soda and salt, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops game with this crispy and flavorful Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops recipe. A simple yet impressive dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
• 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each pork chop in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side.
6. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Start your keto journey with these 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes, perfect for beginners! From savory dishes like Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Chicken to sweet treats like Keto Chocolate Fat Bombs and Keto Chocolate Chip Cookies, there’s something for everyone. Plus, find keto-friendly twists on classic comfort foods like Cauliflower Mac and Cheese and Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops. Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy sauces, crispy bacon, and flavorful meats – all within your daily keto guidelines!
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