21 Easy Cheap Keto Meal Recipes That Actually Taste Amazing
Easy Cheap Keto Meal Recipes? 🤔 It’s a tough time to find affordable meals that are delicious and easy to make while still following the keto diet. You’re not alone! Many people believe that eating low-carb, high-fat foods is expensive—but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, with the right ingredients and a little planning, you can enjoy cheap keto meals that cost less than $5 per serving and still support your weight loss and health goals. Here are 21 easy cheap keto recipes, where you’ll discover budget-friendly keto meals that are perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even meal prep.
These low-cost keto dishes are made with simple ingredients, require minimal cooking skills, and are ideal whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family. These recipes are designed for anyone who wants to eat keto on a budget while saving time in the kitchen. Let’s dive into these delicious, wallet-friendly keto meal ideas and transform them into your weekly menu—without spending a dime!
🥑 About Cheap Keto Meals
Think eating keto has to be expensive? Think again. Cheap keto meals are not only possible—they’re powerful for maintaining your low-carb lifestyle without draining your wallet.
đź’ˇ The Truth About Keto on a Budget
- âś… Myth: Keto is only for people with big grocery budgets.
- âś… Fact: You can enjoy delicious keto meals under $5 by using strategic shopping and smart meal prep.
- âś… Truth: Affordable ingredients like eggs, ground beef, cabbage, frozen veggies, and canned tuna are keto staples.
📉 Benefits of Affordable Keto Meals
🎯 Stick to Your Budget
By using low-cost ingredients, you can eat keto on $5/day or less.
🍲 Meal Prep Friendly
Batch cook keto casseroles, soups, and skillet meals to save time and money.
đź’Ş No Sacrifice in Flavor
Even simple ingredients can be transformed into delicious, satisfying low carb meals.
When you plan ahead and cook smart, cheap keto recipes can be your ticket to weight loss success—without sacrificing taste or spending a fortune.
Related: Cinco De Mayo Snacks Ideas
đź’ˇ Tips to Make Cheap Keto Meals on a Budget
Following a keto diet on a budget is 100% possible. With the right strategies, you can enjoy delicious, low-carb, high-fat meals without overspending. Here are some proven, practical, and highly effective ways to create budget-friendly keto meals at home.
đź›’ Shop Keto Staples in Bulk
Buy budget-friendly keto staples like eggs, cheese, chicken thighs, ground beef, and coconut oil in bulk to save money. Use discount stores like Aldi or Costco for huge savings.
🥦 Use Seasonal & Frozen Veggies
Seasonal produce is cheaper and fresher. Frozen vegetables like spinach, broccoli, and cauliflower are low-carb, affordable, and perfect for keto meal prep.
🍳 Embrace Simple, One-Pan Recipes
Recipes with minimal ingredients like keto stir-fries or egg scrambles are cheap, easy, and clean up fast. They’re ideal for quick keto dinners on a budget.
đź§Š Meal Prep and Freeze in Batches
Batch cooking saves time and money. Freeze portions of low-carb casseroles, soups, and meat dishes to always have a keto meal ready.
🥩 Choose Budget Cuts of Meat
Affordable meats like ground turkey, canned tuna, and bone-in chicken thighs offer great value and flavor for your cheap keto recipes.
Related: Awesome Lobster Recipes
21 Easy Cheap Keto Meal Recipes For You And Your Family
Egg Roll in a Bowl
If you’re craving Chinese takeout but sticking to a budget keto diet, Keto Egg Roll in a Bowl is a great solution. This low-carb, high-protein meal features ground pork or turkey, shredded cabbage, garlic, and soy sauce or coconut aminos. It’s quick, easy, and costs less than $2 per serving. Packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes, this is one of the best cheap keto dinners to satisfy your cravings. Great for keto meal prep or a weeknight dinner, it's a must-try for anyone doing keto on a budget.
Cauliflower Fried Rice
Cauliflower Fried Rice is one of the most affordable and easy keto meals you can make. Instead of high-carb white rice, use riced cauliflower for a low-carb alternative that still tastes amazing. Add in eggs, green onions, peas, and a dash of sesame oil for a healthy, budget-friendly dish. This meal is perfect for lunch or dinner and reheats well, making it great for keto meal prep. With a cost of under $1.50 per serving, it’s ideal for anyone looking for a keto recipe on a budget without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs & Veggies (Low Carb!)
