Today, we’re diving into the realm of crispy, cheesy goodness with a recipe bound to tantalize your taste buds – Jalapeño and Cheddar Chicken Fritters. This recipe combines the heat of jalapeños with the creamy richness of shredded cheddar cheese and a hint of richness from cumin and paprika. These fritters are a simple weeknight dinner or great for a grab-and-go lunch!

Why You’ll Love It

• Quick and Convenient Meal: Cheesy chicken fritters offer a speedy solution for those busy days when time is of the essence. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes, these fritters provide a delicious and satisfying meal without the need for extensive cooking or complicated ingredients.
• Low-Carb Delight: For individuals following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, these cheesy chicken fritters are a fantastic choice. The combination of ground chicken, cheese, and seasonings not only satisfies your taste buds but also aligns with low-carb dietary preferences, making it a versatile option for those mindful of their carb intake.
• Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: Cheesy chicken fritters are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. These fritters cater to various culinary preferences, whether served as a delightful appetizer, a protein-packed main course, or tucked into a low-carb wrap or salad.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Fritters

As always, this is a quick overview of the ingredients needed to make this recipe. For the complete, printable recipe, simply scroll to the printable recipe card below. To make this chicken recipe, you will need a mixing bowl, pan and spatula in addition to the ingredients listed below:

• Ground Chicken: We are skipping the chicken breasts and chicken thighs for this meal and going for simple ground chicken. It is a great alternative to ground beef and is usually quite economical. you can also use ground turkey if you prefer.
• Jalapenos: for this recipe, I use fresh, seeded jalapenos. If you prefer a milder pepper you can use green bell peppers. And just in case you don’t have access to fresh peppers you can use pickled jalapenos as well, just check out my note in the recipe card.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: sharp cheddar pairs so well with fresh jalapeno peppers. You can also use mozzarella cheese or Colby-jack if you wish.
• Chopped Green Onions and Minced Garlic: this adds great flavor, but if you are out, finely chopped red onion works in a pinch.
• Egg and Coconut Flour: This binder helps hold the fritters together.
• Spices: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and seasoned salt.

How to make Chicken Fritters

1. Mix: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped jalapeños, green onions, minced garlic, and spices. Add the egg, shredded cheddar cheese, and coconut flour. Stir again until everything comes together, set the mixture aside for a few minutes to allow the coconut flour to absorb the moisture.
2. Shape and Form: With your hands (make sure they’re clean!), form the mixture into small patties. I used a 1/4 cup measuring cup, an ice cream scoop also works well, but the size is up to you. Remember, you just want to keep this small and thin enough that the outside gets golden and crispy, while the inside is juicy and cooked through.
3. Ready, Set, Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the fritters in the oil, ensuring they have enough space to crisp up. Fry each side until golden brown, usually about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Drain and Savor: As your fritters reach that perfect golden hue, transfer them from your large frying pan to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let them rest for a moment – although we won’t blame you if you dive right in!
5. Serve and Enjoy: Dish up your Jalapeño and Cheddar Chicken Fritters and get ready to impress. Whether as a savory appetizer or a main course, these fritters are sure to steal the show.

Serve

This is a versatile dish that pairs well with any side dish. You can serve it over a salad, with crispy veggie fries, or alongside your favorite air fryer vegetable. I really love to serve this with a dipping sauce like low carb ranch, this Jalapeno Ranch, or Taco Bell Copycat sauce. If you prefer a different flavor, a simple garlic aioli is a great option!

Storage and Reheating

Storing chicken fritters properly is crucial to maintaining their flavor and texture. Here’s a simple guide on how to store your tender Jalapeño and Cheddar Chicken Fritters:

1. Refrigeration: Allow the chicken fritters to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container or a sealable plastic bag. If you have a lot of fritters, you can layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Refrigerate them for up to 2-3 days.
2. Freezing: If you want to store your chicken fritters longer, freezing is an excellent option. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag. Frozen chicken fritters can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
3. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your stored chicken fritters, reheating is a breeze. If refrigerated, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. For frozen fritters, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. You can also reheat frozen fritters directly in the oven, but the cooking time may be longer.

Tips for the Best Chicken Fritters

• Finely Chop Ingredients: Ensure ingredients like jalapeños, green onions, and garlic are finely chopped. This helps distribute their flavors evenly throughout the fritters and prevents large chunks in the chicken mixture that might disrupt the texture.
• Perfectly Sized Patties: Form uniform-sized patties to ensure even cooking. This also helps maintain a consistent texture across all the fritters. Aim for bite-sized portions for appetizers or slightly larger ones for a main course.
• Avoid Crowding the Pan: Fry the fritters in batches, leaving enough space between each one. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature and produce unevenly cooked fritters.
• Drain Excess Oil: After frying, place the cooked fritters on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This step helps maintain their crispy exterior.

Recipe FAQ

Other Jalapeno Recipes

• Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers: This easy low carb appetizer can be made in the oven, on the grill or in the air fryer!
• Fish Tacos: paired with a jalapeno ranch slaw that is quite addicting!
• Cheesy Jalapeno Chicken Soup: a soup that tastes just like a jalapeno popper but in a creamy, hearty soup that is even better the next day!
• One Pan Jalapeno Chicken: a one pan dinner that is ready in a flash!

Yield: 4

Jalapeño Cheddar Chicken Fritters

Print

Enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite with our Jalapeño Cheddar Chicken Fritters – a deliciously crispy and cheesy delight ready in a flash!

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Total Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapenos
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon each garlic powder, paprika, seasoned salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
• 1 tablespoon coconut flour

Instructions

1. Combine the ground chicken, chopped jalapenos, green onions, garlic, and spices in a mixing bowl. Once the mixture is combined, add the egg, shredded cheddar cheese, and coconut flour.
2. Using a small ice cream scoop or a 1/4 cup measuring cup, pat out the chicken fritters. Pat the fritters a little thinner than you think they need to, as they will puff a bit as they cook.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil begins to shimmer, carefully add the fritters to the skillet. Ensure the fritters are not touching, and do not overcrowd the pan. Cook the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side until the exterior is golden brown and the interior reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees with an instant-read thermometer.
4. When the fritters are cooked through, remove them from the skillet and place on a paper towel lined plate to absorb any extra oil.
5. Serve immediately with the dipping sauce of your choice.

Notes

*If using pickled jalapenos instead of fresh, decrease the amount to 3 tablespoons.

Recommended Products

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• 
  Utopia Kitchen Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet - 12.5 Inch - Black

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

2 Fritters
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 324Total Fat: 21gCholesterol: 175mgSodium: 584mgCarbohydrates: 3.5gNet Carbohydrates: 2.5gFiber: 1gSugar: 1gProtein: 29g

The post Jalapeño Cheddar Chicken Fritters appeared first on The Best Keto Recipes.

Zucchini Salad

This Grilled Zucchini Salad just screams, “SUMMER!” Fresh tomatoes and basil, juicy mozzarella, and tender charred zucchini come together for a healthy meal that feels decadent. Add on the homemade vinaigrette, and your taste buds will be thrilled!

