It’s never been easier to access delicious keto recipes under 500 calories. With so much inspiration out there, it’s easy to be spoilt for choice.
If you’re maintaining a healthy calorie deficit, then you need some inspiration! Not to worry, I’ve got you.
Let’s dive in to explore thirty-one delicious keto recipes under 500 calories to equip you with everything you need to nail your goals.
1. Keto Zucchini Boats
Source: allnutritious.com
First up, a personal favorite of mine: my keto zucchini boats. These are hollowed-out zucchini halves stuffed with a savory mixture of ground meat, marinara, and cheese.
After baking to a golden perfection, they’re ready to enjoy. So easy to make, and great for a quiet night in with the family.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 317
• Fats: 23g
• Protein: 21g
• Net Carbs: 5.6g
2. Keto Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Source: allnutritious.com
Next up, my keto chicken and broccoli stir fry! This is a quick and easy weeknight dinner option if you’re following a keto diet, and tastes just as good as any meal with carbs.
The secret? The sauce! The delicious combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger makes this tasty dish sing.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 318
• Fats: 12g
• Protein: 41g
• Net Carbs: 8.9g
3. Creamy Tomato Chicken Skillet
Source: allnutritious.com
Indulge your taste buds in the comforting flavors of tomato, cream, and tender chicken. This easy skillet recipe ensures you won’t have to do a mountain of dishes once you’re done eating.
The array of Italian ingredients makes this a great option if you’re hosting a dinner party. It’s comforting and a little special, so it will suit almost any occasion.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 478
• Fats: 22g
• Protein: 56g
• Net Carbs: 8.8g
4. Juicy Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Breast
Source: allnutritious.com
I love cooking with a cast iron skillet. There’s just something so special about it. Plus, the seasoned cast iron lends a whole new dimension to any dish, even something this simple.
For any keto meal plan, a great chicken breast recipe is a must-have. My version uses plenty of herbs and spices to bring out the delicious flavors.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 185
• Fats: 9.8g
• Protein: 22g
• Net Carbs: 1.1g
5. Air Fryer Salmon
Source: allnutritious.com
Next up, something quick and convenient to get you through the middle of the week. Everyone on the keto diet needs a few easy protein preparation methods up their sleeves.
This air fryer salmon is foolproof. You’ll get flaky, herbaceous salmon with a crispy skin every single time.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 287
• Fats: 17g
• Protein: 26g
• Net Carbs: 6.6g
6. Keto Chicken Salad
Source: allnutritious.com
Make a chicken salad in your signature way with this delicious recipe as a base. It’s a genuinely filling recipe with bright, refreshing flavors.
The secret to this recipe’s success is the tangy mayonnaise and mustard combination. Use this recipe to clear out any vegetables you have on hand; it’s great for the end of the week.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 88
• Fats: 3.4g
• Protein: 12g
• Net Carbs: 1g
7. 3-Ingredient Breakfast Skillet
Source: allnutritious.com
Kick your day off correctly with an easy, nutritious, three-ingredient breakfast skillet. All you need to do is combine eggs, spinach, and cheese as a foundation.
From there, crack in some eggs and allow them to set to your desired level. Satisfying, low-carb, and packed with enough protein to get you through your day.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 274
• Fats: 20g
• Protein: 19g
• Net Carbs: 2.4g
8. Mushroom Egg Cups
Source: allnutritious.com
Getting enough protein into your diet can be tough, especially when you want something vegetarian. Luckily, there’s an ace in the hole: mushrooms.
These high-protein delights are perfect in everything, but I particularly love them in egg cups. Combined with eggs, spinach, and cheese, mushrooms produce the ultimate keto breakfast.
You’ll also want to know these other keto mushroom recipes!
Per Serving:
• Calories: 138
• Fats: 6.9g
• Protein: 15g
• Net Carbs: 2.6g
9. Keto Egg Casserole with Bacon and Broccoli
Source: allnutritious.com
Casseroles are one of the best kinds of meals to rely on if you’re meal-prepping or cooking for many people. They’re easy to prepare and very versatile.
That’s what makes this keto egg casserole such a good breakfast option. Feed your entire family with one batch of this tasty recipe, complete with bacon and broccoli to grease the way.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 453
• Fats: 37g
• Protein: 23g
• Net Carbs: 6.2g
10. Keto Egg Salad
Source: allnutritious.com
Next up, we have to pay homage to the egg salad. Egg salads are the perfect solution for a quick and easy lunch break or even as a snack. They’re filling, affordable, and easy to make.