This keto chicken thigh sheet pan meal is the perfect keto dinner that’s cheap, quick, and delicious. Chicken thighs are one of the most affordable keto protein options. Combine them with low-carb veggies like broccoli or zucchini, drizzle with olive oil, and roast everything together. This meal is rich in healthy fats and protein, making it perfect for anyone following a ketogenic diet on a budget. Also, it’s a one-pan recipe—less mess, more flavor. Ideal for weekly meal prep or busy weeknights, this recipe helps you save time and money.
Zucchini Noodle Alfredo
This keto Zucchini Noodle Alfredo is the perfect low-carb, budget-friendly comfort food. Made with spiralized zucchini (zoodles), heavy cream, garlic, and parmesan cheese, it's rich, creamy, and guilt-free. Skip expensive store-bought keto pasta and make this instead. It’s ready in 20 minutes and costs less than $2.50 per serving. Zoodles are high in fiber and low in carbs, perfect for anyone following a ketogenic lifestyle. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. This is one of the best easy keto dinner recipes if you want something creamy, satisfying, and affordable.
Easy Tuna Patties Recipe (Paleo, Whole30, Keto)
Keto Tuna Patties are a delicious and cheap keto meal that uses canned tuna, eggs, almond flour, and seasoning. They’re budget-friendly, protein-packed, and super easy to make in under 20 minutes. Each patty costs less than $1 to make and delivers flavor and texture that’s hard to beat. Serve with a keto dipping sauce or leafy greens for a full low-carb meal. These are perfect for meal prep, office lunches, or a quick dinner. Tuna is a great budget-friendly keto protein source that keeps this meal affordable and packed with healthy fats.
Quick Cheeseburger Lettuce Wraps
Skip the bun but keep all the flavor with these easy Cheeseburger Lettuce Wraps. This keto-friendly, low-cost recipe uses ground beef, cheese, mustard, and pickles wrapped in crisp iceberg or romaine lettuce. Ready in just 15 minutes, this meal satisfies your fast food cravings without the carbs. Each serving costs about $2, making it one of the best cheap keto dinners for the whole family. These lettuce wraps are portable, mess-free, and perfect for keto lunch ideas or weeknight meals. Add avocado for healthy fats and flavor without breaking the bank.
Cauliflower Pizza Crust - Keto Pizza Recipe
Keto Cauliflower Pizza is a great low-carb alternative to traditional pizza—and it’s affordable, too. Using rice crackers, eggs, and cheese to make the crust, this keto pizza is crunchy, cheesy, and customizable. Top it with marinara, mozzarella, and your favorite low-carb toppings. It’s a great keto dinner for the family or for meal prep, and it costs less than $3 per serving. If you’re looking for a cheap keto recipe that feels delicious, this is a must-try. It’s gluten-free, low-carb, and full of flavor without the high price of takeout.
Keto Cabbage and Sausage Skillet (Quick & Easy!)
This sausage and cabbage skillet is one of the cheapest and easiest keto meals you’ll ever make. With just a few ingredients—chopped sausage, shredded cabbage, and garlic or onion powder—you’ll have a delicious meal ready in just 30 minutes. Cabbage is an inexpensive, low-carb vegetable that’s rich in fiber, and the sausage adds the protein and fat you need for a satisfying keto dinner. This one-pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep, costing less than $2 per serving. It’s perfect for those looking to eat keto on a tight budget.
Keto Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders are a high-protein, low-carb keto favorite that’s surprisingly budget-friendly. Use chicken tenders or sliced chicken breasts wrapped in bacon, seasoned with your favorite keto spices. Bake or air-fry for a crispy, flavorful main dish. This cheap keto dinner recipe is perfect for parties, meal prep, or quick weeknight dinners. Each portion costs under $2 and is rich in fat and protein. Serve with a side of keto ranch or spicy mayo for dipping. This is one of the best keto recipes when you want something fun and delicious on a budget.
Egg Muffin Cups
Egg muffin cups are an affordable and easy keto breakfast or snack option. Made with eggs, cheese, and leftover veggies or meat, they're customizable and perfect for low-carb meal prep. Bake them in a muffin tin and store them in the fridge or freezer for easy snacking. At less than $1 per serving, they're great for anyone on a budget on the keto diet. Packed with protein and healthy fats, they'll keep you full and energized. Whether for breakfast or a snack, these keto egg muffins are a smart, inexpensive meal idea.
Keto Asian Cabbage Stir-Fry - Recipe
Keto Cabbage Stir Fry is one of the most wallet-friendly keto dinner recipes you can make. Using shredded cabbage, soy sauce or tamari, garlic, and your choice of ground meat or tofu, this stir-fry is rich in flavor and takes under 20 minutes to cook. It’s a great way to use up leftover veggies and is perfect for low-carb meal prep. Each serving costs under $1.25 and delivers a satisfying, high-fiber meal that fits any keto budget. For extra spice, add a touch of sriracha or red pepper flakes.
Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup {Better than Panera}
This creamy keto broccoli cheese soup is a classic comfort food that's keto-friendly and affordable. Using frozen or fresh broccoli, heavy cream, garlic, and shredded cheddar cheese, this soup is warm, filling, and packed with nutrients. It's perfect for a cold night or a quick weekday lunch. You can make a large batch for under $5, serving 4-5 people. This easy keto soup recipe is gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with flavor. It's one of the best cheap keto recipes for those who want comfort food without breaking their budget.
30-Minute Keto Ground Beef Taco Skillet
This one-pan Keto Ground Beef Taco Skillet is the ultimate cheap keto dinner recipe for families. Made with ground beef, bell peppers, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning, it’s low in carbs and bursting with flavor. You can serve it over cauliflower rice or in lettuce cups for a full meal. Ready in 25 minutes, this dish costs around $2 per serving and is perfect for meal prepping ahead. It’s great for taco night and way healthier than takeout. Customize with avocado, cheese, or sour cream for even more flavor.
Low Carb Egg Salad Lettuce Wraps
Keto Egg Salad Lettuce Wraps are a simple, protein-rich, and low-cost meal option perfect for lunch or dinner. Made with hard-boiled eggs, mayo, mustard, and your favorite spices, this creamy egg salad is served in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing, low-carb wrap. It’s quick to prepare and costs under $1.50 per serving. Great for keto lunch ideas and perfect for meal prep, this cheap keto recipe is ideal when you're short on time and cash. Add diced pickles or celery for extra crunch.
The Best Keto Stuffed Peppers (20 Minute Recipe!)
Keto Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delicious and colorful budget-friendly meal. Fill halved bell peppers with a mixture of ground meat, cauliflower rice, onions, and cheese, then bake until tender. This low-carb dinner is rich in flavor and nutrients, making it a great choice for family meals. It costs around $2.50 per serving and works well for meal prep. Bell peppers are high in vitamin C and fiber while keeping the net carbs low. This is one of the best keto dinner recipes if you want something hearty and visually appealing.
15-Minute Keto Salmon Patties
Keto Canned Salmon Patties are a quick and easy meal option for keto on a budget. Made with canned salmon, eggs, almond flour, and herbs, they’re pan-fried to crispy perfection. These salmon cakes are rich in omega-3 fats and protein, making them a nutritious choice. Ready in 20 minutes and costing under $2 per serving, they’re perfect for weekday lunches or dinners. Serve with a side salad or keto dipping sauce for a full meal.Â
Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole
This Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole is a budget-friendly comfort food recipe perfect for busy families. Made with shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cream cheese, and cheddar, it's baked to bubbly perfection. Each serving costs about $2.50 and can be made in advance for easy meal prep. This low-carb casserole is high in protein and satisfying, making it one of the best cheap keto recipes for weeknight dinners. You can even freeze leftovers for future meals. Simple ingredients, big flavor.
Low Carb Turkey Chili - Keto Friendly!
Keto Chili with Ground Turkey is a delicious, low-carb dish that's perfect for meal prep or family dinners. Made with ground turkey, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices, this keto-friendly chili omits the beans to keep the carbs low. Ready in less than 40 minutes and costing about $2 per serving, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrition. It's perfect for batch cooking and keeps well in the refrigerator or freezer. Perfect for cold weather or anytime you want to eat a filling meal on a budget.
Cucumber Avocado Salad - Keto, Low Carb, Gluten-Free, Paleo
Keto Cucumber Avocado Salad is a refreshing, healthy side dish or light meal that’s incredibly affordable. Made with sliced cucumbers, diced avocado, olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, this salad is hydrating and packed with healthy fats. It’s perfect for summer meals, BBQs, or as a side to grilled meats. Costing under $1.50 per serving, this quick and easy keto recipe is ideal when you want something light, fresh, and satisfying. Great for keto weight loss meals or clean eating.
Low Carb Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce
Keto Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce is an excellent low-carb substitute for traditional spaghetti. Roast the squash and top with a hearty meat sauce made from ground beef, tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs. This meal is rich in fiber, protein, and flavor—yet keeps the carbs low. At roughly $2.50 per serving, it’s a fantastic family-friendly keto dinner. Ideal for anyone looking for a budget keto pasta alternative that tastes amazing and fills you up without the guilt.
