One-Pan Keto Meal Ideas to Simplify Cooking

Explore these easy examples of one-pan keto meals for a low-carb diet.
By Taylor

Discovering One-Pan Keto Meals

Eating healthy on a keto diet can be a breeze, especially when you explore one-pan meals. These recipes are not only low in carbs but also save you time on cleanup, making them perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Let’s dive into three delicious examples of one-pan keto meals that you can easily whip up!

1. Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus

This dish is a delightful combination of succulent shrimp and tender asparagus, all brought together with a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce. It’s perfect for a quick dinner when you’re craving something fresh and flavorful.

To make this meal, start by heating some butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Next, toss in the shrimp, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside. In the same skillet, add trimmed asparagus and cook until they’re bright green and tender, about 5-7 minutes. Return the shrimp to the pan, squeeze in fresh lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together, and voilà! You’ve got a colorful, keto-friendly meal ready in just 20 minutes.

Notes: For a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes. You can also swap asparagus for broccoli or green beans if you prefer.

2. Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

This comforting dish is a great way to enjoy a hearty meal while staying within your keto limits. It’s also an ideal option for meal prep, as it keeps well in the fridge for several days.

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large oven-safe skillet, cook bite-sized pieces of chicken breast over medium heat until they’re golden brown and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Then, add in chopped broccoli florets and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender. In a separate bowl, mix together heavy cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth. Pour this cheese mixture over the chicken and broccoli, stirring to combine. Top with some extra cheese if desired, then transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for about 15 minutes until bubbly and golden. Serve hot for a filling, cheesy meal.

Variations: You can add other veggies like cauliflower or bell peppers. For extra flavor, sprinkle with garlic powder or seasoning blends before baking.

3. Sausage and Peppers Skillet

This one-pan wonder is packed with flavor and is extremely satisfying. It’s a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner, and you can customize it with your favorite sausage and peppers.

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage (like Italian or smoked sausage) and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Once the sausage has some color, add sliced bell peppers (any color you like) and onions, sautéing everything together for another 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. For a finishing touch, you can sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley before serving. This dish is vibrant, hearty, and can be on your table in about 30 minutes!

Notes: Feel free to use different types of sausage—chicken or turkey sausage works well too. You can also add in cherry tomatoes for a touch of sweetness.

With these three examples of one-pan keto meals, you can enjoy delicious, low-carb dinners with minimal effort. Happy cooking!