19 low carb recipes that don’t require special ingredients or a chemistry degree

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Who needs an advanced science degree to whip up something low-carb and rewarding? These recipes are all about simplicity, ditching the fuss of obscure ingredients and overly complicated techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or someone who thinks microwaving leftovers counts as cooking, these dishes make sticking to your goals an effortless (and surprisingly enjoyable) experience.

A white bowl of soup with mushrooms and chives.
Cream of Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Hungarian Goulash in two white bowls.
Authentic Hungarian Goulash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Finding a hearty dish that’s low-carb and stress-free is like hitting the jackpot. With its rich, deep flavors, Authentic Hungarian Goulash feels like a dish you’d spend hours perfecting, but it’s surprisingly simple. It’s proof that classics can be made approachable for anyone, no fancy techniques required. This one brings comfort to your table with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Mediterranean Cod

Mediterranean cod on a rectangular platter.
Mediterranean Cod. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Keeping things light while still packing a punch is easier than you think. Mediterranean Cod doesn’t try too hard, and that’s what makes it so good—it’s all about letting bold, fresh flavors shine. You don’t need any specialty items or complicated prep to make it happen. It’s the kind of dish that earns a permanent spot on your weekly menu.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Baked Eggs Florentine With Ham

Bacon and eggs on a plate with a cup of coffee.
Baked Eggs Florentine With Ham. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Brunch just became your favorite time of day, especially with this recipe in your back pocket. Baked Eggs Florentine With Ham balances wholesome ingredients with rewarding flavors, making it a winner for mornings or even a quick dinner. It’s elegant without being fussy and easy enough to whip up when you’re short on time. This is simple, versatile cooking at its best.
Get the Recipe: Baked Eggs Florentine With Ham

Grilled Vegetables

A variety of grilled vegetables on a platter.
Grilled Vegetables. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Sometimes you just need a recipe that’s straightforward yet delivers on every front. Grilled Vegetables hit all the right notes, offering smoky, charred goodness that works as a side or a main. You don’t have to overthink it—this dish does the heavy lifting for you. It’s proof that simplicity can still make a big impact.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables

Beef & Broccoli

Beef and broccoli stir-fry with sesame seeds served on a white plate with chopsticks.
Beef & Broccoli. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Why settle for takeout when you can create something better at home without the extra carbs? Beef & Broccoli brings bold, savory flavors together in a way that feels indulgent but keeps things low-key. It’s ideal for busy nights when you need dinner fast but still want it to impress. You’ll wonder why you didn’t make this sooner.
Get the Recipe: Beef & Broccoli

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp skewers on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Seafood doesn’t have to be intimidating or overcomplicated, and this recipe proves it. Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp delivers vibrant flavors that feel upscale yet require minimal effort. It’s perfect for everything from casual dinners to last-minute entertaining. You’ll love how this dish transforms simple ingredients into something special.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Southern Ham Salad

A bowl of Southern ham salad and croissants on a wooden table.
Southern Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

No frills, just good food—this dish brings classic flavors to the low-carb table with ease. Southern Ham Salad keeps things simple, offering a versatile recipe that works for lunches, snacks, or even light dinners. It’s one of those recipes you’ll find yourself coming back to when you need something quick and reliable. Effortless and timeless.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad

Beef Goulash

Beef stew in a white bowl with a fork.
Beef Goulash. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Comfort food has a way of making even the busiest days feel manageable, and this recipe nails it. Beef Goulash is hearty, rewarding, and doesn’t rely on anything fancy to bring it all together. It’s a reminder that low-carb meals can still feel indulgent without straying into complicated territory. This is a go-to for cozy nights at home.
Get the Recipe: Beef Goulash

Cucumber Salad With Feta

Cucumber and Feta salad in a black bowl.
Cucumber Salad With Feta. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When you need something light but still flavorful, this recipe has your back. Cucumber Salad With Feta blends crisp textures with rewarding flavors, making it a standout for any meal. It’s quick to pull together and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. You’ll appreciate how effortlessly this one fits into your low-carb plans.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad With Feta

