15 Easy Keto Dinners You Can Make in 30 Minutes or Less

Finding good keto dinner recipes that don’t take forever to make can be a challenge, especially on busy weeknights. If you’re following the ketogenic diet or just looking for quick, healthy dinner ideas, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve rounded up 15 easy keto recipes that will get a delicious meal on your table in 30 minutes or less. These low carb meals are perfect for anyone wanting fast keto food without sacrificing flavor or health. Get ready to simplify your low carb cooking and maybe even get ahead with some keto meal prep!

Key Takeaways

• Discover 15 simple keto dinner recipes designed for busy schedules.
• All these meals can be prepared in 30 minutes or less, fitting into any fast-paced lifestyle.
• Focuses on low carb meals, making it easier to stick to the ketogenic diet.
• Includes a variety of protein options like chicken, shrimp, and beef for diverse preferences.
• Offers practical solutions for quick keto dinners and effective keto meal prep.

1. Keto Garlic Shrimp Asparagus Skillet

This Keto Garlic Shrimp Asparagus Skillet is a lifesaver on those nights when you’re short on time but still want a healthy, satisfying meal. Seriously, it comes together so fast, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with complicated recipes. It’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup, and who doesn’t love that?

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

The whole dish is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for any busy weeknight. It’s naturally gluten-free and fits right into a paleo lifestyle too. The combination of tender shrimp and crisp asparagus, all coated in a buttery garlic sauce, is just fantastic. You can find all the ingredients for a great garlic butter shrimp dish at your local grocery store.

To make it, just heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the shrimp and asparagus, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through and the asparagus is tender-crisp. Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top before serving. It’s that simple!

This recipe is a great example of how simple ingredients can create a really flavorful meal without a lot of fuss. It’s proof that eating keto doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming.

2. Keto Pan Shrimp with Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus

This dish is a real winner when you need something quick and healthy. It’s bright, fresh, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a tasty lunch you can prep ahead.

You can have this ready in under 30 minutes, which is pretty great. It uses simple ingredients that come together really nicely.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need:

• Shrimp (peeled and deveined, of course)
• Fresh asparagus spears
• Cherry tomatoes
• Garlic
• Olive oil or butter
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a little kick

It’s a pretty straightforward process. You’ll sauté the shrimp and asparagus in a skillet with some garlic until the shrimp is pink and the asparagus is tender-crisp. Then, you toss in the cherry tomatoes and let them soften just a bit. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end really brightens everything up. It’s a fantastic way to get some good protein and veggies in without a lot of fuss.

This recipe is naturally low-carb and fits perfectly into a keto lifestyle. It’s also gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free if you use olive oil instead of butter.

3. Keto Ground Turkey Cauliflower Rice Veggie Bowls

Looking for a quick and satisfying meal that fits your keto lifestyle? These ground turkey and cauliflower rice veggie bowls are a fantastic option. They’re super easy to put together, making them perfect for busy weeknights or even for meal prepping ahead of time. You get a good mix of protein and healthy fats, all while keeping the carbs low.

This recipe is all about combining simple ingredients for maximum flavor and minimal fuss. It’s a great way to use up whatever veggies you have on hand, too. Think of it as a flexible base that you can adapt to your liking. The ground turkey cooks up fast, and when paired with cauliflower rice, it creates a hearty base that won’t weigh you down.

Here’s a general idea of how you can assemble these bowls:

• Brown the ground turkey: Season it well with salt, pepper, and your favorite keto-friendly spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of chili powder for a little kick.
• Sauté your veggies: While the turkey cooks, quickly sauté some chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or broccoli. You want them tender-crisp, not mushy.
• Prepare the cauliflower rice: You can buy pre-riced cauliflower or make your own. It cooks up in just a few minutes on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Assemble the bowls: Layer the cooked ground turkey, sautéed veggies, and cauliflower rice in your bowls. Top with your favorite keto-friendly additions like avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, or some fresh cilantro.

These bowls are incredibly versatile. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spice blends or add a variety of vegetables to keep things interesting week after week. It’s a simple way to ensure you’re getting a balanced, low-carb meal without a lot of effort.

This dish is a prime example of how easy it can be to create delicious keto meal prep options. It’s filling, flavorful, and best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes, fitting perfectly into our theme of quick and easy keto dinners.

