31 low-carb recipes so good, you’ll forget they’re low-carb

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Ditch the notion that low-carb recipes skimp on the good stuff; these 31 dishes are so packed with flavor that you’ll forget they’re part of your meal plan. They’re perfect for anyone looking to cut carbs without feeling shortchanged at mealtime. Dive in and discover how great eating low-carb can be — no compromises, just great food.

Three loaded zucchini boats on a plate.
Loaded Zucchini Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

A casserole dish filled with broccoli and cheese.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This 30-minute meal is perfect for weeknights. It combines broccoli and cauliflower with a creamy cheese sauce and is topped with crispy bacon. It’s easy to prepare and uses ingredients that are likely already in your fridge. This dish is a smart way to keep your meals interesting and balanced, making it a great option for any day of the week. Plus, it’s a great way to include more vegetables in your diet without sacrificing flavor, making sure that everyone at the table is happy and healthy.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Bell Pepper Sandwich

A person holding a stuffed pepper sandwich over a plate.
Bell Pepper Sandwich. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For a refreshing change to your lunch routine, try the Bell Pepper Sandwich. It’s ready in 10 minutes and uses crisp bell peppers in place of bread, filled with your favorite sandwich toppings. This sandwich is a straightforward, creative meal solution that supports your eating goals for a busy week. It not only cuts down on carbs but also adds an extra serving of vegetables to your day.
Get the Recipe: Bell Pepper Sandwich

Bacon Cheeseburger Salad

A person holding serving spoons in a bowl of Big Mac salad.
Bacon Cheeseburger Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Turn a classic favorite into a lighter meal with the Bacon Cheeseburger Salad. It’s simple to assemble, combining ground beef, bacon, cheese, and your choice of salad greens without the bun. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a quick, savory meal that fits into a busy weekday schedule. It’s a great way to enjoy familiar flavors in a new form. This salad is a game-changer for anyone wanting to enjoy the flavors of a cheeseburger without feeling weighed down.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Cheeseburger Salad

Keto Zuppa Toscana

A bowl of keto zuppa Toscana with a spoon in it.
Keto Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Swap in radishes for potatoes and enjoy a different take on an Olive Garden classic with this soup, ready in just 1 hour. It’s a creative way to spice up your dinner routine while keeping things healthy. Prepare it in advance to simplify your week, providing a comforting meal that makes life easier. This soup is perfect for those looking for a cozy, flavorful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a pan.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

With just 30 minutes and one pan, this dish serves tender chicken in a creamy mushroom sauce, making weeknight dinners both delicious and hassle-free. It’s a fantastic meal that saves time and clean-up, proving that great food doesn’t need a lot of work. This is especially helpful after a long day. The simplicity and speed of this recipe make it a great way to enjoy a gourmet-style dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

A glass bowl of jalapeño popper chicken salad ingredients.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad brings a new spin to a familiar dish, blending the spiciness of jalapeños with creamy chicken salad. It’s easy to make and great for prepping ahead so that your lunches are simple and delicious all week long.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Bacon ranch chicken salad cucumber boats lined up on a plate.
Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These quick and easy cucumber boats filled with a flavorful chicken salad, including canned chicken, bacon, and cheese, are perfect for a low-carb lunch. They’re a simple, refreshing meal that cuts down on prep time, making your lunch routine smoother. Best for those seeking nutritious, low-carb options, these cucumber boats can help you stay on track with your health goals while still enjoying your meals.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Loaded Zucchini Boats

Zucchini boats stuffed with bacon and sour cream.
Loaded Zucchini Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Serve up these Loaded Zucchini Boats as a creamy appetizer for any event. Easy to prepare and ready within an hour, they’re a great choice for bringing something delicious to the table without spending all day in the kitchen. It features bacon, sour cream, shredded cheese and hollowed-out zucchini. This recipe is a lifesaver for hosts looking for a crowd-pleaser that won’t keep them tied to the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Zucchini Boats

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

In FDL library.
Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In just 30 minutes, you can serve Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs, a flavor-packed dish perfect for any evening. Made with ground turkey, coconut aminos, coconut milk, curry powder, and red curry paste, they’re an excellent choice for making dinner exciting and nutritious. This recipe is a simple way to bring the taste of Thailand to your table. It gives you that delicious escape from the ordinary any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Creamy Bacon Asparagus Pasta

