15 Keto Diets for Beginners: Food to Starting Low-Carb

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Starting a keto diet can feel like navigating a whole new culinary world. With its unique approach to meals, focusing on high fats, moderate proteins, and very low carbs, keto has garnered a reputation for effective weight loss and numerous health benefits.

For beginners, the transition might seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it can be a smooth and rewarding journey. This guide aims to simplify the keto diet, offering practical tips and delicious recipes to get you started on the path to a healthier you.

Ready to embark on this exciting new dietary adventure? Here’s everything you need to know to begin your keto journey with confidence.

1. Keto Chicken Alfredo

Creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-delicious, Keto Chicken Alfredo is a low-carb twist on a classic comfort dish. Imagine tender chicken pieces bathed in a rich, cheesy Alfredo sauce, served over zucchini noodles. It’s like a hug in a bowl, but without all the carbs!

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Skillet, Spiralizer
No. of Ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts, sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 zucchinis, spiralized
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through.
  2. Add garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
  4. Add the spiralized zucchini noodles and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the noodles are tender.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Serve With: A fresh green salad
Drink With: A chilled glass of sparkling water with a slice of lemon

2. Keto Beef Stir-Fry

Quick, savory, and loaded with veggies, this Keto Beef Stir-Fry is a perfect weeknight dinner. The tender beef strips, crisp vegetables, and flavorful sauce come together in a flash, making it both delicious and nutritious.

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Equipment: Wok or large skillet
No. of Ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup snap peas
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
  • Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat coconut oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add beef and stir-fry until browned, then remove from the wok.
  2. Add garlic and ginger to the wok and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
  3. Add bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas, and stir-fry until tender-crisp.
  4. Return beef to the wok and add soy sauce and sesame oil. Toss everything together until well coated.
  5. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve immediately.

Serve With: Steamed cauliflower rice
Drink With: Iced green tea

3. Keto Egg Muffins

Perfect for breakfast on the go, these Keto Egg Muffins are packed with protein and veggies. They’re like mini frittatas that you can customize with your favorite low-carb ingredients. Just whip up a batch, and you’ll have a quick breakfast ready for the whole week.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Muffin tin
No. of Ingredients: 7

Ingredients:

  • 6 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup bacon bits
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Non-stick cooking spray

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stir in spinach, bell pepper, cheese, and bacon bits.
  4. Pour the mixture evenly into the muffin tin cups.
  5. Bake for 20 minutes or until the eggs are set and slightly golden on top.
  6. Let cool slightly before removing from the tin. Serve warm or store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Serve With: Sliced avocado
Drink With: Freshly brewed coffee

4. Keto Shrimp Scampi

Elevate your weeknight dinners with this elegant Keto Shrimp Scampi. It’s buttery, garlicky, and has just the right amount of lemon zest to brighten up your palate. Served over zucchini noodles, this dish is both fancy and easy to make.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Skillet, Spiralizer
No. of Ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 zucchinis, spiralized
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  2. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque.
  3. Pour in white wine (if using) and chicken broth, then bring to a simmer.
  4. Add lemon juice and spiralized zucchini noodles. Toss to coat and cook for 2-3 minutes until the noodles are tender.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Serve With: A side of roasted asparagus
Drink With: A glass of dry white wine

5. Keto Cauliflower Fried Rice

Satisfy your cravings for takeout with this healthy Keto Cauliflower Fried Rice. It’s packed with flavor, vegetables, and a bit of scrambled egg to give it that authentic fried rice feel, without the carbs.

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Equipment: Wok or large skillet, Food processor
No. of Ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium cauliflower, riced
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell pepper)
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a food processor, pulse cauliflower until it resembles rice.
  2. Heat coconut oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and stir-fry until fragrant.
  3. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry until tender.
  4. Push vegetables to the side and pour in beaten eggs. Scramble until cooked through.
  5. Add cauliflower rice, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir-fry until cauliflower is tender but not mushy.
  6. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with green onions before serving.

Serve With: Grilled chicken skewers
Drink With: Unsweetened iced tea

6. Keto Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Fresh, light, and bursting with flavor, Keto Zucchini Noodles with Pesto is a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any time of year. The basil pesto sauce coats the zucchini noodles perfectly, creating a delightful low-carb meal.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Spiralizer, Blender
No. of Ingredients: 7

Ingredients:

  • 2 zucchinis, spiralized
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add zucchini noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes until just tender.
  3. Remove from heat and toss with pesto sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.

Serve With: Grilled chicken breast
Drink With: A glass of sparkling water

7. Keto Taco Bowls

These Keto Taco Bowls are loaded with seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and all your favorite taco toppings, minus the carbs.