Baked Avocados with Eggs
Keto Baked Avocado Eggs are a simple, nutrient-packed meal perfect for breakfast or brunch. Halve an avocado, remove a bit more flesh to create space, crack in an egg, and bake until the egg sets. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or cheese. Each serving costs about $1.75 and delivers healthy fats, protein, and vitamins. This dish is great for keto meal prep or a quick, satisfying morning meal. It’s also gluten-free and dairy-optional, making it versatile for many keto lifestyles.
đź§Š How to Meal Prep These Cheap Keto Meals for the Week
One of the best ways to stick to a budget-friendly keto diet is to plan and prep your meals ahead of time. With just a little preparation, you can enjoy affordable keto meals all week long without reaching for expensive snacks or takeout. Here’s how to turn these easy cheap keto recipes into a delicious and cost-effective weekly plan.
đź“… Sample 5-Day Budget Keto Meal Plan
- Day 1: Egg Roll in a Bowl + Keto Chicken Soup
- Day 2: Zucchini Noodle Alfredo + Tuna Patties
- Day 3: Sausage & Cabbage Skillet + Egg Muffin Cups
- Day 4: Chicken Thigh Sheet Pan Dinner + Keto Egg Salad
- Day 5: Cauliflower Fried Rice + Mini Meatloaf Muffins
🥑 Keto Meal Prep Tips to Save Time and Money
- Batch cook proteins: Grill or bake chicken thighs, ground beef, or sausage in bulk.
- Use reusable meal prep containers: Keeps portions in check and meals fresh.
- Freeze extras: Most of these cheap keto meals freeze well for future weeks.
- Chop veggies in advance: Pre-cut cauliflower, zucchini, and cabbage to save time.
đź›’ Budget Keto Grocery Staples for Meal Prep
To keep costs low and meals keto-friendly, stock your fridge and pantry with these essentials:
- Eggs
- Ground beef or turkey
- Frozen cauliflower rice
- Zucchini, cabbage, and spinach
- Canned tuna and salmon
- Block cheese (cheaper than shredded)
- Olive oil and coconut oil
✅ Want more inspiration? Check out this comprehensive guide from Diet Doctor’s Keto Meal Plans for budget-friendly eating that fits your macros.
đź’¬ Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap Keto Meals
Yes! You can absolutely follow a cheap keto meal plan for under $5/day. Focus on cost-effective staples like eggs, canned tuna, ground beef, chicken thighs, and frozen vegetables. Use high-fat, low-cost options like butter and olive oil to stay in ketosis without overspending.
The most affordable keto foods include:
- Eggs
- Ground beef & chicken thighs
- Canned fish like tuna and sardines
- Frozen cauliflower and spinach
- Cheese, butter, olive oil
Absolutely! With keto meal prep, you can cook once and eat all week. Prepare bulk recipes like keto egg muffins, casseroles, and skillet meals. Store in the fridge or freezer for convenient low-carb meals that don’t require daily cooking.
Family-friendly and budget keto dinners include:
- Sausage and cabbage stir fry
- Cheeseburger casserole
- Keto taco salad with ground beef
21 Easy Cheap Keto Meal Recipes That Are Actually Delicious (Under $5!)

Here are 21 cheap keto meals that are easy, tasty, and under $5 per serving. Perfect for weight loss & meal prep on a budget!
Ingredients
- Egg Roll in a Bowl
- Cauliflower Fried Rice
- Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs & Veggies (Low Carb!)
- Zucchini Noodle Alfredo
- Easy Tuna Patties Recipe (Paleo, Whole30, Keto)
- Quick Cheeseburger Lettuce Wraps
- Cauliflower Pizza Crust - Keto Pizza Recipe
- Keto Cabbage and Sausage Skillet (Quick & Easy!)
- Keto Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
- Egg Muffin Cups
- Keto Asian Cabbage Stir-Fry - Recipe
- Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup {Better than Panera}
- 30-Minute Keto Ground Beef Taco Skillet
- Low Carb Egg Salad Lettuce Wraps
- The Best Keto Stuffed Peppers (20 Minute Recipe!)
- 15-Minute Keto Salmon Patties
- Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole
- Low Carb Turkey Chili - Keto Friendly!
- Cucumber Avocado Salad - Keto, Low Carb, Gluten-Free, Paleo
- Low Carb Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce
- Baked Avocados with Eggs
Instructions
- Choose your favorite chip keto meal from this list.
- Cook according to the instructions.
- Enjoy with the whole family.
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