Skip the pasta and make these 30 low-carb dinners instead

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If you’re looking to cut down on carbs, these low-carb dinners are a great way to skip the pasta without missing out on flavor. Whether you’re watching your carb intake for a specific diet or just trying to eat a little lighter, these recipes are packed with nutrients and are perfect for any night of the week. They’re easy to make, and you won’t feel like you’re missing out on anything, especially not the carbs.

A pan with shrimp, tomatoes and spinach in it.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. 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.

Mix up your dinner routine with this hearty soup, ready in just one hour. Radishes replace potatoes to keep them low in carbs without losing any of the classic flavors. Italian sausage, bacon, and a creamy broth made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese make this soup super delicious. It’s a great pick for when you want something cozy without too much work. Prep it ahead for even easier weeknights. Serve with a side of keto-friendly bread or crackers for dipping into that rich, flavorful broth. This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and tastes even better the next day as the flavors come together. It’s also freezer-friendly, so go ahead and make a big batch to save for later.
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.

This dish gets dinner on the table fast–30 minutes, one pan, and you’re done. Tender chicken breasts are smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce made with heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. It tastes like you’ve been cooking all day, but it’s actually super easy to make. It’s the perfect pick for busy nights when you still want something that feels a bit special. And the best part? It’s so good you won’t even be thinking about pasta. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli to round out the meal, and add some extra veggies. Leftover chicken and sauce can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and delicious meal anytime during the week. This dish is a great way to add some variety to your weeknight dinner routine without spending hours in the kitchen.
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.

These Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs are a great way to switch up your dinner game in just 30 minutes. The combo of coconut milk, red curry paste, ginger, and garlic is like taking a trip to Thailand right from your dining room. Who needs pasta when you’ve got these flavor-packed meatballs made with lean ground turkey? Serve them over cauliflower rice or your favorite veggie noodles for a complete meal that’s packed with protein and low in carbs. Make extra and freeze some for later. These meatballs are a great way to introduce some new flavors into your routine without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

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

This casserole is a winner any night of the week, and it only takes 30 minutes to make. Broccoli and cauliflower florets are mixed in a cheesy sauce made with cheddar, cream cheese, and heavy cream, then topped with crispy bacon. It’s super easy, and you probably already have everything you need in your fridge. Forget pasta, this is a great way to get everyone eating more veggies without missing out on flavor. Serve it hot out of the oven for that perfect, bubbly cheese topping that the whole family will love. This dish is a lifesaver when you need to get a good dinner on the table fast, and it’s so good you won’t even miss the carbs.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Bacon Cheeseburger Salad

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

All the great taste of a bacon cheeseburger in a salad–no bun needed! This dish is easy to put together with seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and your favorite burger toppings over a bed of mixed greens. It’s perfect for a quick and hearty meal that’s low in carbs but high in flavor. This recipe is a game-changer and will make you rethink what a salad can be. Plus, it’s so good you won’t even miss the bun. Toss it with your favorite dressing, or keep it simple with olive oil and vinegar for an extra kick.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Cheeseburger Salad

Creamy Bacon Asparagus Pasta

In FDL library.
Creamy Bacon Asparagus Pasta. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Give pasta night a makeover with this dish, featuring a creamy sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh asparagus, ready in just 30 minutes. The asparagus stalks are sliced into noodle-like strips and then tossed with the bacon and creamy sauce. It’s a fun and flavorful meal that’s perfect for date night, or anytime you want to mix things up. You’ll love how it makes sticking to your low-carb plan feel effortless–no pasta needed. This dish is a great way to get your veggie fix while still enjoying all the flavors you love. Plus, it’s so easy to make that you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation. Serve it hot out of the pan for the best flavor and texture.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Bacon Asparagus Pasta

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.

This 30-minute meal has tender chicken thighs cooked in a creamy sauce with artichoke hearts and a splash of lemon juice. It’s easy to make and great for spicing up your dinner routine without relying on pasta. The chicken is simmered until it’s juicy and flavorful, and the artichokes add a nice texture. Serve with steamed green beans or your favorite veggies for a complete meal. Leftovers keep well in the fridge, so you can enjoy this dish for lunch or dinner the next day. This recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something comforting and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

A pan full of shrimp, tomatoes and spinach.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach dish is ready in 30 minutes and turns any dinner into a special occasion. Juicy shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh baby spinach come together in a garlicky sauce made with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. It’s surprisingly easy and makes dinner feel fancy without the need for pasta. Serve it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a complete meal that’s low in carbs but big in flavor. It’s a great option for date night or when you want to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

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.

