Eating keto doesn’t have to break the bank! With a little creativity, you can whip up delicious and healthy meals that fit your low-carb lifestyle while also saving some cash. Embracing a keto diet can offer numerous benefits, like improved energy levels and better overall health, which are especially great things for busy parents looking to reduce stress. I for one have tried eating keto and I will say, I lost weight and had a lot more energy. Plus, with these budget-friendly keto meals, you’ll see your grocery bills shrink while still enjoying tasty and satisfying dishes. Here are 15 cheap keto meals or snacks to try out today.

1) Eggplant Pizza Bites

Eggplant pizza bites are a fun and tasty way to enjoy a keto-friendly meal. These little bites pack a punch of flavor while keeping carbs low. They are perfect for a quick snack or a light dinner. Plus, they’re easy to make.

Using eggplant as the base gives you a healthy alternative to traditional pizza crust. This veggie is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great choice for anyone looking to eat healthier.

These bites are not just simple keto dinners; they are also a hit with the whole family. Kids love them, and they can be customized with various toppings. So, let’s get cooking!

Eggplant Pizza Bites Ingredients & Instructions

• 1 large eggplant
• 1 cup marinara sauce (sugar-free)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice the eggplant into ½-inch thick rounds and place them on the baking sheet.
3. Sprinkle salt on the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
4. Pat the slices dry with a paper towel. Spread a spoonful of marinara sauce on each slice.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle Italian seasoning over the top.
6. Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

2) Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Zucchini noodles, often called “zoodles,” are a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. They soak up flavors beautifully and make a great base for various sauces. In this dish, we pair them with a vibrant pesto, which adds a fresh and aromatic touch. The bright green color of the pesto against the noodles and cherry tomatoes makes for a visually appealing meal. If you need a good spiralizer to make your zoodles, check this one out:

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy keto meals on a budget. It’s quick to prepare and can be a hit with the whole family. Eating keto can improve health by promoting weight loss and stabilizing blood sugar levels. Plus, it can lower stress for busy parents by simplifying meal prep. With simple ingredients and quick cooking times, you can save money while enjoying delicious meals.

Pesto Zucchini Noodles Ingredients & Instructions

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

1. Spiralize the Zucchini: Use a spiralizer to turn the zucchinis into noodles. If you don’t have one, you can use a vegetable peeler to create thin strips.
2. Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly add olive oil until the mixture is smooth.
3. Combine: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the zucchini noodles. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until slightly tender. Stir in the pesto and cherry tomatoes, mixing until everything is well coated.
4. Serve: Plate the zoodles and top with extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your healthy, quick keto meal!

3) Avocado Tuna Salad

Avocado Tuna Salad is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a simple keto meal. This dish combines creamy avocado with protein-packed tuna, making it both filling and nutritious. It’s colorful, fresh, and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, which is a huge win for busy parents!

This salad is not just tasty; it’s also a budget-friendly option that fits well into a simple keto meal plan.

Now, let’s get into how to make this Avocado Tuna Salad!

Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1 can of tuna (drained)
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop out a bit of the flesh to create more space for the filling.
2. In a bowl, combine the drained tuna, diced onion, diced bell pepper, mayonnaise, and lime juice. Mix well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Fill each avocado half with the tuna mixture.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.

4) Cabbage Stir-Fry with Sausage

Cabbage stir-fry with sausage is a fantastic dish that fits perfectly into the keto lifestyle. It’s colorful, quick to prepare, and packed with flavor. This meal is not only budget-friendly but also a great way to sneak in some veggies. The combination of cabbage, sausage, and vibrant bell peppers creates a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Here’s how to make this easy keto recipe:

Ingredients

• Sausage links
• 1 red, 1 green and 1 orange bell pepper
• 1 diced yellow onion
• 1 head of cabbage
• 2 cloves of garlic
• Asian sauce such as soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Chope the cabbage, peppers and onion and saute in butter or olive oil on stovetop.
2. Add sausage links cut up
3. Add a bit of water and put lid on pan to allow veggies to soften
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste along with asian sauce.
5. Serve immediately

5) Cauliflower Fried Rice

Cauliflower fried rice is a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy a tasty meal without breaking the bank. This dish is not just budget-friendly; it’s also a great way to stick to a keto diet. By swapping out traditional rice for cauliflower, you cut down on carbs while still enjoying a satisfying meal. Plus, it’s super quick to whip up, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a fast keto dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, riced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup mixed bell peppers, diced
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Remove the leaves and stem from the cauliflower. Cut it into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Sauté the Veggies: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced bell peppers and green onions. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they soften.
3. Add the Cauliflower: Stir in the riced cauliflower and cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s tender.
4. Scramble the Eggs: Push the cauliflower mixture to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble until cooked through, then mix everything together.
5. Season: Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve: Enjoy your cauliflower fried rice hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired.

6) Cheesy Broccoli and Chicken Casserole

This Cheesy Broccoli and Chicken Casserole is a perfect example of how you can enjoy keto meals and still get those hearty at home meals.

This casserole is a simple keto dinner that everyone will love. You can easily make it ahead of time and reheat it, making it a great option for meal prep. It’s one of those easy keto recipes for beginners that you’ll want to keep in your rotation.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup almond flour (optional for crunch)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, broccoli, cream cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
4. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and almond flour for added crunch, if desired.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

7) Egg and Spinach Breakfast Muffins

This is more for the “I need help with breakfast parents”. Egg and Spinach Breakfast Muffins are a fantastic way to kick off your day. These little bites are packed with protein and nutrients, making them perfect for anyone on a keto diet. They’re not just healthy; they’re also super easy to make! You can whip them up in no time and enjoy a delicious breakfast that keeps you full.

