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Starting a keto diet can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to meal planning. But the good news is that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or variety to stay low-carb! Whether you’re new to keto or just looking for fresh recipe ideas, having a go-to collection of easy and delicious meals can make your journey much smoother. From energizing breakfasts and satisfying lunches to hearty dinners, tasty snacks, and indulgent desserts, this list of 35 beginner friendly keto recipes has everything you need to stay on track. These meals are not only low in carbs but also packed with flavor, healthy fats, and essential nutrients to keep you feeling full and energized throughout the day.
Each recipe is simple, requiring basic ingredients and minimal cooking skills, making them perfect for anyone new to the keto lifestyle. Whether you’re craving fluffy pancakes, creamy pasta, crispy snacks, or a rich chocolate dessert, this list has got you covered.
Let’s dive into these delicious and easy keto recipes that will keep you satisfied while supporting your health and weight loss goals!
Breakfast Delights
Fluffy Keto Pancakes
Key Ingredients: Almond flour, eggs, cream cheese, baking powder, vanilla extract, butter
These keto pancakes are a perfect way to start your day with a light and fluffy texture while staying low-carb. Made with almond flour and cream cheese, they provide a slightly nutty and creamy flavor that pairs beautifully with sugar-free syrup. Simply whisk eggs, almond flour, and baking powder until smooth, then cook in butter over medium heat. Flip once bubbles form and serve warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Cheese and Spinach Omelet
Key Ingredients: Eggs, fresh spinach, shredded cheese, butter, salt, pepper
A cheesy, protein-packed omelet is one of the easiest and quickest keto breakfasts you can whip up. Start by whisking eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a buttered pan, sauté fresh spinach until wilted, then pour in the eggs. Cook until the edges set, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and fold the omelet in half. Let it cook for another minute until the cheese melts. Serve hot with avocado slices or a side of crispy bacon for a delicious morning boost.
Avocado and Egg Boats
Key Ingredients: Avocados, eggs, salt, pepper, bacon bits (optional), shredded cheese
Avocado and egg boats are a simple yet filling keto breakfast packed with healthy fats and protein. Cut an avocado in half and remove a bit of the flesh to create space for the egg. Crack an egg into each avocado half, season with salt and pepper, and top with shredded cheese or bacon bits for added flavor. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–15 minutes or until the eggs are set. Serve warm and enjoy a creamy, nutritious start to your day.
Keto Chia Seed Pudding
Key Ingredients: Chia seeds, unsweetened almond milk, vanilla extract, keto-friendly sweetener
This easy make-ahead breakfast is rich in fiber and omega-3s, keeping you full and energized for hours. Combine chia seeds, almond milk, vanilla extract, and a keto-friendly sweetener in a jar. Stir well and let it sit for 5 minutes before stirring again to prevent clumping. Cover and refrigerate overnight. By morning, the seeds will have absorbed the liquid, creating a thick, pudding-like texture. Top with fresh berries, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Bacon and Egg Muffins
Key Ingredients: Eggs, bacon, shredded cheese, spinach (optional), salt, pepper
Bacon and egg muffins are perfect for meal prepping or grabbing on the go. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin. Cook bacon until slightly crispy, then place it in the muffin cups to form a nest. In a bowl, whisk eggs with salt, pepper, and shredded cheese. Pour the mixture into the bacon-lined cups and bake for 15–20 minutes until set. Let them cool slightly before removing from the tin. These muffins are great for busy mornings and can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Satisfying Lunches
Chicken Caesar Salad
Key Ingredients: Romaine lettuce, grilled chicken breast, parmesan cheese, keto-friendly Caesar dressing, anchovies (optional), olive oil
A classic Caesar salad is a perfect keto-friendly lunch that’s crisp, creamy, and packed with protein. Start by grilling a seasoned chicken breast until golden and juicy, then slice it into strips. Toss fresh romaine lettuce with a generous amount of keto Caesar dressing and top with shaved parmesan cheese. For added flavor, mix in anchovies or sprinkle crispy bacon bits. Drizzle with olive oil, season with black pepper, and enjoy a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Key Ingredients: Zucchini, basil, garlic, parmesan cheese, olive oil, pine nuts
Zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” are an excellent low-carb alternative to pasta. Use a spiralizer to create noodle-like strands from fresh zucchini. In a blender, combine basil, garlic, parmesan cheese, olive oil, and pine nuts to make a rich pesto sauce. Toss the zucchini noodles in the pesto and sautĂ© lightly for a couple of minutes until just tender. Serve warm, garnished with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a delicious, garlicky lunch.
