25 Cheap Keto Recipes for Low Budgets

If you’ve ever thought about jumping into the keto lifestyle but hesitated because of the potential costs, you’re not alone. Many of us have stood in grocery store aisles, staring at the price tag of almond flour or grass-fed meat and wondering, “Can I actually afford this diet?”

I used to think eating low-carb was only for people with unlimited grocery budgets. But after years of experimenting and meal prepping, I’ve discovered something wonderful: keto can absolutely be affordable. With a little creativity, some smart shopping, and an eye for simple ingredients, anyone can stick to a keto meal plan without emptying their wallet.

In this post, I’m going to walk you through 25 incredibly delicious, low-budget keto recipes that not only help you stay in ketosis but also satisfy your cravings and nourish your body. Whether you’re just starting or looking to tighten your budget, these recipes are for you.

Let’s dive in and uncover how to make keto work—on a shoestring budget.

Why Keto Can Be Budget-Friendly

Before we dig into the recipes, let’s debunk the myth that keto is expensive. Yes, some keto-specific products like MCT oil, fancy nut butters, or keto bread alternatives can cost more than regular groceries. But they’re optional. What truly makes up a keto diet are whole foods: meat, eggs, non-starchy vegetables, healthy fats, and some dairy. All of which can be affordable when you know how to shop smart.

Buy in bulk, freeze leftovers, shop seasonally, and use your slow cooker or Instant Pot to save both time and money. Meal prep helps you stay consistent and avoid food waste—which saves you more in the long run.

1. Keto 2-Minute Noodle Soup

This quick noodle soup has become my go-to whenever I’m hungry but too tired to cook. It’s a lifesaver on busy days. Imagine a steaming bowl filled with flavor and warmth, ready in mere minutes. Thanks to the mix of spices like turmeric, onion salt, and chili flakes, this soup tastes gourmet despite being lightning-fast.

The magic? Edamame spaghetti. It’s low in carbs, full of plant-based protein, and keeps you full. One bowl has only 1 gram of net carbs, and I promise it’ll crush your instant noodle cravings for good.

Per Serving: 28 Calories, 2g Fat, 1g Protein, 1g Net Carbs

2. Easy Salsa Chicken

There’s nothing easier—or tastier—than salsa chicken. Toss together five simple ingredients: chicken breasts, taco seasoning, tomato salsa, shredded cheddar, and fresh parsley. Bake until golden and bubbly, and dinner is served.

To keep the chicken from drying out, I always flatten it with a mallet before cooking. Bonus tip: Add crispy bacon on top if you want more fat and flavor.

This dish makes meal prep so effortless. Store it in the fridge and pair it with some roasted veggies or a fresh salad throughout the week.

Per Serving: 412 Calories, 15g Fat, 57g Protein, 7g Net Carbs

3. Oven Roasted Chicken Thighs With Creamy Mustard Sauce

Chicken thighs are one of the best-kept secrets in keto cooking. They’re cheap, flavorful, and high in fat—perfect for this creamy mustard recipe.

The sauce blends tangy Dijon mustard with a touch of stevia for sweetness and heavy cream for that luscious texture. If you haven’t tried chicken with mustard before, you’re in for a treat.

Serve it with mashed cauliflower or steamed broccoli, and you’ve got a restaurant-worthy meal at home.

Per Serving: 625 Calories, 49g Fat, 41g Protein, 4g Net Carbs

4. Beef and Broccoli Bake

This dish hits the sweet spot between comfort food and healthy eating. It’s loaded with browned ground beef, tender broccoli florets, and a generous layer of melted cheese. The kind of recipe that warms your soul and your stomach.

I love that it only takes 20 minutes to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight option.

Per Serving: 485 Calories, 21g Fat, 27g Protein, 4g Net Carbs

5. Chicken Salad Perfection

Chicken salad doesn’t have to be boring. In fact, when done right, it becomes a creamy, crunchy, flavor-packed lunch that you’ll actually look forward to.

I like adding toasted almonds for texture and using a mix of fresh herbs and spices to elevate the taste. Make a big batch on Sunday, and lunch is handled for the next three days.

Per Serving: 353 Calories, 28g Fat, 19g Protein, 3g Net Carbs

6. Low Carb Beef Cabbage Soup

Cabbage is the unsung hero of keto. It’s dirt cheap, lasts forever in the fridge, and is super versatile. This beef cabbage soup feels like a hug in a bowl.

Simmered with tomatoes, ground beef, and bell peppers, it’s comforting and filling. Plus, it makes 11 servings—so it’s perfect for freezing.

Per Serving: 150 Calories, 8g Fat, 13g Protein, 6g Net Carbs

7. Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Love cheeseburgers? This casserole gives you all the flavor without the bun. It’s layered with ground beef, crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and even pickles.

Baked into a golden, bubbly dish, it’s great for potlucks, dinners, or even breakfast.

Per Serving: 336 Calories, 25g Fat, 23g Protein, 3g Net Carbs

8. Homemade Chicken Soup

Skip the store-bought stuff—this soup uses an entire chicken, so it’s economical and packed with nutrition. It’s slow-cooked to create a rich broth that’s both healing and hearty.