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Easy – The only cooking required is grilling the zucchini. You can do this on an outdoor grill, over a campfire, under the broiler, or on the stove. This is perfect for beginners because you can use the method you’re most comfortable with, and it’s one simple step!
• Healthy – This recipe focuses on making the most from simple, healthy ingredients! It works for gluten-free, low-carb, and keto diet, too. You get your healthy fats from the cheese and oil, fiber from zucchini, and loads of antioxidants in the tomatoes!
• Quick – This recipe is ready to go within 30 minutes. Most of the time you’re just waiting for the zucchini to cool! You could easily grill the zucchini a few hours ahead of time if you want to assemble ahead of time for a party or gathering.

Grilled Zucchini Salad Ingredients

Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need for this zucchini recipe. For exact measurements, keep scrolling down to the printable recipe card near the bottom.

• Zucchini – You want fresh, firm zucchini that has just a tiny bit of give when you squeeze it. Choose zucchini of similar sizes so that they all cook at about the same rate.
• Tomatoes & Cherry Tomatoes – This is perfect for any garden tomatoes you have coming in! You can use 1 large heirloom tomato, 2 medium vine-ripened tomatoes, or 2-3 Kumato or Roma tomatoes if you prefer. The cherry tomatoes add a different texture and add a great color to the salad.
• Mozzarella – You want the fresh, juicy mozzarella, not the low-moisture version. These usually come in balls or shaped like logs, and you simply slice them into thin, delicious pieces.
• Basil leaves – These add tons of flavor, and I highly recommend not leaving these out! If you’re out of fresh leaves, at least toss 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil to add a touch of flavor. The fresh leaves really knock this salad out of the park, though!
• Olive oil, Red wine vinegar, Sugar-free maple syrup, Garlic, Red pepper flakes, Salt, Pepper – This comes together to create a well-balanced vinaigrette that will bring out the best in the tomatoes and zucchini! The little sweetness added by the maple syrup is perfect with the contrasting red pepper flakes. You could replace the syrup with a few drops of liquid monk fruit if you prefer.

How to Make a Grilled Salad

This simple healthy recipe is so easy and great for beginners or lazy days! Here’s a step-by-step guide for making this low-carb salad.

Slice & dry zucchini

First you want to wash, slice, and dry your zucchini. Press them between two layers of paper towels to absorb as much excess moisture as you can. Doing this helps get a great char on the outside of the zucchini without it cooking through steam as much.

Cook & season zucchini

Heat your grill, grill pan, or cast iron skillet to medium-high heat and brush with oil. Place the zucchini on but do not overcrowd the pan. If necessary, you may need to cook zucchini in batches. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until nicely charred. Remove and set onto a plate to cool.

As the zucchini cools, sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and toss with your hands. We didn’t want to add the salt before cooking because it would have drawn out moisture and could have prevented us from getting a perfect charred texture.

Make vinaigrette

While the zucchini is cooling, mix together your vinaigrette ingredients. This doesn’t require any heat, just some vigorous whisking or shaking. Pour all ingredients into a jar and shake to emulsify, or place them in a bowl and whisk until well combined.

Assemble salad

Now that your zucchini has cooled to room temperature, you can start mixing it with the cherry tomatoes and sliced tomatoes in a platter. Add in the torn mozzarella, making sure everyone could get a little bit of everything in every bite. Finally, spoon over the vinaigrette and torn basil leaves. It’s best to start with just 1/2 the dressing, then taste and add to your preference.

Serve

This recipe is delicious served on its own for a vegetarian summer meal that makes the most out of your garden! Additional fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives would also be fantastic.

What to serve with Grilled Zucchini Salad

If serving this zucchini salad as your meal, a hearty appetizer like Grilled Portobello Mushrooms or Smashed Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Aioli would be great. If this salad is your appetizer or side, consider serving Steak and Shrimp Skillet and some Keto Garlic Bread Chaffles. When you want to add some protein and crunch, toss in some chopped Pecan Crusted Chicken! To add a delicious keto cocktail to your party, consider an herby option like Basil Whiskey Sour, Keto Mint Julep, or a Rosemary Gin Fizz.

How to Store Zucchini Salad

This salad is best served fresh. However, leftovers can be enjoyed within 1-2 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. If you’d like to make this ahead of time or meal prep it for lunches, simply leave the components separate until ready to serve–Keep the zucchini and basil in one container (unsalted), the tomatoes in another, and the vinaigrette in a third container.

If you love this zucchini salad, you’ll love these summer recipes:

• Grilled Zucchini Mozzarella Wraps – These are the perfect pool-side appetizer on a hot day! Melty mozzarella surrounded by tender grilled zucchini feels like a treat but is actually pretty healthy.
• The BEST Cucumber Salad – If you love fresh flavors in a tasty dressing with some cheese but don’t want to cook, this is the perfect recipe for you! Great for meal prepping and awesome for lunches.
• Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad – This meal has it all; tangy dressing, tender chicken, crispy lettuce, and delicious parmesan! It’s best enjoyed in the summer with amazing fresh produce.
• Smoked Queso – This easy dip recipe does the work on its own in the grill; barely any work or cleanup necessary! This low-carb dip is great with veggies, keto chips, or drizzled on top of meat.
• Air Fryer Squash – You’ll love how easy, healthy, and full of flavor this side dish is. It’s ready quickly, goes with just about any dinner, and is super inexpensive during the summer months!

Zucchini Salad FAQs

Yield: 4

Grilled Zucchini Salad

Print

This Grilled Zucchini Salad with a homemade red wine vinaigrette will be your repeat meal of the summer! This healthy recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, loaded with fresh mozzarella and tender veggies, and has fewer than 5 net carbs.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 pound zucchini (about 3 medium zucchini)
• 6 ounces tomato of choice (can be 2 medium vine-ripe tomatoes, 1 large Heirloom Tomato, or 2-3 Kumato tomatoes) sliced into thin rounds
• 1⁄2 pint (8 ounces) colorful cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1⁄2 tsp fine salt
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds and torn in half
• 8-10 fresh basil leaves, torn right before serving

For the Vinaigrette:

• 1⁄3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons sugar-free maple syrup
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

1. Trim ends off of each zucchini. Slice each zucchini into 1⁄2” thick circles on a bias. Line a baking sheet with a paper towel and place the zucchini on it. Lightly press a paper towel on top of the zucchini too to remove excess moisture.
2. Heat a grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and brush with oil. Grill zucchini in batches, as not to overcrowd the pan, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until charred. Once cooked, set onto a plate to cool.
3. Sprinkle the top of the cooked zucchini pieces with 1⁄4 teaspoon salt and toss with your hands.
4. Make the dressing by combining all the ingredients in a container or bowl and whisking together, or cover the container and shake well until emulsified.
5. Arrange the tomatoes & room-temperature grilled zucchini on a serving dish along with sliced tomatoes and mozzarella slices. Drizzle with vinaigrette (may not use all of it), sprinkle with torn basil, and sprinkle with 1⁄4 tsp salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Notes

• Start with using 1⁄2 of the dressing, then taste and see if you need more. You’ll likely end up using about 3⁄4 of it, but everyone's preferences are different.
• I like to arrange this salad in a platter style, but one can also mix everything together in a bowl. If mixing in a bowl, you may consider chopping everything a bit smaller.
• I used this grill pan, but any grill pan (of course real outdoor grill), cast iron skillet or even fry pan will work to charr the zucchini.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

About 3/4 cup
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 249Total Fat: 21gCholesterol: 29mgSodium: 829mgCarbohydrates: 6.3gNet Carbohydrates: 4.7gFiber: 1.6gSugar: 4.3gProtein: 10g

The post Grilled Zucchini Salad appeared first on The Best Keto Recipes.