Keto BLT Wraps
Key Ingredients: Bacon, lettuce leaves, tomato slices, mayonnaise, avocado (optional)
These keto BLT wraps give you all the flavors of the classic sandwich without the carbs. Cook crispy bacon strips and set them aside. Lay out large, sturdy lettuce leaves (such as romaine or iceberg) and spread a layer of mayonnaise over them. Add sliced tomatoes, crispy bacon, and avocado slices for extra creaminess. Roll the lettuce tightly like a wrap and secure with toothpicks if needed. Enjoy a crunchy, refreshing, and satisfying low-carb meal.
Salmon and Avocado Salad
Key Ingredients: Fresh salmon fillet, avocado, mixed greens, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper
This omega-3-rich salad is both refreshing and nutrient-dense. Start by pan-searing or baking a fresh salmon fillet seasoned with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Once cooked, let it cool slightly before flaking it into bite-sized pieces. Toss mixed greens with diced avocado, olive oil, and a bit more lemon juice for added zest. Top the salad with the flaked salmon and enjoy a delicious, heart-healthy meal packed with flavor and healthy fats.
Egg Salad Lettuce Wraps
Key Ingredients: Hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, lettuce leaves, salt, pepper, paprika (optional)
Egg salad is a simple yet satisfying keto lunch. Start by mashing hard-boiled eggs with mayonnaise, a little mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy, then scoop spoonfuls into large lettuce leaves, using them as wraps. Sprinkle with paprika for added depth of flavor. These wraps are light yet filling and can be easily prepped ahead of time for a quick, protein-packed meal on the go.
Hearty Dinners
Garlic Butter Steak with Mushrooms
Key Ingredients: Ribeye or sirloin steak, butter, garlic, mushrooms, fresh thyme, salt, pepper
This juicy and flavorful garlic butter steak with mushrooms is a perfect keto-friendly dinner. Start by seasoning your steak with salt and pepper. Sear it in a hot pan with butter until cooked to your desired doneness, then set aside. In the same pan, sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic and fresh thyme in butter until golden brown. Pour the garlic butter over the steak before serving for an irresistible, rich flavor. Pair it with a simple side of sautéed greens for a complete meal.
Keto Chicken Alfredo
Key Ingredients: Chicken breast, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, garlic, butter, zucchini noodles
This creamy, cheesy keto chicken alfredo is a comforting yet low-carb dish. Cook sliced chicken breast in butter until golden and set aside. In the same pan, sauté garlic in butter, then add heavy cream and parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth. Toss in zucchini noodles (zoodles) and cook for a couple of minutes until tender. Return the chicken to the pan, mix well, and let it soak up the rich, cheesy sauce. Serve hot and garnish with more parmesan.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Key Ingredients: Bell peppers, ground beef, shredded cheese, cauliflower rice, diced tomatoes, garlic
Stuffed bell peppers make a savory and filling keto dinner. Cut bell peppers in half and remove the seeds. In a pan, cook ground beef with garlic, diced tomatoes, and cauliflower rice until well combined. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. Stuff the bell peppers with the mixture, top with shredded cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Enjoy a flavorful, low-carb meal!
