Are you looking for delicious and easy keto appetizer recipes to impress your friends and family? Look no further! As a beginner, it can be overwhelming to start experimenting with new ingredients and cooking methods. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 20 simple yet mouth-watering keto appetizers that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
From classic flavors like bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers to creative twists on familiar favorites, these recipes are designed to be easy to make and fun to eat. Plus, they’re all low in carbs and high in flavor – perfect for anyone following a ketogenic diet or just looking for some tasty and healthy snack options.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 keto appetizer recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen. From cheesy cauliflower bites to prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, these dishes are all easy to make and packed with flavor. So whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for some inspiration for your next meal, keep reading to discover the perfect keto appetizers for beginners!
Keto Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
These addictive poppers combine the heat of jalapeños with the richness of bacon, all wrapped up in a low-carb package. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jalapeños
– 6 slices of keto-friendly bacon (look for sugar-free and nitrate-free options)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and cilantro. Stuff each jalapeño half with the mixture.
4. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
5. Place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Cauliflower Bites
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, cheesy cauliflower bites that are perfect for munching on the go.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together cheddar cheese and panko breadcrumbs.
4. Add the cheese-breadcrumb mixture to the cauliflower and toss until evenly distributed.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread out the cauliflower mixture in a single layer.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled egg game with the creamy addition of ripe avocados! These rich and indulgent treats are perfect for your next gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped chives or paprika for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the yolks, mashed avocado, mayonnaise, mustard, and horseradish. Mix until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Garnish with chopped chives or paprika, if desired.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips
Transform ordinary zucchinis into crispy and flavorful chips with this simple recipe. Perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish, these garlic parmesan zucchini chips are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
3. In a bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of the zucchini slices with olive oil.
5. Sprinkle the Parmesan-garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the zucchini chips.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the zucchini chips in a single layer.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this creamy, savory recipe that combines the flavors of spinach, artichokes, and mushrooms. Perfect for parties or special occasions, these bite-sized treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Mix until well combined.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and fill each cap with the spinach mixture.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Keto Cheese Crisps
Say goodbye to store-bought cheese puffs and hello to crispy, cheesy goodness with this easy-to-make keto recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (make sure it’s a high-quality, full-fat option for the best results)
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup coconut flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the grated cheese, almond flour, coconut flour, salt, and baking soda until well combined.
3. Roll out the mixture between two pieces of parchment paper or a silicone mat to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Cut the dough into desired shapes (sticks, strips, or squares work well).
5. Place the crisps on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Dip
This creamy, spicy dip is a perfect combination of flavors that will surely be a hit at any party or gathering. With its signature buffalo wing taste, it’s sure to satisfy your snack cravings!
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked chicken
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and ranch dressing. Mix until smooth.
3. Add shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chicken, hot sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish or a cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Parmesan Chicken Wings
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and flavorful chicken wings smothered in a rich parmesan cheese sauce. Perfect for game day gatherings or as a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each wing in the flour mixture, then panko breadcrumbs, shaking off excess.
4. Place wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crispy.
6. While wings are baking, mix marinara sauce and Parmesan cheese in a bowl.
7. Remove wings from oven and toss with the parmesan-marinara mixture.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mini Keto Meatballs
A delicious and bite-sized twist on traditional meatballs, these Mini Keto Meatballs are a perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (90% lean)
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While still warm, drizzle with tomato paste and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pesto-Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
Brighten up your snack time with these bite-sized, pesto-filled cherry tomatoes. This recipe is a perfect combination of fresh flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the cherry tomatoes and scoop out some of the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the pesto and olive oil.
4. Stuff each tomato with the pesto mixture, dividing it evenly among the tomatoes.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Keto Crab Stuffed Avocados
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, crab-filled delight that’s perfect for keto dieters. These bite-sized treats are surprisingly easy to make and will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat (drained)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning (if using).
3. Spoon the crab mixture into the avocado halves.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your delicious Keto Crab Stuffed Avocados!
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Elevate a simple vegetable side dish with the salty sweetness of prosciutto and the tender crunch of asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Wrap each spear of asparagus with a slice of prosciutto, securing with a toothpick if needed.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Guacamole with Pork Rinds
Elevate your snack game with this creamy guacamole recipe paired with crispy pork rinds, perfect for movie nights or spontaneous gatherings. This unique combination will have you hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup pork rinds, crushed
– 2 tablespoons sour cream
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop the flesh into a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the chopped red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the avocado.
3. Use a fork to mash the ingredients together until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Stir in the crushed pork rinds and sour cream.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready to serve straight from the fridge.
Low-Carb Mozzarella Sticks
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this easy and delicious low-carb take on mozzarella sticks. These crispy, cheesy bites are perfect for game day gatherings or as a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
3. Add almond flour, egg, and salt to the cheese mixture. Mix until well combined.
4. Shape into long sticks, about 6-8 inches each.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Spray or drizzle with cooking spray or oil.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Keto Sausage Balls
A delicious and easy-to-make snack that’s perfect for keto dieters, these sausage balls are made with just a few ingredients and require minimal prep work. This recipe yields 12-15 sausage balls, making it a great option for parties or game-day gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork sausage (make sure it’s sugar-free and low-carb)
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the sausage, almond flour, cheddar cheese, and egg. Mix well with your hands until everything is fully incorporated.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place the balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the sausage balls and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the sausage balls are cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
Elevate your party with these elegant and flavorful bite-sized treats, perfect for showcasing the sweetness of smoked salmon paired with refreshing cucumber and creamy cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 crackers or toasted baguette slices
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the softened cream cheese on each cracker or toasted baguette slice.
3. Top with a small piece of flaked smoked salmon, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Place a thin slice of cucumber on top of the salmon.
5. Sprinkle with chopped fresh dill and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: 10-12 bites
Stuffed Bell Pepper Skewers
These bite-sized skewers pack a flavorful punch, combining the sweetness of bell peppers with savory filling and a hint of spice. Perfect for parties or as a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Thread bell pepper pieces and meat mixture onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender and filling is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Keto-friendly Tuna Tartare
A refreshing and flavorful appetizer or snack that’s perfect for a low-carb diet.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard.
2. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-cook, raw food dish that’s ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Bacon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this rich and savory recipe that combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the indulgent goodness of bacon and cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crumbled bacon, softened cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Wipe the mushroom caps clean with a damp paper towel. Fill each cap with the bacon-cream cheese mixture, mounding it slightly in the center.
4. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Keto Fried Halloumi Bites
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, keto-friendly halloumi bites, perfect for satisfying your cravings. With a rich flavor and satisfying crunch, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Coconut oil or avocado oil for frying
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the halloumi into small cubes (about 1 inch).
2. In a bowl, mix together almond flour, Parmesan cheese, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Dip each halloumi cube into the beaten egg and then coat in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of coconut oil or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated halloumi cubes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes total.
Summary
Get ready to impress your friends and family with these 20 delicious keto appetizer recipes perfect for beginners! From savory bites like cheesy cauliflower, garlic parmesan zucchini chips, and crispy chicken wings to indulgent treats like bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers and creamy guacamole with pork rinds, there’s something for everyone. With a focus on simplicity and ease of preparation, these keto appetizers are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
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