Cheesy Keto Bacon and Asparagus

It’s not exactly breaking news that I love bacon. Who doesn’t? It’s a perfect food. And as much as I love eating slices of bacon for breakfast, this cheesy bacon wrapped asparagus side dish might be my favorite way to serve it. It’s bacon wrapped around cream cheese, parmesan cheese, some amazing seasonings, and asparagus. What’s not to love?

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it’s rich and decadent from the cheese and meat, but also fresh and healthy from the veggies. So whatever you’re craving, this bacon and asparagus recipe will probably hit the spot. Plus, it only takes 30 minutes to make, so you can whip it up to accompany any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Bacon Side Dish

Here are a few reasons why I know you’ll go crazy for this keto recipe. 

• 30 minutes. I’m a firm believer that side dishes should be quick and easy. No one wants to waste time in the kitchen spending hours on a side. This recipe only takes 30 minutes, and the bulk of that time is spent with the bacon wrapped asparagus in the oven. It’s fast, it doesn’t require much work, and it won’t leave your kitchen a mess! 
• Versatile. This is a great side dish for pretty much any meal. Because it has vegetables, cheese, and meat, it goes with everything. No matter what you’re making for dinner, it will be better with a side of bacon and asparagus.
• Restaurant-quality. Cheesy bacon wrapped asparagus sounds like something you would find on the menu at a fancy steakhouse. And that’s exactly what this dish tastes like! Even though it barely takes any work, it’s an upscale side dish that will impress anyone you cook it for.

Ingredients Needed

Here are the 7 ingredients that you’ll need to make this gluten-free bacon side dish. Scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the page to see the specific quantities for the ingredients.

• Asparagus
• Bacon – You’ll need to cut the bacon in half.
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Cream cheese
• Grated parmesan cheese – For best results, grate your own parmesan cheese, but pre-shredded works fine.
• Everything bagel seasoning

How to Make Cheesy Bacon Wrapped Asparagus 

This perfect side dish only takes 30 minutes to make. Here’s how to do it.

• Prep. Preheat your oven to 400F.
• Make the filling. Add the cream cheese, parmesan cheese, and everything bagel seasoning to a bowl, and mix to combine.
• Season the asparagus. Toss the asparagus in the oil, and season with garlic powder.
• Divide. Portion the asparagus into 8 even piles.
• Stretch the bacon. Take each half-slice of bacon and carefully stretch it as far as you can without tearing it. 
• Assemble. Put a large spoonful of the filling and a bundle of asparagus on a piece of bacon. Wrap the bacon around the cheese mixture and asparagus, but don’t wrap it too tightly. Place it on a baking sheet, with the seam of the bacon facing down. Repeat with the other 7 pieces.

• Bake. Put the bacon wrapped asparagus in the oven and bake until the veggies are tender and the bacon is crispy. This should take about 20-25 minutes. 

Tips and Tricks

Here are some of my favorite tricks to use when making this recipe.

• Snap the asparagus. When cooking asparagus, you always want to trim the stalks. The best way to do this is to lightly fold each asparagus piece from the bottom until it snaps. It will naturally break off where you want to trim the asparagus. This keeps you from having chewy, stringy vegetables.
• Tent the asparagus. If you notice that the asparagus tops are burning in the oven, place a piece of aluminum foil over them. That way you can keep cooking this tasty side dish until the bacon is cooked through, without burning the veggies. 
• Save the fat. As the bacon wrapped asparagus cooks, the fat will render and pool on the baking sheet. Take the baking sheet out of the oven occasionally and pour off the excess fat. But don’t throw the fat away! Save it to cook with, because it’s super delicious and tastes just like bacon.

What to Serve it With

As I said, I think this veggie and bacon side dish goes perfectly with almost any entree. But here are a few of my favorite things to serve it alongside.

• Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Perfect Baked Pork Chops
• Tuna Melt Chaffle Sandwich
• Crockpot Turkey Breast
• One Pan Shrimp Creole

How to Store Leftovers

You can keep leftover bacon wrapped shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 days. Reheat in a 375F oven for 10 minutes, until warm all the way through.

Can You Freeze This Recipe? 

This recipe can be frozen, but the texture of the asparagus will suffer a little bit. Keep the bacon wrapped asparagus in an airtight container and it will last in the freezer for 3 months. Reheat straight from the freezer in a 375F oven for 15 minutes.

More Keto Bacon Recipes

If you’re anything like me, then you can’t get enough bacon! Here are some more of my favorite keto bacon recipes that you should try.

• Bacon Egg and Cheese Rolls
• Candied Bacon
• Chicken Bacon Ranch Soup
• Broccoli Salad with Bacon
• Cheesy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
• Easy Bacon Wrapped Chicken Breast

Yield: 8 bundles

Cheesy Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Print

This cheesy bacon wrapped asparagus recipe is the perfect side dish. It's filled with 2 types of cheese and delicious seasonings, wrapped crispy bacon, and only takes 30 minutes.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound of asparagus, trimmed
• 4 slices of thin-cut bacon, cut in half
• 1/4 teaspoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 ounces cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons everything bagel seasoning

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400F.
2. In a small bowl, mix up the cream cheese, parmesan, and everything bagel seasoning. Set aside.
3. Gently toss the asparagus in the oil and sprinkle with garlic powder. Split into 8 piles as evenly as possible.
4. One by one, slowly stretch each slice of bacon as long as you can without tearing it. This will help prevent the bacon from shrinking too much, and helps it to cook a bit faster.
5. Place a heaping teaspoon of the cheese mixture and a bundle of asparagus on a slice of bacon. Wrap, but not too tightly, and place seam side down on a baking sheet. Repeat with the other pieces.
6. Cook the bundles 20-25 minutes under asparagus is tender and bacon is crisp. The time needed will depend on the size of your asparagus and how much the bacon is overlapping.

Notes

• If the tops of the asparagus are beginning to burn before the bacon is crispy, cover just the tops with aluminum foil. Make sure to leave the bacon exposed so it can crisp up.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 days, or in the freezer for 3 months.
• Reheat in a 375F oven for 10-15 minutes, until heated all the way through.

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

• 
  USA Pan Bakeware Jelly Roll Pan, Warp Resistant Nonstick Baking Pan, Made in the USA from Aluminized Steel

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

2 bundles
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 201Total Fat: 17gCholesterol: 35.5mgSodium: 386mgCarbohydrates: 5gNet Carbohydrates: 2.6gFiber: 2.4gSugar: 2.4gProtein: 8g

The post Cheesy Bacon Wrapped Asparagus appeared first on The Best Keto Recipes.