Cabbage Stir-Fry with Ground Beef
Key Ingredients: Ground beef, cabbage, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), garlic, ginger, sesame oil
A quick and easy one-pan meal, this cabbage stir-fry is packed with flavor. Brown ground beef in a large skillet, then add minced garlic and ginger. Stir in shredded cabbage and cook until tender. Add soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a keto-friendly option) and drizzle with sesame oil for extra depth of flavor. Stir well and serve hot. This dish is simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus
Key Ingredients: Shrimp, asparagus, butter, garlic, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (optional)
This light yet flavorful dish is packed with protein and healthy fats. Heat butter in a pan and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook for a couple of minutes until pink. Toss in chopped asparagus and cook until tender-crisp. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Serve hot and enjoy a refreshing, nutritious dinner.
Tasty Snacks & Sides
Keto Cheese Crisps
Key Ingredients: Shredded cheddar cheese (or parmesan), garlic powder, paprika (optional)
Keto cheese crisps are the perfect crunchy snack with just one ingredient—cheese! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place small heaps of shredded cheese about an inch apart. Sprinkle with garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor. Bake for 5–7 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden brown. Let them cool completely to crisp up. Enjoy these low-carb chips on their own or with dips!
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Key Ingredients: Cauliflower florets, butter, hot sauce, almond flour, garlic powder, paprika
These spicy buffalo cauliflower bites are a great keto-friendly alternative to wings. Toss cauliflower florets in a mixture of almond flour, garlic powder, and paprika. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes until crispy. In a separate bowl, melt butter and mix with hot sauce. Coat the baked cauliflower in the sauce and return to the oven for another 5 minutes. Serve hot with a side of keto ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Deviled Eggs
Key Ingredients: Hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, paprika, salt, pepper
A classic, creamy snack that’s full of protein! Slice hard-boiled eggs in half and scoop out the yolks. Mash the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, a splash of vinegar, salt, and pepper. Spoon or pipe the mixture back into the egg whites. Sprinkle with paprika for a finishing touch. These deviled eggs are perfect for meal prep, parties, or just a quick bite between meals.
Guacamole with Keto Crackers
Key Ingredients: Avocados, lime juice, garlic, onion, salt, almond flour (for crackers)
Creamy guacamole paired with crunchy keto crackers makes an excellent snack. Mash ripe avocados with lime juice, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, and salt. For the crackers, mix almond flour, an egg, and a pinch of salt to form a dough. Roll it out thin, cut into squares, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until crisp. Dip and enjoy this healthy, low-carb snack!
Cucumber & Cream Cheese Bites
Key Ingredients: Cucumber, cream cheese, smoked salmon (optional), dill, salt, pepper
These refreshing cucumber bites are simple yet delicious. Slice cucumber into thick rounds and spread a layer of cream cheese on top. Add a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and fresh dill. For a fancier version, top with a small piece of smoked salmon. These bites are light, flavorful, and perfect as a keto-friendly appetizer or snack!
Indulgent Keto Desserts
Keto Chocolate Mug Cake
Key Ingredients: Almond flour, cocoa powder, egg, butter, keto sweetener, baking powder
This quick and easy keto chocolate mug cake is perfect for when you need a sweet fix in minutes. In a microwave-safe mug, mix almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and a keto-friendly sweetener. Add in a beaten egg and melted butter, stirring until smooth. Microwave for about 60–90 seconds until the cake rises and sets. Enjoy warm, topped with whipped cream or sugar-free chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
Strawberry Cheesecake Fat Bombs
Key Ingredients: Cream cheese, strawberries, keto sweetener, coconut oil, vanilla extract
These creamy strawberry cheesecake fat bombs are a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth while staying in ketosis. Blend softened cream cheese, fresh strawberries, coconut oil, keto sweetener, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spoon the mixture into silicone molds or roll into small balls. Freeze for at least an hour until firm. These bite-sized treats are rich, satisfying, and perfect for a quick energy boost.
