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The holiday season is a time for family gatherings, festive decorations, and—of course—delicious food. But sticking to a keto lifestyle during this indulgent time can feel challenging.
That’s where the cast iron skillet comes to the rescue! This versatile kitchen essential helps you create dishes that are as satisfying as they are healthy.
In this blog, we’ve rounded up over 45 keto-friendly recipes that are perfect for the holidays.
From hearty main courses to decadent desserts, these cast iron skillet dishes are low in carbs, high in flavor, and beautifully festive.
Whether you’re hosting a party, contributing to a potluck, or preparing an intimate family dinner, these recipes will impress your guests while keeping you on track with your health goals.
45+ Easy Holiday Keto Cast Iron Skillet Recipes for Every Occasion
Cooking for the holidays doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your keto commitment.
With these 45+ holiday keto cast iron skillet recipes, you can prepare dishes that are festive, flavorful, and completely aligned with your lifestyle.
From savory entrees to sweet desserts, the possibilities are endless with the right ingredients and a trusty cast iron skillet.
These recipes prove that a keto holiday can be just as indulgent as any other, offering rich flavors, beautiful presentations, and easy preparations.
So grab your skillet and embrace the joy of holiday cooking, keto-style.
Keto Cast Iron Skillet Garlic Herb Prime Rib
This Keto Cast Iron Skillet Garlic Herb Prime Rib is a show-stopping main dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. Juicy, tender, and infused with a rich blend of herbs and garlic, it pairs beautifully with low-carb sides like roasted asparagus or cauliflower mash. The skillet ensures an even sear, locking in all those savory juices, while the oven gently cooks the meat to perfection.
Ingredients:
- 1 (4-5 lb) bone-in prime rib roast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the prime rib.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and sear the prime rib on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 20 minutes. Reduce the heat to 325°F (163°C) and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches 120°F (49°C) for medium-rare.
- Remove from the oven, tent with foil, and let rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
This garlic herb prime rib is a keto masterpiece, ideal for impressing your holiday guests. Pair it with keto-friendly red wine or sparkling water with a twist of lime for a complete festive meal.
Keto Cast Iron Skillet Green Bean Casserole
Reimagine a holiday classic with this Keto Cast Iron Skillet Green Bean Casserole. Packed with fresh green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and a crunchy almond topping, this dish offers comfort food vibes without the carbs. Using a cast iron skillet allows you to cook and serve in the same dish, making it both beautiful and practical.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tbsp butter
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch green beans for 3 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Heat the butter in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and garlic, sautéing until soft.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Toss the green beans into the skillet, coating them with the sauce.
- Sprinkle sliced almonds on top and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
This keto green bean casserole is the ultimate side dish, offering creamy texture and a satisfying crunch. It’s a delicious, low-carb addition to your holiday table that will please everyone, even non-keto guests.
Keto Cast Iron Skillet Cranberry Almond Cake
End your holiday meal on a sweet yet keto-friendly note with this Keto Cast Iron Skillet Cranberry Almond Cake. The tartness of cranberries complements the nutty almond flavor beautifully, creating a dessert that feels indulgent but stays within keto guidelines. Baked in a cast iron skillet, it delivers a golden, crisp crust with a moist, tender interior.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1/2 cup erythritol or keto sweetener of choice
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut flour, sweetener, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine eggs, almond milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix wet and dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in cranberries and pour the batter into a greased cast iron skillet.
- Sprinkle sliced almonds on top and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before serving.
This cranberry almond cake brings holiday cheer to your keto table with its tart-sweet flavor and festive look. Serve with a dollop of keto whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered erythritol for an extra-special touch.
Keto Cast Iron Skillet Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
These Keto Cast Iron Skillet Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts are a savory holiday side dish that’s both elegant and easy to make. The crispiness of the bacon pairs perfectly with the tender, caramelized sprouts, creating a dish that’s packed with flavor. The skillet ensures a flawless sear and makes for an impressive presentation.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed
- 12 slices of bacon
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Wrap each sprout with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and sear the bacon-wrapped sprouts for 2-3 minutes on each side until the bacon begins to crisp.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the sprouts are tender and the bacon is fully crisp.
These bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts are a keto crowd-pleaser, perfect as a holiday appetizer or side dish. Serve them hot from the skillet, and watch them disappear from the table in no time.
Keto Cast Iron Skillet Turkey Sausage Stuffing
Stuffing is a holiday staple, and this Keto Cast Iron Skillet Turkey Sausage Stuffing delivers all the flavors without the carbs. Made with low-carb bread, savory turkey sausage, and aromatic herbs, it’s a delicious and satisfying dish that pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or as a standalone side.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb turkey sausage, crumbled
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cubed keto bread
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat the cast iron skillet over medium heat and cook the turkey sausage until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the onion, celery, and garlic until soft.
- Add the sausage back to the skillet, along with the cubed keto bread, sage, parsley, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden and slightly crisp.
This turkey sausage stuffing brings all the holiday nostalgia without the guilt. With its rich, herbaceous flavors and hearty texture, it’s destined to become a keto-friendly favorite at your festive feasts.
Keto Cast Iron Skillet Chocolate Peppermint Cake
For a decadent holiday dessert, this Keto Cast Iron Skillet Chocolate Peppermint Cake is the ultimate treat. Rich and fudgy with a hint of peppermint, this cake feels indulgent but remains low-carb. The cast iron skillet ensures a gooey center and a crispy edge, making it the perfect festive dessert to share.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup erythritol or keto sweetener
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 1/4 cup sugar-free dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together almond flour, cocoa powder, sweetener, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine eggs, almond milk, melted butter, and peppermint extract. Mix wet and dry ingredients until well combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips and pour the batter into a greased cast iron skillet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are set but the center is slightly gooey. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
This chocolate peppermint cake is a delightful way to end your holiday meal. Serve warm with a dollop of keto whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed sugar-free peppermint candy for a festive touch.
Keto Cast Iron Skillet Spinach Artichoke Dip
Warm, creamy, and loaded with flavor, this Keto Cast Iron Skillet Spinach Artichoke Dip is the ultimate appetizer for your holiday gatherings. Made with fresh spinach, artichoke hearts, and a blend of cheeses, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with keto-friendly dippers like celery sticks, bell pepper slices, or low-carb crackers.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in artichoke hearts and garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and mix in cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper, then smooth the top with a spatula.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
This spinach artichoke dip is a keto holiday classic that’s easy to make and hard to resist. Serve straight from the skillet for a warm, cozy presentation that sets the tone for your festivities.
Keto Cast Iron Skillet Herb-Crusted Salmon
Impress your holiday guests with this Keto Cast Iron Skillet Herb-Crusted Salmon. It’s elegant, simple to prepare, and packed with healthy fats and fresh flavors. The crispy herb crust complements the tender, flaky salmon, making it a stunning centerpiece for any holiday meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Pat salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix almond flour, Parmesan, parsley, dill, and garlic powder. Press the mixture onto the tops of the salmon fillets.
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Sear the salmon crust-side up for 2-3 minutes.
- Flip the salmon, then transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
This herb-crusted salmon is the perfect keto-friendly main course for your holiday table. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a light green salad for a healthy, satisfying meal that will leave your guests raving.
Keto Cast Iron Skillet Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin
This Keto Cast Iron Skillet Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin is a decadent side dish that rivals traditional holiday casseroles. Packed with tender cauliflower, a velvety cheese sauce, and a golden crust, it’s a low-carb alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup pork rind crumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Steam cauliflower florets until tender but still firm. Drain and set aside.
- In a cast iron skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, then mix in cheddar, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add the cauliflower to the skillet, tossing to coat in the cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle pork rind crumbs over the top (if using) and bake for 15-20 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
This cheesy cauliflower gratin is a keto game-changer that will delight your holiday guests. It’s creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting—everything you want in a holiday side dish, minus the carbs.
