Looking for easy, tasty meals that fit your keto lifestyle? The ketogenic diet focuses on high-fat, low-carb foods that can help you lose weight while enjoying delicious meals.
These 21 best keto recipes will make mealtime simple without sacrificing flavor.
You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen or use complex ingredients to stay on track with keto. From quick breakfasts to satisfying dinners, these recipes work for beginners and experienced keto dieters alike.
Many of these dishes will please everyone at your table, even family members who aren’t following a low-carb eating plan.
1. Keto Sheet Pan Chicken and Loaded Cauliflower
This delicious keto meal features juicy chicken thighs cooked on a sheet pan with loaded cauliflower. Chicken thighs are chosen for their flavor and natural juiciness, making them perfect for this dish.
The cauliflower works as an excellent low-carb alternative to baked potatoes. It’s topped with cheese, sour cream, and bacon for a satisfying “loaded” effect.
You can prepare everything on a single sheet pan, making cleanup easy. The dish includes herbs like thyme and chives for added flavor.
This recipe is perfect for your keto diet while still giving you the comfort food experience you crave.
2. Black and White Keto Fat Bombs
These delicious treats have the texture of cold, creamy fudge without all the sugar. They’re packed with healthy fats that make them perfect for your keto diet.
Black and White Keto Fat Bombs feature softened cream cheese as a main ingredient. They’re designed to satisfy your sweet cravings while keeping carbs low.
You can enjoy these bite-sized nuggets as a quick snack on busy days. They provide satisfying fats that help you stay full between meals.
Keep these fat bombs in your refrigerator for when you need a tasty keto-friendly treat. They’re simple to make and will become a favorite in your low-carb recipe collection.
3. Keto Meatloaf
Keto meatloaf offers all the comfort of traditional meatloaf without the carbs. Instead of breadcrumbs, you can use almond flour as a binder to keep it low-carb and keto-friendly.
The best keto meatloaf recipes create a tender, juicy dish that’s packed with flavor. Common ingredients include ground beef, eggs, almond flour, cream, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder.
You can get creative with variations like Mexican Meatloaf Cupcakes, Mini Meatloaf, or Bacon-Wrapped Spicy Meatloaf. Some recipes even include cheese for extra flavor and fat content.
For a complete meal, pair your keto meatloaf with low-carb vegetables like cauliflower mash or a side salad.
4. Creamy Chicken Soup
Creamy Chicken Soup is a perfect keto comfort food that won’t break your carb count. This hearty soup is both low-carb and gluten-free, making it an excellent option for your keto meal plan.
You can prepare this satisfying dish in about 30 minutes. Start by melting butter in a pot, then sauté onions and celery for a few minutes before adding chicken and stock.
The rich, creamy texture makes this soup feel indulgent while still fitting your keto lifestyle. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients that the whole family will enjoy.
You can enjoy a second bowl without guilt, as this soup keeps your carb count low while delivering plenty of flavor and nutrition.
5. Spicy Shrimp Soup
Spicy Shrimp Soup makes a perfect keto meal with its low-carb ingredients and rich flavors. This comfort in a bowl combines chicken and seafood stock for a flavorful base.
The recipe typically includes jalapeños for heat, plenty of garlic, and lime juice for brightness. You can adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or fewer hot peppers.
For the protein, use peeled and deveined shrimp which cook quickly and absorb the soup’s flavors. The creamy versions use keto-friendly ingredients instead of flour-based thickeners.
This soup works well for meal prep and tastes even better the next day as flavors develop further.
6. Rich Fish Chowder
Keto fish chowder is a comforting meal that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle. This creamy dish uses white fish like cod, which provides a tender texture and mild flavor.
The base of this chowder combines butter, onions, and bacon for a savory foundation. Heavy cream gives it that rich, satisfying texture without adding carbs.
You can customize your chowder with different seafood options. Try using salmon for a more distinct flavor, or mix in clams for variety.
A sprinkle of paprika adds both color and a subtle warmth to the finished dish. This chowder makes a filling dinner that’s both keto-friendly and delicious.
7. Meatball Keto Soup
Keto meatball soup is a hearty, satisfying dish that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle. It combines juicy meatballs with fresh vegetables in a flavorful broth.