Almond Flour Cookies
Key Ingredients: Almond flour, butter, egg, vanilla extract, keto sweetener, baking powder
Soft and chewy, these almond flour cookies make the perfect keto-friendly treat. In a bowl, mix almond flour, keto sweetener, and baking powder. Stir in melted butter, an egg, and vanilla extract until a dough forms. Scoop small portions onto a baking sheet and flatten slightly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until golden brown. Let cool before enjoying with a cup of keto-friendly tea or coffee.
Peanut Butter Cups
Key Ingredients: Sugar-free chocolate, peanut butter, coconut oil, keto sweetener
These keto peanut butter cups taste just like the classic version but without the carbs! Melt sugar-free chocolate with coconut oil and pour a thin layer into small silicone molds. Freeze for 10 minutes. Mix peanut butter with a keto sweetener, then add a layer over the hardened chocolate. Pour more melted chocolate on top and freeze again until set. These creamy, chocolatey delights are perfect for an easy low-carb dessert.
Coconut Macaroons
Key Ingredients: Unsweetened shredded coconut, egg whites, keto sweetener, vanilla extract
These sweet and chewy coconut macaroons are incredibly simple to make. Beat egg whites until frothy, then fold in shredded coconut, keto sweetener, and vanilla extract. Scoop small mounds onto a lined baking sheet and bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool before enjoying. For extra decadence, drizzle with melted sugar-free chocolate.
Refreshing Drinks
Keto Bulletproof Coffee
Key Ingredients: Coffee, unsalted butter, MCT oil, heavy cream (optional), stevia (optional)
Imagine waking up to a warm, frothy cup of coffee that not only fuels your day but also keeps you in ketosis. That’s exactly what Keto Bulletproof Coffee does! This high-fat, low-carb drink is a staple in the keto community, providing sustained energy and mental clarity. To make it, brew a strong cup of coffee, then blend it with a tablespoon of unsalted butter and a teaspoon of MCT oil. The result? A rich, creamy, and satisfying drink that kicks sugar-loaded lattes to the curb. For a little extra indulgence, add a splash of heavy cream or a few drops of stevia.
Avocado Smoothie
Key Ingredients: Avocado, unsweetened almond milk, spinach, chia seeds, vanilla extract, erythritol (optional)
Smooth, creamy, and packed with nutrients, this Avocado Smoothie is a perfect way to start your morning or refuel after a workout. The secret? Avocados, which provide healthy fats and fiber while keeping carbs low. Blend half an avocado with a cup of unsweetened almond milk, a handful of spinach for extra greens, and a teaspoon of chia seeds for added fiber and omega-3s. A dash of vanilla extract enhances the flavor, while a sprinkle of erythritol can add a touch of sweetness. It’s thick, satisfying, and will keep hunger at bay for hours.
Cucumber Mint Detox Water
Key Ingredients: Cucumber, fresh mint leaves, lemon slices, cold water, ice cubes
Staying hydrated on keto is crucial, and this Cucumber Mint Detox Water makes it easy and enjoyable. Light, refreshing, and naturally cooling, it’s a perfect drink to sip throughout the day. Simply slice half a cucumber and a few lemon wedges, then toss them into a pitcher of cold water. Add fresh mint leaves for a burst of flavor and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to infuse. Serve over ice for a revitalizing experience that helps flush toxins while keeping you refreshed.
Sugar-Free Lemonade
Key Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice, water, erythritol or monk fruit sweetener, ice cubes
Craving a classic summer drink without the sugar? This Sugar-Free Lemonade is the perfect fix! It captures the tart, citrusy essence of traditional lemonade while keeping your carb count low. Simply squeeze the juice of two lemons into a glass, add a cup of cold water, and sweeten with erythritol or monk fruit to taste. Stir well, add ice, and enjoy a guilt-free refreshment that’s both zesty and revitalizing. For an extra twist, add a splash of sparkling water for some fizz!
