20 Cheap Keto Breakfast Ideas That Won’t Break the Bank

Eating keto doesn’t have to be expensive—especially when it comes to breakfast. In fact, some of the tastiest low-carb morning meals are made with just a few affordable staples you probably already have in your kitchen. Think eggs, cheese, meats, and low-cost veggies like zucchini or spinach. With a little creativity, you can mix and match these ingredients into breakfasts that are satisfying, nutritious, and super budget-friendly.

Whether you’re new to keto or you’re just trying to save a little cash while staying on track, this post is packed with 20 easy, cheap keto breakfast ideas that prove low carb doesn’t mean low flavor.

Each recipe comes with clear instructions, tips on how to store leftovers, and suggestions for swaps or extras if you’re feeling fancy.

Let’s dig in!


1. Cheesy Scrambled Eggs with Spinach

A keto classic—simple, fast, and cheap. You can make this in under 10 minutes with just a few pantry staples.

Ingredients:

  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup fresh spinach
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add spinach and cook until wilted (about 1 minute).
  3. Beat eggs in a bowl, pour into skillet.
  4. Stir gently until eggs are just set.
  5. Add cheese and cook for 30 more seconds.

Doneness: Eggs should be soft and creamy, cheese melted.
Storage: Best eaten fresh, but can refrigerate for 1 day.
Swap: Use frozen spinach (thawed and drained) to save money.


2. Keto Breakfast Egg Muffins

Meal prep heaven! These egg muffins are great to make in batches and store for busy mornings.

Ingredients:

  • 6 eggs
  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon or sausage (crumbled)
  • 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 6-cup muffin tin.
  2. Whisk eggs with salt and pepper.
  3. Divide peppers, meat, and cheese among the cups.
  4. Pour egg mixture over the top until 3/4 full.
  5. Bake for 18–20 minutes until set.

Doneness: Centers should be fully cooked and firm.
Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze up to 2 months.
Swap: Use ham, turkey, or leftover veggies instead.


3. Zucchini and Cheese Fritters

Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside—these are filling and great for using up that extra zucchini.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium zucchini (grated and squeezed dry)
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan
  • Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter for frying

Instructions:

  1. Mix zucchini, egg, flour, cheese, and seasonings in a bowl.
  2. Heat oil in a nonstick pan over medium-high heat.
  3. Drop spoonfuls of batter and flatten slightly.
  4. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.

Doneness: Golden and crisp with a firm center.
Storage: Refrigerate up to 3 days.
Swap: Add chopped green onions or crumbled bacon for flavor.


4. Microwave Keto Mug Omelet

Perfect for busy mornings and no cleanup needed—plus, it’s ready in under 5 minutes.

Ingredients:

  • 2 eggs
  • 2 tbsp chopped cooked sausage or ham
  • 2 tbsp shredded cheese
  • 1 tbsp chopped spinach or bell pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Grease a microwave-safe mug.
  2. Whisk eggs, add remaining ingredients, and stir.
  3. Microwave on high for 1–1.5 minutes, checking halfway.

Doneness: Should puff up slightly and be fully set.
Storage: Best eaten right away.
Swap: Use bacon bits, mushrooms, or onions for variety.


5. Keto “No Oats” Chia Breakfast Bowl

Missing oatmeal? This creamy chia bowl satisfies that craving without the carbs.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp chia seeds
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 tbsp peanut butter or almond butter
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp keto sweetener (optional)

Toppings (optional):

  • A few sliced almonds or coconut flakes
  • 3–4 raspberries or blueberries

Instructions:

  1. Mix chia seeds, almond milk, nut butter, cinnamon, and sweetener.
  2. Let sit in fridge for 30 minutes or overnight to thicken.
  3. Add toppings before serving.

Doneness: Pudding-like consistency when set.
Storage: Lasts 3–4 days in the fridge.
Swap: Use flax seeds or hemp hearts instead of chia.


6. Crispy Bacon & Avocado Breakfast Bowl

This combo is filling, rich in healthy fats, and super simple to throw together on a budget.

Ingredients:

  • 2 slices bacon
  • 1/2 avocado, sliced
  • 1 boiled egg (optional)
  • Salt, pepper, and chili flakes to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook bacon in a skillet until crisp; set aside on paper towel.
  2. Slice avocado and arrange in a bowl.
  3. Add bacon and egg, if using.
  4. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and chili flakes.

