Starting a keto diet doesn’t mean giving up on delicious, satisfying meals. If you’re new to keto, it’s important to find meals that are both low in carbs and full of flavor. The key is to focus on high-quality fats, moderate protein, and minimal carbohydrates.
Here are some decadent keto-friendly dinners that are easy to make and perfect for beginners.
1. Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Asparagus
A perfectly seared steak with rich, buttery garlic sauce is a keto classic.
Ingredients:
- 1 ribeye or sirloin steak
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 6-8 asparagus spears
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
- Season the steak with salt and pepper, then sear for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Reduce heat and add butter, garlic, and thyme, basting the steak.
- Roast asparagus in the oven at 400°F for 10-12 minutes with olive oil and salt.
Carbs per Serving: ~4g
Tip: Add a side of creamy cauliflower mash for an extra indulgent meal.
2. Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This rich and creamy chicken dish is packed with flavor and healthy fats.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
- Add heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, letting them soften.
- Return chicken to the pan and let simmer for 5 minutes.
Carbs per Serving: ~6g
Tip: Serve with zoodles (zucchini noodles) or a side salad for a complete keto meal.
3. Keto Bacon-Wrapped Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce
This high-fat, protein-rich dish is perfect for an easy yet gourmet keto dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets
- 4 strips of bacon
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Wrap each salmon fillet with bacon strips and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic. Add lemon juice and pour over the salmon.
Carbs per Serving: ~2g
Tip: Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts for added crunch.
4. Cheesy Cauliflower Mac & Cheese with Crispy Bacon
This keto version of mac & cheese is creamy, cheesy, and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- 3 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Steam or boil cauliflower until tender, then drain.
- In a saucepan, heat heavy cream and mix in cheddar, Parmesan, and mustard.
- Stir in cauliflower and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Top with crispy bacon before serving.
Carbs per Serving: ~5g
Tip: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor.
5. Low-Carb Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef & Cheese
A hearty and filling meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 large bell peppers, halved
- ½ pound ground beef
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup chopped onions
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Heat olive oil in a pan, cook onions and garlic, then add ground beef. Cook until browned.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stuff the bell peppers with the beef mixture, top with cheese, and bake for 20 minutes.
Carbs per Serving: ~7g
Tip: Use green bell peppers for a lower-carb option.
Comparison of Keto Dinners
Dish | Carbs per Serving | Best For |
---|---|---|
Garlic Butter Steak & Asparagus | ~4g | High-protein, easy meal |
Creamy Tuscan Chicken | ~6g | Comfort food, rich flavors |
Bacon-Wrapped Salmon | ~2g | High-fat, protein-packed |
Cauliflower Mac & Cheese | ~5g | Cheesy cravings, side dish |
Stuffed Bell Peppers | ~7g | Hearty and filling meal |
Starting keto doesn’t mean giving up on delicious, indulgent meals. These beginner-friendly keto dinners are full of healthy fats, protein, and flavor while keeping carbs low. Whether you crave a juicy steak, creamy chicken, or cheesy cauliflower, these meals will keep you satisfied and on track with your keto journey.
FAQs
Can I eat cheese on a keto diet?
Yes! Cheese is high in fat and low in carbs, making it a great keto-friendly ingredient.
What is the best meat for keto dinners?
Steak, chicken thighs, salmon, and bacon are all excellent high-fat, low-carb protein sources.
Are there keto-friendly side dishes?
Yes! Cauliflower mash, roasted veggies, and keto bread are great options.