Berry Almond Milk Shake
Key Ingredients: Unsweetened almond milk, frozen mixed berries, heavy cream, vanilla extract, erythritol (optional)
If you’re missing milkshakes on keto, this Berry Almond Milk Shake is about to become your new favorite treat. It’s creamy, fruity, and perfectly satisfying without the sugar spike. Blend a cup of unsweetened almond milk with a handful of frozen mixed berries, a splash of heavy cream for richness, and a dash of vanilla extract for depth. If you like it sweeter, a little erythritol does the trick. The result? A thick, luscious shake that feels indulgent but fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle.
Easy Keto Meal Prep
Keto Meal Prep Bowls
Key Ingredients: Grilled chicken, cauliflower rice, roasted vegetables, avocado, olive oil, seasoning
Meal prepping on keto doesn’t have to be complicated! These Keto Meal Prep Bowls make life easier by ensuring you have nutritious, low-carb meals ready to go. Start with a protein like grilled chicken or salmon, then pair it with cauliflower rice for a satisfying base. Add roasted vegetables—zucchini, bell peppers, and broccoli work great—drizzled with olive oil and seasoning. Finish with a few avocado slices for healthy fats. Store everything in individual containers, and you’ll have quick, grab-and-go meals for the entire week!
Egg & Cheese Muffin Cups
Key Ingredients: Eggs, shredded cheese, spinach, cooked bacon or sausage, heavy cream, salt & pepper
Busy mornings? No problem! These Egg & Cheese Muffin Cups are the perfect grab-and-go keto breakfast. They’re packed with protein, full of flavor, and ridiculously easy to make. Simply whisk together eggs, a splash of heavy cream, and your choice of shredded cheese. Stir in some chopped spinach and cooked bacon or sausage for extra flavor. Pour the mixture into muffin tins and bake until golden and set. Make a batch ahead of time and store them in the fridge—just reheat and enjoy!
Keto Meatballs
Key Ingredients: Ground beef (or turkey), almond flour, parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic, Italian seasoning
Who doesn’t love a good meatball? These juicy Keto Meatballs are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. Instead of breadcrumbs, we use almond flour and parmesan cheese to keep them low-carb while adding incredible flavor. Mix ground beef (or turkey) with these ingredients, plus eggs, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Roll them into bite-sized balls and bake until golden brown. Store them in the fridge or freeze for later—just reheat and toss them into your favorite low-carb sauce for a quick meal or snack.
Chicken & Broccoli Casserole
Key Ingredients: Shredded chicken, broccoli, cream cheese, heavy cream, shredded cheddar, garlic powder
This Chicken & Broccoli Casserole is the definition of comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Start by steaming fresh broccoli until tender, then mix it with shredded chicken in a baking dish. In a saucepan, melt cream cheese with heavy cream and garlic powder to create a velvety sauce. Pour it over the chicken and broccoli, then top with shredded cheddar. Bake until bubbly and golden. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time and makes for the perfect cozy keto dinner!
Tuna Salad with Avocado
Key Ingredients: Canned tuna, ripe avocado, mayonnaise, lemon juice, celery, salt & pepper
When you need a quick and satisfying keto meal, this Tuna Salad with Avocado is a game-changer. Instead of traditional mayo-heavy tuna salad, this version gets a creamy, healthy twist from mashed avocado. Mix canned tuna with the avocado, a spoonful of mayonnaise for richness, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. Add diced celery for crunch and season with salt and pepper. Enjoy it on its own, in lettuce wraps, or with keto crackers—it’s a fresh, easy, and protein-packed meal!
Your Keto Journey Starts Here!
Embarking on a keto lifestyle doesn’t have to be complicated or bland. With these simple, delicious, and meal-prep-friendly recipes, you’ll always have something tasty to enjoy while staying on track with your low-carb goals. From energizing drinks to satisfying meals, each recipe is designed to make keto living effortless and enjoyable. Whether you’re planning your meals for the week or just looking for quick, nutritious options, these dishes will keep you motivated and inspired. So grab your ingredients, start cooking, and enjoy the delicious simplicity of keto!