4. Keto Ground Beef Butternut Squash Kale Soup

If you need a dinner that’s cozy but still low in carbohydrates, this soup is the one. Hearty ground beef, savory butternut squash, and leafy kale make a filling trio that turns dinner into something special, even on a busy weeknight. The magic? It all comes together in just one pot and is on the table in half an hour or less.

To get the texture and depth right, it’s all about the layers:

• Brown your ground beef first, letting the edges get a little crispy.
• Toss in bite-sized butternut squash cubes—they’ll pick up flavors from the beef as they soften.
• Add chopped kale toward the end so it wilts but still has bite.
• Season generously. Smoked paprika and a little ground cumin add warmth without overpowering the veggies.

If you need to adjust your macros, you can:

• Reduce the squash or sub in even lower-carb veggies.
• Swap beef for ground turkey for a lighter take.
• Add broth to thin or simmer uncovered for a thicker stew.

Here’s how the basic nutrition often looks for one serving:

I wasn’t sure butternut squash could work in a keto meal, but combined with beef and kale, it’s surprisingly satisfying and doesn’t leave me feeling heavy. Even the leftovers taste better the next day, which is a win for meal prep.

For more ideas on quick, healthy meals, try a Cheesy Broccoli Scramble — it’s also speedy and filling Cheesy Broccoli Scramble.

5. Keto Chicken Zucchini Boats

Looking for a fun and easy way to use up some zucchini? These Keto Chicken Zucchini Boats are a fantastic option. They’re surprisingly simple to put together, making them perfect for a weeknight meal when you don’t have a lot of time.

The idea is to hollow out zucchini halves and fill them with a savory chicken mixture. It’s a great way to get some extra veggies in, and the zucchini becomes tender and delicious when baked.

Here’s a basic rundown of how you might make them:

• Prep your zucchini: Cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh to create a boat shape.
• Make the filling: Cook some ground chicken (or shredded chicken) with your favorite seasonings. You can add things like diced onions, garlic, and maybe some sugar-free tomato sauce or diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
• Stuff and bake: Fill the zucchini boats with the chicken mixture, top with cheese if you like, and bake until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly.

It’s a really adaptable recipe, too. Feel free to experiment with different spices or add other keto-friendly veggies to the filling. You could even add a dollop of sour cream or some fresh herbs on top before serving. This dish is a great example of how simple ingredients can create a satisfying keto meal, much like this Crispy Lemon Herb Salmon recipe is for fish lovers.

This recipe is a clever way to serve a complete meal in a fun, edible package. It’s a hit with both adults and kids, and you can customize the filling to suit your taste preferences.

6. Keto Baked Chicken with Brussels Sprouts

This baked chicken and Brussels sprouts dish is a fantastic option when you need a quick and satisfying keto meal. It’s all about minimal fuss for maximum flavor. You basically toss everything onto a single baking sheet, which means cleanup is a breeze. The combination of tender chicken and slightly crispy Brussels sprouts is a winner every time.

Here’s a simple way to put it together:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Chop up some Brussels sprouts and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Place chicken pieces (thighs or breasts work well) on the same baking sheet.
• Season the chicken with your favorite keto-friendly spices like garlic powder, paprika, and maybe a pinch of cayenne for a little kick.
• Add some bacon bits or slices on top if you’re feeling fancy – they get wonderfully crispy.
• Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sprouts are tender and slightly browned. You can check out a similar sheet pan meal here.

This method is great because the chicken and veggies cook together, letting all those delicious flavors meld. It’s a truly one-pan wonder that fits perfectly into a busy weeknight schedule.

7. Keto Pan-Seared Steak with Mushrooms

This pan-seared steak with mushrooms is a fantastic option when you’re craving something hearty but still want to stick to your keto goals. It’s surprisingly quick, usually taking around 15 minutes from start to finish, which is pretty great for a steak dinner. You get that satisfying, savory flavor from the steak and earthy mushrooms, all cooked up in one pan.

It’s a classic combination that feels a little fancy but is totally doable on a weeknight.