Doneness: Bacon should be crispy.
Storage: Assemble fresh for best results.
Swap: Use canned tuna or sardines for extra protein.


7. Keto Pancakes (Almond Flour)

These fluffy pancakes are made from pantry staples and can be cooked in bulk and frozen.

Ingredients:

  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1 tbsp cream cheese or Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder
  • Dash of vanilla or cinnamon (optional)
  • Butter or coconut oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Whisk all ingredients until smooth.
  2. Heat skillet with butter/oil over medium heat.
  3. Pour small rounds of batter and cook 2–3 minutes per side.

Doneness: Light golden brown and firm in the middle.
Storage: Refrigerate 3 days or freeze up to 1 month.
Tip: Serve with keto syrup or a pat of butter.


8. Sausage & Cabbage Skillet

A super cheap and satisfying dish with just 3 main ingredients—perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1/2 lb ground sausage or chopped links
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • Salt, pepper, and paprika

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in skillet. Brown sausage until fully cooked.
  2. Add cabbage and seasonings. Cook 5–7 minutes, stirring often.

Doneness: Cabbage should be wilted and sausage browned.
Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days.
Swap: Use ground beef or turkey instead.


9. Cottage Cheese Bowl with Nuts & Seeds

Cottage cheese is a budget-friendly protein bomb, perfect for a quick savory or sweet breakfast.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup full-fat cottage cheese
  • 1 tbsp sunflower seeds
  • 1 tbsp chia or flax seeds
  • Optional: cinnamon or sweetener for a sweet version
  • Optional: chopped cucumber or tomato for savory

Instructions:

  1. Scoop cottage cheese into a bowl.
  2. Add seeds and your choice of toppings.
  3. Stir and enjoy!

Doneness: No cooking needed!
Storage: Prepare fresh or pre-portion up to 3 days.
Swap: Use Greek yogurt if preferred (check carbs).


10. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Spears

Fancy-looking, but easy and affordable. Great for weekend brunches or low-carb meal prep.

Ingredients:

  • 6 asparagus spears (trimmed)
  • 3 slices bacon (cut in half)
  • Olive oil
  • Salt, pepper, garlic powder

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet.
  2. Wrap 2 asparagus spears with 1/2 slice of bacon.
  3. Drizzle with oil and season.
  4. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bacon is crisp.

Doneness: Bacon should be golden and crispy.
Storage: Refrigerate 3 days.
Swap: Use green beans or zucchini strips.


11. Keto Tuna Breakfast Cakes

Think crab cakes—without the crab or price tag. These tuna cakes are protein-packed, crispy, and perfect with avocado or a dollop of sour cream.

Ingredients:

  • 1 can tuna (drained)
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp almond flour
  • 1 tbsp chopped green onion (optional)
  • Salt, pepper, garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp oil or butter for frying

Instructions:

  1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl to form a sticky mixture.
  2. Form into 3–4 small patties.
  3. Heat oil in skillet and cook cakes for 3–4 minutes per side until golden.

Doneness: Crispy edges and firm centers.
Storage: Refrigerate 3 days or freeze up to 2 months.
Swap: Use canned salmon or chicken.


12. Low-Carb Eggplant Toasts

When you’re craving toast but can’t do the bread, these eggplant slices make a savory base for toppings.

Ingredients:

  • 1 small eggplant (cut into 1/2” rounds)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, pepper
  • Optional toppings: cream cheese, smoked salmon, avocado

Instructions:

  1. Brush eggplant slices with oil, season, and roast at 400°F for 15–20 minutes.
  2. Let cool slightly and top with your favorite keto toppings.

Doneness: Soft in the center with browned edges.
Storage: Best fresh, but roasted slices can be stored 2 days in fridge.
Tip: Use zucchini or portobello mushrooms as a base.


13. Simple Chia Pudding

A meal prep dream—chia pudding takes 5 minutes to make and keeps for days. Customize it with different flavors and toppings.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp chia seeds
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • Dash of vanilla extract
  • Sweetener to taste
  • Optional: cinnamon, cocoa powder, berries, coconut flakes

Instructions:

  1. Stir all ingredients in a jar or bowl.
  2. Let sit 5 minutes, then stir again.
  3. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight.

Doneness: Thick and creamy like pudding.
Storage: Refrigerate up to 5 days.
Swap: Use coconut milk for extra richness.


