8 Best Make-Ahead Keto Side Dishes

Have you ever been to a potluck where the side dishes stole the show? They were like the supporting actors that turned out to be the real stars of the show.

Well, get ready to discover eight make-ahead keto side dishes that are guaranteed to steal the spotlight at your next gathering. From the mouthwatering bacon-wrapped asparagus to the creamy spinach and artichoke dip, these dishes are not only delicious, but also low-carb and perfect for those following a ketogenic lifestyle.

But that's not all; these dishes can be prepared in advance, saving you time and effort when it really matters.

So, get ready to elevate your side dish game and leave your guests begging for more.

Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

To make bacon-wrapped asparagus, simply wrap strips of bacon around fresh asparagus spears and bake them until crispy and tender. This delicious appetizer is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect addition to any gathering. Bacon-wrapped appetizers are always a hit, and by using asparagus, you can offer a healthier alternative to other options.

Asparagus is packed with nutrients, such as vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and fiber. Wrapping it in bacon adds a savory and indulgent flavor while still keeping it low-carb and keto-friendly. The combination of the crispy bacon and the tender asparagus creates a delightful contrast in texture.

To prepare this dish, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, take a bundle of fresh asparagus and trim off the woody ends. Take a strip of bacon and wrap it tightly around each asparagus spear, starting from one end and going all the way to the other. Place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.

Serve these bacon-wrapped asparagus spears as a side dish or an appetizer. They pair well with a creamy dipping sauce or a squeeze of lemon for some tanginess. These tasty treats provide a flavorful and nutritious alternative to traditional bacon-wrapped appetizers, making them a perfect choice for those looking for delicious keto-friendly options.

Cauliflower "Mac" and Cheese

Get ready to indulge in a low-carb cheesy goodness that will satisfy your cravings for comfort food. Cauliflower 'Mac' and Cheese is an easy and delicious keto side dish that will leave you feeling satisfied and guilt-free.

Low-Carb Cheesy Goodness

Indulge in a low-carb cheesy delight with this mouthwatering cauliflower 'mac' and cheese recipe. If you're looking for low carb cheesy snacks or keto-friendly cheese recipes, this is the perfect dish for you.

Cauliflower serves as a fantastic substitute for traditional macaroni, reducing the carb content significantly. To make this delicious dish, start by steaming or roasting cauliflower florets until they're tender.

In a separate pan, melt butter and whisk in heavy cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the cooked cauliflower to the cheese mixture and stir until well coated.

Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with additional cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly. This low-carb cauliflower 'mac' and cheese is a satisfying and flavorful alternative to the classic comfort food.

Easy Keto Comfort Food

Enjoy a delicious and satisfying low-carb comfort food with this easy keto cauliflower 'mac' and cheese recipe.

If you're following a keto diet, finding comfort food options that are low in carbs can be a challenge. However, this cauliflower 'mac' and cheese is a perfect solution.

Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that can be used as a substitute for higher-carb ingredients like pasta. By using cauliflower florets instead of macaroni, you can enjoy a creamy and cheesy dish without the guilt.

This recipe is also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. To make it even more indulgent, you can add crispy bacon or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.

Keto Garlic Butter Mushrooms

Looking for a flavorful keto side dish? Look no further than these Keto Garlic Butter Mushrooms. With the perfect combination of garlic and butter, these mushrooms are packed with deliciousness.

Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for any meal.

Flavorful Keto Side Dish

To add a burst of flavor to your keto meal, try these mouthwatering Keto Garlic Butter Mushrooms. Not only are they a flavorful keto side dish, but they also provide a range of health benefits.

Mushrooms are one of the best keto-friendly vegetable options as they're low in carbs and high in nutrients. They're rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help support a healthy immune system and promote overall well-being.

The garlic butter adds a delicious savory taste to the mushrooms, making them the perfect addition to any keto-friendly meal. Plus, they're quick and easy to make, making them a convenient option for busy individuals following a keto diet.

Easy Make-Ahead Option

As you prepare for your keto-friendly meals, don't forget to try the easy make-ahead option of Keto Garlic Butter Mushrooms.

These mushrooms aren't only delicious but also a time-saving recipe that can be prepared in advance. With quick meal prep, you can have a flavorful side dish ready to go whenever you need it.

The recipe involves sautéing mushrooms in a mixture of garlic and butter, resulting in a savory and aromatic dish that pairs well with any keto main course.

By making these mushrooms ahead of time, you can save valuable minutes during your meal preparation and have a tasty side dish that complements your keto lifestyle.

Garlic and Butter Combination

The combination of garlic and butter creates a flavorful base for the Keto Garlic Butter Mushrooms, making it a delectable side dish for your keto meals. The rich and creamy texture of the butter perfectly complements the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, while the garlic adds a depth of savory taste.