You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time to make this recipe even more convenient. The soup typically takes under 40 minutes to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
This dish is loaded with bold Italian flavors that will please your entire family. With only about 5g net carbs per serving, it’s an excellent choice for staying in ketosis.
For extra richness, try the creamy version that works well for dinner parties or meal prep lunches.
8. Low Carb Cheese Taco Shells
Cheese taco shells are a perfect keto alternative to traditional corn or flour tortillas. They’re made with just cheese – no flour, no gluten, and no carbs.
To make them, simply bake shredded cheddar cheese until crispy, then shape them into taco form while still warm. The process takes only about 5-10 minutes total.
These crispy shells hold up well with all your favorite taco fillings. Fill them with seasoned ground beef, lettuce, and a sprinkle of cheese for a delicious low-carb meal.
You can also shape the cheese into cups instead of traditional taco shells. These cups work great for holding smaller portions or creating appetizers.
9. Loaded Cauliflower
Loaded cauliflower is a perfect keto alternative to loaded potato dishes. It combines all the flavors you love without the carbs.
This dish features cauliflower topped with butter, sour cream, chives, cheddar cheese, and bacon. It tastes remarkably similar to loaded potato skins.
You can prepare it as a casserole that bakes in just 30 minutes. Some versions include turkey bacon for a lighter option.
For a different twist, try loaded cauliflower salad with cauliflower, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, salted almonds, red onion, and mayo.
This versatile dish works great as a side or main course for your keto meal plan.
10. Low Carb Sesame Chicken
Keto sesame chicken offers all the flavors of Chinese takeout without the carbs. This dish features tender chicken pieces coated in a savory, slightly sweet sauce with toasted sesame flavor.
You can make this dish at home using simple ingredients like boneless chicken breast, soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free), and sesame seeds. The chicken is typically cut into 1-inch pieces for quick, even cooking.
This recipe is not only delicious but also budget-friendly compared to restaurant versions. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknight meals when you’re craving Asian flavors but want to stay on your keto plan.
11. Thai BBQ Pork Salad
This flavorful salad combines tender pulled pork with fresh vegetables for a satisfying keto meal. It’s both colorful and packed with nutrients.
To make this dish, you’ll need about 10 ounces of pulled pork, 2 cups of romaine lettuce, 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro, and 1/4 medium red bell pepper, chopped.
The sauce brings everything together with Thai-inspired flavors. This meal provides approximately 459 calories, 33g fats, 8g net carbs, and 29g protein per serving.
You can customize this salad by adjusting the amount of protein or adding keto-friendly vegetables like cucumber or avocado.
12. Salmon Wasabi
Salmon with wasabi is a perfect keto meal that combines healthy fats with bold flavors. This dish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins that support your health while keeping carbs low.
The creamy wasabi sauce adds a spicy kick that complements the rich flavor of the salmon. You can make this sauce with low-fat mayonnaise and wasabi paste for a quick and simple option.
For a complete meal, serve your salmon with low-carb vegetables. This recipe typically contains only about 2g net carbs per serving, making it an excellent choice for your keto diet.
You can either grill your salmon or bake it, depending on your preference and the season.
13. Easy Taco Pie
Keto Taco Pie is a family-friendly dish that will satisfy your Mexican food cravings while keeping carbs low. This recipe combines seasoned ground beef with a creamy egg mixture for a filling meal.
With only 2 grams of carbs per serving and a whopping 33 grams of protein, this pie makes a nutritious dinner option. The recipe typically uses 1 pound of ground beef, taco seasoning, eggs, heavy cream, and shredded cheese.
You can prepare this dish quickly for busy weeknights. Many families report that even non-keto members love this meal. Top with your favorite low-carb taco fixings like sour cream, avocado, or a small amount of salsa for extra flavor.
14. Chocolate Protein Muffins
Chocolate Protein Muffins are a perfect keto-friendly treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while keeping you on track. These flourless muffins are fluffy, moist, and packed with rich chocolate flavor.
Each muffin provides about 12-20 grams of protein, making them an excellent post-workout snack or breakfast option. They contain healthy fats and fiber to keep you full longer.
