19 low-carb recipes that let you eat big without overcomplicating dinner

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Finding meals that are both filling and easy to make can feel like a challenge, but low-carb cooking makes it simple. These dishes are built around bold flavors and practical techniques that let you enjoy a complete meal without overthinking it. These 19 recipes make dinner effortless while keeping portions just the way you like them.

A rectangular plate with Mediterranean Cod placed on a lemon-patterned cloth. A vine of cherry tomatoes is beside the plate.
Mediterranean Cod. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites Escargot-Style

Garlic Butter Steak Bites Escargot-Style dish in a round ceramic plate with cooked snails topped with herbs and butter sauce, and slices of bread on a wooden board.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites Escargot-Style. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Prepare for an unforgettable meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor with Garlic Butter Steak Bites Escargot-Style. This dish allows you to enjoy a rich, meaty flavor complemented by a hint of garlic that perfectly fits into your low-carb lifestyle. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal option for a busy weeknight. Enjoy this meal with your favorite sides for a balanced and fulfilling dinner.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites Escargot-Style

Vintage Chicken Divan

Two cast-iron skillets filled with vintage chicken divan and a fork dishing up one serving.
Vintage Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Vintage Chicken Divan is a classic recipe that brings comfort and nostalgia to your dinner table without loading up on the carbs. This dish proves that you can enjoy hearty meals while adhering to a low-carb diet. It’s creamy, filling, and can be whipped up with minimal fuss. Whip this up for a cozy dinner that promises to warm you up from the inside.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Chicken Divan

Pot Roast with Bacon

A plate of pot roast with bacon and mashed potatoes with gravy.
Pot Roast with Bacon. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Pot Roast with Bacon combines the heartiness of traditional pot roast with the added pleasure of bacon, offering a lovely and flavorful dinner option. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a succulent feast perfect for Sunday dinners. Not only does it fill your home with an inviting aroma, but it also ensures a comforting meal that keeps you content and on track with your dietary choices.
Get the Recipe: Pot Roast with Bacon

Ribs and Sauerkraut

Ribs and Sauerkraut with a fork.
Ribs and Sauerkraut. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Dive into a plate of Ribs and Sauerkraut for a deliciously tangy and meaty meal that’s surprisingly easy to manage on a low-carb diet. This recipe combines tender ribs with the tang of sauerkraut, creating a harmonious blend that’s both enjoyable and nutritious. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy familiar flavors while keeping things simple in the kitchen. This dish is a testament to the fact that eating low-carb can still be hearty and flavorsome.
Get the Recipe: Ribs and Sauerkraut

French Onion Soup

Low-Carb French Onion Soup in a tall white bowl on a marble counter.
French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Relish in the warmth and comfort of French Onion Soup, a dish that marries simplicity with a depth of flavor in every spoonful. This recipe is a testament to the power of well-cooked onions in a rich, savory broth. It’s an ideal starter for a larger meal or serves as a light dinner on its own. Enjoy this classic soup and bask in the warmth and joy it brings to your dining experience.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup

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.

Refresh your meal routine with Mediterranean Chopped Salad, bursting with freshness and vibrant tastes. This salad stands out as a hearty, low-carb option that’s as filling as it is nutritious. It’s perfect for those days when you want something light yet substantial. Bring this colorful dish to your next gathering or enjoy it as a standalone meal—it’s versatile and universally appealing.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chopped Salad

Monterey Chicken for One

Monterey chicken for one in a square pot.
Monterey Chicken for One. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

If you’re dining solo and craving something special, Monterey Chicken for One is a lovely choice. This recipe proves that single servings can be just as exciting and flavorful as meals made for a crowd. It’s packed with protein and can easily be adjusted to suit your low-carb needs. Treat yourself to this lovely meal after a long day; it’s a simple pleasure that makes solo dining a joy.
Get the Recipe: Monterey Chicken for One

New Orleans BBQ Shrimp

A plate with New Orleans BBQ Shrimp and lemon wedges, with serving utensils to the side.
New Orleans BBQ Shrimp. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Experience a taste of southern charm with New Orleans BBQ Shrimp, a dish that’s easy to love and easy to make. This recipe brings the flavors of New Orleans right to your kitchen, offering a spicy and savory seafood option that’s both low in carbs and high in fun. It’s a fantastic way to spice up dinner without complicating your dietary goals. Serve this up for a laid-back yet flavorful weekend feast.
Get the Recipe: New Orleans BBQ Shrimp

Baked Pesto Salmon

Baked Pesto Salmon with spinach sauce on a white plate.
Baked Pesto Salmon. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Enjoy the simple elegance of Baked Pesto Salmon, a recipe that brings together the rich taste of salmon with the fresh touch of pesto. This dish is a wonder of easy cooking, offering a nutritious meal that fits perfectly within a low-carb diet. It’s a go-to for those evenings when you need something quick, wholesome, and heartwarming. Cherish the flavors and the ease of this lovely seafood dish.
Get the Recipe: Baked Pesto Salmon