Here’s a simple way to put it together:

• Pat your steak dry and season it well with salt and pepper. A good quality steak makes a difference here.
• Heat some oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering.
• Sear the steak for a few minutes on each side, depending on how you like it cooked. Don’t overcrowd the pan if you’re cooking more than one.
• While the steak rests, toss sliced mushrooms into the same skillet. Cook them until they’re nicely browned and tender.
• You can add a splash of broth or a bit of garlic butter to the mushrooms for extra flavor.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some steamed green beans. It’s all about keeping it straightforward and delicious.

It’s a really straightforward meal that doesn’t require a lot of fuss. You can find some great tips on cooking steak to perfection on this page if you want to get it just right. Enjoy your quick and tasty keto meal!

8. Keto Shrimp Vegetable Skillet

This Keto Shrimp Vegetable Skillet is a fantastic one-pan meal that comes together in a flash. It’s packed with protein from the shrimp and loaded with a variety of colorful, low-carb vegetables. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but still want something healthy and satisfying.

Making this dish is super straightforward. You’ll typically start by sautéing some aromatics like garlic and onions, then add your chosen vegetables. Think broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach – whatever you have on hand works well. Once the veggies are tender-crisp, the shrimp goes in. Shrimp cooks really fast, so you don’t want to overcook it. A quick toss in the pan and it’s done.

Here’s a general idea of how you might put it together:

• Sauté minced garlic and maybe some onion in olive oil or butter.
• Add your chopped vegetables (like broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, and zucchini chunks) and cook until they’re tender but still have a little bite.
• Toss in peeled and deveined shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and maybe some red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Cook for just a few minutes until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.

This dish is incredibly versatile. Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have in your fridge. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end really brightens up the flavors.

It’s a great option for meal prep too. Just make a larger batch and portion it out for lunches throughout the week. The combination of lean protein and fiber-rich vegetables makes it a filling and nutritious choice.

9. Keto Low-Carb Bunless Burgers

Forget the bread, we’re going straight for the good stuff with these bunless burgers. It’s a simple idea, really: take all the deliciousness of a classic burger and ditch the bun. This is perfect for when you want that satisfying burger experience without any of the carbs.

Making them is pretty straightforward. You’ll want a good quality ground beef, seasoned well. Then, you can top it with whatever your heart desires – cheese, bacon, avocado, maybe some caramelized onions if you’re feeling fancy. The key is to load up on the flavorful toppings that make a burger great, just without the bread holding it all together.

Here’s a basic rundown:

• Patty Prep: Mix your ground beef with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like. Don’t overwork the meat. Form into patties.
• Cooking: Pan-fry, grill, or bake your patties until they’re cooked to your liking.
• Assembly: Stack your cooked patty with your favorite keto-friendly toppings. Think lettuce wraps, tomato slices (in moderation!), pickles, cheese, and maybe a dollop of sugar-free ketchup or mayo.

It’s a meal that feels indulgent but keeps you right on track with your keto goals. Plus, cleanup is usually a breeze, which is always a win in my book.

10. Keto Salmon Burgers with Avocado Coleslaw

Okay, so you’re looking for something quick, healthy, and totally keto-friendly for dinner? These salmon burgers with avocado coleslaw are a lifesaver. Seriously, they come together in about 20 minutes, which is pretty awesome when you’re starving and don’t want to spend ages in the kitchen.

These burgers are packed with omega-3s and flavor, and the creamy avocado coleslaw is the perfect fresh topping. It’s a nice change from the usual ground beef burgers, and honestly, they hold together really well, which is always a win with homemade patties. You can make these delicious, healthy salmon burgers that stay intact when cooked on the stovetop or grill.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need:

• 1 pound salmon, skinless and boneless
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons almond flour (or coconut flour)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the coleslaw: shredded cabbage, avocado, lime juice, cilantro, salt.

Just mix the salmon ingredients, form into patties, and pan-fry or grill until cooked through. While those are cooking, whip up the coleslaw. It’s that simple.

This recipe is a fantastic way to get more fish into your diet without it feeling like a chore. The combination of the savory salmon patty and the zesty, creamy slaw is just chef’s kiss.

It’s a meal that feels fancy but is actually super easy to pull off on a busy weeknight. Give it a try!

