35 main dishes to rescue you when you don’t know what to cook

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Stuck on what to make for dinner? These main dishes take the guesswork out of mealtime with recipes that are easy, delicious, and reliable. No matter what’s in your fridge, there’s something here that fits the bill. Keep these ideas on hand for nights when you need a meal that just works.

Red plate filled with alfredo sauce and keto noodles.
Low Carb Fettuccine Alfredo. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

Cabbage beef casserole inside cast iron.
Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Warm, hearty, and packed with comfort. A simple dish that comes together easily but feels like home-cooked perfection. Great for weeknights when you need something filling. A must-try if you love easy casseroles.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

Low Carb Lasagna with Ground Beef

Lasagna inside casserole.
Low Carb Lasagna with Ground Beef. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Classic lasagna flavors without the extra carbs. Rich layers that make every bite worth it. Perfect for pasta lovers looking for a lighter option. Comfort food made simple.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Lasagna with Ground Beef

Low Carb Gnocchi with Fresh Spinach Sauce

Bright green gnocchi sauce with orange turmeric powder over the gnocchi plate.
Low Carb Gnocchi with Fresh Spinach Sauce. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Light yet comforting, this dish is all about soft, pillowy gnocchi paired with a creamy spinach sauce. It’s a great alternative to traditional pasta, keeping things simple without losing out on flavor. Perfect for a cozy meal that doesn’t feel too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Gnocchi with Fresh Spinach Sauce

Juicy and Guilt-Free Portobello Mushroom Burger

Portobello mushrooms buns with burger in between.
Juicy and Guilt-Free Portobello Mushroom Burger. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Juicy and packed with flavor, this mushroom burger is a great alternative to the usual. It’s easy to grill or cook on the stovetop, and it holds up well to all your favorite toppings. Perfect when you want something simple but still full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Juicy and Guilt-Free Portobello Mushroom Burger

Stuffed Zucchini Mini Bites

Stuffed Zucchini Mini Bites on a plate with herbs.
Stuffed Zucchini Mini Bites. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

These little bites are packed with flavor and perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer. Baked until golden and tender, they’re easy to make and fun to eat. Great for mixing things up when you want something light but still delicious.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Zucchini Mini Bites

Broccoli Stir Fry with Chicken

Stir-fry loaded with vibrant vegetables.
Broccoli Stir Fry with Chicken. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

Quick, flavorful, and perfect for a simple weeknight meal. Comes together fast without sacrificing taste. Great for meal prep or when you need something easy and delicious. A go-to stir-fry recipe that always delivers.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Stir Fry with Chicken

Low Carb Pasta Carbonara

Pasta Carbonara inside a bowl with herbs and bacon.
Low Carb Pasta Carbonara. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

All the creamy, smoky goodness of carbonara without the extra carbs. Simple, rich, and packed with flavor. A great way to enjoy pasta night while keeping it light. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Pasta Carbonara

Stuffed Zucchini Boats

A baking tray with stuffed zucchini boats topped with cheese.
Stuffed Zucchini Boats. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

A fun, easy way to switch up dinner with something delicious. Packed with flavor in every bite. Great for meal prep or a quick weeknight meal. A lighter take on a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Stuffed Pepper

Stuffed peppers with tomato sauce inside a white dish.
Stuffed Pepper. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

A simple dish that’s packed with flavor and always a hit. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep. Great for weeknights when you need something hearty. A delicious way to switch up dinner.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper

Spicy Ramen Noodles Recipe

Two bowls of spicy ramen noodles with veggies on top.
Spicy Ramen Noodles Recipe. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

A quick and flavorful way to spice up ramen night. Perfect when you’re craving something with a little heat. Easy to customize and comes together fast. A great alternative to takeout.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Ramen Noodles Recipe

Pork Fillet Easy Recipe

A plate of pork fillet meal garnished with onions.
Pork Fillet Easy Recipe. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

Juicy, tender, and packed with flavor in every bite. Simple to prepare but feels like a special meal. Perfect for a quick dinner that still feels homemade. A go-to recipe for pork lovers.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fillet Easy Recipe

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Skewers of vegetables and shrimp on a grill.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