You can make these muffins with just 5 ingredients. No flour is needed, which keeps the carb count low. Some recipes even sneak in vegetables for added nutrients without affecting the brownie-like taste.
These muffins work well for both keto dieters and those following high-protein, lower-fat eating plans.
15. Instant Pot Cauliflower Soup
This creamy, low-carb alternative to potato soup delivers all the comfort without the carbs. With just 5.7g net carbs per serving, it fits perfectly into your keto meal plan.
The Instant Pot makes this soup quick and easy to prepare. You’ll love how the cauliflower becomes velvety smooth when blended, creating a thick, satisfying texture.
Add crispy bacon, green bell peppers, and sharp cheddar cheese for a loaded flavor experience. Many recipes include sour cream for extra richness and a tangy finish.
This soup tastes indulgent but keeps your carb count low. It’s an excellent option for busy weeknights when you want something warming and keto-friendly.
16. Keto Ding Dong Cake
Keto Ding Dong Cake is a nostalgic treat made healthy. This dessert features tender layers of coconut flour chocolate cake with a creamy filling.
The cake is topped with a rich sugar-free chocolate glaze that perfectly mimics the classic snack cake. It’s completely free from sugar while maintaining that indulgent taste you remember.
You can make this as a full-sized cake for sharing or try the mini version that serves just two to four people. The mini option is perfect when you want something sweet without leftovers.
This recipe satisfies chocolate cravings while keeping your carb count low and your ketosis intact.
17. Cheesy Chicken Fritters
Cheesy chicken fritters are a perfect keto-friendly dish that takes just 30 minutes to make. These tender fritters feature a delicious cheddar crust that adds flavor and the perfect texture.
You can easily customize this recipe by swapping cheddar for mozzarella, parmesan, or a mix of cheeses.
The base ingredients typically include chicken breast, eggs, and almond flour to keep them low-carb.
These versatile fritters work well as appetizers, snacks, or even lunches. They’re incredibly delicious while helping you stay on track with your keto diet goals.
18. Taco Casserole
Taco Casserole is a perfect keto-friendly dinner option that brings all the flavors of tacos without the carbs. This dish combines seasoned ground beef with low-carb vegetables for a satisfying meal.
You can make this easy recipe with just 5 ingredients and about 5 minutes of prep time.
Simply brown some ground beef with diced onions and peppers, then add homemade taco seasoning for flavor.
Top your beef mixture with plenty of cheese and bake until bubbly. Some recipes include roasted cauliflower as a base instead of traditional taco shells or rice.
This casserole is great for busy weeknights when you need a quick but delicious dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
19. Keto Burgers
Keto burgers are a delicious low-carb option that keep you satisfied while maintaining ketosis. Skip the bun and focus on flavorful toppings to create a memorable meal.
Try loading your burger with homemade sauce, caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and avocado. These additions bring richness without adding many carbs.
For the sauce, mix mayo, sugar-free ketchup, mustard, diced pickles, and spices. This creates a tangy flavor similar to popular restaurant burgers.
Sheet pan burgers are another great option. They’re easy to prepare and can be customized with jalapeños and bacon for extra flavor.
20. Keto Chili
Keto chili is a hearty, flavorful dish that skips the beans but keeps all the taste you love. Without beans, this chili stays low in carbs while still being filling and delicious.
Most keto chili recipes include plenty of meat, peppers, tomatoes, and spices. Ground beef is common, but you can also use turkey or other meats you prefer.
You can make keto chili in a Crock Pot, Instant Pot, or on the stovetop.
It’s flexible and easy to prepare with common ingredients.
Top your chili with sour cream, cheese, or chopped green onions for extra flavor. At about 8 net carbs per serving, it’s a satisfying meal that fits your keto lifestyle.
21. Pizza Keto Style
Pizza on a keto diet might sound impossible, but it’s actually quite doable. The secret is in the crust – traditional flour gets replaced with low-carb alternatives.
Almond flour mixed with mozzarella cheese creates a crispy yet chewy base that satisfies pizza cravings. Some recipes even use chicken as a surprising crust ingredient.
Fat Head dough is a popular choice, offering a bread-like texture with a crispy bottom. Each slice typically contains only 3-4 net carbs, compared to 30+ in regular pizza.