Keto Cast Iron Skillet Holiday Ham with Maple Glaze
This Keto Cast Iron Skillet Holiday Ham with Maple Glaze offers a low-carb twist on a holiday classic. The skillet locks in the juiciness of the ham while the sugar-free maple glaze adds a touch of festive sweetness and caramelization. It’s an irresistible centerpiece for any holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
- 2 lb ham steak or pre-cooked ham
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup sugar-free maple syrup
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat the butter in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Sear the ham on both sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, vinegar, ground cloves, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the glaze over the ham and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, basting the ham with the glaze every 5 minutes.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
This maple-glazed holiday ham is a show-stopping dish that’s simple yet elegant. Serve it with your favorite keto side dishes, and watch it become the highlight of your festive feast.
Keto Cast Iron Skillet Rosemary Chicken Thighs
These Keto Cast Iron Skillet Rosemary Chicken Thighs are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and infused with the earthy flavor of fresh rosemary. Perfect for a holiday main course, they pair beautifully with roasted vegetables or a cauliflower mash.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Pat chicken thighs dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-6 minutes, until golden and crispy.
- Flip the chicken, add butter, garlic, and rosemary, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Rosemary chicken thighs are a flavorful, hearty dish that’s perfect for your keto holiday menu. The crisp skin and tender meat make it a dish everyone will love, and the rosemary adds a touch of festive flair.
Keto Cast Iron Skillet Cinnamon Almond Crusted Pork Chops
These Keto Cast Iron Skillet Cinnamon Almond Crusted Pork Chops are a holiday-inspired main course that’s both sweet and savory. The almond flour crust provides a satisfying crunch, while the cinnamon adds a hint of warmth and spice, making it a unique and delicious addition to your holiday spread.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a shallow bowl, mix almond flour, cinnamon, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each pork chop into the beaten eggs, then coat with the almond flour mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
These cinnamon almond crusted pork chops are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making them a standout holiday dish. Serve with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or a creamy keto coleslaw for a complete and festive meal.
Keto Cast Iron Skillet Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp
This Keto Cast Iron Skillet Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp is a decadent and flavorful appetizer or main dish. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in garlic butter, topped with a gooey layer of cheese, and baked to perfection. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s elegant and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Heat butter in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they begin to turn pink.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the shrimp, and top with red pepper flakes if desired.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This cheesy garlic butter shrimp is a luxurious dish that adds a touch of elegance to your holiday table. Serve it with keto bread or zucchini noodles for a satisfying and festive meal.
Keto Cast Iron Skillet Cranberry Walnut Pork Tenderloin
This Keto Cast Iron Skillet Cranberry Walnut Pork Tenderloin combines the festive flavors of tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and tender pork. The skillet locks in the juices, creating a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious—perfect for a holiday main course.
Ingredients:
- 1 (1.5 lb) pork tenderloin
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 2 tbsp sugar-free cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, and rosemary.
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until golden, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Spread sugar-free cranberry sauce over the pork, and scatter cranberries and walnuts around the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
This cranberry walnut pork tenderloin is a stunning addition to your keto holiday spread. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a festive and satisfying centerpiece.
Keto Cast Iron Skillet Chocolate Pecan Pie
Indulge your sweet tooth with this Keto Cast Iron Skillet Chocolate Pecan Pie. This low-carb dessert features a rich, chocolatey filling with a crunchy pecan topping, baked to perfection in a cast iron skillet. It’s a holiday dessert that everyone will love, keto or not!
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp erythritol
For the filling:
- 3/4 cup sugar-free chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup sugar-free maple syrup
- 3 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup pecan halves
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine crust ingredients in a bowl until a dough forms. Press evenly into a greased cast iron skillet. Bake for 10 minutes and set aside.
- Melt chocolate chips and butter in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla.
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust and arrange pecan halves on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the filling is set and the top is golden. Cool for 15 minutes before slicing.
This chocolate pecan pie is the ultimate holiday indulgence, with all the decadence and none of the carbs. Serve it warm with a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream for a memorable holiday dessert.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!