This one-pot Italian Sausage Soup is comfort food at its best. With flavorful Italian sausage, cream cheese, and diced tomatoes, it’s hearty, rich, and super easy to make in just 30 minutes. The sausage and vegetables simmer together in a flavorful broth, perfect for any night of the week. It’s great as a starter or main dish, and you won’t even miss the pasta. This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to four days or can be frozen for later.
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.

This Cabbage and Sausage recipe is ready in less than 30 minutes using just one pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of sausage and tender cabbage yields a delicious and filling meal that’s low in carbs but big in flavor. The sausage is browned first, then the cabbage is added to the pan and cooked until it’s soft and slightly caramelized. This dish is perfect on its own or served with a side of your favorite low-carb vegetables. It’s a great option for those looking to eat less carbs without sacrificing taste or convenience.
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.

This Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad combines the spicy kick of jalapeños with cool and creamy chicken salad for a flavorful take on a classic dish. It’s made with chicken, jalapeños, mayonnaise, hot sauce, and spices. The result is a rich salad that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. It’s super easy to make and great for prepping ahead of time, so you can have a good meal ready to go whenever you need it. This salad is delicious on its own or scooped into lettuce wraps for a low-carb and gluten-free option. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making it a great choice for meal prep or quick lunches.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

Bell Pepper Sandwich

A person holding a stuffed pepper sandwich over a plate.
Bell Pepper Sandwich. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Bell Pepper Sandwich is a fresh, simple lunch you can make in just 10 minutes. Who needs pasta when you can stuff bell peppers with all your favorite sandwich fillings? It’s a light, veggie-packed meal that proves bread isn’t necessary for a delicious lunch. Pair it with crunchy veggie chips or a salad for a complete meal that’s low in carbs. The bell peppers add a nice crunch and a boost of vitamins and minerals. Plus, you can easily customize this sandwich to your liking and mix up the fillings for variety.
Get the Recipe: Bell Pepper Sandwich

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.

This Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is a stress-free meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. It features sausage and an assortment of vegetables, all cooked together in one pan for easy cleanup. Simply toss everything with a bit of oil and seasonings, then roast in a hot oven until the veggies are tender and everything is caramelized.
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.

This one-pan Creamy Tuscan Chicken features crispy chicken thighs, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a rich and creamy sauce. It’s a meal that’s easy to make and ready in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekday dinners. The chicken is seasoned and seared until golden brown, then simmered in a sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. The sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor, while the spinach brings a pop of color and nutrition. Pair this dish with steamed veggies or a simple salad for a complete meal. The chicken and sauce keep well in the fridge for up to three days, so you can enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

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 stuffed with a creamy mixture of chicken, crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and homemade ranch seasoning. They’re a refreshing option that’s perfect for meal prep. To make them, simply mix together the chicken salad ingredients, then spoon the mixture into hollowed-out cucumber halves. For best results, store the filling and cucumbers separately in the fridge and assemble them just before serving.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

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.

If you’re in the mood for something hearty but want to skip the carbs, this Philly Cheese Steak Casserole is a great pick. Packed with sirloin steak, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, all topped with provolone cheese, it’s a solid meal that’s ready in a snap. Perfect for those evenings when you want a filling dinner without reaching for pasta.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

Keto Chicken Nuggets

Keto chicken nuggets on a plate with a cup of dipping sauce.
Keto Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Keto Chicken Nuggets are crispy, tender, and ready in 30 minutes. They’re perfect for busy days and sure to be a hit with everyone. Made with canned chicken, almond flour or ground sunflower seed meal, Parmesan cheese, and crushed pork rinds, these nuggets are a protein-packed, low-carb alternative to traditional breaded nuggets. Serve them with low-carb veggies or a simple salad for a well-rounded dinner. You can freeze the cooked nuggets and reheat them later for a quick meal or snack. Play around with different herbs, spices, and dipping sauces to keep things interesting.
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 great for elevating weeknight dinners without the hassle. This one-pan dish combines tender chicken, a creamy Dijon mustard sauce, fresh spinach, and crispy bacon, ready in just 30 minutes. It brings a touch of gourmet to your table and shows that pasta isn’t needed for a delicious meal. Serve it with steamed veggies or a light salad for a complete dinner. Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed within a few days, making meal prep a breeze. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that feels indulgent but fits into a low-carb lifestyle.
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.

The Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach is a lifesaver on busy nights. This hearty, flavorful dish combines ground beef, cauliflower rice, fresh spinach, and different cheeses, ready in 30 minutes. It’s a comforting meal that doesn’t need pasta or high-carb ingredients for you to enjoy great flavors. Serve it on its own or with a side salad for an extra veggie boost. This casserole reheats well, so make extra for easy meals throughout the week. This recipe is great for those looking for a low-carb dinner option that the whole family will love.
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.