Maple Bacon Candy

This keto Candied Bacon is made by using fresh cracked pepper and delicious sugar-free maple syrup. Super flavorful, low-carb, and even great as an edible gift! Drop crispy, sweet, peppery slices in a plastic party favor bag for an easy present.

Whether you enjoy crispy or chewy bacon, you can make this perfect for you! Only 3 ingredients needed for this delicious, easy candied bacon recipe.

Candied Bacon Ingredients

As always, here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need. Keep scrolling down to the printable recipe card for specific amounts.

• Thick Cut Bacon – Because the bacon has so much syrup, it requires a long cooking time. If you use thinly sliced bacon, they will burn before the syrup has time to get baked in.
• Sugar Free Maple Syrup – I used Lakanto’s maple syrup; it has the perfect flavor for smoked bacon, too. The cinnamon version also creates a tasty candied bacon with a fall-inspired twist!
• Cracked Pepper – Freshly cracked pepper has the best taste and texture, but you can LIGHTLY sprinkle regular table pepper if you don’t have cracked pepper.

How to Make Maple Bacon keto

Here’s a step-by-step guide to make keto candied bacon! If you aren’t keto, simply swap out the sugar-free syrup with real maple syrup.

Stretch

Lightly stretch the bacon strips to reduce the amount of shrinkage they will experience in the oven. If you skip this step, your bacon will still be delicious, just a little small.

Add toppings

Once stretched, place bacon on a rack on a baking pan. Brush the bacon with maple syrup, then sprinkle over freshly cracked pepper. Flip bacon over and continue to brush with syrup and top with pepper.

Bake

On the rack, cook bacon 45-55 minutes. If you like chewy thick bacon, cook closer to 45 minutes. If you prefer super crunchy bacon, cook closer to 55 minutes instead. You can flip the bacon and pour off bacon grease about halfway through cooking time, but I didn’t notice much of a difference.

Store

Maple bacon should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge up to 4 days. Make sure to allow to cool completely before storing, especially if storing in a gift bag (otherwise the steam will soften the bacon).

Freeze

Bacon can be frozen both cooked and raw. To freeze this maple bacon, allow to cool completely and then freeze in a single layer. After 1-2 hours, transfer the bacon into a freezer bag and keep up to 3-6 months.

Reheat

You can reheat this bacon in several ways. In the microwave, zap in 30-second increments until warm. In the air fryer, reheat at 390 degrees for 3-5 minutes. In the oven, reheat on 400 degrees F for 5-10 minutes.

If you like this candied bacon, you’ll love these keto recipes!

• Cheesy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon – This one pan dish is great as a side or even a meal! Bacon adds the perfect crunchy touch.
• Avocado Bacon Dip – Creamy mixed with crunchy is perfect with some Keto Chips! Sour cream gives this dip that perfect texture you’ll love!
• Chicken Bacon Ranch Zucchini Boats – Making this classic sandwich a bit healthier has led to an absolutely DELICIOUS dinner!
• Fried Cabbage with Bacon – So few ingredients means each one can shine! Bacon adds a great texture with the cabbage, perfect side dish.

FAQ’s about Candied Bacon

Yield: 6 servings (2 pieces each)

Candied Bacon Recipe

Print

You will love this Candied Bacon recipe, a salty, sweet, peppery snack that is also low-carb! This keto-friendly snack has just 3 net carbs per serving!

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 45 minutes

Total Time 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 12 slices thick-cut bacon
• 1/3-1/2 cup sugar-free maple syrup
• Cracked pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F while you place a baking rack on a pan.
2. Lightly stretch the bacon, then lay each piece on the rack.
3. Brush each strip of bacon with maple syrup, then top with pepper. Turn bacon over and again add syrup and pepper.
4. Bake bacon 45-55 minutes, depending on how you prefer your bacon. 45-50 minutes will result in a chewier bacon. 50-55 can result in crispier pieces.

Notes

I do not recommend thin-cut bacon.

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

• 
  USA Pan Bakeware Jelly Roll Pan, Warp Resistant Nonstick Baking Pan, Made in the USA from Aluminized Steel

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

2 bacon strips
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 49Total Fat: 3.5gCholesterol: 8.7mgSodium: 188mgCarbohydrates: 2.1gNet Carbohydrates: 1.6gFiber: 0.5gSugar: 0gProtein: 2.9g

The post Candied Bacon (Keto Recipe) appeared first on The Best Keto Recipes.

Bacon Roses

These Bacon Roses are perfect for the non-traditional partner or friend! Skip the flowers–We know they’ll die soon anyway! Skip the candy–Nobody can resist eating an entire box in one sitting. Instead, stick with bacon roses, the edible gift that’s great for a snack, breakfast, adding to dinner, or even dipped in dark chocolate for a sweet-and-salty treat!

These roses look complicated, but one easy step takes these from looking like “that’s just bacon rolled up” to “woah, that actually looks like it has petals!” Just one ingredient needed for this thoughtful, keto-friendly gift.

How to Make Bacon Roses

Take a careful look at the photos below — The rolling forwards and backwards step can be a little confusing at first, but you can easily get your rhythm down quickly. Here’s a step-by-step guide for making Bacon Roses with thick-cut bacon.

Roll

First, roll your bacon towards you for one “loop” or roll. Instead of continuing to roll towards you, begin to roll away from you like the second picture above. This will create a “petal” type look instead of just rolled up bacon.

Secure

Continue rolling just like this — Towards you for one “loop,” away from you for one “loop.” If you prefer them to look like rosebuds, roll them tight. If you prefer them to look large and blooming, spread them out a little so the petals have room to “open up.” You have to be careful, though–If the bacon is too spread out, it won’t look like a rose at all.

Secure with a toothpick, making sure to keep them in place. Feel free to use a second toothpick if you need because making sure they stay together is the key to pretty roses.

Bake

Place each secured raw bacon rose into a muffin tin well, filling it up for a dozen “roses.” Bake these at 425 degrees F for 50 minutes. Begin checking around the 40 minute mark to make sure you get yours the way you prefer.

Place Roses on Stems

Once your bacon roses are baked, carefully remove the toothpicks and transfer the roses to a plate lined with paper towel. Dry them as best you can, preferably sitting them out to cool for 30 minutes.

Grab your roses (these can be real or fake, your choice). Cut the rose bud off the stem about 1-2 inches above the first leaves. this will ensure that the bacon roses sit nicely on the stems like real roses. Once the stem is cut, simply push the bacon rose onto the stem.

NOTE: Some people may not prefer to stick the bacon onto a real rose stem. That’s perfectly fine–You can buy faux roses at craft stores and sometimes even dollar stores. This would make it easy to make a bacon rose bouquet for every event without having to buy a dozen roses every time.

Final Presentation

Once your roses are on their stems, put together your edible bouquet. Similar to a real flower bouquet, you want to remove any leaves that are below the top of your vase. You can add water to the vase for the look of real flowers, but it’s obviously not necessary.

