Cooking keto meals in a crockpot can make life easier for those on a low-carb diet. These recipes let you save time while sticking to your eating plan.
You can prep ingredients, set the crockpot, and come home to a ready-to-eat keto meal.
Using a crockpot for keto cooking gives you tasty, filling meals without much effort. The slow cooking process brings out rich flavors in meats and veggies.
From soups and stews to shredded meats and dips, there are many keto-friendly options for your crockpot. These recipes often use common low-carb ingredients like meats, non-starchy veggies, and healthy fats.
1. Crockpot Chicken Alfredo with Zoodles
This keto-friendly dish combines creamy chicken alfredo with zucchini noodles for a low-carb delight.
Start by placing chicken breasts in your slow cooker with butter, cream cheese, and seasonings.
Cook on low for 4-5 hours until the chicken is tender. Shred the chicken and stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese to create a rich sauce.
While the sauce simmers, prepare your zoodles by spiralizing fresh zucchini. Serve the hot chicken alfredo over a bed of raw or lightly cooked zoodles for a satisfying meal that fits your keto lifestyle.
2. Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
This keto-friendly dish is easy to make in your crockpot. Start by slicing flank steak or chuck roast into thin strips and adding them to the slow cooker.
Mix soy sauce or coconut aminos, beef broth, garlic, ginger, and a low-carb sweetener to create a flavorful sauce. Pour this over the meat.
Cook on low for 5-6 hours until the beef is tender.
About 30 minutes before serving, add fresh broccoli florets to the pot.
For extra flavor, you can include sesame oil and red pepper flakes. To thicken the sauce, whisk in a small amount of xanthan gum near the end of cooking time.
3. Low-Carb Taco Soup
Taco soup is a tasty keto-friendly option for your crockpot. This meal combines ground beef, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese for a rich flavor.
You can make it in a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or on the stove. The recipe uses Rotel tomatoes and taco seasoning to give it a Mexican-inspired taste.
To keep it low-carb, skip the beans and use cauliflower rice instead. This soup is filling and only has about 3.8 net carbs per cup.
You can freeze leftovers for easy meals later. The slow cooking process helps blend the flavors and makes the meat tender.
4. Crockpot Butter Chicken
Crockpot butter chicken is a tasty keto-friendly meal you can easily make at home. This Indian-inspired dish combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce.
To make it, place chicken in your slow cooker. In a pan, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger. Add spices like garam masala and turmeric to boost flavor.
Pour in coconut milk or heavy cream for a keto-friendly base. Add tomato paste for color and tang. Mix everything well and pour over the chicken.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The result is juicy chicken in a flavorful sauce. Serve over cauliflower rice for a complete keto meal.
5. Keto Chili Con Carne
This hearty keto chili con carne is perfect for your crockpot. Start by browning ground beef in a pan with diced onions and garlic. Add the meat mixture to your slow cooker.
Stir in canned Mexican-style stewed tomatoes, tomato paste, and diced celery. Spice it up with chili powder, cumin, and paprika. For extra flavor, include some diced bell peppers.
Set your crockpot to low and let it simmer for 6-8 hours. The result is a thick, flavorful chili that fits your keto diet. Serve it with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream on top.
6. Creamy Ranch Pork Chops
Creamy ranch pork chops are a tasty and simple keto-friendly meal you can make in your crockpot. Start by mixing cream of chicken soup, water, and ranch seasoning in a bowl.
Place pork chops in the slow cooker and pour the mixture over them. For extra flavor, add sliced mushrooms.
Cook on low for 4-6 hours until the pork is tender. The ranch seasoning adds a zesty kick, while the creamy sauce keeps the meat moist.
This dish is low in carbs but high in protein and fat, perfect for your keto diet. Serve with a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
7. Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo chicken dip is a tasty keto-friendly appetizer you can make in your crockpot. It’s perfect for game days or parties.
To make it, combine cream cheese, ranch dressing, and buffalo sauce in your slow cooker. Add shredded chicken and mix well. Top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Cook on high for about 2 hours or on low for 4 hours. Stir occasionally until the cheese melts and everything is hot and bubbly.
Serve this low-carb dip with celery sticks or keto-friendly crackers. It’s creamy, spicy, and satisfying without the carbs.
8. Slow Cooked Pot Roast
Pot roast is a tasty keto-friendly meal you can make in your crockpot. Season your roast with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme and oregano.
Place the meat in the slow cooker with sliced onions and garlic. Pour in some beef broth or wine for extra flavor.
Cook on low for about 7 hours until the meat is tender. The slow cooking process helps break down tough cuts of meat.