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich on a white plate with chips.
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Reimagining comfort food without the carbs can be tricky, but this recipe nails it. Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich keeps all the comforting flavors you’d expect while ditching anything unnecessary. It’s perfect for when you want something that feels indulgent without being heavy. You’ll love how straightforward and fuss-free it is to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Chinese Chicken Salad

A bowl of Chinese chicken salad with shredded chicken, snap peas, carrots, and peppers, accompanied by a bottle of dressing on the side.
Chinese Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Salads often get a bad reputation, but this one will change how you see them. Chinese Chicken Salad offers a vibrant mix of flavors and textures that feel balanced and rewarding. It’s a great option for when you want something light yet filling without any extra fuss. Once you’ve tried this, it’ll quickly become a go-to in your lineup.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Beef Pot Roast Soup

A bowl of beef stew with vegetables and mushrooms.
Beef Pot Roast Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Bringing big, bold flavors to the low-carb world, this dish is a game-changer. Beef Pot Roast Soup has all the comforting qualities of a slow-simmered meal without needing hours in the kitchen. It’s great for cooler nights when you’re craving something hearty but not overly heavy. With this recipe, dinner is always a warm, welcome event.
Get the Recipe: Beef Pot Roast Soup

Mediterranean Chopped Salad

Mediterranean Chopped Salad with crumbled feta cheese, on a yellow plate with flower designs.
Mediterranean Chopped Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Fresh, vibrant, and endlessly adaptable, this recipe makes staying low-carb feel effortless. Mediterranean Chopped Salad combines flavors that are bold yet familiar, making it perfect for just about any meal. It’s quick to assemble but doesn’t feel rushed or incomplete. This is the kind of salad that leaves you wondering why you didn’t make extra.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chopped Salad

Beef Stew

Beef stew in a white bowl with carrots and potatoes.
Beef Stew. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Turning a classic into a low-carb favorite is easier than you might think. Beef Stew delivers all the hearty, rich goodness you’d expect, but with a streamlined approach that anyone can tackle. It’s perfect for evenings when you want something cozy and fulfilling. You’ll keep this recipe on repeat for its simplicity and depth.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew

Vintage Chicken Divan

Two cast-iron skillets filled with creamy, baked casserole topped with golden breadcrumbs and garnished with fresh thyme sprigs, set on a wooden surface. A fork rests in one serving.
Vintage Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Taking a step back in time with a recipe like this is always a good idea. Vintage Chicken Divan blends nostalgia with practicality, offering a dish that feels comforting without overcomplicating things. It’s perfect for family dinners or even meal prep when you need something reliable. You’ll love how easily it fits into your low-carb rotation.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Chicken Divan

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips on a white plate.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bringing steakhouse vibes into your own kitchen has never been this easy. Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips pack in all the bold flavors you’d expect without any of the hassle. It’s the kind of dish that works just as well for weeknights as it does for special occasions. Simplicity and flavor come together perfectly in this recipe.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Horiatiki Salad

A black bowl contains a Horiatiki salad with blocks of feta cheese, garnished with herbs.
Horiatiki Salad. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Low-carb meals don’t have to be bland, and this one proves it with every bite. Horiatiki Salad keeps things fresh and flavorful while staying true to its simple roots. It’s an ideal addition to just about any meal and comes together without much fuss. You’ll appreciate how this dish makes low-carb eating both practical and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

Oven Baked Ribs

Pieces of oven bake ribs on a black slate plate.
Oven Baked Ribs. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Skip the smoker and still get all the flavor with this easy recipe. Oven Baked Ribs bring tender, fall-off-the-bone goodness to your table without the need for hours of prep. It’s perfect for gatherings or just a quiet dinner at home when you want something rewarding. This recipe is proof that low-carb can still be finger-licking good.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

Cream Of Mushroom Soup

A white bowl of soup with mushrooms and chives.
Cream Of Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Few things are as comforting as a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s this simple to make. Cream Of Mushroom Soup balances creamy textures with rich flavors, making it perfect for a light meal or a starter. It’s an easy way to bring a little comfort to your day without overthinking it. Once you try it, it’s bound to be a staple in your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Cream Of Mushroom Soup

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