You can top your keto pizza with all the usual favorites – pepperoni, cheese, and low-carb veggies. For an ultra-quick option, try using a low-carb tortilla as your base.
Benefits of a Keto Diet
The ketogenic diet offers several health advantages beyond just helping you lose weight. This low-carb, high-fat eating plan can transform your body’s metabolism and potentially improve various aspects of your health.
Weight Loss
The keto diet can be highly effective for weight loss. By drastically reducing carbohydrates, your body enters a metabolic state called ketosis, where it burns fat for energy instead of glucose.
Many people experience significant weight loss, particularly in the abdominal area. This happens because the diet helps reduce visceral fat, which surrounds your organs and can be dangerous to your health.
The keto diet also naturally suppresses appetite. When your body adapts to using fat for fuel, you often feel fuller longer and experience fewer hunger cravings throughout the day.
Studies show that people on keto diets tend to consume fewer calories overall without deliberately restricting food intake, making it easier to maintain a calorie deficit.
Improved Mental Clarity
Many keto dieters report enhanced focus and mental performance after adapting to this eating style.
Your brain can efficiently use ketones for energy, which some people find provides more consistent mental clarity than the ups and downs associated with carbohydrate consumption.
The steady energy supply from fat metabolism helps eliminate the brain fog that often follows carbohydrate-heavy meals. This can lead to better concentration and productivity throughout your day.
Some research suggests ketones may have neuroprotective benefits. Early evidence indicates the ketogenic diet might help with certain neurological conditions and potentially support brain health long-term.
Increased Energy Levels
Once your body adapts to using fat as its primary fuel source, many people experience more stable energy levels throughout the day.
Unlike the energy spikes and crashes common with high-carb diets, keto provides a steady supply of energy. This happens because your blood sugar remains more stable when you’re not consuming many carbohydrates.
Physical performance often improves after the initial adaptation period. Your body learns to efficiently access its vast fat stores for energy, which can be beneficial for endurance activities.
The keto diet may also help improve your sleep quality. Many followers report falling asleep more easily and waking up feeling more refreshed, contributing to better overall energy levels.
Understanding Macros in Keto
Keto macros represent the ratio of fat, protein, and carbohydrates you consume daily on this diet. Tracking these macronutrients is essential for reaching and maintaining ketosis, where your body burns fat instead of glucose for energy.
The Role of Fats
Fat makes up the largest portion of your keto macros, typically 70-80% of your daily calories. This high fat intake is what makes keto unique compared to other diets.
Good fat sources include avocados, olive oil, coconut oil, butter, and fatty cuts of meat. These fats provide essential fatty acids and help you feel full between meals.
Unlike traditional diets, you don’t need to fear fat on keto. Your body uses these fats as its primary fuel source when carbs are restricted.
Some fats work better than others. Focus on healthy unsaturated fats and moderate saturated fats while avoiding trans fats completely.
Importance of Proteins
Protein should account for about 15-20% of your daily calories on keto. This macronutrient helps maintain your muscle mass while you lose weight.
Quality matters more than quantity with protein. Choose eggs, fish, poultry, and grass-fed meats for the best nutritional profile.
Too little protein can lead to muscle loss, while too much can potentially kick you out of ketosis through gluconeogenesis—when your body converts excess protein to glucose.
A good rule is to consume 0.6-0.8 grams of protein per pound of lean body mass. This provides enough to support muscle without interfering with ketosis.
Carbohydrate Restrictions
Carbs are limited to just 5-10% of your daily calories on keto. This usually means 20-50 grams net carbs per day. Net carbs are total carbs minus fiber.
The strict carb limit forces your body to deplete glucose stores and switch to burning fat for energy. This metabolic state is called ketosis.
Most of your carbs should come from non-starchy vegetables like leafy greens, broccoli, and cauliflower. These provide essential nutrients and fiber while keeping carbs low.
Foods to avoid include grains, sugars, most fruits, starchy vegetables, and processed foods. Even healthy foods like sweet potatoes or beans have too many carbs for keto.
Track net carbs carefully, especially when starting keto. Many people find success by staying under 20 grams daily at first. Then, they gradually adjust based on their body’s response.