For a richer taste, sear the roast in a pan before adding it to the crockpot. This creates a flavorful crust on the outside.
When done, remove the meat and let it rest before slicing. You can serve it with low-carb veggies cooked in the same pot for an easy meal.
9. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings
Garlic Parmesan chicken wings are a tasty keto-friendly option for your crockpot. Start by seasoning the wings with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Place them in your slow cooker with a bit of chicken broth.
Cook on high for about 2-3 hours or on low for 5-6 hours. The meat should be tender and almost falling off the bone.
For crispy skin, transfer the wings to a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes.
Make a sauce by melting butter and mixing in minced garlic and chopped parsley. Pour this over the wings and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. You’ll love these flavorful, low-carb wings as a meal or party snack.
10. Mushroom Stroganoff
Mushroom stroganoff is a tasty keto-friendly dish you can make in your crockpot. This creamy, savory meal is perfect for cold evenings.
Start by adding sliced mushrooms, diced onions, and minced garlic to your slow cooker. Pour in beef broth and a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra flavor.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The mushrooms will become tender and flavorful.
Before serving, stir in some heavy cream and sour cream to create a rich, smooth sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like rosemary or thyme to taste.
Serve your keto mushroom stroganoff over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a complete low-carb meal.
11. Crockpot Jambalaya
Crockpot jambalaya is a tasty low-carb meal you can make with ease. Start by placing chicken thighs in your slow cooker.
Mix spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne. Sprinkle half over the chicken. Add garlic, onion, celery, and green pepper on top.
Pour in chicken stock and cook on low for 4-6 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, add shrimp and riced cauliflower.
This keto-friendly version uses cauliflower instead of rice. It’s full of flavor and protein while staying low in carbs.
Serve your jambalaya hot and enjoy a comforting Cajun-inspired dish without the guilt.
12. Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken
This keto-friendly crockpot recipe brings bright flavors to your table. You’ll love the tangy lemon and savory garlic combination.
Start by placing chicken thighs or breasts in your slow cooker. Mix lemon juice, zest, and minced garlic in a bowl. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
Sprinkle a blend of herbs and spices on top. Add some butter for extra richness. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
The result is tender, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for your low-carb diet. Serve it with a side of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a complete meal.
13. Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
This keto-friendly dish is simple to make and full of flavor. You’ll need Italian sausages, bell peppers, onions, and some basic seasonings.
Start by browning the sausages in a skillet. This step adds extra flavor to the dish. Then, slice the peppers and onions and place them in your crockpot.
Add the browned sausages on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle in some Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 2-4 hours.
When done, the sausages will be tender and the vegetables soft and flavorful. Serve as is or with a side of cauliflower rice for a complete keto meal.
14. Cheesy Cauliflower Soup
This keto-friendly soup combines creamy cheese and tender cauliflower for a comforting meal. You can easily make it in your crockpot with just a few simple steps.
Start by adding cauliflower florets, garlic, and chicken broth to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours until the cauliflower is soft.
Once done, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in shredded cheese and heavy cream for added richness.
Let the soup cook for another 10-15 minutes to melt the cheese completely. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
This cheesy cauliflower soup is perfect for cold days and fits well into your keto meal plan.
15. Asian Pork Tenderloin
This keto-friendly slow cooker recipe brings Asian flavors to your table. You’ll need pork tenderloin, liquid aminos or soy sauce, and olive oil as the base ingredients.
Rub a mix of spices on the pork before placing it in the crockpot. Add whole garlic cloves and a small amount of water or broth to keep the meat moist.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the pork is tender and easily shreds. For added flavor, you can create a sauce using sugar-free sweetener, vinegar, and more liquid aminos.
Serve your Asian-inspired pork tenderloin over cauliflower rice or broccoli slaw for a complete keto meal.
16. Spicy Shredded Chicken Tacos
You can make tasty keto-friendly tacos in your crockpot. Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker with taco seasoning, chicken broth, and jalapeños.
Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2-3 hours. When done, shred the chicken with two forks.
Serve your spicy shredded chicken in low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps. Top with cheese, sour cream, and avocado for extra flavor and healthy fats.
This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s low in carbs but high in protein and flavor.
17. Coconut Curry Chicken
You’ll love this keto-friendly coconut curry chicken made in your slow cooker. It’s an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy days.
To make it, place chicken thighs in your crockpot. Mix coconut milk, curry paste, garlic, and spices, then pour over the chicken.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will be tender and infused with curry flavor.
For extra veggies, add some low-carb options like bell peppers or cauliflower in the last hour of cooking. Serve your coconut curry chicken over cauliflower rice for a complete keto meal.
18. Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Cauliflower mac and cheese is a tasty low-carb twist on the classic comfort food. This keto-friendly dish is easy to make in your crockpot.
Start by adding cauliflower florets to your slow cooker. Mix cream cheese, heavy cream, and spices like garlic powder, mustard powder, and paprika in a bowl. Pour this mixture over the cauliflower.
Add butter and cook on low for 2-3 hours. The cauliflower will become tender and absorb the creamy flavors. Stir in shredded cheese near the end of cooking time for a gooey finish.
This dish offers the same comforting taste as traditional mac and cheese, but with fewer carbs. It’s a great option for your keto meal plan.
19. Barbecue Pulled Pork
Keto barbecue pulled pork is a crowd-pleasing dish you can make in your crockpot. Start with a pork shoulder or butt and season it with a blend of spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Place the meat in your slow cooker with some beef broth and apple cider vinegar. Cook on low for 8-10 hours until tender. Shred the pork with two forks and mix with sugar-free BBQ sauce.
This versatile dish is perfect for meal prep or feeding a group. Serve it on keto-friendly buns or with low-carb sides for a satisfying meal that fits your diet.
20. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
This creamy keto-friendly dip is perfect for your crockpot. You’ll need spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, and mayo as the main ingredients.
To start, chop the artichoke hearts and thaw the frozen spinach. Squeeze out any excess water from the spinach.
Add all ingredients to your slow cooker and mix well. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1 hour until the cheese is fully melted.
This dip stays good in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then broil for 5-8 minutes until bubbly.
You can serve this dip with low-carb veggies or keto-friendly crackers for a tasty snack or party appetizer.
21. Balsamic Short Ribs
Balsamic short ribs are a tasty keto-friendly dish you can make in your slow cooker. Start by seasoning the ribs with salt, pepper, and herbs like rosemary and sage.
Brown the ribs in a pan before placing them in the crockpot. This step enhances their flavor. Mix balsamic vinegar with beef broth for a rich, tangy sauce.
Cook the ribs on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. The meat will become tender and fall off the bone. Serve with low-carb vegetables for a complete keto meal.
This recipe is perfect for busy days. You can prep it in the morning and come home to a delicious dinner.
Understanding the Keto Diet
The keto diet focuses on high fat, moderate protein, and very low carb intake. This eating plan aims to shift your body into ketosis, a state where it burns fat for fuel instead of carbs.
Key Principles of Keto
The keto diet typically breaks down macronutrients as:
- 70-80% fat
- 20-25% protein
- 5-10% carbohydrates
You’ll eat lots of healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and olive oil. Protein sources include meat, fish, and eggs. You’ll avoid most grains, sugars, and starchy vegetables.
The goal is to keep your body in ketosis. This happens when you eat very few carbs. Your body then turns to fat for energy instead of glucose from carbs.
Many people use keto for weight loss. Some believe it helps with certain health conditions too.
Carbohydrate Considerations
On keto, you’ll need to watch your carb intake closely. Most people aim for 20-50 grams of net carbs per day. Net carbs are total carbs minus fiber.
You’ll need to cut out:
- Bread and pasta
- Most fruits
- Starchy veggies like potatoes
- Sugary foods and drinks
Instead, focus on low-carb veggies like spinach, broccoli, and cauliflower. Berries in small amounts are OK too.
It’s key to read food labels carefully. Many foods have hidden carbs that can add up fast. Tracking your intake can help you stay within your carb limits.
Benefits of Using a Crockpot for Keto Meals
Crockpots make keto cooking easier and tastier. They save time and effort while bringing out rich flavors in low-carb ingredients.
Convenience and Time-Saving
Crockpots let you prep meals quickly in the morning. You can toss in ingredients and come home to a ready dinner. This works great for busy keto dieters.
Many keto-friendly foods like meats and veggies cook well in crockpots. The slow cooking breaks down tough cuts of meat, making them tender.
You can make big batches for meal prep too. Cook once and have keto meals for days. This cuts down on daily cooking time.
Crockpots also keep food warm. You can serve hot keto meals whenever you’re ready to eat.
Flavor Enhancement
Slow cooking brings out deep flavors in keto foods.
Meats become extra tasty and tender.
The long cook time lets spices and herbs infuse fully.
This adds lots of flavor without extra carbs.
Fatty cuts of meat work well for keto.
In a crockpot, the fat melts slowly, making food rich and satisfying.
Low-carb veggies absorb meat juices as they cook.
This makes them more flavorful.
You can add bone broth or stocks for extra nutrients and taste.
These liquids make keto meals more filling too.