Best of all? They’re delicious. This particular recipe of mine calls for tangy mustard to cut through the creamy mayo, as well as some crunchy salad to balance the texture.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 264
• Fats: 16g
• Protein: 23g
• Net Carbs: 4.4g
11. 4-Ingredient Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon
Source: theroastedroot.net
Why not kick your next dinner party up a notch with a stuffed salmon main course? This is an easy way to elevate your meal game without spending hours in the kitchen.
This recipe is also Mediterranean, meaning it comes from one of the healthiest cuisines in the world. Great for low-calorie keto lifestyles!
Per Serving:
• Calories: 213
• Fats: 14g
• Protein: 28g
• Net Carbs: 4g
12. Air Fryer Mahi Mahi Bites
Source: culinarylion.com
Next up, these delightful mahi mahi bites are perfect as a convenient lunch or dinner option. The air fryer gives them a crispy exterior while keeping the interior tender and moist.
For under 500 calories, this dish packs quite a punch. The keto-friendly coating will help keep you full for even longer, while the fish itself is packed with lean protein.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 388
• Fats: 21g
• Protein: 43g
• Net Carbs: 2g
13. Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus
Source: bobbiskozykitchen.com
Next up, let’s jet over to Italy for a taste of the Tuscan countryside. This lemon and garlic chicken is stunning on a summer day, especially with some asparagus on the side.
This is a low-carb recipe bursting with protein and bright flavors. It comes together very quickly, making it a satisfying choice for the whole family.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 494
• Fats: 31g
• Protein: 40g
• Net Carbs: 5g
14. Mediterranean Breakfast Casserole
Source: theroastedroot.net
Here’s another take on a breakfast casserole, only this time, it’s Mediterranean! Every bite is packed with spinach, tomatoes, feta cheese, and aromatic herbs.
Protein-rich and low in carbs, this dish can be enjoyed on the day you make it or as a convenient meal prep option.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 200
• Fats: 11g
• Protein: 22g
• Net Carbs: 4g
15. Keto BBQ Chicken Skewers
Source: culinarylion.com
Fire up the grill, because it’s time to enjoy some skewers. I’m a huge fan of chicken skewers, especially when you find the right sauce to pair with them.
In this case, you’ll enjoy a tangy, smoky, keto-friendly BBQ sauce coating tender chunks of chicken. A great way to enjoy protein without sacrificing a summer afternoon with friends.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 399
• Fats: 25g
• Protein: 37g
• Net Carbs: 2g
16. Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas
Source: bobbiskozykitchen.com
If you know anything about me, then you know I love a sheet pan meal. They’re just so easy to make, and even easier to clean up. Not to mention, they effortlessly slot into the keto world!
This keto steak recipe is an homage to Tex-Mex cuisine, featuring bell peppers, onions, and an array of Mexican spices.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 422
• Fats: 27g
• Protein: 38g
• Net Carbs: 7g
17. Mediterranean Sheet Pan Shrimp
Source: ketocookingchristian.com
Speaking of sheet pan recipes, here’s a Mediterranean take on the concept featuring sweet, succulent shrimp.
Roasted alongside a colorful array of vegetables, this is a simple and satisfying way to enjoy seafood. It’s low carb and high protein breakdown makes it an ideal keto meal.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 241
• Fats: 14g
• Protein: 20g
• Net Carbs: 4g
18. Pepper Steak
Source: cassidyscraveablecreations.com
If the craving for pepper steak strikes you, don’t reach for the nearest takeout menu. Instead, indulge in this guilt-free keto-friendly solution in just half an hour.
This dish features sliced beef stir-fried to perfection in a delicious pepper sauce. Combined with bell peppers and onions, this is a well-rounded and hearty dish to beat back those cravings.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 227
• Fats: 10g
• Protein: 28g
• Net Carbs: 4g
19. Fried Cabbage and Sausage
Source: ketocookingchristian.com
Take a leaf out of the German handbook with this tasty take on fried cabbage and sausage. This is proof of what two humble ingredients can do when you treat them with love.
It’s a comforting, hearty dish perfect for enjoying on a chilly winter evening. Not to mention, it’s easy to prepare in a pinch.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 217
• Fats: 8g
• Protein: 11g
• Net Carbs: 8g
20. Air Fryer Pizza Roll-Ups
Source: thesugarfreediva.com
Pizza is incredibly tempting, it’s true. But it’s not exactly keto-friendly! Enjoy the flavors you love without compromising on your health goals with these delicious pizza roll-ups.
Make sure to pick your favorite toppings carefully, as that will determine whether this dish stays low-carb or not.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 57
• Fats: 5g
• Protein: 3g
• Net Carbs: 0g
21. Chicken Limone
Source: madcreationshub.com
Chicken limone is a delicious Italian dish that is also easy to make. This keto chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts, lemon butter sauce, garlic, and herbs.
The rich protein-filled dish is perfect for a meal with family and friends mid-week. Just special enough for a special occasion, but not enough to keep you in the kitchen for hours!
