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Starting a keto lifestyle can feel overwhelming at first, but having the right meals on hand makes it much easier to stay on track. Whether you’re prepping dinner for the family or just trying to figure out what to eat on a busy weeknight, this list includes low-carb, high-fat recipes that are full of flavor and simple to make.
From cheesy casseroles to easy skillet meals and satisfying salads, these recipes are beginner-friendly but never boring. I’ve personally tried many of these and found them to be both filling and delicious. Plus, they’ve helped keep cravings at bay while keeping my carb count in check.
Each recipe comes with a helpful tip, so if you’re just getting started with keto or need new ideas, you’re in the right place. Here are 17 healthy keto meals I’d recommend to anyone starting.
1. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs
These pan-seared chicken thighs simmered in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce are one of my go-to comfort meals. It comes together quickly in one skillet, and the sauce is so rich, you’d never guess it’s low in carbs. I often pair it with roasted broccoli or cauliflower rice for a full meal.
Quick Tip
Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for faster cooking, and let them rest before slicing so the juices stay in.
Get the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs recipe.
2. Keto Taco Casserole
This taco casserole has saved me on so many weeknights. It layers seasoned ground beef, peppers, cheese, and a little salsa into a bubbly, cheesy bake. I top mine with sour cream and a few slices of avocado. It feels like eating loaded nachos—without the chips.
Quick Tip
Drain the beef well after browning to keep the casserole from getting too greasy.
Get the Keto Taco Casserole recipe.
3. Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
I missed mac and cheese like crazy when I first went keto. This cauliflower version fixed that craving. The roasted cauliflower gives it a nice bite, and the cheesy sauce is smooth and satisfying. I sometimes mix in bits of bacon or shredded chicken to make it a full meal.
Quick Tip
Roast the cauliflower instead of boiling—it keeps the texture firm and prevents fogginess.
Get the Cauliflower Mac and Cheese recipe.
4. Zucchini Noodle Alfredo with Shrimp
This light but creamy dish has become a regular in my meal rotation. Zoodles (zucchini noodles) tossed with homemade Alfredo sauce and seared shrimp feel indulgent but are completely keto-approved. It’s a fast, fancy meal that works even on busy nights.
Quick Tip
Pat the zoodles dry before adding to the sauce to avoid watering it down.
Get the Zucchini Noodle Alfredo with Shrimp recipe.
5. Egg Roll in a Bowl
This recipe tastes just like a takeout egg roll, minus the wrapper. It’s made with ground pork or chicken, cabbage, garlic, and a splash of soy sauce. I love it for meal prep, and it reheats beautifully. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top brings it together.
Quick Tip
Add a drizzle of sesame oil after cooking for a deeper, nutty flavor without adding carbs.
Get the Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe.
6. Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
These spicy, creamy buffalo chicken wraps are one of my favorite lunch options. I shred rotisserie chicken, mix it with buffalo sauce and cream cheese, then stuff it into crisp romaine or iceberg leaves. It’s messy in the best way and keeps me full for hours.
Quick Tip
Chill the filling slightly before assembling to help it hold together better in the wraps.
Get the Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps recipe.
7. Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter
This baked salmon is one of the easiest meals I make during the week. A few lemon slices, some garlic, and melted butter turn it into something satisfying. I serve it with sautéed spinach or roasted asparagus. It’s light, filling, and perfect for busy nights.
Quick Tip
Use foil or parchment for easy cleanup and to keep the salmon moist while baking.
Get the Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter recipe.
8. Keto Cheeseburger Skillet
If you’re craving a cheeseburger but skipping the bun, this skillet hits the spot. Ground beef, onions, pickles, mustard, and cheese all come together in one pan. It tastes just like a cheeseburger bowl. I usually serve it with a side salad or some roasted veggies.
Quick Tip
Add a splash of pickle juice at the end for a tangy kick that boosts flavor.
Get the Keto Cheeseburger Skillet recipe.
9. Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Mushrooms
This is my go-to when I want something hearty and fast. Tender steak cubes and mushrooms sizzle in garlic butter until golden. It’s restaurant-quality but takes less than 20 minutes to make. I like it with mashed cauliflower or just on its own.
Quick Tip
Let the steak rest after cooking to keep it juicy—don’t skip this step!
Get the Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Mushrooms recipe.
10. Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake
This is the keto version of a classic casserole I used to make before going low-carb. It’s packed with chicken, broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce, then baked until bubbly. It’s filling and makes great leftovers.
Quick Tip
Blanch the broccoli before adding it to the casserole so it cooks through evenly without getting mushy.
Get the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake recipe.
11. Keto Chicken Enchilada Skillet
This one-pan meal has all the flavor of enchiladas without the tortillas. I use shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, cheese, and spices, and cook everything on the stove. Sometimes I top it with diced avocado or sour cream for extra creaminess.
Quick Tip
Look for sugar-free enchilada sauce or make your own to keep carbs low.
Get the Keto Chicken Enchilada Skillet recipe.
12. Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
These bell peppers are loaded with sausage, spinach, and cheese for a low-carb twist on a classic dish. They’re hearty and flavorful, and I love how easy they are to prep ahead. Even my non-keto family members enjoy them.
Quick Tip
Use red or orange bell peppers for a slightly sweeter contrast to the savory filling.
Get the Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Peppers recipe.
13. Crispy Keto Chicken Tenders
These almond flour-coated chicken tenders are crunchy, satisfying, and perfect for dipping. I bake or air-fry them, and they always come out golden and crisp. They make a great lunch or kid-friendly dinner.
Quick Tip
Let the coated tenders sit for 10 minutes before cooking—this helps the coating stick better.
Get the Crispy Keto Chicken Tenders recipe.
14. Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
When I want something cheap and fast, this is the meal I make. Sliced sausage and shredded cabbage cook together in one skillet with butter and spices. It’s simple, comforting, and surprisingly filling.
Quick Tip
Add a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end to brighten the flavor and cut the richness.
Get the Cabbage and Sausage Skillet recipe.
15. Keto Pizza Casserole
I’ve tried a lot of keto pizza options, but this one is my favorite. It layers ground beef, marinara, cheese, and toppings like olives and pepperoni into a crustless bake. It’s gooey, satisfying, and tastes just like pizza night, minus the carbs.
Quick Tip
Use a low-sugar or homemade marinara sauce to keep it truly keto.
Get the Keto Pizza Casserole recipe.
16. Shrimp and Avocado Salad
This salad is fresh, light, and full of healthy fats. I cook shrimp in a bit of garlic butter and toss them with avocado, cucumbers, and a lemony olive oil dressing. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or warm-weather dinner.
Quick Tip
Serve it chilled and eat it right away—avocados brown fast once cut.
Get the Shrimp and Avocado Salad recipe.
17. Keto Meatballs with Zoodles
These juicy meatballs are made with almond flour instead of breadcrumbs and simmered in a tomato-based sauce. I love serving them over zucchini noodles or even by themselves with a sprinkle of Parmesan. They freeze well, too.
Quick Tip
Bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying to save time and make cleanup easier.
