Are you tired of breaking the bank every time you want to enjoy a delicious meal? Look no further! As someone who’s passionate about cooking and living a keto lifestyle, I know how important it is to find recipes that are not only tasty but also affordable. That’s why I’ve put together this list of 20 budget-friendly cheap keto dinner recipes that won’t break the bank.
From cheesy cauliflower casserole to spicy shrimp lettuce wraps, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to stick to their keto diet without sacrificing flavor or breaking the bank. And the best part? Each and every one of these recipes is under $10 per serving!
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these recipes in more detail, exploring the ingredients, cooking methods, and tips for making them a success. Whether you’re a seasoned keto pro or just starting out, I hope you find something that inspires your next meal.
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
This creamy casserole is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite main courses, featuring tender cauliflower and a rich cheesy sauce. With only 7 ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have this comforting side dish ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cauliflower and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth.
4. Combine the cooked cauliflower, cheese, and milk mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
This recipe transforms zucchini into a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pasta, paired with the rich flavors of pesto. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto (see below for recipe)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Pesto Recipe:
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Slice the zucchinis into long noodles (about 1/4 inch thick).
3. Brush the zucchini noodles with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook the zucchini noodles for 3-5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
5. Stir in the pesto and cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan Bake
Eggplant Parmesan Bake: A Classic Italian-American Comfort Food
This recipe for Eggplant Parmesan Bake is a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With tender eggplant, crispy breadcrumbs, and melted mozzarella cheese, this casserole-style dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
3. Dip eggplant slices in the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until eggplant is tender and lightly browned.
7. In a separate dish, combine crushed tomatoes and shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Assemble the Eggplant Parmesan Bake by layering cooked eggplant slices with the tomato-mozzarella mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
9. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Avocado Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the richness of avocado with the savory flavor of chicken, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado, chicken breast, and red onion.
2. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top and toss gently to combine.
3. Squeeze the lemon juice and drizzle with olive oil, tossing again to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time only)
Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers
This hearty dish is a perfect combination of savory ground beef and sweet bell peppers. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add onion, garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Skillet
This hearty skillet dish is a perfect combination of sautéed mushrooms, wilted spinach, and a rich cream sauce, all cooked to perfection in one pan. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
8. Serve hot over cooked pasta or rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering dish that combines the flavors of broccoli, cheese, and juicy chicken. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 head of broccoli, steamed and chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together broccoli, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese until well combined.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the broccoli mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cauliflower Fried Rice
Transform your cauliflower into a tasty and healthy substitute for traditional fried rice. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
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 oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
5. Add mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Add processed cauliflower, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Shrimp Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional wraps, these Spicy Shrimp Lettuce Wraps are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The spicy kick from the shrimp and sriracha sauce is balanced by the crunch of the lettuce and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head lettuce, leaves separated
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, sriracha sauce, and garlic.
2. Add the shrimp and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Remove shrimp from marinade and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Assemble wraps by placing a few leaves of lettuce on a plate, then adding a cooked shrimp, sliced avocado, and any desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including marinating time)
Keto Taco Salad
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional taco salad, this recipe combines the best of both worlds with a keto-friendly twist. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cooked ground beef (90% lean)
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work best for keto)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, cooked ground beef, diced tomatoes, red onion, and cheddar cheese.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss to combine and top with chopped cilantro.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Zucchini Lasagna Rolls
This recipe is a creative twist on traditional lasagna, featuring zucchini instead of noodles and packed with flavor from ricotta cheese and marinara sauce. Perfect for a healthy and delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture onto the center of each zucchini round.
5. Roll up the zucchini tightly, starting from one end. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve hot, topped with marinara sauce and chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Steak Bites
This recipe takes the simplicity of steak bites and elevates them with the rich flavors of garlic butter. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef top sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Place steak cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Dot the top of each steak cube with the garlic butter mixture.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
A flavorful and comforting one-pot dish that combines the earthy sweetness of cabbage with the savory goodness of sausage, all in a single skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 pound sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: caraway seeds for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet, leaving the drippings behind.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Add the chopped cabbage and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
7. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the cabbage mixture.
8. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the cabbage is tender, stirring occasionally.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Keto Egg Drop Soup
Rich and creamy, this Keto Egg Drop Soup is a perfect comfort food for any occasion. This low-carb twist on the classic Chinese soup is a game-changer for those following a ketogenic diet.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups chicken broth (make sure it’s sugar-free)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together until well-beaten.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the broth while stirring constantly with a spoon.
4. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes or until the eggs have cooked through and formed thin, wispy strands (egg drops).
5. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Elevate your asparagus game with this indulgent and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of fresh asparagus with the savory goodness of melted cheese and crispy bacon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut in half
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon 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 half-slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the bacon-wrapped asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the asparagus is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Tuna Salad Boats
A refreshing twist on traditional tuna salad, these Avocado Tuna Salad Boats are a perfect blend of creamy and savory flavors, all wrapped up in a crispy boat made from avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 hard-boiled egg, diced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 lettuce leaves or small tomatoes for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, avocado, red onion, and egg.
2. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cut the avocado in half lengthwise and remove the pit.
4. Spoon the tuna salad into the avocado boat, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Garnish with lettuce leaves or small tomatoes.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Say goodbye to traditional pasta and hello to a cauliflower-based mac and cheese that’s just as creamy and delicious. This recipe is perfect for low-carb dieters or those looking for a healthier take on a comfort classic.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: breadcrumbs or crispy bacon for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in milk, then add 1/2 cup cheddar cheese. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Combine cooked cauliflower with the cheese sauce, season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with remaining cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken recipe. Tender chicken breasts are infused with the zesty taste of lemon, savory garlic, and rich butter for a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Dot the top of each breast with butter.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Keto Meatloaf with Almond Flour
This keto-friendly meatloaf recipe uses almond flour to add a nutty flavor and crunchy texture, making it a perfect low-carb alternative to traditional meatloaf.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, almond flour, cheddar cheese, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
4. Form into a loaf shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and elegant recipe that combines the earthy sweetness of portobello mushrooms with the tanginess of feta cheese and the nutrients of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Divide the spinach-feta mixture evenly among the mushrooms, spooning it onto the caps.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds without breaking the bank! This article presents 20 budget-friendly and delicious keto dinner recipes that are sure to please. From classic comfort foods like cheesy cauliflower casserole and creamy spinach and mushroom skillet, to international-inspired dishes like spicy shrimp lettuce wraps and keto taco salad, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned keto enthusiast or just starting out, these mouthwatering recipes will guide you towards a healthier and more flavorful meal routine without sacrificing taste or budget.
