30 low-carb dinners to make when you’ve finally broken up with high carb meals

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Low-carb dinners are here to help when you’ve finally decided to part ways with those heavy-carb-filled meals that leave you feeling tired. It’s like discovering a new kind of energy that doesn’t drag you down after eating. These meals will keep things lighter without skimping on flavor, helping you feel more balanced and ready to tackle whatever comes next.

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

Keto Zuppa Toscana

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

Keto Zuppa Toscana is a great option when you need something comforting without carbs. Radishes take the place of potatoes, keeping it low-carb while still giving you that hearty feel. The Italian sausage and bacon add a rich flavor, and the creamy broth with Parmesan makes it even better. It’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep. This soup is filling without relying on carbs, so you can enjoy it any night of the week without worrying about heavy ingredients.
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 quick, easy dinner that feels rich without the carbs. The chicken thighs are cooked in a flavorful mushroom sauce with heavy cream and sun-dried tomatoes. Everything comes together in one pan in just 30 minutes, so it’s great for busy weeknights. If you’re looking for something that’s simple to make but still feels special, this is a perfect choice. Plus, it’s filling enough on its own, so no need for extra sides.
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 are a great way to switch up your low-carb meals. With ground turkey, coconut milk, curry paste, and ginger, this dish has plenty of flavors but stays light. It cooks in about 30 minutes and pairs well with cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal that’s easy and filling. These meatballs are a great choice if you’re tired of the usual dinners and need something different but simple. They’re also perfect for meal prepping ahead of time.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Bacon Cheeseburger Salad

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

Bacon Cheeseburger Salad is the way to go when you’re craving all the fun of a cheeseburger without the carb crash. You’ve got all the good stuff here — seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and a Big Mac-style sauce that brings it all together — without the bun weighing you down. It’s quick to put together, making it a great choice for dinner when you’re short on time but still want something filling.
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 simple and quick meal perfect for low-carb eating. The chicken thighs are tender, paired with artichoke hearts in a creamy lemon sauce. It’s all ready in about 30 minutes, so it works well for busy nights or meal prep. You don’t need carbs to feel full with this dish, and it’s a great way to have a flavorful, light meal any night of the week.
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.

This Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach is a great choice when you’re done with carbs but still want a hearty meal. Shrimp, spinach, and tomatoes come together in a flavorful garlic sauce, all cooked in one skillet to make cleanup easy. It’s a quick meal — just 30 minutes — so it’s perfect for busy nights. The shrimp adds some heft to the dish, while the spinach and tomatoes keep it light but filling. You’ll enjoy a meal that feels full without leaving you weighed down by carbs.
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 brings all the flavors of a classic cheesesteak but skips the bread. Steak, peppers, onions, and mushrooms get baked with melted provolone, creating a filling meal that’s perfect for dinner. It takes about 55 minutes to make, but most of that time is in the oven, so you’ve got some breathing room while it cooks. You can even make this ahead of time for those nights when you need something quick and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

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, low-carb option that still delivers on flavor. You get a light, refreshing bite without much effort with bacon, chicken, and cheese inside crisp cucumber. These are easy to make, great for meal prepping, and perfect for when you need something quick. Plus, they hold up well in the fridge, so you can keep them handy for when you’re hungry but want to avoid heavier meals.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

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

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is simple and comforting. Broccoli, cauliflower, bacon, and cheese come together in a dish that’s ready in 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings. The ingredients are straightforward and a great way to enjoy a cozy meal without carbs. Bacon adds just the right amount of flavor, while the cheese keeps everything rich and filling. It’s an easy option for when you need something fast and hearty.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Bell Pepper Sandwich

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

If you’re looking for a quick, low-carb lunch, the Bell Pepper Sandwich is a fresh option. Swapping out bread for crisp bell peppers is a great way to keep things light while still having a filling meal. In just 10 minutes, you can load up your bell peppers with turkey, bacon, cucumbers, and mustard. It’s all about simple ingredients that work together for a quick dinner or snack. Perfect for when you need something fast and fresh but still want to feel good about what you’re eating.
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 gives you a hearty meal without the carbs. In 30 minutes, you’ve got tender asparagus and crisp bacon in a creamy sauce that feels comforting but won’t weigh you down. It’s an easy dish to throw together on a weeknight when you want something quick and flavorful. The asparagus adds a bit of crunch, and the bacon gives the dish a nice balance.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Bacon Asparagus Pasta

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 comfort without the carbs. It’s made with sausage, cream cheese, and tomatoes, giving you a rich and creamy dish in just 30 minutes. You only need one pot, so it’s quick and easy to clean up. This soup is perfect for busy nights when you want something filling but don’t have a lot of time or energy. The best part is that it’s hearty enough to keep you going but light enough that you won’t feel weighed down afterward.
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 a great option when you’re short on time but still want a hearty meal. Just brown the sausage and cook the cabbage in the same pan for a quick, low-carb dinner that’s done in under 30 minutes. This recipe keeps things simple, using basic ingredients that are budget-friendly and easy to find. It’s perfect for a fast, filling meal on a busy night. You’ll love how easy it is to make, with minimal cleanup, leaving you more time to relax.
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 is a low-carb dish that brings a little heat to your meal. It’s got the bold flavors of jalapeños, bacon, and a creamy base that ties everything together without making you feel weighed down. You can serve it in lettuce wraps or on its own, making it flexible for different occasions. It’s perfect when you need something simple and low-carb that still has plenty of flavor. It’s also a great option for meal prep, so you have something ready to go when time is short.
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.

The Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner makes sticking to low-carb meals so much easier. You’re simply chopping up broccoli, zucchini, sweet mini peppers and sausages, seasoning them, and letting the oven do the rest. It’s a simple, no-mess option for a busy night. Plus, with just one pan to clean, it’s quick to wrap up after dinner. This is a great go-to for when you want a low-carb meal without a lot of prep or hassle. You can use whatever veggies you have, making it flexible and practical.
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 is the kind of low-carb dinner that feels like a treat without the carbs tagging along. Tender chicken thighs cooked in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach give it a rich flavor that still keeps things light. This one-pan dish is ready in about 40 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s also great for leftovers, which taste even better the next day. It’s a simple way to make a filling meal that doesn’t leave you with a lot of cleanup.
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.

Keto Chicken Nuggets are a great solution when you want something crunchy but need to keep carbs low. Coated in ground sunflower seed meal, cheese, and pork rinds, they serve that delicious bite you’re after. They take just 30 minutes to make, so they’re perfect for busy nights when you need a quick meal. Pair them with some fresh veggies or a salad, and you’ve got a balanced, low-carb dinner that everyone can enjoy.
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 is a comforting dish that’s quick to make and keeps carbs low. The rich Dijon sauce with crispy bacon and spinach comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight option when you don’t have a lot of time. Everything cooks in one pan, so there’s minimal cleanup. It’s a hearty meal that you can even make ahead for easy reheating during the week. You get a flavorful, balanced dinner without spending hours in the kitchen or worrying about carbs.
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.

This Cheesy Beef Casserole is a great low-carb dinner that feels hearty without the carb overload. Ground beef, cauliflower rice, and spinach make a filling base topped with melted cheese for that extra comfort factor. It’s ready in 30 minutes, so it’s great for busy evenings when you need a quick, filling meal. It also works well for meal prep since it reheats easily. If you’re looking for something simple yet hearty, this casserole makes a perfect choice without weighing you down.
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 simple, flavorful dish that comes together in just 25 minutes. It’s a one-pan meal, so cleanup is a breeze, and you get a filling, low-carb option that’s perfect for weeknights. The crispy bacon adds a nice contrast to the tender cabbage, making this meal both hearty and easy to prepare. Plus, with minimal ingredients, it’s a stress-free way to get dinner on the table fast.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

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

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms gives you the creamy comfort of risotto without the carbs. Using cauliflower instead of rice gives you a light but filling meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. The mushrooms add a rich, earthy flavor, while garlic and Parmesan bring everything together. It’s all made in one pot, making cleanup easy, and it’s perfect for those evenings when you want a comforting meal without the heaviness of traditional risotto.
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.

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken is a low-carb meal that feels rich and comforting without being heavy. The sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan create a flavorful sauce that coats tender chicken thighs, all in one pan and ready in 30 minutes. It’s a great option for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste. Plus, with minimal cleanup, it’s a good choice for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Baked Parmesan Salmon

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

Baked Parmesan Salmon is a quick, low-carb dinner that’s full of flavor. The Parmesan and pork rind crust gives the salmon a nice crunch, while garlic and butter add richness. This dish is ready in just 30 minutes and is great for a weeknight meal when you want something healthy and fast. It pairs well with veggies or a salad for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Parmesan Salmon

Sticky Sauce Chicken

Sticky Sauce Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sticky Sauce Chicken is great when you’re avoiding carbs but still want something filling and flavorful. The chicken is cooked with a simple sauce made from coconut aminos, fish sauce, garlic, and ginger. It comes together quickly, so it’s perfect for busy nights or when you just want a low-effort dinner. Pair it with some roasted veggies for a complete meal that won’t leave you feeling weighed down.
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 a great option for those cutting carbs but still craving comfort. It’s made in one skillet, with chicken breasts simmered in a simple garlic sauce. This meal is ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Serve it with some veggies, and you’ve got a comforting meal that’s light but filling. The cleanup is easy too, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen all night.
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 an easy go-to when you want to cut carbs and make something fast. They’re made with canned chicken, eggs, Parmesan cheese, sunflower seed meal, and herbs to make crisp patties outside and juicy inside in about 20 minutes. They’re simple but filling, whether paired with a salad or wrapped up. This recipe keeps things quick and easy, perfect for when you need to eat but don’t have the energy for a complicated meal. The patties are light but filling, giving you a low-carb option that won’t leave you reaching for snacks later.
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 a simple, light meal when you’re trying to avoid carbs. Pan-friend scallops are tossed in a lemon garlic butter sauce, giving them a fresh and bright flavor. They’re ready in 25 minutes, making them a great choice for a quick dinner. Pair them with a side of vegetables, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s fast and easy to make. This dish keeps things light but flavorful, perfect for when you want something healthy without spending too much time in the kitchen.
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 bold, Middle Eastern flavors to your table without the carbs. The chicken is marinated in shawarma spices and then either grilled or baked. You can even prep the marinade ahead of time. Serve it with some cauliflower rice or a simple salad, and you’ve got a flavorful and filling meal. This recipe is great for those nights when you want something a little different but still need to keep things quick and easy.
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 for when you’re craving Mexican flavors but need to avoid carbs. Chicken seasoned with fajita spices is layered with cream cheese, peppers, and mozzarella and then baked until everything is melted and delicious. It takes about 30 minutes to make, making it a great weeknight option. Serve it with some roasted vegetables for a complete, low-carb meal that’s easy to pull together.
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.

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole is a great choice when you want something low-carb but still crave a bit of spice. Shredded chicken, bacon, cream cheese, and jalapeños come together for a hearty and flavorful casserole. It takes over an hour, most of which are hands-off, perfect for those nights when you want something filling without too much work. This recipe gives you a little kick without the carbs and is easy to throw together.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

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