Starting My Keto Journey: The First Hurdles
When I first decided to try the ketogenic diet, I felt like I had stepped into an alien world. Everything I thought I knew about healthy eating was turned upside down. The idea of eating more fat and fewer carbs went against everything I’d been taught.
Like many beginners, I stood in my kitchen staring at my pantry, realizing almost everything I used to eat was now off-limits. Bread, pasta, rice, and even some fruits—gone! The overwhelming question was, what the heck am I going to eat now?
I quickly learned that a keto lifestyle wasn’t just about deprivation. It was about learning to nourish my body in a new way—one that could still be deeply satisfying. So I dove into research, tested recipes, and made plenty of mistakes. And now I want to share the very best beginner-friendly keto meals that saved me from throwing in the towel.
Here are the top 20 recipes that helped me stick with keto, all while keeping it delicious and surprisingly simple.
Table of Contents
- 1. Cauliflower Ziti: My Go-To Comfort Fix
- 2. Sausage, Egg, & Spinach Breakfast Bowls: How I Start My Day
- 3. Easy Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter: My Lazy Night Lifesaver
- 4. Creamy Tuna Salad: My Midday Lifesaver
- 5. Edible Keto Cookie Dough: Dessert Without the Guilt
- 6. Baked Chicken Parmesan: The Recipe That Won Over My Family
- 7. Crack Cauliflower: The Addictive Side Dish I Can’t Quit
- 8. Ranch Chicken Thighs: Crispy Skin, Juicy Center
- 9. Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Lunchtime Showstopper
- 10. Cucumber Salad: My Refreshing BBQ Side
- 11. Cauliflower Mac & Cheese: A Childhood Classic Reinvented
- 12. Gluten-Free Sausage Balls: Party-Perfect Bites
- 13. French Toast: A Cozy Weekend Morning
- 14. Baked Avocado Eggs: The Easiest Power Breakfast
- 15. Parmesan Crusted Chicken: The Family Favorite
- 16. Cajun Butter Steak Bites: Date Night Dinner
- 17. 1-Minute Mug Brownie: Instant Dessert Satisfaction
- 18. Turkey Meatballs with Almond Flour: A Clean, Lean Favorite
- 19. Tuna Stir Fry with Cauliflower Rice: Pantry Dinner Magic
- 20. Beef Stroganoff Bowl: Rich, Creamy Comfort
- Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple, Keep It Keto
1. Cauliflower Ziti: My Go-To Comfort Fix
After a stressful day, I used to crave a massive plate of baked ziti. But those pasta days are gone. I didn’t think I’d ever find a keto alternative that could even come close—until I made this Cauliflower Ziti.
It’s everything you want in comfort food: warm, gooey, cheesy, and satisfying. The cauliflower holds the sauce beautifully, and the textures work together like a dream.
With just 12.9g net carbs per serving, I can indulge without guilt. Plus, it’s loaded with protein and healthy fats that keep me full and focused.
Per Serving: 364 Calories, 20g Fats, 30g Protein, 12.9g Net Carbs
2. Sausage, Egg, & Spinach Breakfast Bowls: How I Start My Day
I used to skip breakfast or grab something sugary. That always backfired. My energy would spike, crash, and leave me grumpy.
These breakfast bowls completely changed that cycle. I now wake up excited to eat fluffy scrambled eggs with hearty sausage and wilted spinach. It’s quick, nourishing, and carries me through the morning.
The Cajun seasoning adds a kick, but I often swap it for paprika or Italian herbs when I want a milder flavor.
Per Serving: 370 Calories, 24.9g Fats, 28.1g Protein, 4.5g Net Carbs
3. Easy Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter: My Lazy Night Lifesaver
After a long day, I have zero desire to stand at the stove. That’s when this garlic butter salmon recipe shines.
It takes 20 minutes from fridge to plate and still tastes restaurant-worthy. The garlic butter gives the salmon richness, and pairing it with roasted asparagus makes the meal feel whole.
Salmon is not only satisfying—it’s also rich in omega-3s and B vitamins. I always feel good after eating it.
Per Serving: 350 Calories, 25.1g Fats, 28.6g Protein, 1.5g Net Carbs
4. Creamy Tuna Salad: My Midday Lifesaver
Tuna salad was never my thing—until I made it keto. This version is creamy, crunchy, and bright. The combo of avocado, lemon juice, and crunchy veggies makes every bite a joy.
It’s also easy to make in batches. I store it in glass containers for a grab-and-go lunch or serve it on lettuce wraps.
Per Serving: 225 Calories, 16.3g Fats, 13.9g Protein, 3.3g Net Carbs
5. Edible Keto Cookie Dough: Dessert Without the Guilt
Sometimes I just want something sweet. This keto cookie dough is my favorite fix.
It tastes indulgent with creamy peanut butter and dark chocolate chips, but it’s totally low carb. One serving has just 2g net carbs, and it’s a lifesaver during late-night cravings.
I always keep a small jar in the fridge—just in case.
Per Serving: 138 Calories, 13g Fats, 3g Protein, 2g Net Carbs
6. Baked Chicken Parmesan: The Recipe That Won Over My Family
I was shocked when my carb-loving family devoured this meal and asked for seconds.
The almond flour crust crisps up beautifully, and the gooey cheese makes it feel like classic Italian fare. I serve it with zucchini noodles and a rich tomato sauce.
It’s so satisfying you forget it’s healthy.
