Cheap Vegetarian Keto Recipes for Easy, Tasty Meals

Are you searching for delicious meals that fit a vegetarian keto lifestyle without breaking the bank? You’re in the right place!

Eating keto as a vegetarian can seem challenging, but with the right recipes, it’s both affordable and satisfying. Whether you’re looking to keep your carb count low or just want to add more plant-based, budget-friendly meals to your week, these cheap vegetarian keto recipes will keep your taste buds happy and your wallet intact.

In this blog post, you’ll find not just one, but three mouthwatering and wallet-friendly vegetarian keto recipes that are easy to prepare, full of flavor, and made from simple ingredients you can find anywhere.

From a hearty Cauliflower Fried Rice to Cheesy Zucchini Fritters and a rich Creamy Spinach Mushroom Bake, these dishes are proof that eating well on a budget is totally possible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly: Each recipe uses affordable ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or can easily find at any grocery store.
• Quick & Easy: Most recipes can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Low-Carb & Keto: Every dish is crafted to keep carbs low while maximizing flavor and texture.
• Vegetarian: All recipes are completely meatless, catering to vegetarians and anyone looking to eat more plant-based meals.
• Customizable: Plenty of tips and variations to match your tastes or what you have on hand.

Cheap Vegetarian Keto Recipes List

• Cauliflower Fried Rice – A low-carb twist on a takeout favorite.
• Cheesy Zucchini Fritters – Crispy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying.
• Creamy Spinach Mushroom Bake – Rich, cheesy, and packed with veggies.

Cauliflower Fried Rice

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Spatula
• Bowl

Instructions

1. Rice the cauliflower: Remove the leaves and stem from the cauliflower. Chop into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice. Alternatively, use a box grater.
2. Heat oil in skillet: Place your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, then the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Cook vegetables: Add the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender.
4. Add cauliflower rice: Stir in the riced cauliflower and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until it starts to soften.
5. Move veggies aside and scramble eggs: Move the mixture to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the other side, stirring until scrambled and cooked through. Mix everything together.
6. Season and finish: Add soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes.
7. Serve hot: Plate your cauliflower fried rice immediately. Enjoy!

Tip: For extra protein, add cubed tofu or roasted edamame!

Tips & Variations

• Swap soy sauce for tamari if you need gluten-free.
• Mix in your favorite low-carb veggies or leafy greens.
• Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat.
• For a vegan version, skip the eggs and try a tofu scramble.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

• Top with toasted sesame seeds and a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick.
• Pair with a side of Lion’s Mane Mushroom Crumble for added texture and nutrition.
• Serve as a meal on its own or alongside a keto-friendly soup or salad.

Cheesy Zucchini Fritters

Ingredients

Equipment

• Box grater
• Mixing bowl
• Clean kitchen towel
• Skillet
• Spatula

Instructions

1. Grate and drain zucchini: Grate the zucchini and sprinkle with salt. Let sit 10 minutes, then squeeze out excess water using a kitchen towel.
2. Mix ingredients: In a bowl, combine zucchini, eggs, cheddar, almond flour, black pepper, and chives.
3. Heat oil in skillet: Warm olive oil over medium heat.
4. Form fritters: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture per fritter into the skillet. Flatten gently with a spatula.
5. Cook until golden: Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until crisp and golden brown.
6. Drain & serve: Place cooked fritters on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot.

Tip: Squeeze the zucchini really well to avoid soggy fritters!

Tips & Variations

• Add a pinch of garlic powder or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
• For a dairy-free version, use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
• Try swapping almond flour for coconut flour (use a bit less, as it’s more absorbent).

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
• Enjoy as a side to a fresh salad or with Harvest Hash for a colorful, filling meal.
• Top with sliced avocado and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Creamy Spinach Mushroom Bake

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Oven-safe baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon

Instructions

1. Sauté mushrooms: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and spinach: Stir in garlic, then add spinach a handful at a time until wilted.
3. Mix creamy sauce: In a bowl, stir together cream cheese, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Pour over mushroom-spinach mixture and stir until well combined and creamy.
4. Transfer and top with cheese: Transfer to a baking dish and sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top.
5. Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
6. Serve hot: Let cool slightly before serving.

Tip: This bake is perfect for meal prep—just reheat and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Substitute kale or Swiss chard for spinach if desired.
• Add a handful of chopped walnuts for texture and healthy fats.
• For extra flavor, sprinkle a little parmesan on top before baking.
• To make it vegan, swap in vegan cream cheese and plant-based cream.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad for a light lunch.
• Serve over spiralized zucchini or alongside keto-friendly crackers like our Lemon Crackers.
• Great as a main dish or as a hearty side to your favorite protein.

Tips & Variations for Cheap Vegetarian Keto Recipes

• Shop for produce in season for the best prices and flavors.
• Buy in bulk and freeze extras, especially cauliflower, zucchini, and spinach.
• Don’t be afraid to swap ingredients—use whatever is on sale or already in your fridge.
• Batch cook and store portions in the fridge or freezer for quick meals all week.
• Try adding spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or curry powder to keep flavors interesting.
• For more vegetarian keto inspiration, check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula and Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes.

Nutrition Facts Comparison

Serving Suggestions

• Mix and match these recipes for a complete, satisfying meal.
• Add a simple side salad with olive oil and lemon juice.
• Serve with roasted nuts or seeds for added crunch and healthy fats.
• Pair with a keto-friendly beverage like sparkling water with lime or try our Huckleberry Margarita for a fun twist.

Conclusion

Eating keto as a vegetarian doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. As these cheap vegetarian keto recipes show, you can enjoy hearty, flavorful meals with just a handful of affordable ingredients.

From versatile cauliflower rice to savory fritters and creamy bakes, these dishes prove that budget-friendly cooking can be both delicious and nutritious.

Experiment with your favorite veggies, swap in what you have on hand, and don’t be afraid to get creative with seasonings and toppings. Whether you’re new to the keto lifestyle or just looking for simple plant-based meal ideas, these recipes will help you stay on track, save money, and feel great.

Happy cooking!

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