11. Chimichurri Shrimp Broccoli Skillet

This chimichurri shrimp broccoli skillet is a fantastic option when you need a quick and flavorful meal. It’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time enjoying your food. The bright, herbaceous chimichurri sauce really makes the shrimp and broccoli pop.

You’ll love how fast this comes together. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Here’s a basic idea of what goes into it:

• Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Broccoli florets
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Chimichurri sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Making your own chimichurri is pretty simple if you have fresh herbs on hand. It usually involves parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, and some vinegar. It adds a really fresh taste to the whole dish.

This recipe is a great way to get a good dose of protein and vegetables without a lot of fuss. The combination of tender shrimp and crisp-tender broccoli coated in that zesty sauce is just delicious.

It’s a really satisfying meal that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. You can find pre-made chimichurri sauce at many grocery stores, making this even easier. If you’re looking for a quick dinner, this chimichurri shrimp broccoli skillet is definitely worth trying.

12. Keto Chimichurri Chicken Green Beans Skillet

This Keto Chimichurri Chicken Green Beans Skillet is a fantastic one-pan meal that comes together surprisingly fast. You get tender chicken and crisp green beans coated in a vibrant, herbaceous chimichurri sauce. It’s one of those dishes that tastes like you spent way more time on it than you actually did.

The key to this dish is the chimichurri sauce itself. It’s a bright, zesty blend of fresh parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of vinegar. It really wakes up the chicken and veggies.

Here’s a quick rundown of how to put it all together:

• Prep your ingredients: Chop your chicken, trim your green beans, and mince your garlic. If you’re making the chimichurri from scratch, chop your herbs finely.
• Cook the chicken: Sear the chicken pieces in a large skillet until they’re mostly cooked through.
• Add the veggies: Toss in the green beans and sauté until they’re tender-crisp.
• Sauce it up: Pour in the chimichurri sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

This recipe is super adaptable. If you don’t have green beans, broccoli or asparagus would work just as well. And if you’re short on time, you can always use a store-bought chimichurri, though making your own is pretty simple and adds a fresh zing. It’s a great way to get a flavorful, low-carb meal on the table without a lot of fuss. You can find some great chimichurri sauce recipes online if you want to try making it yourself.

This skillet meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of savory chicken, fresh vegetables, and the tangy chimichurri is a winner.

13. Keto Grilled Chicken Avocado Salad

This grilled chicken avocado salad is a fantastic option when you’re looking for something filling and satisfying without all the carbs. It’s packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the avocado, making it a well-rounded meal that keeps you full. Plus, it’s super quick to put together, which is always a win on busy weeknights.

The combination of tender grilled chicken and creamy avocado is just perfect. It’s a salad that doesn’t feel like a diet food at all. You can easily prep the chicken ahead of time, making assembly even faster. This recipe is great for meal prep too; just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

Here’s a simple breakdown of how to get this salad on your plate:

• Grill your chicken breasts until cooked through. Let them rest before dicing.
• Chop up your favorite salad greens – romaine or mixed greens work well.
• Dice a ripe avocado and add it to the greens.
• Toss everything together with a simple vinaigrette. A lemon-based dressing is particularly good here.

This salad is a great way to get a good dose of nutrients and flavor without the heavy feeling. It’s adaptable, so feel free to add other keto-friendly veggies like cucumber or bell peppers if you have them on hand.

It’s a refreshing meal that’s ready in a flash. For more ideas on prepping salads, check out this chopped chicken salad recipe.

14. Keto Ground Turkey Skillet with Green Beans

This Keto Ground Turkey Skillet with Green Beans is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It’s a simple, one-pan meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something hearty and delicious. The combination of savory ground turkey and crisp green beans is a classic for a reason.

This recipe is all about minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. It’s a fantastic way to get a healthy, low-carb dinner on the table without a lot of fuss. You can easily adapt it with your favorite seasonings or add other keto-friendly vegetables if you have them on hand.

Here’s a general idea of how to put it together:

• Sauté some aromatics like onion and garlic in a large skillet with a bit of olive oil.
• Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up as you go.
• Toss in fresh green beans and any other veggies you like, such as bell peppers or zucchini.
• Season generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
• Let everything cook together until the green beans are tender-crisp and the turkey is fully cooked through.