Store

These roses should be stored in the fridge in an airtight container. If you’re making ahead of the event, I recommend keeping the bacon in the fridge, then placing them on the stems right before presentation. Reheating directions are below in case you want to have them hot when gifting them.

Freeze

Bacon can be frozen, so these rosebuds are good to freeze as well! Place cooked or raw bacon roses on a baking sheet in the freezer. After 1-2 hours, transfer to a freezer bag and enjoy within 3-6 months.

Reheat

If you’d like them heated, rewarm them in the air fryer (390 for 2-3 minutes) or oven (400 at 5-10 minutes). You can also use the microwave, but some may get a bit soft. DO NOT REHEAT BACON ROSES WHILE THEY ARE ON THE STEM. If you are using real roses, the leaves will immediately die and look awful. If you are using faux flowers, they likely have some metal wire inside and will ruin your microwave and burn in the oven or air fryer.

For the bacon lovers in your life, try these other recipes:

• Bacon Wrapped Green Beans & Bacon Wrapped Cabbage – If you love your vegetables, you’ll love them even more when you wrap them up in deliciously crispy bacon!
• Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin, Bacon Wrapped Chicken, and Bacon Wrapped Scallops all give you a big dose of protein while also enjoying that salty, tasty bacon.
• Keto Bacon Egg and Cheese Rolls – Such a perfect breakfast, and they can be frozen, too!
• Bacon Cheddar Cauliflower Tots – Low carb and absolutely drool-worthy! Great with keto chicken strips, too.

FAQ’s about Bacon Roses

Yield: 12 Roses

Bacon Roses (easy edible gift)

Print

These Bacon Roses make the BEST edible gift for your favorite friend or partner. This keto-friendly holiday gift is perfect for Valentine's Day, graduations, and celebrations all year long!

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 50 minutes

Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 12 pieces bacon

Instructions

1. Lay out 12 pieces of bacon on parchment paper while preheating your oven to 425 degrees F.
2. Begin rolling one piece of bacon towards you (tightly but not so much that you're squeezing it), then on the next roll, switch directions and roll away from you. Hold the bacon there, then continue rolling towards and away from you until you meet the end of the bacon.
3. Secure the bacon rolls with 1-2 toothpicks and place each one inside the well of a muffin pan.
4. Bake roses 45-55 minutes, depending on your preference.

Notes

You can dump the bacon grease out of the muffin pan about halfway through to reduce the fat and the cooking time. However, I've found that it takes so long to safely dump the bacon that it hasn't been worth it for me.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

12

Serving Size:

1 bacon rose
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 44Total Fat: 3.5gCholesterol: 8.7mgSodium: 177.6mgCarbohydrates: 0.1gNet Carbohydrates: 0.1gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gProtein: 2.9g

The post Bacon Roses (Easy Edible Gift!) appeared first on The Best Keto Recipes.

Keto Lunch Ideas

Coming up with tasty but easy lunch ideas is tough, but sometimes we overthink it! Staying low carb can be as simple as stacking 2 ingredients and rolling them up. With a few different cheeses and meats, you can create an easy no-cook lunch that doesn’t get too boring. Add in extras like pickles, olives, or pepperoncinis for even more flavor!

How do you make lunchmeat rollups?

The concept is extremely simple. Two steps: Picking you meat and cheese pairings, then rolling it up and securing it. Here are some tips:

Pair cheeses and meats

These are best when you pair flavors that work well with one another. Here are some that I enjoyed:

• Prosciutto and Mozzarella – The tender prosciutto works great with the creamy mozzarella.
• Turkey and Provolone – I love this best with a smoked turkey, but any type will do.
• Ham and Swiss – The light sweetness of the ham is delicious with the stronger swiss cheese flavor.
• Salami and Provolone – I also added a pickle in this one because I just love those two flavors together.

Of course, there are SO many options! I love a prosciutto with a tangy, aged swiss or a pepper jack and smoked turkey.

Roll and secure

Lay your deli meat on your plate, then top it with your cheese. Roll it up gently, then stick a toothpick into it to secure it. If your cheese is too stiff to roll, you can zap it in the microwave for 5-10 seconds to melt it slightly. You don’t want to melt it entirely as it releases the oil in the cheese.

Storage

If your rollup is only meat and cheese, you can prepare these and store them in an airtight container for about a week. If your rollup includes ingredients with more moisture (pickles, pepperoncini, olives, etc.), you likely want to eat those within the next day or two for the best texture. Any airtight container is fine, even just a ziplock bag.

If you like these Easy Lunch Rollups, you’ll love these recipes:

• Keto Pizza Pinwheels – Only 4.5 net carbs for 5 of these delicious snacks. The creamy marinara spread is delicious!
• Keto Lunch Skewers – Try either the Pizza Skewers or the Turkey Skewers for an easy, no-cook snack! Enjoy 4 of each type for under 6 net carbs. Here are two types of Prosciutto Skewers, too.
• Pizza Chaffle – Eat this when the cheese is warm and melty or pack it all separately and have a keto lunchable! Just 1.8 net carbs each.
• Turkey Bacon Avocado Taquitos – Cheesy, full of your favorite flavors and textures, and just 1 net carb for 2 of them!
• Keto Tuna Salad – This lunch classic is great in sandwiches, peppers, or as a dip with chips! Don’t forget to try this Chicken Salad version, too.
• Marinated Shrimp – Literally a “dump and go” lunch or appetizer… No cooking involved! Just 0.5 carbs for a 1/4 pound of shrimp.

FAQ’s about Keto Lunch Ideas

The post Easy Lunch Rollups (keto lunch ideas) appeared first on The Best Keto Recipes.

Your next get-together needs this Keto Beer Cheese Dip. The depth of flavor (provided by the light lager and Worcestershire) takes this above and beyond your average cheese dip. Scoop it up with some vegetables, keto chips, or chaffles for a super easy appetizer recipe!

This Beer Cheese Dip cooks in the slow cooker, so you know it’s incredibly easy. It’s especially convenient when you’re bringing a dish to a buffet-style menu. Just plug that crock pot in and keep it warmed up so that everyone can eat at their own pace!

Beer Cheese Dip Ingredients

• Cream cheese – Room temperature and cubed cream cheese will melt quicker and smoother
• Cheese – If possible, use freshly shredded cheese as it melts better. I used white and yellow sharp cheddar, but gouda or havarti would also be great.
• Low-carb lager beer – I used Yuengling Light Lager, a 3.2 carb beer
• Dijon mustard – You could use a different mustard if you prefer.
• Worcestershire sauce – This adds a smokier, deeper flavor. If you don’t have this, you could substitute your favorite steak marinade
• Liquid smoke – This is optional, but I love the smoky flavor!

How to make Crock Pot Beer Cheese Dip

This beer cheese dip is extremely easy to make, so it’s perfect when you’re getting ready for a party! Here are your step by step instructions:

Combine your ingredients

Add all of your ingredients into the slow cooker. If you want to help your dip turn out as smooth as possible, you could melt the cream cheese in the slow cooker completely before adding the remainder of the ingredients.

