Cheap Keto Dinner Recipes for Busy Nights

Step-by-Step Instructions and Preparation Tips

Step-by-Step Instructions

1) Cheesy Chicken & Spinach Skillet

1. Pat chicken pieces dry and toss with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken in a single layer; sear 3–4 minutes without moving, then stir and cook another 3–4 minutes until cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
4. Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add spinach and cook 1–2 minutes until wilted.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top, cover briefly (30–60 seconds) until the cheese melts.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Timing note: ~20–25 minutes total.

2) Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles

1. Pat shrimp dry and season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp in a single layer; cook 1.5–2 minutes per side until opaque and curled. Remove shrimp to a plate.
4. Add spiralized zucchini to the skillet and sauté 1–2 minutes — do not overcook; noodles should be tender-crisp.
5. Return shrimp to skillet, add lemon juice, toss to combine. Sprinkle Parmesan if using, then serve immediately.

Timing note: ~15–18 minutes total.

3) Bacon & Egg Stuffed Portobellos

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment.
2. Remove stems from portobello caps and gently scrape out gills with a spoon. Brush caps lightly with olive oil (optional) and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Place caps gill-side up on the sheet pan.
3. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 6–8 minutes. Drain on paper towels, then chop into pieces.
4. Divide chopped bacon evenly into the mushroom caps. Crack two eggs into each cap (careful to keep yolks intact) over the bacon. Top each with 2 tablespoons shredded mozzarella and 1 tablespoon chopped green onion.
5. Bake 12–14 minutes, or until egg whites are set but yolks are still slightly runny (or longer for firm yolks). Remove, let rest 1–2 minutes, then serve.

Timing note: ~30–35 minutes total.

Preparation Tips

1. For faster weeknights, prep proteins (seasoned chicken, peeled shrimp, chopped bacon) ahead in meal-prep containers and refrigerate up to 48 hours.
2. Avoid watery zucchini noodles by spiralizing and laying them in a towel to press out moisture for 2–3 minutes. Cook briefly to keep texture.
3. Use a hot, well-seasoned skillet to quickly sear proteins; a tight sear locks in juices without extra fat.
4. If you prefer crispier cheese on the chicken skillet, finish under a hot broiler for 30–45 seconds — watch closely.
5. To make the stuffed portobellos on the stovetop, use a deep skillet with a lid and cook over low heat for 8–10 minutes until eggs set.

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