What takes it over the top? A dash of apple cider vinegar. It deepens the flavor and may even help with digestion.

Per Serving: 403 Calories, 26.9g Fat, 32.8g Protein, 6.4g Net Carbs

9. Keto Pizza Casserole

Missing pizza? Try this. It’s got all the toppings—Italian sausage, beef, pepperoni, cheese, and sauce—just no crust. Add bell peppers and olives for a full pizzeria vibe.

Per Serving: 560 Calories, 41g Fat, 41g Protein, 7g Net Carbs

10. Slow Cooker Meatballs

Traditional meatballs use breadcrumbs, but this version ditches them for cheese, making it even better. These slow-cooked meatballs are juicy, rich, and perfect over zoodles.

Per Serving: 64 Calories, 4g Fat, 33g Protein, 5g Net Carbs

11. Asparagus-Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Hosting a dinner party? This elegant dish will impress. Chicken stuffed with provolone and asparagus, then topped with melted cheese. It’s a beautiful blend of flavor, texture, and presentation.

Per Serving: 715 Calories, 26.8g Fat, 112.5g Protein, 3.5g Net Carbs

12. Roasted Yellow Squash with Parmesan

A great side dish can elevate a simple meal. Roasted squash with Parmesan is cheesy, slightly sweet, and utterly delicious. Add some cayenne if you like a kick.

Per Serving: 99 Calories, 7g Fat, 5g Protein, 3g Net Carbs

13. Keto Baked Breaded Chicken

Crunchy on the outside, juicy inside—this almond meal breaded chicken is a weeknight staple. It’s easy to make, and with just 2g of net carbs, totally guilt-free.

Per Serving: 345 Calories, 20g Fat, 36g Protein, 2g Net Carbs

14. Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs seared and cooked in a garlic butter sauce with green beans. A one-pan wonder that saves time and delivers big flavor.

Per Serving: 786 Calories, 28g Fat, 40g Protein, 5.2g Net Carbs

15. Stuffed Peppers (No Rice)

These cheesy, beefy peppers are packed with flavor and finished with cauliflower rice. A smart twist on a classic dish.

Per Serving: 413 Calories, 16g Fat, 43g Protein, 7g Net Carbs

16. Keto Fish Pie

Comfort food with a coastal twist. Creamy fish filling made with salmon, cod, and mackerel, topped with cauliflower mash instead of potatoes.

Per Serving: 573 Calories, 43g Fat, 34g Protein, 10g Net Carbs

17. Turkey Taco Lettuce Wraps

Lettuce wraps are perfect for light, low-carb dinners. Seasoned ground turkey, peppers, and homemade taco spice bring bold flavor.

Per Serving: 255 Calories, 11g Fat, 30g Protein, 4g Net Carbs

18. Broccoli Cheese Soup

Velvety, cheesy, and surprisingly filling. Broccoli, cream, garlic, and cheddar—five ingredients and twenty minutes to dinner.

Per Serving: 292 Calories, 25g Fat, 13g Protein, 4g Net Carbs

19. One-Pot Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms

Fancy enough for guests, easy enough for a weeknight. Rich garlic butter and earthy mushrooms bring out the best in seared chicken thighs.

Per Serving: 335 Calories, 11g Fat, 25g Protein, 6g Net Carbs

20. Sausage and Cauliflower Fried Rice

A colorful dish with smoky sausage, sweet bell peppers, and keto-friendly cauliflower rice. You won’t miss the real thing.

Per Serving: 321 Calories, 29.7g Fat, 8.7g Protein, 4.5g Net Carbs

21. Zucchini Casserole

Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender zucchini slices. It’s easy to make and packed with potassium and magnesium.

Per Serving: 275 Calories, 21g Fat, 13g Protein, 6g Net Carbs

22. Chicken Broccoli Cheese Casserole

This casserole checks every box: creamy, protein-rich, and loaded with low-carb veggies. It’s kid-approved and meal prep-friendly.

Per Serving: 419 Calories, 29.1g Fat, 31.7g Protein, 6.2g Net Carbs

23. Crock Pot Mexican Chicken Soup

Toss it in the slow cooker and walk away. By dinner, you’ll have a flavorful bowl of cheesy, spicy chicken soup.

Per Serving: 331 Calories, 23g Fat, 25g Protein, 4g Net Carbs

24. Low Carb Tuna Casserole

Tuna, cream, cheese, onions, and a little heat come together in this filling dish. No noodles, just comfort.

Per Serving: 465 Calories, 36g Fat, 33g Protein, 2g Net Carbs

25. Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken

This zesty, one-pot chicken is both flavorful and efficient. Made in an Instant Pot, it’s ready fast and cleanup is minimal.

Per Serving: 346 Calories, 15g Fat, 18g Protein, 1g Net Carbs

Final Thoughts

A keto diet doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little planning and a lot of love, you can enjoy deeply satisfying meals that are good for your body and your budget.

Try out these recipes and find your favorites. And remember—affordable keto isn’t just possible, it’s delicious.

Let me know in the comments: which recipe are you most excited to try first?