This dish is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different spices like cumin, paprika, or even a touch of curry powder to change up the flavor profile. It’s a great base for a quick Asian-style stir fry if you add a splash of soy sauce or tamari.

Serve it hot, and enjoy a satisfying meal that fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle. It’s proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.

15. Keto Spicy Chicken with Cauliflower Rice

This dish is a real winner for those nights when you need something quick, flavorful, and totally keto-friendly. It’s all about getting maximum taste with minimal fuss. You’re basically throwing chicken and cauliflower rice into one skillet and letting the magic happen. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’ve accomplished something great, even if you only spent about 25 minutes in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies without even noticing.

Here’s a simple breakdown of how to get this going:

• Start by cubing your chicken breast or thighs into bite-sized pieces. Season them generously with your favorite spices – think chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne for that spicy kick.
• Heat some olive oil or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until it’s browned on all sides and mostly cooked through.
• Toss in some chopped bell peppers and onions if you like, and sauté them for a few minutes until they start to soften.
• Now for the star: add your cauliflower rice to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the cauliflower rice to absorb all those delicious chicken juices and spices.
• You can add a splash of chicken broth or a bit of sugar-free soy sauce for extra flavor and moisture. The goal is a dish that’s moist but not soupy.

This recipe is super adaptable. If you don’t have cauliflower rice on hand, you could even use finely chopped broccoli. For a different flavor profile, consider adding a bit of ginger and garlic when you start cooking the chicken. It’s a great base for a keto take on Chicken Biryani if you want to get a little more adventurous.

This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights. It proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. You get protein, healthy fats, and fiber all in one satisfying meal.

Keep It Simple and Delicious

So there you have it – 15 keto dinner ideas that prove you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to eat well. Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned pro, these recipes are designed to be quick, easy, and packed with flavor. They use simple ingredients and minimal fuss, meaning more time for you and less time stressing about what’s for dinner. Give them a try and see how easy sticking to your keto goals can be. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ketogenic diet?

The ketogenic diet, or keto for short, is a way of eating that’s very low in carbs and high in fat. The goal is to get your body into a state called ketosis, where it starts burning fat for energy instead of carbs. It often involves eating lots of healthy fats, moderate protein, and very few sugary foods or starches.

Are these recipes truly keto-friendly?

Yes, all these recipes are designed to fit a ketogenic lifestyle. They focus on ingredients that are low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, making them great choices for anyone following a keto diet. You’ll find plenty of protein and veggies in these dishes.

What does ’30 minutes or less’ mean for these recipes?

It means that from the moment you start preparing the ingredients to when the dish is ready to eat, the total time should be around 30 minutes or even quicker. This is perfect for busy nights when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.

Can I substitute ingredients in these recipes?

Generally, yes, you can make some swaps. For example, if a recipe calls for chicken, you might be able to use turkey or another protein. However, always try to keep the carb count low to stay keto. It’s best to check if a substitution will significantly change the carb or fat content.

What are some common keto-friendly vegetables?

Great choices for keto veggies include leafy greens like spinach and kale, broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, and Brussels sprouts. These are usually lower in carbs compared to starchy vegetables like potatoes or corn.

What if I don’t have all the specific ingredients?

Don’t worry if you’re missing a minor ingredient! Many of these recipes are flexible. You can often swap spices or herbs for ones you have on hand. For main ingredients, try to find a similar low-carb alternative. The goal is to keep the overall meal keto-friendly.

Are these recipes good for beginners on the keto diet?

Absolutely! These recipes are chosen for their simplicity and speed. Most use common ingredients and don’t require complex cooking techniques, making them ideal for people who are new to the ketogenic diet and want easy, tasty meals.

Can I make these recipes ahead of time for meal prep?

Many of these dishes are excellent for meal prepping. Things like stir-fries, bowls, and soups can often be made in larger batches and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Just reheat them when you’re ready to eat!

Danilo Souza

Hey there 👋 I’m Danilo — a food enthusiast passionate about low carb cooking and healthy living.
I believe that eating well doesn’t have to be complicated — it just needs flavor, love, and real ingredients. 🍳
Here, I share easy, low carb recipes made for real life — simple, satisfying, and full of taste. Let’s make healthy food something you actually crave!