Beef & Broccoli

Beef and broccoli stir-fry with sesame seeds served on a white plate with chopsticks.
Beef & Broccoli. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Learn the joy of making Beef & Broccoli, a stir-fry classic that satisfies your hunger without the excess carbs. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a beloved takeout dish while controlling your carb intake. It’s quick to cook, making it an excellent choice for a busy weeknight dinner. Revel in the rich flavors and lovely crunch that make this dish a perennial favorite.
Get the Recipe: Beef & Broccoli

Roasted Radishes

Roasted radishes in a white dish with a fork.
Roasted Radishes. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Discover the underrated pleasure of Roasted Radishes with this simple, yet transformative recipe. Roasting brings out a mild sweetness in the radishes, making them an excellent low-carb side dish. It’s an easy way to add a pop of color and nutrition to your meal. This dish is proof that sometimes the simplest ingredients can lead to the most enjoyable eating experiences.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Radishes

Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms

Salisbury Steak on a bed of mashed potatoes.
Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Indulge in the comforting taste of Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms, a recipe that offers a homestyle meal without overloading on carbs. This dish combines juicy steak with earthy mushrooms in a way that feels both indulgent and appropriate for a health-conscious diet. It’s perfect for those occasions when you’re craving something warm and fulfilling. Serve this at your next family dinner for smiles all around.
Get the Recipe: Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms

Southern Green Beans

Green beans with sausage on a white plate.
Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Embrace the flavorful tradition of Southern Green Beans, a side dish that impresses without straying from your low-carb goals. This recipe makes it easy to add a touch of Southern hospitality to any meal. It’s a fabulous way to make green beans the star of the show. Enjoy the heartiness they bring to your dinner table, complementing any main course with flair.
Get the Recipe: Southern Green Beans

Steakhouse Creamed Spinach

Steakhouse Creamed Spinach in a black dish on a cloth.
Steakhouse Creamed Spinach. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Steakhouse Creamed Spinach is not just a side dish—it’s a way to bring the steakhouse experience into your home without the carbs. This recipe is both rich and comforting, perfect alongside any main course. It’s easy to make and pairs wonderfully with a range of dishes, adding a touch of luxury to your meal. Create this restaurant favorite to make any dinner special.
Get the Recipe: Steakhouse Creamed Spinach

Southern Ham Salad

A bowl of Southern ham salad and a plate of croissants on a wooden table.
Southern Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a twist on traditional salad, try Southern Ham Salad. This recipe blends the savory taste of ham with the freshness of greens, creating a unique dish that’s as filling as it is flavorful. It’s an inventive way to stick to a low-carb diet without sacrificing satisfaction. Whether as a side or a main dish, it brings a touch of the South to your dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad

Turkey Vegetable Soup

Two bowls of turkey and vegetable soup with spoons.
Turkey Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Warm up with a bowl of Turkey Vegetable Soup, a hearty and healthy option for anyone following a low-carb diet. This soup is brimming with nutrients and flavors, making it a perfect pick-me-up on a chilly day. It’s simple to prepare and offers the comforting taste of home-cooked meals. Relish this soup’s comforting embrace, knowing it aligns with your health goals.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Vegetable Soup

Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone

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

Level up your greens with Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone, a recipe that adds a luxurious twist to the classic dish. This version, enriched with mascarpone, is creamy, velvety, and utterly satisfying. It’s an excellent way to enjoy a low-carb side that feels indulgent and sophisticated. Impress guests or treat yourself with this transformed side that pairs well with nearly everything.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone

Cuban Casserole

A closeup shot of Cuban Casserole in a baking dish.
Cuban Casserole. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Experience the vibrant flavors of Cuban Casserole, a dish that brings a taste of Cuba to your kitchen without the carbs. This recipe is a hearty, flavorful meal option that’s both easy to assemble and satisfying. It’s perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd, proving that you can enjoy global cuisines while sticking to a low-carb diet. Celebrate the fusion of flavors that this casserole brings to the table.
Get the Recipe: Cuban Casserole

Mediterranean Cod

A rectangular plate with Mediterranean Cod placed on a lemon-patterned cloth. A vine of cherry tomatoes is beside the plate.
Mediterranean Cod. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enjoy the light and flavorful Mediterranean Cod, a dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking in a low-carb format. This recipe honors the tradition of using fresh, simple ingredients to create meals that are both nourishing and enjoyable. It’s a wonderful choice for a light dinner or an impressive dish to serve to guests. Enjoy a meal that’s as healthy as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

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