When it comes to hosting gatherings and parties, one of the most crucial elements is a delicious and satisfying spread of appetizers. But what if you’re following a ketogenic diet? Fear not, fellow low-carb lovers! We’ve got you covered with 18 mouth-watering keto appetizer recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From cheesy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers to zucchini fritters with garlic aioli, and from spinach and artichoke stuffed mushrooms to prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears, our collection of keto-friendly appetizers is the perfect way to start any gathering off on the right foot. And the best part? Each recipe has been carefully crafted to be both delicious and in line with the keto diet’s principles.
In this article, we’ll dive into each and every one of these 18 scrumptious recipes, providing you with a comprehensive guide to making your next party or get-together a huge hit. So sit back, relax, and get ready to indulge in some serious snacking!
Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Elevate your snack game with these Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers. A perfect blend of spicy, savory, and indulgent, these bite-sized morsels are sure to satisfy any craving.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jalapeño peppers
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the stems of the jalapeños and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stuff each jalapeño with the cheese mixture, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top.
4. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
5. Place the wrapped jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Sprinkle brown sugar over the poppers and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Deviled Eggs with Crispy Bacon
Elevate the classic deviled egg recipe by adding creamy avocado and crispy bacon. This twist on a brunch staple is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy
– Chopped fresh chives or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks to a bowl.
2. Mash the yolks with a fork until smooth, then stir in diced avocado, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
4. Top each deviled egg with a piece of crispy bacon.
5. Garnish with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (includes cooking time for eggs)
Zucchini Fritters with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your snack game with these crispy zucchini fritters served with a creamy garlic aioli dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Garlic Aioli:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 3 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine grated zucchini, flour, cornmeal, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and milk.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the zucchini mixture into the oil.
6. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with Garlic Aioli.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this creamy, flavorful recipe featuring earthy mushrooms filled with a vibrant spinach and artichoke mixture.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a paper towel. Stuff each cap with the spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
6. If using cheddar cheese, sprinkle on top of the mushrooms during the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Keto-Friendly Cauliflower Tots
Get ready to sink your teeth into a game-changing snack that’s both delicious and healthy! This recipe for Keto-Friendly Cauliflower Tots is a low-carb twist on traditional potato tots, using cauliflower as the base.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work best)
– 1 tablespoon almond flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower head and remove any leaves or stems.
3. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a bowl, combine the processed cauliflower, olive oil, grated cheese, almond flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small tots (about 1-inch/2.5 cm in diameter).
6. Place the tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tips:
– For an extra crispy coating, try adding some grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture before shaping into tots.
– Experiment with different seasonings, such as garlic powder or smoked paprika, for added flavor.
Enjoy your keto-friendly cauliflower tots!
Buffalo Chicken Dip with Celery Sticks
Get ready to score big with this creamy, spicy, and addictive dip that’s perfect for game days or any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked chicken breast
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Celery sticks for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese until smooth.
3. Add ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, chicken breast, hot sauce, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
6. Serve with celery sticks and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cucumber Bites with Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese
Elevate your snack game with these refreshing and flavorful bites, perfect for a quick gathering or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cucumber slices (about 1/4 inch thick)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, smoked salmon, and lemon zest until well combined.
3. Arrange cucumber slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread a small amount of the cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber slice, leaving a 1/4 inch border around the edges.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cream cheese is set and slightly golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Parmesan Crisps with Herb Dip
Elevate your snack game with these crunchy Parmesan crisps paired with a flavorful herb dip.
Ingredients:
For the crisps:
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the dip:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, flour, and salt.