These shrimp cook up fast and are packed with flavor, making them perfect for an easy meal. Whether you’re firing up the grill or using a stovetop pan, they come out tender and delicious every time. Great for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Low Carb Spaghetti Bolognese

Low Carb Spaghetti Bolognese in a grey bowl with extra sauce on the side.
Low Carb Spaghetti Bolognese. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

All the rich, meaty flavors of a classic bolognese, but without the extra carbs. This dish is hearty, comforting, and great for pasta lovers looking for a lighter option. It’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Spaghetti Bolognese

Baked Sausage and Sauerkraut

Baked Sausage and Sauerkraut on a cast iron plate.
Baked Sausage and Sauerkraut. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

A simple yet flavorful dish that brings together smoky sausage and tangy sauerkraut in the best way. Everything bakes together to create a rich, comforting meal with minimal effort. Perfect for a busy night when you want something warm and filling.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sausage and Sauerkraut

Homemade Ground Beef Low Carb Tacos

Tacos in a brown basket.
Homemade Ground Beef Low Carb Tacos. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Taco night just got even better with this easy, low-carb twist. Juicy, seasoned beef is packed with flavor and pairs perfectly with your favorite toppings. Whether you use lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas, these tacos come together fast and taste amazing.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ground Beef Low Carb Tacos

Bacon Fathead Pizza Dough

Keto Bacon Fathead Pizza with fresh basil leaves.
Bacon Fathead Pizza Dough. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Crispy, cheesy, and packed with smoky bacon flavor, this dough is a game-changer for pizza night. It bakes up perfectly and holds all your favorite toppings without the carbs of traditional crust. A great way to enjoy homemade pizza any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fathead Pizza Dough

Pumpkin Meatballs

Pumpkin meatballs with baked pumpkin pieces.
Pumpkin Meatballs. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

A fun twist on classic meatballs, these have just the right balance of warmth and flavor. The pumpkin adds a little something special without being overwhelming. Great for meal prep, appetizers, or a unique dinner idea.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Meatballs

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers on a blue plates.
Stuffed Bell Peppers. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

These classic stuffed peppers are packed with flavor and always a hit. Baked until perfectly tender, they make for an easy meal that feels hearty without being complicated. Great for a make-ahead dinner or something simple yet delicious any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Peppers

Brussel Sprouts Cups

Brussles sprouts inside mini casseroles.
Brussel Sprouts Cups. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

A fun and tasty way to enjoy Brussels sprouts, these little cups are crispy on the outside and full of flavor inside. They make a great side dish or snack, and they’re easy to customize with different toppings. Perfect for switching things up in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Brussel Sprouts Cups

Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken Recipe

Plates of breaded and fried chicken nuggets with skewers, garnished with herbs.
Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken Recipe. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Crispy, bite-sized, and so easy to make, this popcorn chicken is perfect for snacking or as part of a meal. The air fryer gives it that crunchy texture without all the extra oil. Great for dipping or adding to salads, wraps, and bowls.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken Recipe

Burger Mini Bites

Mini burgers with parsley.
Burger Mini Bites. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

All the flavors of a classic burger packed into a fun, bite-sized version. These little burgers are perfect for parties, meal prep, or a quick and easy dinner. Serve them with your favorite toppings for a simple and delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Burger Mini Bites

Stuffed Bell Peppers without Rice

Roasted red bell pepper with stuffing.
Stuffed Bell Peppers without Rice. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

All the goodness of stuffed peppers, just without the extra carbs. These come out flavorful, filling, and great for a weeknight dinner. Easy to prepare and packed with everything you love in a classic stuffed pepper.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Peppers without Rice

Chicken Enchiladas Casserole

A pan of baked chicken enchiladas casserole.
Chicken Enchiladas Casserole. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

Everything you love about enchiladas, but in an easy, layered casserole form. It’s creamy, cheesy, and comes together without the hassle of rolling each tortilla. Perfect for a comforting meal that feeds a crowd or makes great leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Enchiladas Casserole

