30 low-carb dinners to end your high-carb era

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Cutting back on heavy, high-carb meals can feel like a breath of fresh air. Think of it as clearing out the clutter and making room for dinners that are light but still taste great. These dishes are designed to give you that boost without the sluggish feeling that often comes with carb overloads. It’s all about keeping things simple and fun while making sure you feel good afterward.

A serving of Philly cheese steak casserole being pulled up from a pan.
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Keto Zuppa Toscana

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

If you’re after a comforting, low-carb soup, Keto Zuppa Toscana will fill you up. It swaps out potatoes for radishes but keeps Italian sausage, bacon, heavy cream, and Parmesan, so you’re not missing out on flavor ready in about an hour. Pair it with some keto bread, and you’ve got a cozy dinner that shows cutting carbs doesn’t mean sacrificing taste. Great for meal prepping, too — keep some in the fridge or freezer for those busy days when you need something nourishing in a hurry.
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.

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a go-to for a comforting meal without the carbs. Tender chicken thighs are cooked in a creamy sauce with heavy cream, chicken stock, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan. It’s a simple, one-pan dish ready in 30 minutes, perfect for those nights when you want something hearty but low-carb. Serve it with a side of greens or cauliflower rice, and you’ve got a meal that’s both rich and easy on your carb count. It’s a nice way to treat yourself midweek without feeling weighed down.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Coconut curry Thai turkey meatballs on top of cauliflower rice in a bowl.
Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs bring flavor to your table when you need a break from the usual low-carb meals. It’s made with coconut milk, red curry paste, ginger, and garlic; these meatballs are ready in 30 minutes. Serve them over cauliflower rice for an exciting and carb-conscious meal. They’re a great way to mix your weeknight dinners and try something different. Perfect for when you want a delicious meal that’s light on carbs but big on taste.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole in a baking dish garnished with green onions.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is a perfect fit when craving something cheesy but sticking to low-carb. Broccoli and cauliflower are baked in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with crispy bacon. It’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy nights. This dish gives you that comfort food feeling without the extra carbs. Whether you have it as a main or a side, it’s a simple way to enjoy something hearty while staying on track with your low-carb goals.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Bacon Cheeseburger Salad

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

If a cheeseburger sounds good but you’re avoiding carbs, this Bacon Cheeseburger Salad has you covered. It’s got all the classic flavors with seasoned ground beef, bacon, and cheddar, all on a fresh bed of lettuce topped with a homemade Big Mac-style sauce. Without the bun, this salad is a great meal without the heaviness. You get all the taste of a burger without the bun, making it easy to stick to your low-carb goals. It’s a simple, delicious way to enjoy what you love without missing out.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Cheeseburger Salad

Creamy Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

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

Creamy Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts is a great way to enjoy comfort food without the carbs. Juicy chicken is simmered in a lemony sauce with tender artichokes, making it filling and delicious. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something special. This recipe is also great for meal prep — make a batch and enjoy it throughout the week. You’ll find it’s a cozy dinner option that feels indulgent but won’t weigh you down.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

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

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach bring a taste of Italy to your dinner table without the carbs. Plump shrimp and fresh spinach are bathed in a flavorful garlic sauce. In just 25 minutes, you can create a meal that feels fancy yet is simple to prepare. This dish is great for impressing guests or enjoying a comforting dinner at home. Packed with protein and greens, it helps you feel full while keeping carbs in check. Pair it with some crusty bread for dipping, and you’ll have a lovely meal ready soon.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

A serving of Philly cheese steak casserole being pulled up from a pan.
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole is a great way to enjoy your favorite cheesesteak flavors without the carbs. It features sirloin steak, peppers, onions, mushrooms, and melted provolone cheese baked into a cozy casserole. Ready in 55 minutes, this dish is great for family dinners. Serve it alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It’s comforting and easy to prepare, showing that low-carb meals can be packed with flavor and warmth. You’ll find this dish keeps everyone coming back for seconds!
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

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.

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken is perfect for a low-carb dinner bursting with flavor. In only 30 minutes, chicken thighs cook in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan. This one-pan meal makes cleanup easy so you can relax after dinner. It’s a comforting option for busy nights when you want something special. With rich flavors and a hearty feel, this dish shows you can enjoy delicious meals without the carbs weighing you down. You’ll love how simple it is to create a great dinner!
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Bell Pepper Sandwich

Bell pepper sandwich cut in half on a plate.
Bell Pepper Sandwich. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

The Bell Pepper Sandwich is a hearty option for anyone cutting carbs. Crisp bell pepper halves are filled with turkey, bacon, cucumbers, and mustard, giving you a perfect crunch. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a fresh and flavorful meal that feels like a treat without the bread. This quick bite keeps your dinner light and filling, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner. It’s an easy way to add veggies to your plate while keeping meals fun and delicious!
Get the Recipe: Bell Pepper Sandwich

Creamy Bacon Asparagus Pasta

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

Creamy Bacon Asparagus Pasta is a great option for a comforting meal that skips the carbs. You get crispy bacon and fresh asparagus mixed in a creamy Parmesan sauce in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for weeknights when you need something that feels like a treat without taking too much time. This dish lets you enjoy the richness of creamy pasta without the heaviness, making it an easy win for a low-carb dinner. Plus, it’s quick to make and doesn’t leave you with many dishes.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Bacon Asparagus Pasta

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.

Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats are a simple way to keep your meals light and low-carb. The crunch of cucumber with the creamy chicken salad — mixed with bacon, cheese, and homemade ranch ready in 30 minutes. These boats make meal prepping easy and give you a break from the usual bread-heavy options. It’s a nice change that keeps things flavorful while sticking to your low-carb plan — a great choice when you need something quick, refreshing, and filling.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Italian Sausage Soup

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

Italian Sausage Soup brings hearty comfort without the carbs. It’s loaded with Italian sausage, cream cheese, and tomatoes; this soup is rich and ready in about 30 minutes. It’s all made in one pot, so cleanup is easy. Perfect for weeknights when you need something filling but want to keep things low-carb. You’ll get that cozy feeling without the heavy carbs, making it a nice go-to for something simple yet delicious — a great way to enjoy comfort food on a low-carb diet.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sausage Soup

Cabbage and Sausage

A pan of cabbage and sausage garnished with fresh herbs.
Cabbage and Sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cabbage and Sausage is an easy dish that’s big on flavor and light on carbs. You get juicy sausage paired with caramelized cabbage, all cooked in one pan and ready in under 30 minutes. The cabbage cooks down to a slight sweetness that goes perfectly with the flavorful sausage, giving you a balanced, filling meal. This dish is practical for busy days when you want to keep dinner simple, nutritious, and low-carb. It’s a comforting option that fits into a healthier routine.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

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

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad adds a bit of spice to your low-carb meals. It has the flavor punch you’re looking for with jalapeños, crispy bacon, and a creamy base. It’s quick to prepare and works well for meal prepping so that you can keep it throughout the week. Great for lunch or a light dinner without the carbs. It’s a nice change from the usual, giving something a bit different while keeping things easy and convenient — a great way to keep your meals exciting and low-carb.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

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 a great low-carb option that takes minimal effort. Just chop up your sausages and favorite veggies, season, and bake. You’ll have a filling meal in about 30 minutes, with hardly any clean-up. The sausage flavor mixes with the veggies, making each bite hearty and delicious. It’s flexible, too — use whatever veggies you have on hand. Perfect for those nights when you want something simple and comforting without the carbs getting in the way.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

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

Creamy Tuscan Chicken gives you that creamy comfort without the carbs. Tender chicken thighs simmer in a rich sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. It’s ready in 40 minutes, and you only need one pan. Perfect for when you want something cozy but don’t have much time. The creamy sauce adds a rich flavor, making it a special treat. It’s also great as leftovers, giving you an easy, flavorful meal for another day. Low-carb eating doesn’t have to miss out on flavorful dishes like this.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Keto Chicken Nuggets

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

These Keto Chicken Nuggets are all about that crunch without the carbs. They’re coated in ground sunflower seed meal, cheese, and pork rinds, giving you a crispy bite that’s ready in just 30 minutes. They bring the familiar comfort of chicken nuggets without the usual breading, which is great when you want something fun without the carbs slowing you down. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ve got a low-carb option that even kids will love. It’s all about enjoying a classic in a way that fits your goals.
Get the Recipe: Keto Chicken Nuggets

Creamy Dijon Chicken

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

Creamy Dijon Chicken combines tender chicken, spinach, and bacon in a tangy, creamy sauce. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s great for those nights when you need something comforting without much work. The Dijon mustard adds a gentle kick, making each bite rich and flavorful. It’s also a perfect option for meal prepping, giving you a quick, delicious meal for later in the week. Enjoying something creamy and delicious doesn’t have to mean lots of carbs, and this dish shows you how.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

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.

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach is your go-to when you want something hearty without the carbs. Layers of seasoned ground beef, cauliflower rice, and spinach come together under a layer of melted cheese. It’s ready in about 30 minutes and works well for busy nights. The cauliflower rice melds perfectly, absorbing the rich beef and cheese flavors. There is no pasta here, just a comforting meal that fits right into your low-carb lifestyle.
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.

