Best Beef Cuts for Keto, Paleo, and Carnivore Diets

Best Beef Cuts for Keto, Paleo, and Carnivore Diets

For those following a Keto, Paleo, or Carnivore diet, high-quality beef is a nutritional powerhouse that provides essential fats, proteins, and nutrients to fuel the body. While these diets vary in approach—Keto focuses on high-fat, low-carb intake, Paleo emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods, and Carnivore is entirely meat-based—they all benefit from choosing the right beef cuts. At Parish Prime, we believe that selecting grass-finished, hormone-free beef not only enhances flavor but also ensures optimal health benefits. Here’s a guide to the best beef cuts for each diet and how to incorporate them into your meals.

1. Best Beef Cuts for the Keto Diet

The Keto diet thrives on high-fat, moderate-protein meals with minimal carbohydrates. To stay in ketosis, it's important to select fattier cuts of beef that provide ample energy while keeping protein intake balanced.

- Ribeye – A Keto favorite, ribeye is rich in marbling, making it flavorful and packed with healthy fats. Cook it in butter or tallow for an extra fat boost.

- Short Ribs – These are perfect for slow-cooking, as the fat content keeps them tender and satisfying.

- Ground Beef (80/20) – A budget-friendly option loaded with fat, making it ideal for burger patties or taco bowls.

- Brisket – Perfect for smoking or slow cooking, brisket’s high fat content makes it a great choice for staying in ketosis.

- Oxtail – A nutrient-dense, collagen-rich cut that provides both healthy fat and bone broth benefits.

2. Best Beef Cuts for the Paleo Diet

The Paleo diet emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods with a balance of protein, fats, and fiber from plant sources. Since Paleo allows for a wider variety of food than Keto or Carnivore, the focus is on high-quality, grass-fed meats with natural fats.

- Sirloin Steak – A leaner cut packed with protein, perfect for those balancing meat with vegetables.

- Chuck Roast – Slow-cooked or braised, this cut is a great source of healthy fats and protein.

- Flank Steak – A flavorful, lean cut ideal for stir-fries, tacos, or marinades.

- T-Bone Steak – Offers both tenderloin (lean) and strip steak (fattier), giving you the best of both worlds.

- Beef Shank – Best cooked in broths or stews, beef shank is rich in collagen, supporting gut and joint health.

3. Best Beef Cuts for the Carnivore Diet

The Carnivore diet focuses exclusively on animal-based foods, making beef the star of the plate. Since there are no carbs involved, fatty and nutrient-dense cuts are essential for meeting energy needs.

- Picanha – A Brazilian-style cut with a thick fat cap, ideal for grilling and high-fat intake.

- New York Strip – A well-balanced cut with good fat content and a satisfying chew.

- Bone-in Ribeye (Cowboy or Tomahawk Steak)– Maximizing both flavor and fat, this is a Carnivore favorite.

- Beef Liver – A superfood packed with essential vitamins like B12, iron, and zinc, crucial for nutrient intake on an all-meat diet.

- Bone Marrow– Loaded with healthy fats, marrow is a must-have for Carnivore eaters looking for energy-dense options.

Tips for Cooking Beef on These Diets

No matter which diet you follow, cooking beef the right way enhances both nutrition and flavor:

- For Keto: Cook with butter, ghee, or beef tallow to increase fat content.

- For Paleo: Use herbs, garlic, and simple marinades without sugars or processed ingredients.

- For Carnivore: Stick to salt as the only seasoning and focus on nutrient-dense organ meats.

At Parish Prime, we take pride in offering the highest-quality, grass-finished beef that aligns with Keto, Paleo, and Carnivore diets. Whether you’re looking for rich marbling, lean protein, or nutrient-packed organ meats, the right beef cuts can take your diet—and your meals—to the next level.