This speedy, 25-minute meal is packed with flavor and perfect for evenings when you want something delicious without much effort. The dish comes together quickly in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Leftovers taste great the next day, and can be easily packed for lunch. Mix other vegetables like sliced bell peppers or onions to add some extra flavor and nutrition.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage With Bacon

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

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

This sophisticated yet easy one-pot dish is perfect for dressing up weeknight dinners without stress. Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms can be made in 30 minutes using ingredients like riced cauliflower, mushrooms, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The dish is cooked in a single pot, reducing cleanup time and effort. Leftovers store well in the fridge.
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.

This one-pan meal brings a rich, flavorful dinner to your table in no time. With sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, Parmesan, and tender chicken, this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken is impressive but comes together surprisingly easily. The dish is cooked entirely in one skillet, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It pairs beautifully with zoodles for a fuller meal and keeps well in the fridge for future meals. The creamy sauce is also versatile and can be used to dress up other proteins or vegetables. It’s a game-changer for those who want to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home without spending hours in the kitchen.
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.

This quick, 30-minute dinner is nutritious and full of flavor, perfect for hectic evenings when you want something good but simple. Baked Parmesan Salmon features tender salmon topped with a crispy crust. The dish is easy to prepare and requires minimal hands-on time, perfect when you have a busy schedule. It pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. While best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in the fridge overnight if needed.
Get the Recipe: Baked Parmesan Salmon

Sticky Sauce Chicken

Sticky Sauce Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This meal is simple and bursting with a sweet and tangy garlic-ginger sauce that everyone will love. Sticky Sauce Chicken features tender chicken pieces coated in a mouthwatering sauce made with ingredients like coconut aminos, fish sauce, garlic, and ginger. The dish comes together quickly and easily, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. It goes great with roasted broccoli for a well-rounded meal, and leftovers are fantastic the next day, reheated or cold. Add a sprinkle of chili flakes to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will feed your cravings for takeout-style food without the added carbs or expense.
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.

Enjoy tender chicken breasts in a luscious garlic sauce with this one-pan wonder, served over cauliflower rice for a savory, quick-to-prepare feast. The dish features a creamy sauce made with ingredients like heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The chicken and sauce can be cooked together in one pan, simplifying the cooking process and reducing cleanup time. The creamy sauce can be stored separately and added to freshly prepared cauliflower rice when ready to eat. This recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a filling and flavorful meal without spending too much time in the kitchen or indulging in high-carb dishes.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Canned Chicken Patties

Chicken patties with broccoli on a plate.
Canned Chicken Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These straightforward and delicious patties are ready in 20 minutes, perfect for days when time is tight but you still want a full meal. Made with canned chicken, almond flour or ground sunflower seed meal, and seasonings, these Canned Chicken Patties are a convenient option for quick dinners. Serve them with a side salad for a balanced meal, or use them as a base for sandwiches or wraps. Patties can be frozen and reheated, making them a great option to prep ahead. Use different herbs like dill or parsley, or mix in minced vegetables for a nutritious boost. This recipe is a lifesaver for those who want to put a hearty meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen or breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties

Lemon Garlic Scallops

Scallops with parsley and garlic in a skillet.
Lemon Garlic Scallops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

With just a handful of ingredients, these Lemon Garlic Scallops are a simple yet elegant meal, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet dinner without the hassle. The dish features tender scallops sautéed in a flavorful lemon garlic butter sauce. Served over zucchini noodles, it makes for a really memorable meal.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Scallops

Shawarma Kebabs

A plate of shawarma kebabs with greens and lemon slices.
Shawarma Kebabs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These easy-to-prepare, flavorful Shawarma Kebabs are baked right in the oven, making them a delicious and high-protein weeknight dinner. The meat is marinated for maximum tenderness and flavor, then threaded onto skewers and baked until perfectly cooked. Serve the kebabs with a refreshing tzatziki sauce and a side of cilantro lime cauliflower rice. The kebabs can also be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer, making them a great option for meal prepping or quick weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Shawarma Kebabs

Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken

Cheesy chicken fajita bake in a baking pan.
Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Swap out the tortillas for this Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken when you’re craving a Mexican-inspired meal but keeping an eye on your carb intake. It’s a straightforward dish with seasoned chicken breasts, cream cheese, sweet peppers, and a layer of melted mozzarella. Great for a low-carb dinner that’s still big on flavor and super easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy 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.

Craving something with a bit of a kick? This Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole has you covered. It’s a mix of shredded chicken thighs, bacon, cream cheese, hot sauce, and jalapeños, all under a blanket of cheese. This baked casserole is a perfect low-carb dinner that’s as filling and flavorful as any pasta dish out there.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

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