This Fried Cabbage with Bacon is here for you when looking to keep things low-carb but still want something comforting. It’s a simple mix of green cabbage, onions, and crispy bacon, all cooked in one pan to keep things easy. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s great when you need something quick and filling. The cabbage adds a touch of sweetness that balances with the salty bacon. Plus, it stores well for those busy days when reheating is your best friend. A no-stress, low-carb dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

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

This Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms is a great go-to when you need comfort without the carbs. In about 30 minutes, cauliflower rice, mushrooms, garlic, and Parmesan come together for an indulgent dish that won’t weigh you down. One-pot cooking means less cleanup and more time to relax. The mushrooms add a nice earthy depth, and the Parmesan ties it together. Perfect for dinner when you want something delicious. Plus, the leftovers reheat perfectly for a quick next-day meal.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Baked Parmesan Salmon

Keto baked parmesan salmon on foil on a baking sheet.
Baked Parmesan Salmon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For a quick, low-carb dinner that feels a bit special, try this Baked Parmesan Salmon. It’s ready in 30 minutes and features salmon topped with crunchy pork rinds and Parmesan crust. Baked with butter and garlic, it’s full of flavor and those Omega-3s we all need. The crispy crust contrasts the tender salmon, making it something to look forward to at the end of the day. It’s simple enough for a weekday meal but nice enough to serve when you want to impress.
Get the Recipe: Baked Parmesan Salmon

Sticky Sauce Chicken

Sticky Sauce Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sticky Sauce Chicken is your answer if you’re craving takeout but trying to ditch the carbs. It features chicken pieces in a sticky, flavorful sauce made with coconut aminos, fish sauce, garlic, and ginger. It pairs perfectly with roasted veggies and tastes just as good the next day. You get all the takeout vibes without the carb hangover. The thick sauce clings to the chicken, bringing salty and slightly sweet flavors. A quick, flavorful option that shows low-carb doesn’t have to mean bland.
Get the Recipe: Sticky Sauce Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken

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

Creamy Garlic Chicken is all about comfort with a low-carb take. Chicken breasts are cooked until golden in avocado oil and then smothered in a rich garlic sauce. Everything’s done in one pan so that you can have a great meal without many dishes. Ready in no time, it’s perfect for those nights when you need something quick but still want it to feel like a treat. Serve it with cauliflower rice or greens to keep it low-carb. It’s a comforting option that’s big on flavor without the carbs.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Canned Chicken Patties

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

These Canned Chicken Patties are great for those nights when you need something easy and low-carb. They come together fast using canned chicken, sunflower seed meal, and spices. Pair them with a simple salad or wrap them in a low-carb tortilla for a delicious meal. This recipe helps you stick to low-carb eating without the hassle, giving you a simple solution to your dinner routine. A little planning goes a long way here — having these on hand makes life just a bit easier.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties

Lemon Garlic Scallops

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

Lemon Garlic Scallops are perfect for a quick, low-carb dinner that feels special. You sear the scallops, then coat them in a buttery lemon garlic sauce. They’re ready in about 25 minutes, making them a quick fix for busy nights. Pair them with steamed veggies or cauliflower rice to keep everything low-carb. It’s a great way to enjoy something flavorful without spending too much time cooking. This dish makes low-carb eating feel less like a chore and a nice little reward at the end of a long day.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Scallops

Shawarma Kebabs

A plate of shawarma kebabs with greens and lemon slices.
Shawarma Kebabs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Shawarma Kebabs bring some excitement to your low-carb dinners. Marinated chicken skewers are baked until juicy and pair perfectly with tzatziki sauce and cauliflower rice. You can prep these and store them in the fridge or freezer, making them a handy option when you need something quick. It’s like having a flavorful takeout meal but without all the carbs. Perfect for those nights when you want something that feels a bit more special yet doesn’t require much effort.
Get the Recipe: Shawarma Kebabs

Fajita Baked Chicken

Cheesy chicken fajita bake in a baking pan.
Fajita Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Fajita Baked Chicken is perfect when you’re looking for something low-carb and comforting. Seasoned chicken breasts, cream cheese, sweet peppers, and mozzarella bake together in about 30 minutes. You get all the flavor of fajitas without the tortillas, so you’re sticking to your low-carb plan without feeling like you’re missing out. Serve it with some avocado slices or low-carb chips for a complete meal. It’s an easy option that doesn’t compromise on taste, simplifying weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Spoon scooping up jalapeño popper casserole from a baking dish.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

This Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole is a great way to mix up your low-carb routine. It’s packed with shredded chicken thighs, bacon, cream cheese, and jalapeños and topped with melted cheese. Ready in a little over an hour, it’s an easy, flavorful option that spices up your dinner without adding carbs. Pair it with a side of greens or some guacamole for a bit more color and taste. It’s hearty and a great option for meal prep or family dinners. This casserole makes sticking to low-carb a little easier.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

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