3. Drop small spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each crisp.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
5. For the dip, combine yogurt, parsley, chives, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well to combine.
6. Serve the crisps warm with the herb dip for a delicious snack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Turkey
Transform ordinary bell peppers into a flavorful and nutritious meal by filling them with savory ground turkey, rice, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice and mix well with the turkey mixture.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Keto-Friendly Shrimp Cocktail
Elevate your cocktail hour with this low-carb twist on a classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt-free seasoning blend (such as Old Bay)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, cilantro, garlic, seasoning blend, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Just before serving, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
5. Stir in the Dijon mustard until well combined.
6. Serve the chilled shrimp cocktail with the melted butter mixture spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-cook prep-ahead solution for your keto-friendly gathering.
Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks with Almond Flour
Elevate your snack game with these Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks made using almond flour! A perfect blend of flavors and textures, these bite-sized treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour and Parmesan cheese.
3. Add softened butter, minced garlic, and beaten egg to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long, thin breadstick shape.
5. Place breadsticks on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
6. Sprinkle with salt and chopped parsley (if using).
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Meatballs with Marinara Sauce
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized mini meatballs smothered in a rich and tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a separate pot over medium-low heat.
6. Once the meatballs are done, remove from oven and carefully place them into the marinara sauce.
7. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-22 minutes
Cauliflower Hummus with Veggie Sticks
A creamy and healthy twist on traditional hummus, this recipe uses roasted cauliflower instead of chickpeas for a deliciously unique flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem.
3. Toss the cauliflower with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Allow the cauliflower to cool slightly, then blend in a food processor until smooth.
5. Add tahini and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve with veggie sticks (such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers) and garnish with paprika if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Spears
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Spears Recipe
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet elegant recipe that combines the tender crunch of fresh asparagus with the salty, savory goodness of prosciutto.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
– 6-8 slices of prosciutto
– 2 tablespoons 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. Rinse the asparagus under cold water, pat dry with paper towels, and arrange in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Wrap each asparagus spear with 1-2 slices of prosciutto, securing with toothpicks if needed.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until prosciutto is crispy and asparagus is tender.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Keto-Friendly Crab Cakes
Keto-Friendly Crab Cakes Recipe
Get ready to enjoy a deliciously crunchy and flavorful keto crab cake that’s low in carbs and high in protein!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (white and light green parts only)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (gluten-free)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, green onions, garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and panko breadcrumbs; gently fold until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Form into 6-8 crab cakes.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Spicy Sausage Stuffed Mini Peppers
Add a kick to your snack game with this easy recipe that combines spicy sausage and sweet mini peppers.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 mini bell peppers (any color)
– 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the mini peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the olive oil to the skillet and stir in the sausage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each mini pepper with the sausage mixture, filling to the top.
6. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese over the stuffed peppers.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Brie with Almond Flour Crackers
This rich and creamy baked brie recipe is perfectly paired with crispy almond flour crackers, making it a show-stopping appetizer for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey and thyme.
3. Place the brie cheese wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the honey-thyme mixture over the brie.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is softened and slightly golden.
6. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) again.
7. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix together almond flour and salt. Add olive oil and stir until crumbly.
8. Roll out the dough into a thin sheet and cut into desired shapes or strips.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Keto-Friendly Chicken Satay Skewers
Get ready to enjoy the bold flavors of Southeast Asia with these Keto-friendly chicken satay skewers, made with tender and juicy chicken breast, crunchy vegetables, and a hint of peanut butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup coconut yogurt (Keto-friendly substitute for traditional yogurt)
– 2 tbsp peanut butter (make sure it’s free from added sugars)
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 bamboo skewers
– 1 bell pepper, sliced into rings
– 1 onion, sliced into rings
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together coconut yogurt, peanut butter, ginger, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Thread marinated chicken, bell pepper, onion, and garlic onto skewers.
5. Grill or cook in a pan for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite Keto-friendly sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 18 delicious keto appetizer recipes perfect for any occasion! From cheesy bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers to zucchini fritters with garlic aioli, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy savory options like spinach and artichoke stuffed mushrooms and mini meatballs with marinara sauce, or go for sweet treats like parmesan crisps with herb dip. With a variety of flavors and textures, these keto-friendly appetizers are sure to satisfy any craving.