These muffins feature eggs, spinach, and other tasty ingredients. They are low in carbs, which is great for those following a keto meal plan. Parents will love how quick and simple these muffins are to prepare. You can make a batch ahead of time and have breakfast ready for the whole week. This can lower stress in the mornings, allowing you to focus on getting everyone out the door.

So, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make these delicious Egg and Spinach Breakfast Muffins.

Ingredients

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or muffin liners

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with muffin liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until well combined.
3. Add the chopped spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is mixed well.
4. Pour the egg mixture evenly into the muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are set and lightly golden on top.
6. Let them cool for a few minutes before removing from the tin. Enjoy warm or store in the fridge for later!

8) Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Turkey

Stuffed bell peppers are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for cheap keto meals. They are colorful, nutritious, and easy to make. Using ground turkey keeps the dish lean while still being filling. Plus, they are a great way to sneak in some veggies for the family!

These peppers are versatile, too. You can customize the filling based on what you have at home. This makes them a perfect fit for a simple keto meal plan. Whether you’re looking for quick keto meals or easy keto recipes for beginners, stuffed bell peppers are a winner!

Ingredients

• 4 bell peppers (any color)
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 cup cauliflower rice
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until browned. Add the cauliflower rice, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender.

9) Peanut Butter Chocolate Fat Bombs

Peanut Butter Chocolate Fat Bombs are a delicious treat that fits perfectly into a keto lifestyle. These little bites are not only satisfying but also packed with healthy fats, making them a great option for anyone following a keto meal plan. They help keep you full and energized without breaking the bank.

These fat bombs are super easy to make and require minimal ingredients. They are perfect for a quick snack or dessert, especially for busy parents looking for simple keto meal ideas. Plus, they can help lower stress by providing a quick, healthy option that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 cup natural peanut butter
• 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup sweetener of choice (like erythritol or stevia)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, melted coconut oil, cocoa powder, sweetener, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into silicone molds or a lined baking dish.
3. Freeze for about 30 minutes or until solid.
4. Once set, pop them out of the molds and store in an airtight container in the fridge.

10) Creamy Mushroom Soup

Creamy mushroom soup is a perfect fit for anyone looking to enjoy keto on a budget. This dish is not only comforting but also easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that the whole family will love.

Mushrooms are low in carbs and high in nutrients, making them an excellent choice for a keto diet. They provide essential vitamins and minerals while keeping your meals light and healthy. Plus, this soup is a great way to use up any leftover mushrooms you might have in your fridge.

Ingredients

• 2 cups sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are golden brown.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

11) Chili Lime Chicken Thighs

Chili lime chicken thighs are a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy keto meals on a budget. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The combination of chili and lime gives the chicken a zesty kick that makes it a family favorite. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your meals exciting without breaking the bank.

Chicken thighs are often cheaper than other cuts, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious families.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

12) Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a fantastic dish that combines the crispiness of bacon with the fresh crunch of asparagus. This meal is not only delicious but also fits perfectly into a keto diet.

This dish is quick to prepare, making it a great option for busy parents. It takes just a few minutes to wrap the asparagus in bacon, and then it’s ready to bake. This can lower stress for parents who need easy keto meals for beginners. You can whip up this recipe in no time, leaving more time for family fun!

With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, bacon-wrapped asparagus is a hit at any dinner table. It’s a perfect keto supper idea that can be enjoyed as a side or a main dish. Whether you’re looking for quick keto meals or simple keto meal plans, this recipe is a must-try!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh asparagus
• 8 slices of bacon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: garlic powder or your favorite seasoning

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and trim the asparagus, removing the tough ends.
3. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of bacon, starting at the bottom and spiraling up to the tip. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you like.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
6. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious keto meal!

13) Coconut Curry Shrimp

Coconut Curry Shrimp is a fantastic dish that fits perfectly into a keto meal plan. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for families.

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
2. Stir in the red curry paste and cook for another minute.
3. Add the bell pepper and broccoli, cooking until they begin to soften.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

14) Spaghetti Squash with Marinara

While its not my favorite, spaghetti squash is a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. It’s not just healthy; it’s also budget-friendly, making it a perfect choice for those looking to enjoy keto meals without breaking the bank. This dish pairs beautifully with marinara sauce, giving you that comforting pasta feel while keeping carbs in check.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the cut sides and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for about 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
5. While the squash is roasting, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
6. Once the squash is done, use a fork to scrape the insides into spaghetti-like strands.
7. Serve the spaghetti squash topped with marinara sauce and garnish with fresh basil.

15) Greek Salad with Feta

Greek salad is a colorful and refreshing dish that fits perfectly into a keto meal plan. It’s packed with healthy fats and fresh vegetables, making it a great choice for anyone looking to eat keto on a budget. The combination of crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and creamy feta cheese creates a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank. Plus, there is numerous research showing the benefits of eating a Meditteranean diet.

Ingredients

• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup black olives
• 1 cup feta cheese, cubed
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, black olives, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Wrapping Up

Making meals at home is a great way to save money. With simple ingredients, you can whip up delicious keto meals and find that its pretty affordable, mainly because your’e not spending money on excess junk.