19 low carb recipes that won’t have you counting down to your next cheat day

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Counting carbs doesn’t mean counting out flavor or fun. These 19 recipes let you keep things low-carb without ever feeling like you’re missing out on the good stuff. They’re filling, satisfying, and packed with enough variety to make every meal feel fresh and exciting. Cheat day? Forget it—you won’t even notice it’s gone when these are on the menu.

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken served on a white plate.
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Creamy Mashed Cauliflower

Creamy Mashed Cauliflower. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

If you think side dishes need a cheat day pass, this one’s here to prove you wrong. Creamy Mashed Cauliflower brings all the comfort vibes without the carb guilt, and you’ll hardly miss the heavy stuff. It’s smooth, hearty, and perfect for pairing with just about anything. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you waited this long to swap your go-to side.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Cauliflower

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.

Vintage Chicken Divan is all about bringing retro back without the carb overload. This dish is the king of comfort food, always ready to hit the spot without messing up your carb count. Perfect for those days when you’re looking for something hearty but still keeping it light on the carbs. It’s a true classic that never goes out of style, and definitely keeps you on track with your food goals.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Chicken Divan

Horiatiki Salad

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

If you’re into dishes that bring a burst of freshness to the table, then Horiatiki Salad is your go-to. It’s straightforward, no fuss, and perfect for whipping together on any day of the week. Loaded with all the good stuff, it’s like a freshness bomb that doesn’t mess with your carb goals. This dish is all about that fresh vibe without weighing you down.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

Pizza Casserole

Pizza Casserole in two serving dishes.
Pizza Casserole. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For those nights when only a casserole will do, Pizza Casserole steps up without stepping all over your carb limits. It’s like having your pizza and eating it too but in a way that keeps everything nice and light. Who said you have to give up the good stuff to keep it low carb? Not us, and definitely not this dish.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

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

Authentic Hungarian Goulash makes you rethink what it means to enjoy deep, rich flavors without the carb spike. This dish is all about meaty goodness and is perfect for getting that comfort food fix. So, who said keeping it low carb means missing out on the good stuff? Definitely not with this classic in your cooking arsenal.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Cheeseburger Casserole

Cheeseburger Casserole in a baking dish.
Cheeseburger Casserole. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

This dish combines all the flavors you love in a cheeseburger without the usual carb-heavy bun. It’s the ultimate in comfort food, giving you all the feels while keeping it carb-conscious. Perfect for times when you’re craving something a bit indulgent but still on the straight and narrow. Cheeseburger Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Casserole

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Chicken breast with herbs, cheese and tomatoes.
Mediterranean Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking to keep your meals on the lighter side but still packed with flavor, Mediterranean Chicken Bake has got your back. It’s all about lean protein and bold tastes without the carb load. This dish is a no-brainer for anyone looking to keep things interesting at dinnertime without straying from their goals. It’s simplicity and taste wrapped up in one.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Ham Salad with dill pickle on a plate.
Old Fashioned Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Old Fashioned Ham Salad is the kind of dish that brings a bit of nostalgia without bringing along the carbs. It’s perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or just by itself, making it versatile and easy to fit into any meal plan. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, keeping you right in your carb comfort zone. This is old school cool without the carb rule.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs in a bowl.
Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re all about that protein life but also keeping it light, Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are where it’s at. These are perfect for meal preps, snacks, or part of a bigger meal, giving you all the satisfaction without the carb count. It’s about getting that hearty feel in a meal without feeling weighed down. Basically, your meal goals met without the carb threat.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Egg Salad

The Best Egg Salad on the Planet.
Egg Salad. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Egg Salad proves that you don’t need a ton of ingredients or carbs to make something downright delicious. It’s the ultimate in simplicity and flavor, making for a perfect lunch or snack option. This is one of those staples that shows off how tasty simplicity can be, keeping everything low carb and straightforward. It’s the little dish that could, without the carb overload.
Get the Recipe: Egg Salad

The Perfect Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

A plate of Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl.
The Perfect Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Craving a bit of fast food flair without the fast-food regret? The Perfect Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl is your ticket to flavor town without leaving the low-carb station. This dish has all the fun and none of the fuss, keeping things light, tasty, and totally in line with your eating goals. Who knew keeping it low carb could still mean loads of fun on your plate?
Get the Recipe: The Perfect Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki Sauce with pita dipped in a black bowl.
Authentic Tzatziki Sauce. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Authentic Tzatziki Sauce is about to become your new fridge staple, trust me. It’s the perfect addition to pretty much any dish, bringing a cool, tangy twist without piling on the carbs. It’s the little touch that changes everything, making ordinary meals extraordinary. Best part? It keeps everything light and fresh, exactly how we like it.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

Mediterranean Salmon

A plate of Greek salmon with grape tomatoes and olives.
Mediterranean Salmon. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When you want to treat yourself but keep it smart, Mediterranean Salmon is the answer. This dish is all about those omega-3s and keeping things super tasty without overdoing it on the carbs. It’s seriously good food that doesn’t mess with your eating plan. Perfect for a special occasion or any weeknight when you want to up your dinner game.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon

Tex-Mex Caesar Salad

An image of Tex-Mex Caesar Salad on a square plate.
Tex-Mex Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those evenings when you want something quick yet filling, Tex-Mex Caesar Salad is your go-to. It’s easy to whip up and doesn’t skimp on the taste at all. It fits right in with a low-carb lifestyle, ensuring you’re not left feeling heavy afterwards. Plus, it’s a fun twist on a classic dish, perfect for anyone looking to mix things up.
Get the Recipe: Tex-Mex Caesar Salad

Green Beans Almondine with Bacon

Green beans with almonds and bacon on a white plate.
Green Beans Almondine with Bacon. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

If you’re aiming for a dish that brings both comfort and crunch, look no further than Green Beans Almondine with Bacon. This dish has a way of making green beans the star of the show. With the added crunch and smokiness from the bacon, it’s anything but boring. It’s a must-try for those on a low-carb diet who still crave something hearty.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans Almondine with Bacon

Oven Baked Ribs

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

When you think of soul food that falls within a low-carb bracket, Oven Baked Ribs should come to mind. They’re perfect for a chill night in, combining ease of preparation with finger-licking goodness. No need to wait for a special occasion to enjoy these; they fit perfectly into your weekly meal plan. It proves that sticking to your diet goals doesn’t mean you have to give up on hearty dinners.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate with seasoned asparagus and diced chicken topped with herbs. A halved grilled lemon and fresh parsley are nearby on a white floral tablecloth.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are the answer when you need something scrumptious without all the fuss. They pack a punch with loads of flavor, making them a hit for any meal. Not only are they easy to make, but they also align with keeping carbs at bay. It’s a perfect choice for a busy day when you want to eat well without feeling weighed down.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Cucumber Salad with Feta

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

Refreshing is the word when it comes to Cucumber Salad with Feta. It’s light, it’s fresh, and it brings a certain brightness to the table. Ideal for those days when you want a side that doesn’t overload you with carbs. This salad is a standout choice for anyone looking to keep things simple yet flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken served on a white plate.
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken is where it’s at if you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and easy to prepare. The slow cooking process does wonders, ensuring every bite is packed with richness. It’s an excellent choice for a cozy meal at home, offering both convenience and taste. Plus, it seamlessly fits into a low-carb eating plan, keeping you right on track with your goals.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

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