If you’re doing carnivore or keto and want something more satisfying than just bacon and eggs again, beef is where it’s at. It’s hearty, packed with protein, and surprisingly fast to cook—especially when you let the air fryer handle most of the work.
These four beef-based breakfasts have become staples for me when I need something quick but filling. They all keep me full for hours, and they’re easy to meal prep too.
No fluff, no carbs—just solid, real food that doesn’t feel like a chore to eat.
1. Ground Beef & Eggs (The One I Make When I’m in a Rush)
This one’s about as simple as it gets. You cook ground beef in the air fryer while your eggs cook separately (or in a dish if you want to keep it all in one).
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It’s super fast, high in protein, and easy to double up if you’re feeding more than just yourself.
I go for this recipe on mornings when I don’t have time to think. You just toss it together, and it works. Sometimes I add tallow to the beef if I want more fat—it makes a big difference in flavor.
Get the recipe: Easy Beef & Egg – Air Fryer Recipe for Busy Mornings
2. Crispy Steak Bites & Eggs (Tastes Way Fancier Than It Is)
If I’ve got leftover steak, this is what I make. You cube it up, toss it in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp the edges, then fry an egg on the side. It ends up looking like a fancy brunch plate, but it only takes about 10 minutes.
The texture on the steak bites comes out amazing—crispy outside, tender inside—and paired with the yolk, it feels like a treat but totally stays in carnivore territory.
Get the recipe: Crispy Steak Bites with Fried Egg – Air Fryer Breakfast Recipe
3. Beef Breakfast Sausage Patties (A Quick One You Can Prep Ahead)
These homemade sausage patties are way better than store-bought, and they’re made with just ground beef and a few simple spices. I usually double the recipe and freeze half so I’ve always got some ready to go.
They cook up in 10–12 minutes in the air fryer, and you can eat them on their own or with an egg if you want something more complete. Great option for meal prep or busy mornings.
Get the recipe: Crispy Beef Breakfast Sausage Patties – Air Fryer Recipe in 15 Minutes
4. Corned Beef Hash (Carnivore-Style Meal Prep That Actually Works)
This one’s a little different—it’s more of a hash-style dish made from beef and eggs, without any of the usual fillers or potatoes. Everything cooks in the air fryer together, and you can batch it for the week.
I like this one when I want something savory and a bit heavier. It reheats really well, so I’ll often make a full tray and divide it up for the next few mornings.
Get the recipe: Savory Corned Beef Hash – Air Fryer Recipe for Carnivore Meal Prep
Beef for Breakfast = Solid Start to the Day
There’s something about starting the day with beef that just sticks with you—you’re not hungry an hour later, and you don’t crash mid-morning.
All four of these recipes are easy, satisfying, and work whether you’re prepping ahead or cooking on the fly.
If you’re trying to stay consistent on carnivore or just want a protein-heavy breakfast that’s not boring, give one of these a shot. I keep all of them in my rotation and just pick based on how much time I’ve got (or what meat’s already in the fridge).
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.