Cook on low

With all ingredients in, cook your dip for 1-2 hours on low. 1 1/2 hours was perfect for me, but some slow cookers may cook faster or slower. Make sure to gently stir the dip every 20-30 minutes to make sure it doesn’t burn.

Blend for a smooth dip

This step is completely optional, but it’s my preferred way. If you have an inversion blender, you can blend the dip right there in the slow cooker. If you don’t, simply pour or ladle the soup into a blender and give it about 30 seconds on medium power.

Serve

This dip would be great with other appetizers like Keto Sausage Stuffed Jalapeno Poppers, Chorizo Sausage Balls, or Keto Chicken Wings. Crispy Zucchini Chips or Keto Pretzel Bites are great low-carb dippers. Keto chips make for an easy snack!

How to store Keto Beer Cheese Dip

This dip should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge up to 4 days. If you are leaving it out for 2+ hours, make sure it is heated so that bacteria doesn’t start growing.

Freeze

This dip can be frozen, but the texture will be altered because of the cream cheese. If you do freeze it, eat within 3 months. The longer it is frozen, the more the texture will change. To try to return the dip back to its former texture, try blending and then stir in a bit of warm heavy cream.

Reheat

To reheat a large portion (or the entire recipe), return to the slow cooker or a pot on the stove. Warm on low, stirring occasionally until dip is warm throughout. For small portions, blast for 30-second intervals in the microwave.

If you like this Beer Cheese Dip recipe, try these recipes:

• Cheesy Crab and Bacon Dip – This baked dip is creamy, super cheesy, and a huge crowd pleaser. Canned artichokes add a great flavor and perfectly complements the crab!
• Whipped Feta Dip – This delicious recipe is a cold dip, so you don’t have to worry about keeping it warm on a buffet or at a party. It also makes a great spread for Italian Pinwheels!
• Copycat Chuy’s Jalapeno Ranch – This spicy, creamy dip is fantastic with chicken tenders, keto chips, and veggies!
• Blue Cheese Buffalo Chicken Dip – This dip is packed full of protein, fats, and flavor! Even if you’re not a fan of vegetables, you will be with this dip.

FAQ’s about Beer Cheese Dip

Yield: 16 servings (1/4 cup each)

Keto Beer Cheese Recipe

Print

This Beer Cheese Recipe is the perfect potluck or party appetizer. Low-carb, full of flavor, and super easy to make!

Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes

Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 12 ounces Cream cheese, room temperature & cut into cubes
• 3 cups Cheese, freshly shredded* (I used white and yellow sharp cheese, but using a gouda would have been smoother)
• 3/4 cup low-carb lager beer (I used Yuengling Light Lager, a 3.2 carb beer)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon Liquid smoke*

Instructions

1. Add your cream cheese to the crock pot, and allow it to melt on low. Once melted, stir until it's creamy and without clumps.
2. Add in the remaining ingredients and cook for about 1 1/2 hours. Stir occasionally to help the cheese melt.
3. After about 1 1/2 hours, stir the dip -- If there are still clumps after stirring, continue to cook another 30 minutes or until it's smooth.
4. Allow the dip to cool a bit, then transfer to a blender. Start on low, then work your way to the highest level. Blend until it looks beautifully smooth (it took me about 2 minutes total).
5. Return to slow cooker and serve immediately with keto chips, vegetables, and chaffles!

Notes

* Cheddar doesn't melt to a super-smooth texture, so replace half (or all) of the cheddar with gouda. Gouda melts smoothly and will reduce any "gritty" texture the dip may have.

** Liquid smoke is not necessary, but I believe that the flavor adds depth and complements the sharp cheddar.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

16

Serving Size:

About 1/4 cup
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 179Cholesterol: 15.6mgSodium: 258.3mgCarbohydrates: 2.2gNet Carbohydrates: 2.2gFiber: 0gSugar: 1gProtein: 7g

The post Keto Beer Cheese Dip appeared first on The Best Keto Recipes.

Salty, crunchy, dippable, and delicious. Keto Chips have all the crunch you want without all the carbs! Go a little spicy with baked pepperoni chips, or make some nachos with these keto tortilla chips. Each keto chip recipe can be out of the oven in less than 15 minutes with basically no prep, so this quick party recipe is an easy one to keep in your back pocket.

These chips don’t require refrigeration and they can last for a week — That’s perfect to toss into lunchboxes or bags for an easy snack that might save you from other cravings! You could even keep a bag in the car during road trips or take them on a quick hike.

Keto Chip Ingredients

• Pepperoni Chips – Pepperoni (medium, pizza topping size) and spray olive oil
• Tortilla Chips – Tortillas (low-carb street taco size) and spray olive oil

You may choose to add different seasonings to complement different types of dip! Cracker pepper, sea salt, sesame seeds, and herbs can all be sprinted on the chips to add your own twist.

How to make Keto Tortilla Chips and Pepperoni Chips

These keto chips can be made two ways, so you have double the dip options! These two chips do bake at different temperatures and for different amounts of time, so you will need to do these in two batches.

Cut the tortillas

With street taco style low carb tortillas, you can cut it into four pieces about the size of store-bought tortilla chips. You can use larger tortillas, but it’s a bit more difficult to get pieces of the same size for even cooking.

Arrange on baking rack/baking pan

Place your cut tortillas onto a greased baking pan (or with a silicone liner) in a single layer. Avoid allowing them to touch much — Crowding reduces air flow, so the tortillas won’t crisp up as well if they don’t have some space.

Spray the tortillas with oil

A light spray of olive oil on top will help the tortillas brown and crisp. Spray both sides of the tortilla so they get nice and crisp. If you don’t have spray oil, you can brush oil onto the tortillas (but consider doing that BEFORE cutting the tortillas to make it easier).

Bake Keto Tortilla Chips

Bake your tortillas for about 14 minutes total. Halfway through (around the 7 minute mark), take out the tortillas and flip them. Return the pan back to the oven and continue cooking another 6-8 minutes. When the chips are lightly golden, remove and allow to cool 5 minutes before serving. If you prefer salted chips, sprinkle the salt over the chips while they are still warm.

Start pepperoni chips

Once the tortillas are removed from the baking sheet, place a rack on it. Arrange the pepperoni in a single layer so that they crisp up perfectly. Spray your pepperoni with a bit of olive oil.

Bake Pepperoni Chips

Pepperoni Chips should be cooked about 11-12 minutes, depending on your preference of crispiness. You do not have to flip the pepperoni because the wire rack allows for good airflow.

Serve

This crunchy, salty snack recipe is a keeper because these chips can go with so many things. The baked pepperoni chips are perfect with Jalapeno Ranch or Beer Cheese Dip. Tortilla chips is exactly what you need for Smoked Queso Dip or Crab and Bacon Dip!

Both chips would make a great lunch side, too — Add your chips to a Chicken Bacon Ranch Lettuce Wrap or a Keto Bacon Cheeseburger for a filling, low-carb meal.

Store

Both of these chip recipes can be stored in an airtight container on the counter up to 1 week. Make sure you allow them to cool completely before putting them in the container — The chips will not stay crisp for long if you store them while warm.