Per Serving:
• Calories: 168
• Fats: 11g
• Protein: 15g
• Net Carbs: 3g
22. Savory Cottage Cheese Bowl
Source: healthymomhealthyfamily.com
Next, let’s honor cottage cheese as one of the most important ingredients in the keto movement. High in protein and low in carbs, this is a great foundation for any keto meal.
That’s what makes this savory cottage cheese bowl such a triumph. This is a great lunch or dinner option, packed with delicious savory ingredients to make it more filling.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 186
• Fats: 7g
• Protein: 23g
• Net Carbs: 6g
23. Baked Spaghetti Squash Casserole
Source: laurenfitfoodie.com
Spaghetti squash is one of those vegetables that some people are reluctant to cook with because they’ve never tried it before. If that’s you, consider this your sign: try it!
Spaghetti squash is deliciously earthy and slightly sweet. Paired with the cheese and seasoning in this casserole, it’s one of the most comforting dishes you might ever try.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 264
• Fats: 15.3g
• Protein: 19.8g
• Net Carbs: 9.9g
24. Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Source: tastythin.com
What’s life without chicken tenders? It’s a little tougher to find keto-friendly chicken tenders than others, but the journey is so worth it. These are cleverly covered in almond flour and spices.
So, you can enjoy the same crunchy, delicious exterior as other tenders without compromising on your health goals with this keto air fryer recipe.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 183
• Fats: 6g
• Protein: 30g
• Net Carbs: 1g
25. Eggplant and Ground Beef Casserole
Source: likehotketo.com
Next up, a casserole that’s hearty and satisfying enough to warm any winter night. This is perfect as a low-calorie, keto-friendly meal.
This is a bit like a moussaka, bringing together slices of eggplant, ground beef, and melted cheese. You can make a big batch and enjoy the leftovers the next day, so it’s a two-for-one!
Enjoy these other keto ground beef recipes!
Per Serving:
• Calories: 273
• Fats: 17.9g
• Protein: 20.5g
• Net Carbs: 4.8g
26. Greek Turkey Burgers with Spinach and Feta
Source: tastythin.com
Let’s take another leaf out of a Mediterranean recipe book with these delicious Greek turkey burgers. The secret is to serve your burger in lettuce leaves or with a side salad.
As a lighter alternative to the traditional bun burgers, these can’t be beat. Delicious, keto-friendly, and easy to make for the whole family.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 134
• Fats: 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Net Carbs: 1g
27. Keto Chicken Enchiladas
Source: primaverakitchen.com
Enchiladas are delicious, but they can be carb overload if you choose the wrong recipe. Luckily, this keto-friendly version exists to put your cravings at ease.
Thinly sliced zucchini replaces the tortillas, while tender shredded chicken and a savory enchilada sauce provide everything to make this dish perfect.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 154
• Fats: 7.2g
• Protein: 16.7g
• Net Carbs: 4.4g
28. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Source: trinakrug.com
Next up, another take on classic chicken skewers with a Japanese twist. Marinated in a homemade keto-friendly teriyaki sauce, these tender chicken skewers are perfectly grilled.
Firing these on the grill ensures they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. These skewers are a delicious and satisfying option for anyone following a keto or gluten-free diet.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 259
• Fats: 12g
• Protein: 30g
• Net Carbs: 4g
29. Instant Pot Keto Chili
Source: primaverakitchen.com
Instant Pots are one of the most convenient inventions in the world for busy home cooks. Case in point: they produce delicious meals like this Instant Pot keto chili.
The chili is packed with protein thanks to the tender chunks of beef, while the rich sauce will warm you from the inside out.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 330
• Fats: 17g
• Protein: 29g
• Net Carbs: 10g
30. French Onion Skillet
Source: lowcarbsimplified.com
French onion soup is delicious, but it can take a while to make and is often served with bread. Rather than tagging on the carbs, why not enjoy the same flavors with some extra protein?
Enter the French onion skillet. This is a quick, easy, and affordable way to make dinner for the whole family.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 482.7g
• Fats: 23.5g
• Protein: 59g
• Net Carbs: 2.4g
31. Skillet Pizza Chicken
Source: ketofocus.com
Finally, pizza is an essential for living life well, no matter what your diet looks like. Rather than opting for a traditional version, this high-protein alternative uses chicken breasts as a base.
Low in carbs but big on flavor, this is a great way to satisfy your cravings for a slice.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 436
• Fats: 31.4g
• Protein: 32g
• Net Carbs: 4.6g
With these in your repertoire, it will feel so much easier to maintain your goals without compromising on what your soul needs: delicious, comforting food.
Happy cooking, and I’ll see you in the next roundup!