When it comes to cooking healthy and tasty meals, one diet that has gained popularity in recent years is the ketogenic diet. The key principle of this diet is to keep your body in a state of ketosis, where your body burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. While many people initially worry about the limitations of a keto diet, there are plenty of delicious and easy-to-make recipes that can satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we will explore 20 mouth-watering and family-friendly keto dinner recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From cheesy cauliflower casseroles to creamy Tuscan garlic chicken, we have a wide variety of options to suit every taste and dietary need. Whether you’re a seasoned keto enthusiast or just starting out on your low-carb journey, these recipes will help you stick to your diet while still enjoying the comfort and satisfaction of a home-cooked meal.
Let’s dive in and explore some of the most delicious and easy-to-make keto dinner recipes that are perfect for family-friendly meals!
Cheesy Keto Cauliflower Casserole
A creamy, cheesy, and indulgent keto casserole that’s perfect for a low-carb dinner or lunch. This recipe is a game-changer for cauliflower lovers and those following a ketogenic diet.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese (dairy or dairy-free alternative)
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (dairy or dairy-free alternative)
– 1/4 cup of heavy cream or full-fat coconut cream
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the cauliflower in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream or coconut cream.
4. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the cheesy mixture over the cooked cauliflower and mix well.
6. Transfer the casserole to a baking dish and top with chopped parsley.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Zucchini Noodles
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional steak bites, this recipe combines tender beef with a rich garlic butter sauce and zucchini noodles for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb steak (such as sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Season steak bites with salt and pepper.
4. Heat the garlic butter mixture in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak bites and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. While steak is cooking, toss zucchini noodles with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve steak bites atop zucchini noodles and garnish with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this mouthwatering Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken recipe. Tender chicken breasts are smothered in a creamy sauce infused with the pungency of garlic, the zestiness of lemon, and the earthiness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and spinach.
3. Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and spoon the creamy sauce over each breast.
4. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Keto-Friendly Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe is a twist on traditional stuffed bell peppers, with a flavorful and nutritious keto-friendly spin. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef (90% lean)
– 1/2 cup taco seasoning
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp works best)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add taco seasoning and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, followed by shredded cheese and chopped cilantro.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Baked Salmon with Asparagus
Brighten up your dinner table with this flavorful and healthy salmon dish, perfectly paired with tender asparagus. This recipe is quick to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 asparagus spears
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle lemon juice over the salmon, then sprinkle with parsley and dill.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Arrange asparagus spears alongside the salmon.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through and flaky.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pan Keto Chicken Alfredo
This recipe is a low-carb twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring chicken, mushrooms, and a rich cream sauce all cooked in one pan. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner that’s also keto-friendly!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Return chicken to the pan and stir to coat with sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional seafood salads, this Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Salad combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado, crunchy veggies, and a kick of heat. Perfect for a light and flavorful lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, diced avocado, sliced red onion, and chopped jalapeño pepper.
3. Squeeze the lime juice over the top and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Zucchini Lasagna with Ground Beef
This recipe puts a delicious spin on traditional lasagna by adding tender zucchini and flavorful ground beef. The result is a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup zucchini slices (about 2 medium zucchinis)
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. In a separate bowl, combine mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Create lasagna layers: marinara sauce, zucchini slices, meat mixture, and cheese mixture. Repeat for 2-3 layers, finishing with cheese on top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Keto-Friendly Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that’s perfect for a low-carb, high-fat keto diet. This recipe combines tender beef strips with crisp broccoli florets in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (make sure it’s sugar-free)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the broccoli florets and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the broccoli and stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked beef back into the pan and stir to coat with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cauliflower Fried Rice with Chicken
A healthier twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe uses cauliflower instead of rice and adds protein-rich chicken for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, grated
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the grated cauliflower to the pan and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
5. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
Baked Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops Recipe
Elevate your pork chop game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese and the crunch of breadcrumbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.
3. In a separate dish, beat the egg. Add minced garlic and mix well.
4. Dip each pork chop into the egg mixture, then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Keto-Friendly Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders
A delicious and savory snack that’s perfect for the keto diet. This recipe combines crispy bacon with tender chicken, all wrapped up in a flavorful package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 6 slices of bacon (thicker cuts work best)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the chicken tenders.
4. Wrap each tender with 1-2 slices of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
5. Place the wrapped tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken dish with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the earthiness of mushrooms, the creaminess of spinach, and the juiciness of perfectly cooked chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms (button or cremini work well)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic until tender. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
3. Stuff each chicken breast with the mushroom-spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
4. Place stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and dot with butter.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-Carb Turkey Meatballs with Zoodles
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional meatballs, this recipe combines the flavors of turkey and Italian seasonings with the low-carb goodness of zucchini noodles. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 medium zucchini
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, almond flour, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, 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 (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, spiralize the zucchini and cook in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Keto-Friendly Eggplant Parmesan
Elevate your low-carb dinner game with this crispy and flavorful eggplant parmesan, carefully crafted to fit within keto dietary guidelines. This recipe is a twist on the classic Italian dish, substituting high-carb breadcrumbs with a crunchy almond flour coating.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (make sure it’s a keto-friendly brand)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought, low-carb option)
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together almond flour, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the almond flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Assemble the parmesan by placing a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom, followed by a layer of mozzarella cheese, then eggplant slices. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of mozzarella on top.
7. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your grilling game with these succulent shrimp skewers, infused with the brightness of lemon and the richness of garlic butter. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the shrimp with olive oil and then coat evenly with the garlic butter mixture.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Keto-Friendly Shepherd’s Pie with Cauliflower Mash
A low-carb twist on a classic comfort food dish, this Shepherd’s Pie replaces traditional mashed potatoes with cauliflower mash and uses ground beef that’s been cooked in a rich and savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 head cauliflower
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, steam cauliflower until tender. Drain and mash with butter and cheddar cheese (if using).
5. Transfer meat mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with cauliflower mash. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, this recipe combines the richness of avocado with the tanginess of lemon and the crunch of lettuce leaves. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 lettuce leaves (romaine or butter lettuce work well)
– Optional: cherry tomatoes, red onion, or crumbled feta cheese for added flavor and texture
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, avocado, yogurt, lemon juice, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
2. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken salad onto a lettuce leaf.
3. Fold the lettuce leaf to enclose the filling.
4. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Keto-Friendly Buffalo Chicken Casserole
A spicy twist on a classic comfort food, this buffalo chicken casserole is a game-changer for keto dieters. Made with cream cheese, chicken, and ranch seasoning, it’s a rich and satisfying meal that’s low in carbs and big on flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (low-carb option)
– 1/2 cup ranch seasoning mix
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese and buffalo wing sauce.
4. Combine cooked chicken, cream cheese mixture, green onions (if using), and ranch seasoning mix in a casserole dish.
5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Keto Chili with Ground Beef
Simplify your meal prep with this hearty, one-pot keto chili recipe that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, and cumin. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Add mushrooms and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions (optional).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious and easy keto dinner recipes that your family will love? Look no further! This article features 20 mouthwatering keto-friendly meal ideas, from cheesy cauliflower casserole to spicy shrimp and avocado salad. With a range of options from classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, you’ll find something to suit every taste. Whether you’re a seasoned keto enthusiast or just starting out on your low-carb journey, these recipes are sure to be a hit with the whole family. Get ready to indulge in some seriously tasty and easy-to-make keto dinners!
