17 low-carb recipes that ditch the bun and go all in on bold flavor with no distractions

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Some meals just don’t need the bun tagging along for the ride. These 17 low-carb recipes drop the extras and get straight to the point, piling on bold taste with nothing to hide behind. They don’t try to be something they’re not; they just show up, no distractions, and get the job done. It’s the kind of food that makes you forget the bun ever had a role in the first place.

A fork is lifting a portion of Chicken Divan from one of the bowls.
Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Mediterranean Salmon

Mediterranean Salmon on a white rectangular plate.
Mediterranean Salmon. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

This dish keeps it simple but loaded with bold flavors. Mediterranean Salmon gives you the rich experience of the Mediterranean, all without the extra carbs. It’s perfect for anyone who loves the freshness of salmon paired with bold, savory touches. No fuss, just straightforward, delicious fish at its best.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon

Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers

A wooden round serving board is covered with white parchment paper, displaying numerous grilled steak and veggie skewers arranged horizontally across it.
Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

If you’re craving something hearty, Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers hit the spot. These skewers bring together tender, juicy steak with grilled veggies for a meal that doesn’t need a bun. It’s all about big, hearty bites that are easy to eat. A no-nonsense dish that’s filling without the carb overload.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers

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.

Chinese Chicken Salad offers a refreshing break from the usual with a fulfilling crunch. It’s packed with flavors that’ll make you forget the carbs were ever a thing. The balance of textures and tastes in this dish makes it a go-to for those looking for something bold yet light. It’s simple, effective, and full of good vibes.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Diner Style Salisbury Steak

A white plate with Salisbury steak topped with mushroom gravy on mashed potatoes, accompanied by a side of green peas.
Diner Style Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

This steak takes the comfort food you love and strips it down to what really matters: rich, savory meat. Diner Style Salisbury Steak is packed with flavor but leaves the carbs behind, so you can enjoy the meaty goodness. A meal that keeps you full without the weight of a heavy carb side. It’s everything you love about diner food, minus the bun.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

Oven-roasted asparagus on a bed of mascarpone, topped with toasted garlic, nuts, and lemon zest, served on a black slate platter.
Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Keep it simple with Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone, a dish that’s easy but doesn’t skimp on flavor. The creamy mascarpone makes the roasted asparagus feel like a treat, offering a contrast of textures. It’s a perfect side that’s hearty enough to hold its own or be paired with just about anything. The taste is clean and fulfilling without being heavy.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Close-up of a hand holding a fork with a bite of copycat Alice spring chicken.
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken is the perfect way to enjoy that classic dish at home, with no need for extra carbs. The layers of flavor from the chicken make each bite just what you need. It’s got that familiar comfort, but this version skips the bun and keeps the taste. A no-hassle, bold dish that’s as fulfilling as it gets.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

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.

Bold and colorful, Mediterranean Chopped Salad brings the bright flavors to the table without overwhelming you. Every bite is a burst of freshness and crunch, perfect for a light yet filling meal. It’s the kind of dish that leaves you feeling satisfied but never too full. Enjoy the simplicity of it all, packed with a ton of character.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chopped Salad

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate with seasoned asparagus and garlic butter chicken bites 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.

These chicken bites are the kind of thing you’ll want to make again and again. Packed with flavor, Garlic Butter Chicken Bitesare perfect for anyone craving something tasty without the carbs. The garlic butter adds that rich, savory touch, making each bite satisfying. A simple yet fulfilling meal without any unnecessary extras.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips with mushroom gravy over mashed potatoes, garnished with chives on a white plate.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Craving a hearty meal without the carbs? Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips give you the satisfaction of tender beef, packed with savory goodness. It’s all about that rich, juicy beef cooked just right to keep you coming back for more. No bun needed here, just a perfect, bold bite every time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

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.

A side dish that holds its own, Green Beans Almondine with Bacon offers a nice balance of crunch and savory flavor. The crispy bacon adds just the right touch to the tender green beans. It’s a great way to enjoy veggies without feeling like you’re missing out. The flavor hits all the right notes without the carbs.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans Almondine with Bacon

Cheeseburger Casserole

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

Cheeseburger Casserole is a comforting, filling dish that skips the bun without losing that burger vibe. It brings everything you love about a cheeseburger into a hearty casserole. The cheesy goodness and seasoned meat make this a dish that’ll stick with you. It’s easy, filling, and just what you need when you want a good meal.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Casserole

Chicken Parmesan Lettuce Wraps

Two chicken parmesan lettuce wraps on a cutting board.
Chicken Parmesan Lettuce Wraps. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Want all the flavors of chicken parmesan without the carbs? Chicken Parmesan Lettuce Wraps give you everything you love in a handheld form. You get the crispy crunch of the lettuce and the rich flavor of the chicken, all wrapped up in a low-carb bite. It’s a great option for a filling meal without any of the excess.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Parmesan Lettuce Wraps

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.

Looking for a salad with a bit of a kick? Tex-Mex Caesar Salad adds some bold spice to the classic Caesar, making it feel fresh and new. With a crunchy texture and bold seasoning, this salad makes for a great low-carb option that feels anything but boring. It’s simple, hearty, and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Tex-Mex Caesar Salad

Italian Chicken

Creamy Italian Chicken on a plate.
Italian Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re craving something bold but low-carb, Italian Chicken is the answer. The seasoning packs a punch, and the chicken stays juicy and tender. This dish is perfect for a quick, fulfilling meal that doesn’t feel too heavy. It’s a straightforward option when you want flavor without the carbs.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken

Mexican Cauliflower Rice

A plate of Mexican Cauliflower Rice garnished with cilantro, served with a lime wedge. Fresh tomatoes and cilantro are visible in the background.
Mexican Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish is a perfect replacement when you’re looking to ditch the carbs but still want a flavorful side. It’s packed with spice and flavor, offering a fulfilling alternative to regular rice. Mexican Cauliflower Rice is light but full of taste, making it a great addition to any meal. It’s simple, easy, and a nice twist on the classic rice side.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Cauliflower Rice

Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone

Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone in a black dish.
Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone takes a classic side and makes it feel special. The mascarpone adds richness, turning simple spinach into a creamy, fulfilling dish. It’s great when you want something a bit indulgent but still light and healthy. Whether as a side or on its own, this dish doesn’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone

Chicken Divan

A fork is lifting a portion of Chicken Divan from one of the bowls.
Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

With Chicken Divan, you get creamy comfort in a low-carb package. The rich sauce and tender chicken come together for a dish that feels indulgent without being heavy. It’s a great option when you want something creamy and fulfilling, but lighter than the usual. This dish hits the spot without leaving you feeling overstuffed.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan

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