Stuffed Chicken Roll Ups

Chicken stuffed with spinach and cheese on a bed of rice.
Stuffed Chicken Roll Ups. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Juicy chicken wrapped around a flavorful filling, then baked to perfection. This dish is simple enough for a weeknight but looks impressive enough for guests. A fun way to switch things up from regular baked chicken.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Chicken Roll Ups

Beef Bolognese Gravy

A bowl of beef bolognese gravy garnished with fresh basil.
Beef Bolognese Gravy. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

This rich and meaty sauce is perfect for pouring over just about anything. Whether you’re topping low-carb noodles or using it for a hearty casserole, it brings deep, slow-cooked flavor in every bite. A great way to add something extra to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bolognese Gravy

Baked Stuffed Eggplant Boats

Stuffed melanzani served on a plate.
Baked Stuffed Eggplant Boats. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Eggplant gets a major upgrade in this dish, stuffed with a flavorful filling and baked until perfectly tender. It’s an easy way to enjoy something a little different while still keeping things simple. Great for a weeknight meal that feels a little special.
Get the Recipe: Baked Stuffed Eggplant Boats

Ramen Chicken Noodles

Keto Ramen Chicken Noodles in a black bowl with various vegetables and boiled egg.
Ramen Chicken Noodles. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

A cozy, comforting bowl of noodles that comes together in no time. The chicken adds a great depth of flavor, making this way better than any instant ramen packet. Perfect for a quick and easy meal when you want something warm and filling.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Chicken Noodles

Casserole with Brussel Sprouts

A casserole with brussel sprouts topped with cheese.
Casserole with Brussel Sprouts. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

This casserole is all about bringing out the best in Brussels sprouts. Baked to perfection with a rich, flavorful mix, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish. Perfect for a side or a main when you want something hearty.
Get the Recipe: Casserole with Brussel Sprouts

Low Carb Fettuccine Alfredo

Red plate filled with alfredo sauce and keto noodles.
Low Carb Fettuccine Alfredo. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Creamy, comforting, and totally delicious without the extra carbs. This Alfredo sauce coats every strand perfectly, giving you all the classic flavors in a lighter way. A great option for when you’re craving pasta but keeping things low-carb.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Fettuccine Alfredo

Chicken Stir Fry Shirataki Noodles

Chicken Stir Fry Shirataki Noodles close up.
Chicken Stir Fry Shirataki Noodles. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

A quick and flavorful stir-fry that keeps things light and low-carb. The shirataki noodles soak up all the savory goodness, making every bite delicious. Perfect for a fast and easy meal that doesn’t feel heavy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stir Fry Shirataki Noodles

Homemade Chicken and Dumplings

A bowl of homemade chicken soup with dumplings.
Homemade Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

Comfort food at its best! Tender chicken and soft dumplings come together in a warm, flavorful broth. This dish is like a hug in a bowl, perfect for when you want something cozy and filling.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Chicken and Dumplings

Low Carb Sauerkraut Chicken

Low Carb Sauerkraut Chicken on a plate with chives.
Low Carb Sauerkraut Chicken. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Tangy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, this dish is a great way to switch up your usual chicken routine. The sauerkraut adds just the right amount of zest, making every bite interesting. A simple meal that brings big flavor.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Sauerkraut Chicken

Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef

Eating a casserole on a plate with fork.
Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

A hearty, comforting dish that brings together the bold flavors of sauerkraut and savory beef. Everything bakes together for an easy meal that’s packed with taste. Perfect for when you want something a little different but still simple to make.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut Casserole with Ground Beef

Ultimate Chicken Casserole

Stuffed chicken casserole served with lettuce.
Ultimate Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

A go-to dish for busy nights when you need something warm and filling. Loaded with flavor and baked to perfection, it’s the kind of meal everyone will love. Great for making ahead or serving up fresh from the oven.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Chicken Casserole

Low Carb Meatloaf with Cheese and Leeks

Meatloaf with green leek around it.
Low Carb Meatloaf with Cheese and Leeks. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

This isn’t your average meatloaf—cheese and leeks take it to another level. Juicy, flavorful, and low-carb, it’s the perfect twist on a classic. A great option for an easy dinner that still feels special.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Meatloaf with Cheese and Leeks

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