This mouthwatering dish is a great alternative to high-carb options like garlic butter shrimp or roasted garlic potatoes. Not only does it satisfy your cravings for something indulgent, but it also fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can have this delicious side dish ready in no time. Your taste buds will thank you!

Zucchini Noodles With Pesto

You can easily prepare zucchini noodles with pesto ahead of time and enjoy a flavorful low-carb side dish. Zucchini noodles, also known as zoodles, are a popular alternative to traditional pasta for those following a keto diet. They're made by spiralizing zucchini into thin strands, resembling spaghetti. Zucchini noodles aren't only low in carbs but also packed with vitamins and minerals.

There are various ways to prepare zucchini noodles with pesto, allowing for versatility and customization. You can experiment with different zucchini noodle variations, such as using a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons. This adds visual appeal and texture to the dish. Additionally, you can try using different types of pesto to enhance the flavors. Traditional basil pesto is a classic choice, but you can explore pesto alternatives like sun-dried tomato pesto or spinach and walnut pesto for a unique twist.

To make zucchini noodles with pesto ahead of time, simply spiralize or slice the zucchini and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Prepare the pesto separately and keep it refrigerated as well. When you're ready to enjoy the dish, toss the zucchini noodles with the pesto and serve. This make-ahead option saves you time and allows you to have a delicious keto side dish ready whenever you need it.

Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts

For a flavorful and satisfying keto-friendly main dish, try making broccoli and cheese stuffed chicken breasts. This recipe combines the richness of cheese with the health benefits of broccoli, making it a perfect option for a delicious and nutritious meal.

To prepare this keto chicken dinner, start by cutting a pocket in each chicken breast and stuffing it with a mixture of steamed broccoli florets and shredded cheese. You can use any type of cheese that melts well, such as cheddar or mozzarella.

Once the chicken breasts are stuffed, simply season them with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Then, bake them in the oven until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

The result is a mouthwatering dish that's low in carbs and high in protein. This combination of flavors and textures will surely satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track with your keto diet.

Give this broccoli and cheese stuffed chicken breasts recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious and healthy meal tonight.

Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip

To continue your keto-friendly meal, indulge in the creamy goodness of a spinach and artichoke dip. This classic appetizer isn't only delicious but also keto-friendly, making it a perfect addition to your make-ahead side dishes.

While the traditional recipe typically includes ingredients like cream cheese and mayonnaise, there are alternative options that can be just as creamy and satisfying. For a dairy-free alternative, you can use cashew cream or coconut milk as the base for your dip. These alternatives provide a rich and creamy texture without compromising on flavor.

Additionally, you can experiment with different variations of artichoke dip to add some variety to your keto menu. For example, you can add cooked bacon or diced jalapenos to give the dip a spicy kick. You could also try mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy flavor.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out some alternative variations, a creamy spinach and artichoke dip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next keto-friendly gathering.

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

The Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying keto side dish that will leave you craving for more. Made with cheesy cauliflower rice, this dish is perfect for those following a keto diet. Cauliflower rice is a low-carb alternative to traditional rice, and when combined with cheese, it creates a delicious and indulgent casserole.

This keto-friendly casserole is easy to make ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or gatherings. Simply prepare the cauliflower rice by pulsing cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice grains. Then, combine the cauliflower rice with grated cheese, cream cheese, and seasonings of your choice. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

The result is a creamy and cheesy dish that's packed with flavor. The cauliflower rice provides a satisfying texture, while the cheese adds richness and depth.

This casserole is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while still enjoying a delicious and comforting side dish. Whether you're following a keto diet or simply looking for a tasty side dish, the Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is sure to impress.

Avocado Cucumber Salad

Craving a refreshing and nutritious option after indulging in the cheesy cauliflower casserole? Look no further than the satisfying Avocado Cucumber Salad. This keto-friendly salad is packed with healthy fats and hydrating ingredients to help you stay on track with your low-carb lifestyle.

To make this salad even more delicious, you can experiment with different keto-friendly dressing options. A classic choice is a simple lemon vinaigrette made with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also try a creamy avocado dressing by blending together avocado, lime juice, garlic, and a touch of olive oil.

There are also various ways to customize your avocado cucumber salad. If you're looking to add some crunch, try tossing in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts. For a burst of flavor, consider adding cherry tomatoes, red onions, or fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. You can even add some protein by including grilled chicken or shrimp.

No matter how you choose to make your avocado cucumber salad, you can be sure that it will be a refreshing and satisfying addition to your keto meal plan. Enjoy the crispness of the cucumber, the creaminess of the avocado, and the burst of flavors in every bite.