In FDL library.
Creamy Bacon Asparagus Pasta. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Ready in 30 minutes, this dish reinvents pasta night with a creamy sauce, bacon, and asparagus. It’s a flavorful, nutrient-packed meal that keeps things light and easy. Perfect for those looking to enjoy a great dinner without the extra carbs. It’s a great way to enjoy the richness of a pasta dish while sticking to your goals.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Bacon Asparagus Pasta

Tajin Cucumber Boats with Lime Juice

Tajin cucumber boats on a plate next to a slice of lime.
Tajin Cucumber Boats with Lime Juice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For a refreshing snack that’s ready in just 5 minutes, try these Tajin Cucumber Boats with Lime Juice. They’re an effortless, light snack that’s perfect for anyone looking for a quick, healthy option that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. These cucumber boats are an excellent choice for those needing a fast, nutritious snack to keep their energy levels up. Stick with a healthy eating plan with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Tajin Cucumber Boats with Lime Juice

Keto Chicken Nuggets

Keto chicken nuggets on a plate with a cup of dipping sauce.
Keto Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Enjoy these Keto Chicken Nuggets, ready in just 30 minutes. They’re a crispy, tender alternative to traditional nuggets, made with canned chicken and crushed pork rinds, perfect for those new to a lower-carb lifestyle. This dish makes mealtime simple yet flavorful. This recipe is a game-changer for busy parents or anyone on the go, providing a quick meal that’s also nutritious.
Get the Recipe: Keto Chicken Nuggets

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Tuscan garlic shrimp and spinach with tomatoes in a pan.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach, making both special occasions and regular weeknights feel extra special. This simple recipe combines shrimp, grape tomatoes, and spinach in a garlic sauce for a meal that’s bursting with flavor and goodness. It’s an easy way to make your dinner experience extra special. Impress your guests with a recipe that is memorable but requires surprisingly minimal work in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Italian sausage soup in a pot with a spoon and garnishes on the side.
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

With just one pot and 30 minutes, this Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is on the table. Featuring Italian sausage, cream cheese, tomatoes, and cream, it’s a rich, hearty soup that’s incredibly easy to make. This soup is a perfect starter for anyone looking to add quick, comforting meals to their routine. Enjoy the rich taste of a creamy bowl of soup any evening.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In 40 minutes, enjoy crispy chicken thighs with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach in a rich, creamy sauce. This one-pan meal simplifies your weekday dinners with a delicious, no-mess option that keeps your evenings relaxed and pleasant. Its combination of convenience and taste provides a practical solution for busy individuals looking for ways to incorporate more wholesome meals into their diets.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Sausage And Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.
Sausage And Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is the epitome of no-stress cooking, ready in just 30 minutes. Roasting sausage with a variety of vegetables in one pan results in a filling meal that’s also easy to clean up, making it an excellent choice for any busy night. It’s a straightforward solution for enjoying a hearty meal with minimal work.
Get the Recipe: Sausage And Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Creamy Dijon Chicken

A pan of creamy dijon chicken with herbs and bacon.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Ready in just 30 minutes, Creamy Dijon Chicken is a one-pan wonder combining seasoned chicken, creamy mustard sauce, spinach, and bacon. This dish is easy to prepare and brings a rich flavor to the dinner table, pleasing even the pickiest eaters. It’s a hassle-free way to have a gourmet experience right at home. Weeknights are sure to feel a little more special without added stress.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer

A person holding a cucumber with shrimp and guacamole.
Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer is an easy low-carb option that comes together in 30 minutes. It’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t need a lot of prep or cooking time, so it’s perfect for making for last-minute guests and casual get-togethers. Or, make them as a snack and eat them midday between lunch and dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Cheesy beef casserole with cauliflower rice and spinach being spooned out of a baking dish.
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This 30-minute Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach is a perfect pick for dinner, especially on busy nights. Combining ground beef, cauliflower rice, spinach, and cheddar cheese, it’s a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s simple to make. This dish is an excellent way to enjoy a comforting meal without overloading with carbs.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Fried Cabbage With Bacon

A pan full of bacon and cabbage with a wooden spoon.
Fried Cabbage With Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a quick, 25-minute dish that combines cabbage, bacon, and onion for a simple yet flavorful meal. It’s the perfect choice for nights when you want something delicious but straightforward. This recipe is a great way to keep your meals varied without too much work.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage With Bacon