14. Budget Cauliflower Hash

This skillet breakfast is hearty, veggie-packed, and keeps you full without spiking carbs or breaking the bank.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups riced cauliflower (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 small onion, chopped
  • 1/2 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, pepper, smoked paprika
  • Optional: diced ham, sausage, or fried egg on top

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in skillet, cook onion and pepper until soft.
  2. Add cauliflower rice and seasonings.
  3. Cook 5–7 minutes until cauliflower is golden.

Doneness: Veggies should be tender with some browned bits.
Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days.
Tip: Add leftover meat or cheese for extra protein.


15. Keto “Granola” Trail Mix

Craving crunch? This nut-and-seed mix is a great make-ahead option you can grab on the go.

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened coconut flakes
  • 1 tbsp chia seeds
  • Dash of cinnamon and sweetener
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil (optional for toasting)

Instructions:

  1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
  2. (Optional) Toast in skillet with coconut oil for 3–5 minutes.

Doneness: Lightly golden if toasted.
Storage: Airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Swap: Use pecans, almonds, or flaxseed as desired.


16. Avocado Tuna Boats

Quick, creamy, and full of healthy fats and protein, these boats are easy to whip up in under 5 minutes.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1 can tuna (drained)
  • 1 tbsp mayo
  • 1 tsp mustard
  • Salt, pepper, lemon juice
  • Optional: chopped celery or pickles for crunch

Instructions:

  1. Halve the avocado and remove pit.
  2. In a bowl, mix tuna with mayo, mustard, and seasonings.
  3. Spoon tuna mixture into avocado halves.

Doneness: Tuna mix should be creamy, avocado firm yet ripe.
Storage: Best eaten fresh, or store tuna mix separately for up to 3 days.
Swap: Use canned chicken or salmon instead of tuna.


17. Cottage Cheese & Berry Bowl

Cottage cheese is a budget-friendly keto staple. When paired with berries and seeds, it becomes a refreshing and energizing breakfast.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup full-fat cottage cheese
  • 1/4 cup berries (like raspberries or blackberries)
  • 1 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseed
  • Optional: dash of cinnamon or low-carb sweetener

Instructions:

  1. Spoon cottage cheese into a bowl.
  2. Top with berries, seeds, and optional seasonings.

Doneness: Serve chilled.
Storage: Assemble fresh or prep ingredients separately for 3 days.
Tip: Add crushed nuts for extra crunch.


18. Mini Veggie Omelet Muffins (No Fancy Ingredients)

These are basically omelets baked in muffin form—perfect for meal prep and freezing.

Ingredients:

  • 6 eggs
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped spinach or broccoli
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheese
  • Salt, pepper
  • Oil or spray for muffin tin

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease muffin tin.
  2. Whisk eggs with salt and pepper.
  3. Stir in veggies and cheese.
  4. Pour into muffin tin and bake 15–18 minutes until set.

Doneness: Tops should puff up and centers be fully cooked.
Storage: Refrigerate 4–5 days or freeze for 2 months.
Tip: Swap veggies or add cooked sausage or bacon.


19. Simple Avocado Smoothie

Creamy, low-carb, and surprisingly filling—this green smoothie tastes like a treat.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 ripe avocado
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 tbsp chia seeds
  • Dash of vanilla and cinnamon
  • Ice and low-carb sweetener to taste

Instructions:

  1. Blend all ingredients until smooth.
  2. Add more milk to thin or ice to thicken.

Doneness: Smooth and creamy.
Storage: Best fresh, but can refrigerate for 1 day.
Swap: Add spinach or protein powder.


20. Pan-Fried Halloumi with Tomatoes

A simple Mediterranean-style breakfast that’s fast and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 4 oz halloumi cheese (sliced)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • Sprinkle of oregano or basil

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add halloumi and fry 1–2 minutes per side until golden.
  3. Toss in tomatoes and herbs; cook another 2 minutes.

Doneness: Cheese should be golden and soft, tomatoes lightly blistered.
Storage: Best fresh.
Tip: Serve with a handful of arugula or avocado slices.


Final Thoughts: Delicious Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive

Eating keto on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or variety. With a few low-cost staples—like eggs, canned tuna, almond flour, and leafy greens—you can whip up meals that are just as satisfying as they are affordable.

All 20 of these breakfast ideas were chosen for their simplicity, low cost, and speed. Whether you need a portable option, something you can prep ahead, or a warm plate of cheesy comfort food, you’ve now got a list to mix and match throughout the week.