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Equipment: Skillet
No. of Ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tbsp taco seasoning
  • 2 cups lettuce, shredded
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp salsa
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add taco seasoning and stir well.
  2. In a bowl, arrange lettuce as the base. Top with ground beef, cherry tomatoes, avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, and cilantro.
  3. Season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.

Serve With: Cauliflower rice
Drink With: A refreshing lime-infused sparkling water

8. Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup

Warm, comforting, and cheesy, this Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup is perfect for a cozy night in. It’s creamy, full of broccoli goodness, and so easy to make, you’ll want to have it on repeat all winter long.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large pot
No. of Ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
  2. Add broccoli florets and chicken broth. Bring to a boil and then simmer until broccoli is tender.
  3. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth.
  4. Add heavy cream, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the soup is creamy.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.

Serve With: Keto garlic bread
Drink With: Hot herbal tea

9. Keto Chicken Parmesan

This Keto Chicken Parmesan features a crispy almond flour coating and a rich tomato sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s satisfying and so delicious, you won’t miss the traditional version at all.

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Oven, Skillet
No. of Ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Mix almond flour and Parmesan cheese in a bowl. Dip chicken breasts in beaten egg, then coat with almond flour mixture.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden brown on both sides.
  4. Place chicken in a baking dish, top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
  5. Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

Serve With: Zucchini noodles
Drink With: A glass of red wine

10. Keto Garlic Butter Salmon

This dish features flaky salmon fillets smothered in a savory garlic butter sauce. It’s simple, elegant, and packed with healthy fats, making it a perfect keto-friendly meal.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Skillet
No. of Ingredients: 6

Ingredients:

  • 4 salmon fillets
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Place salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down. Pour lemon juice over the fillets.
  4. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve With: Steamed broccoli
Drink With: A glass of Chardonnay

11. Keto Avocado Egg Salad

Creamy, flavorful, and packed with healthy fats, Keto Avocado Egg Salad is a delightful twist on the classic egg salad. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack, this dish is sure to keep you satisfied.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 6

Ingredients:

  • 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh chives for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped eggs, diced avocado, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard.
  2. Season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
  3. Garnish with fresh chives and serve.

Serve With: Keto crackers
Drink With: Sparkling water with a splash of lime

12. Keto Pork Chops with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Juicy pork chops smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce make for a hearty and delicious keto dinner. The sauce is rich and flavorful, complementing the tender pork chops perfectly.

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Skillet
No. of Ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

  • 4 pork chops
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season pork chops with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet.
  2. In the same skillet, add garlic and mushrooms. Sauté until mushrooms are tender.
  3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking until the sauce is thickened.
  4. Return pork chops to the skillet and coat with the creamy mushroom sauce.
  5. Garnish with fresh thyme and serve hot.

Serve With: Roasted Brussels sprouts
Drink With: A glass of dry white wine

13. Keto Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

Keto Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus is the perfect appetizer or side dish for any meal. The crispy bacon pairs wonderfully with the tender asparagus, creating a delicious combination that’s hard to resist.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Baking sheet
No. of Ingredients: 3

Ingredients:

  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
  • 8 slices bacon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of bacon.
  3. Place on a baking sheet and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Bake for 20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
  5. Serve hot.

Serve With: A side of ranch dipping sauce
Drink With: Iced tea

14. Keto Cheeseburger Casserole

All the flavors of a cheeseburger, without the bun! This Keto Cheeseburger Casserole is a crowd-pleaser, combining seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and all your favorite burger toppings in one delicious dish.

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Baking dish
No. of Ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup dill pickles, chopped
  • 1 tbsp mustard
  • 1 tbsp ketchup (sugar-free)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh lettuce for serving

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion until beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, mustard, and ketchup.
  4. Add ground beef mixture to a baking dish. Pour the cream mixture over the beef and top with shredded cheese.
  5. Bake for 20 minutes or until the casserole is set and the cheese is melted.
  6. Garnish with chopped pickles and serve over fresh lettuce.

Serve With: A side of coleslaw
Drink With: Diet soda

15. Keto Buffalo Chicken Wings

Spicy, tangy, and absolutely irresistible, Keto Buffalo Chicken Wings are a must-have for any gathering. These wings are baked to perfection and coated in a delicious buffalo sauce that will keep you coming back for more.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Baking sheet
No. of Ingredients: 6

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs chicken wings
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh celery sticks for serving

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss chicken wings with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange on a baking sheet.
  3. Bake for 25 minutes or until crispy and cooked through.
  4. In a bowl, mix buffalo sauce and melted butter. Toss the wings in the sauce mixture until well coated.
  5. Serve hot with fresh celery sticks.

Serve With: Blue cheese dressing
Drink With: A cold beer (keto-friendly)

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