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Cauliflower risotto in a pan.
Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Prepare a creamy Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms in just 30 minutes for a side dish that’s sure to impress. This one-pot recipe is perfect for weeknight family dinners, making it easy to enjoy a sophisticated meal without complicating your routine.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

A skillet of creamy sun dried tomato chicken with a wooden spoon.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This one-pan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken is quick to prepare and full of flavor. With ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, it creates a creamy meal that’s sure to please. This dish is a lifesaver for those hectic evenings when you want a meal that’s both delicious and easy to clean up. Dinner time is a breeze with this recipe.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Baked Parmesan Salmon

In FDL library.
Baked Parmesan Salmon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In 30 minutes, Baked Parmesan Salmon delivers a nutritious and delicious dinner, making it a great weeknight option. It’s an excellent meal choice for those looking to enjoy good food without extra carbs. You can have an impressive dinner ready quickly, perfect for maintaining a balanced diet even on the busiest days.
Get the Recipe: Baked Parmesan Salmon

Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Creamy chicken thighs with artichoke hearts in a pan.
Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tender chicken thighs meet a creamy sauce with artichokes and lemon juice, creating a dish full of flavor and easy to whip up. It’s a fantastic way to add some variety to your weeknight meals, ready quickly and packed with taste. This recipe is a game-changer for busy evenings as it comes together in just 30 minutes.

Sticky Sauce Chicken

Sticky Sauce Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sticky Sauce Chicken pairs tender thighs with a sweet and tangy sauce of garlic and ginger. It’s an effortless meal that’s delicious and universally loved. Perfect for those looking for a quick and flavorful dinner option, this dish is sure to become a favorite. The easy preparation and irresistible flavor make this dish a stress-free addition to your dinner lineup.
Get the Recipe: Sticky Sauce Chicken

Cauliflower Cheddar Cheese Bacon Soup

Cauliflower cheddar cheese bacon soup in a pot with a spoon.
Cauliflower Cheddar Cheese Bacon Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This soup combines cauliflower, cheese, and bacon into a creamy, comforting meal that’s simple to make. It’s the perfect dish for any day of the week, serving a cozy, filling meal that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Its ease and simplicity cater to those who want to enjoy a hearty meal without the lengthy prep.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Cheddar Cheese Bacon Soup

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white skillet of creamy garlic chicken garnished with herbs.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This one-pan meal of chicken breasts in a creamy garlic sauce is both scrumptious and easy to prepare. Served over cauliflower rice, it’s a complete, savory dinner perfect for any night. It’s a smart solution for a filling dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste. The ease and quickness of this dish make it a perfect choice for those evenings when you’re short on time but still want a meal that feels special.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

A bowl of cilantro lime cauliflower rice.
Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Brighten up your meals with Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice, a side dish that’s quick to make and serves as a perfect complement to your main course. This dish adds a pop of flavor to any meal, making it an easy choice for enhancing dinner with minimal effort. It’s an effortless way to add a tangy touch to your meals. This recipe is perfect for those looking to maintain their diet goals without sacrificing taste or spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

Canned Chicken Patties

Chicken patties with broccoli on a plate.
Canned Chicken Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Ready in 20 minutes, Canned Chicken Patties are a versatile and simple meal solution. Whether enjoyed on their own or as part of a larger dish, they’re a solid choice for an easy and delicious meal. These patties are a lifesaver for busy days, giving you a quick way to enjoy a protein-packed meal without too much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties

Zucchini Bites

A zucchini bite being dipped into a dipping sauce.
Zucchini Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Zucchini Bites, ready in 30 minutes, are made by combining shredded zucchini, Parmesan, cheddar, and Italian seasoning for a savory snack or appetizer. Add this to your meal plan or party menu any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bites

Lemon Garlic Scallops

Scallops with parsley and garlic in a skillet.
Lemon Garlic Scallops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

With just a few ingredients and one pan, Lemon Garlic Scallops are effortlessly impressive. This recipe is perfect for those looking to quickly assemble a meal that’s both delicious and surprisingly easy.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Scallops

Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

In FDL library.
Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Whip up this flavorful stovetop broccoli and sun-dried tomatoes in a rich cream sauce in just 25 minutes. It’s a quick and savory addition to any meal, making it easier to enjoy a delicious and nutritious side without spending much time in the kitchen. This side dish is a great way to make sure you’re getting a serving of vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

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