Per Serving: 526 Calories, 34g Fats, 48g Protein, 3g Net Carbs
7. Crack Cauliflower: The Addictive Side Dish I Can’t Quit
Cauliflower can be bland or bitter—but not in this recipe. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness, and the butter, mustard, and garlic take it to a new level.
I call it “crack” for a reason. It’s irresistible.
Per Serving: 168 Calories, 16g Fats, 2g Protein, 2g Net Carbs
8. Ranch Chicken Thighs: Crispy Skin, Juicy Center
These chicken thighs changed how I think about weeknight meals. Crispy skin, moist meat, and easy cleanup—yes, please.
The flavor from garlic and ranch seasoning is phenomenal. I often pair it with creamy cauliflower mash.
Per Serving: 367 Calories, 29g Fats, 24g Protein, 0g Net Carbs
9. Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Lunchtime Showstopper
Stuffed bell peppers look fancy but are surprisingly easy. The colorful presentation alone boosts my mood.
Ground beef, melted cheese, and fragrant spices pack in the flavor. These freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep.
Per Serving: 266 Calories, 14.8g Fats, 26.6g Protein, 1.8g Net Carbs
10. Cucumber Salad: My Refreshing BBQ Side
BBQs used to tempt me with potato salad and buns. Now I bring this tangy cucumber salad instead.
The rice vinegar and monk fruit sweetener balance each other beautifully. It’s crisp, refreshing, and light.
Per Serving: 77 Calories, 4.7g Fats, 1.8g Protein, 5.9g Net Carbs
11. Cauliflower Mac & Cheese: A Childhood Classic Reinvented
Mac & cheese was my childhood favorite. I didn’t think anything keto could come close—until this recipe.
Caramelized cauliflower in a rich cheese sauce? Absolute magic.
Per Serving: 334 Calories, 28g Fats, 14g Protein, 7g Net Carbs
12. Gluten-Free Sausage Balls: Party-Perfect Bites
These sausage balls are my go-to for gatherings. They’re cheesy, savory, and gone within minutes.
Even my non-keto friends devour them. One gram of net carbs per serving? Count me in.
Per Serving: 137 Calories, 12g Fats, 6g Protein, 1g Net Carbs
13. French Toast: A Cozy Weekend Morning
I treasure slow weekend mornings. This keto French toast lets me enjoy them without compromise.
The cinnamon and vanilla add warmth, and the sugar-free syrup ties it all together. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate.
Per Serving: 500 Calories, 46.5g Fats, 17g Protein, 3.5g Net Carbs
14. Baked Avocado Eggs: The Easiest Power Breakfast
This recipe is almost too simple. Cut an avocado, crack in an egg, bake. Done.
It’s rich, filling, and loaded with nutrients. A true morning upgrade.
Per Serving: 208 Calories, 17g Fats, 7g Protein, 1.6g Net Carbs
15. Parmesan Crusted Chicken: The Family Favorite
My whole family gets excited when I make this one. Crispy, cheesy chicken with creamy dill sauce? What’s not to love?
It’s great with sautéed green beans or a fresh side salad.
Per Serving: 622 Calories, 49.4g Fats, 35.3g Protein, 7.7g Net Carbs
16. Cajun Butter Steak Bites: Date Night Dinner
Sometimes I want to treat myself without fuss. These steak bites hit the spot.
Quick, flavorful, and packed with protein, they’re a keto dream. I serve them with zucchini fries for a satisfying combo.
Per Serving: 391 Calories, 27.2g Fats, 32.7g Protein, 2.5g Net Carbs
17. 1-Minute Mug Brownie: Instant Dessert Satisfaction
Sometimes I need dessert now. This mug brownie delivers.
It’s moist, chocolatey, and perfectly portioned to avoid overindulgence.
Per Serving: 152 Calories, 8g Fats, 7g Protein, 6g Net Carbs
18. Turkey Meatballs with Almond Flour: A Clean, Lean Favorite
These turkey meatballs are great for meal prep. They’re easy, flavorful, and air-fried to perfection.
I pair them with a low-carb marinara or a veggie side.
Per Serving: 342 Calories, 24g Fats, 31g Protein, 0g Net Carbs
19. Tuna Stir Fry with Cauliflower Rice: Pantry Dinner Magic
This stir fry is my answer to “I have nothing in the fridge.” Canned tuna and frozen cauliflower rice save the day.
With bold spices and quick cooking time, it’s a flavorful way to eat clean on a budget.
Per Serving: 232 Calories, 12g Fats, 18g Protein, 7g Net Carbs
20. Beef Stroganoff Bowl: Rich, Creamy Comfort
Some nights call for hearty food. This beef stroganoff delivers rich, creamy flavor with none of the guilt.
I serve it over zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist on a classic.
Per Serving: 396 Calories, 28g Fats, 31g Protein, 4g Net Carbs
Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple, Keep It Keto
Starting keto doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the foods you love. These recipes have carried me through cravings, busy nights, and moments of doubt.
They’re flavorful, easy, and totally beginner-friendly. More than that, they made keto feel sustainable for me—and that’s the real win.
So try one, or try them all. Just know that sticking to keto is entirely possible—and it can even be delicious.
Fernando is the creator and writer behind the food blog Eating with your Hands. Living and working in cities like Paris, Barcelona, and Berlin, and being married to a Canadian foodie, has given Fernando a passion and interest in food and inspired him to run EWYH.