The pepperoni chips do lose some crispness after 2 days, but you can quickly regain some of that by putting them under the broiler for about 30 seconds. Keep a close eye or they’ll burn quickly! The tortillas didn’t lose any crispness throughout the whole week, so they will be perfect for an easy school snack.

If you’re interested in these Keto Chips, you may also like…

• Zucchini Chips – These are incredibly tasty! You can have 3/4 cup of these for under 3 net carbs, too.
• Keto Nachos – This recipe uses cheese chips, but this could also be delicious with these homemade tortilla chips!
• Crispy Keto Fries – Rutabaga helps these fries become just as crispy and tender as potato fries!
• Whipped Feta Dip – Low in carbs, high in cheesy, creamy flavor! These would go great with the pepperoni chips, too.
• Chili Cheese Collard Green Chips – These are crispy, super flavorful, and also don’t require any refrigeration for an easy, healthy snack.

FAQ’s about Keto Chips

Keto Chips (2 Ways!)

Print

Prep Time 2 minutes

Cook Time 12 minutes

Total Time 14 minutes

Ingredients

Pepperoni Chips - 6 servings

• 1 (6 ounce) pack of pepperoni (I used Hormel Original Pepperoni)

Tortilla Chips - 7 servings

• 1 (14 count) low carb street taco tortilla (I used Mission Zero Carb Street Taco Tortillas - link below)

Instructions

Pepperoni Chips

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Place a baking rack on top of a baking sheet, then add pepperoni in an even layer.
3. Bake 11-12 minutes or until pepperoni has browned and is crisp.
4. Leave sitting for 5 minutes because the chips crisp up more as they cool.

Tortilla Chips

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F while you cut tortillas (4-4.5" diameter) into 4 pieces.
2. Place tortillas on a greased baking sheet (or lined with silicone mat), then spray both sides of tortillas with olive oil.
3. Bake 7 minutes, remove from oven, flip tortillas, and continue to bake another 6-8 minutes.
4. Allow the chips to cool so that they reach maximum crispiness.

Notes

Keto Tortilla Chip Nutrition Information

Nutrition values below are calculated using a 14-tortiila pack of Mission Zero Carb Street Taco Tortillas.

Serving Size: 8 chips (2 tortillas) 
Number of Servings: 7 

Calories: 50 grams / Total Fat: 3 grams / Saturated Fat: 1 grams / Sodium: 250 milligrams / Carbohydrates: 14 grams / Fiber: 14 grams / Protein: 4 grams

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

1 ounce (about 14 Hormel Original Pepperoni chips
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 250Total Fat: 14gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 520mgCarbohydrates: 0gNet Carbohydrates: 0gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gProtein: 5g

The post How to Make Keto Chips (2 ways!) appeared first on The Best Keto Recipes.

This delicious recipe for Keto Lil Smokies is just like that classic version at every American potluck party — A bit smoky, a bit sweet, and covered in tangy barbecue sauce. This version uses a golden monk fruit in place of brown sugar for a low-carb app that tastes just like the original.

These can be frozen before or after cooking, so you can easily prepare yourself for the parties or company coming up in the next couple of months. This dump-and-go appetizer will be the easiest, most convenient recipe in your arsenal this season!

Little Smokies Ingredients

Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need. For exact measurements and directions, scroll down to the printable recipe card below.

• Lit’l Smokies – I used Hillshire Farm pork, but other brands work, too. They carry pork, beef, and turkey. Check the nutrition label — Some have higher carbs, but Hillshire Farm pork has just 2 carbs.
• Sugar-Free Hickory Barbecue Sauce – I used G Hughes hickory sauce, but you can use whatever low-carb barbecue sauce you like best. Adding 1/2-1 teaspoon of liquid smoke can help give more of that hickory flavor.
• Golden Monk Fruit – I used the Lakanto brand, but you can use another 1:1 brown sugar replacement if you prefer something else. Granular sugar replacements also work just fine, but you don’t get quite the depth of flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce – This adds a great depth of flavor and helps balance out the sweetness of the recipe. If you don’t have this, replace it with your favorite steak marinade.
• Liquid Smoke (optional) – If you love that smoke flavor, add a bit of liquid smoke. I’d start with 1/2 teaspoon, then increase in small amounts until it reaches your preferred taste.

How to Make Keto Lil Smokies

This easy keto appetizer recipe is so simple, you’ll have it memorized after just making it once! Here’s a step-by-step look at this easy recipe.

Make the sauce

First, add the barbecue sauce, sweetener, and Worcestershire sauce to the slow cooker. Stir these ingredients to form a well-combined sauce, then pour in both (drained) packages of little smokies. Mix all of this together, making sure every single piece is coated in sauce. This helps ensure they will soak up flavor and not dry out during cooking.

Cook sausages

Now that everything is covered in the slow cooker, cook on low for 1-2 hours. This cooking time will depend on the size and power of your slow cooker as well as the temperature of the ingredients when you started cooking. If you allow all ingredients to reach room temperature, your appetizer will be ready quicker!

It’s safest to check at the 45 minute mark, then I’d check and stir every 15 minutes after that until they are warmed throughout. Stir at least once during the cooking to ensure even cooking.

What to Serve with Lil Smokies

These Lil Smokies can be served hot right out of the slow cooker or even cold from a lunch box. On an appetizer table, consider serving these with Keto Jalapeno Poppers, Air Fryer Mushrooms, or 5-Ingredient Keto Sausage Balls for a low-carb table full of flavor.

For game day, Keto Pretzel Bites with Cheese Sauce, Easy Keto Popcorn Shrimp, and Keto Chicken Wings would be perfect with these Lil Smokies! Add some great dip like Smoked Queso, Blue Cheese Buffalo Chicken Dip, or Beer Cheese Dip.

How to Store Little Smokies

Completely cooled Little Smokies can be stored in an airtight container up to 4 days in the fridge. If you’re sitting this out for a party, make sure it’s in a slow cooker to stay warm. Do not let it sit out more than 2 hours if it is not heated.

Freezing Little Smokies

Little Smokies can be frozen, and it’s very easy! Allow your cooked sausages to cool completely before storing — Warm food lowers the temperature of the freezer, and the condensation from warm food can lead to freezer burn.

Pour your Keto Little Smokies into a freezer bag, closing and sucking out any remaining air in the bag. Double bag if your freezer struggles with freezer burn. If possible, lay the bag flat in the freezer for 1 day, then it can be leaned up vertically to save you freezer space. These are best eaten within 2 months as the freeze can alter the texture.

Raw little smokies can be frozen, too! For a super easy meal prep appetizer, just pour your sauce ingredients in a freezer bag and mix or shake until all the ingredients are well combined. Add your raw sausages, close, and freeze like the cooked sausages above. When frozen raw, this can keep in the fridge 6-12 months.

Reheating Lil Smokies

Lil Smokies can be reheated using a slow cooker, skillet, microwave, or oven.

• Slow Cooker – Just pour back into the slow cooker, then turn on low to reheat. You can reheat on high, just make sure you’re nearby to stir and check it often.
• Skillet – On medium low, pour the sauce and Lil Smokies into the skillet. Cover with a lid and reheat 5-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave – Add 1-2 servings to a microwave safe bowl and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between cooking times. Cover with a paper towel as the sausages can burst and pop.
• Oven – Preheat to 350 degrees F, and pour your leftover Lil Smokies into a baking dish. Cover with foil or a lid, and reheat 10-20 minutes. Stir occasionally. If the sauce looks too thick, thin it out with a bit of water or broth.

FAQ’S ABOUT LITTLE SMOKIES

If you like this recipe for lil smokies, try these:

• BBQ Cheddar Meatballs – Can be cooked in the oven or air fryer and is PERFECT for a game day food or keto appetizer!
• Air Fryer Cauliflower – Crispy, bursting with buffalo sauce flavor, and ready super quick!
• Keto Popcorn Shrimp – Tender on the inside, crunchy on the outside. Low carb with a smoky flavor.
• Cheesy Crab and Bacon Dip – Creamy, cheesy, salty, and perfect with veggies or keto chips!
• Keto Mozzarella Sticks – WAY better than the freezer aisle option! Pork rind crumbs give these the absolute best texture!

Yield: 14 servings (about 7 pieces each)

Keto Little Smokies Recipe

Print

This Keto Little Smokies recipe has that classic sweet-and-smoky flavor while also being sugar free! This is the best keto appetizer for a potluck or party.

Cook Time 1 hour

Total Time 1 hour

Ingredients

• 2 packages (14 ounce) little smokies (I used Hillshire Farms)
• 1 1/2 cup sugar-free Hickory BBQ sauce (I used G Hughes brand)
• 1/2 cup golden monk fruit*
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke

Instructions

1. Combine BBQ sauce, monk fruit, and Worcestershire sauce to the slow cooker, then mix.
2. Add little smokies to the slow cooker and stir to coat.
3. Cook for 1-2 hours, stirring once or twice for even heating.

Notes

I used Hillshire Farm pork lit'l smokies and G Hughes hickory BBQ sauce because those were the lowest carb options in my store. These were used in calculating the nutrition values below.

If you don't have monk fruit, you can use another brown sugar replacement (like Swerve Brown Sugar), but you might have more aftertaste.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

14

Serving Size:

about 7 sausages
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 107Total Fat: 15.9gCholesterol: 37.4mgSodium: 671.4mgCarbohydrates: 3.7gNet Carbohydrates: 3.7gFiber: 0gSugar: 1gProtein: 6.5g

The post Keto Lil Smokies Recipe appeared first on The Best Keto Recipes.

Keto Prosciutto Skewers

These Keto Prosciutto Skewers are going to become your go-to party appetizer! I’ve got two different types for you here- one variety brings out the sweetness of the prosciutto, while the other highlights the saltiness. Serve both of these Keto Skewers together for the perfect combination of salty and sweet!

The flavors of these lunch kebobs are very different- there’s a strong blackberry flavor to the first and the perfect caprese flavor the second. You really can’t go wrong with either- they’re both completely delicious! These recipes really highlight the delightful simplicity of the flavors and lets them shine. There’s nothing overpowering to these light skewers- just perfectly complimentary flavors and textures.

I love these skewers because you don’t have to heat them up- they’re perfect for a charcuterie board, cocktail hour, brunches, bridal showers- really any occasion. These skewers look very impressive while requiring very little effort, so they’re great for entertaining. They also travel easily, so you could bring them to a potluck, game night or for a fun beach day!

What is prosciutto?

Prosciutto is an Italian ham, usually served in very thin slices. The ham is dry-cured and salted for a distinct flavor. The meat is described as having a sweet and salty flavor with a buttery texture.

Ingredients in this no cook lunch

As always, here is a quick overview of the ingredients used in our Prosciutto Skewers. For the complete recipe, just scroll to the bottom of the page.

For the Blackberry Skewers:

• Blackberries
• Prosciutto
• Brie

For the Caprese Skewers:

• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh mozzarella balls
• Fresh basil leaves
• Prosciutto

How do I make this keto lunch?

Both of these delicious varieties of Keto Prosciutto Skewers can be prepared with just a few easy steps!

To make the Blackberry Brie Skewers:

1. Slice your prosciutto and brie into 4 pieces.
2. Wrap your prosciutto around the brie and place a blackberry on top. Secure with a toothpick.

To make the Caprese Skewers:

1. Cut the tomato and mozzarella into halves and the prosciutto into quarters.
2. Fold the prosciutto into the shape of a square and place on top of the tomato. Layer with basil and mozzarella and secure with a toothpick.

Is this prosciutto recipe good for keto meal prep?

Yes, these Keto Prosciutto Skewers are perfect for keto meal prep! Just prepare in advance and store in the fridge. These skewers will stay fresh for up to five days. You don’t need to heat these up- just chill and enjoy!

How many carbs are in these meat skewers?

These Prosciutto Skewers are naturally super low carb- there’s less than one net carb each! You can enjoy four Blackberry skewers for 1.5 net carbs, or four caprese skewers for just 2.5 net carbs. Alliteratively, you can enjoy all 8 for just 4 net carbs total! 

More keto lunch recipes

• Keto Chicken Salad
• Turkey Lettuce Wraps
• Steak and Cheese Skillet
• Keto Salad Bowl

Yield: 8 Skewers (1-2 servings)

Keto Prosciutto Skewers

Print

These Keto Prosciutto Skewers are the easiest no-cook appetizers. Enjoy both savory and sweet options at your next party or in your lunchbox!

Prep Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

Blackberry Skewers (1.5 net carbs for 4 skewers)

• 4 blackberries
• 1 slice prosciutto (0.5 ounce)
• 1.5 ounces brie

Caprese Skewers (2.5 net carbs for 4 skewers)

• 2 cherry tomatoes
• 2 cherry-size fresh mozzarella balls
• 4 basil leaves
• 1 slice prosciutto (0.5 ounce)

Instructions

Blackberry Skewers

1. Cut your prosciutto slice into 4 each pieces, and cut your brie into four equal chunks.
2. Wrap 1 piece of prosciutto around 1 piece of brie. Place a blackberry on top, then secure with a toothpick.

Caprese Skewers (2.5 net carbs for 4 skewers)

1. Cut your tomatoes and mozzarella in half, and cut your slice of prosciutto into quarters. There should be 4 pieces of each.
2. Fold 1 piece of prosciutto up into a square about the size of a cherry tomato. Place this on top of the tomato half, then layer a basil leaf and the mozzarella half on top. Secure with a toothpick.

Notes

• Nutritional information for  4 Blackberry Skewers   Calories: 230, Total Fat: 17 grams Cholesterol: 66 milligrams Sodium: 557 milligrams Carbohydrates: 3 grams Fiber: 1.5 grams Sugar: 1.6 grams Protein: 15 grams Net Carbs: 1.5 grams
• See below for nutritional values of the Caprese Skewer.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

4 Caprese Skewers
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 115Total Fat: 7.1gCholesterol: 28mgSodium: 361mgCarbohydrates: 3.3gNet Carbohydrates: 2.5gFiber: 0.8gSugar: 2.1gProtein: 9.7g

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