31 low-carb dinners for when carbs have officially worn out their welcome

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Low-carb dinners are great when you’ve decided to take a break from carbs and lighten things up. No more pasta or bread — you’re ready for a change. These recipes make it easy to skip the heavy stuff while enjoying a balanced meal. It’s the food that keeps things simple but still hearty enough to not make you miss the carbs (okay, maybe just a little).

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. 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.

Keto Zuppa Toscana is a great option if you’re trying to keep carbs low but still want something comforting. It swaps out potatoes for radishes, so you can still enjoy that creamy, hearty feel without worrying about carbs. This soup is packed with Italian sausage, kale, and a creamy broth and topped with crispy bacon for that extra bite. It’s ready in about an hour, making it perfect for cozy evenings when you need a flavorful, filling meal that fits your low-carb goals.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana

Reuben Bowls

A bowl of coleslaw with creamy dressing, garnished with green onions, served in a ceramic bowl with a fork.
Reuben Bowls. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Reuben Bowls are a perfect way to enjoy all the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich without the bread getting in the way. Corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing come together over coleslaw for a quick, low-carb dinner that’s done in about 30 minutes. It’s hearty, tangy, and rich — everything you want when you’re completely done with carbs but still want something filling. These bowls take all the stress out of a weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Bowls

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

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

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is a great pick when you’re looking for something low-carb that still feels like comfort food. Packed with broccoli and cauliflower, all wrapped up in a cheesy sauce and topped with crispy bacon, this casserole is baked until golden and bubbly. It’s perfect for those nights when you need something quick and filling but keep carbs out of your life. Ready in about 40 minutes, it’s a delicious dinner that’s simple to make and a great way to sneak in some veggies.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

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.

Creamy Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts is your answer when you’re done with carbs but still want flavor. Juicy chicken thighs are cooked with hearty artichoke hearts in a lemony cream sauce that’s both rich and comforting. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner that won’t throw off your low-carb goals. The dish is creamy, tangy, and flavorful without the carb overload that often comes with comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Tuscan garlic shrimp and spinach with tomatoes in a pan.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach is a quick, low-carb dinner with big flavors without carbs. Shrimp, spinach, and grape tomatoes are sautéed with Italian spices, creating a light but flavorful meal ready in just 25 minutes. If you’re short on time but still want something that feels special, this dish is perfect. It’s light enough for those watching their carb intake but flavorful enough to make you forget that carbs were ever an option. Great for anyone who’s had enough of carbs but still wants a dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

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.

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs are a great choice if you’re craving big flavors while staying low-carb. These turkey meatballs are packed with Thai spices and served over cauliflower rice to keep things light. The creamy coconut curry sauce brings everything together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste. It’s a simple, flavorful recipe that’s easy to whip up while helping you stay on track with your low-carb goals.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

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.

If you’re trying to cut carbs and want something simple, Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is a great option. It’s as easy as placing sausage, zucchini, broccoli, and mini peppers on a baking sheet and roasting them until caramelized. Ready in 30 minutes, the sausage brings flavor and protein, while the veggies make it a colorful, low-carb, filling meal that won’t weigh you down. Plus, cleanup is quick, so it’s perfect for busy nights.
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.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a perfect choice if you’re looking for something rich but low in carbs. You get crispy chicken thighs simmered in a creamy sauce with garlic, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. This dish is ready in 40 minutes and is a great way to enjoy a comforting, carb-free dinner. It’s hearty enough to keep you full without heavy carbs — a great way to enjoy a cozy dinner and still feel good about your eating.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

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.

When you’re done with carbs but still want something comforting, Philly Cheese Steak Casserole has you covered. It’s packed with steak, onions, peppers, and cheese — all the flavor without the bread. You get a filling, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and ready in under an hour. Perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something hearty without the carb overload. It’s a good choice for anyone cutting carbs but still craving something familiar and filling.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a pan.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a quick, low-carb dinner that still feels like comfort food. In just 30 minutes, tender chicken thighs simmer in a rich mushroom sauce that’s low on carbs but big on flavor. The creamy sauce gives this dish a cozy vibe without weighing you down, making it great for nights when you want something hearty but still light. Pair it with steamed veggies to keep things extra healthy, or even try it over cauliflower rice.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Bell Pepper Sandwich

Bell pepper sandwich cut in half on a plate.
Bell Pepper Sandwich. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

If you’re done with bread but still love sandwiches, Bell Pepper Sandwich is a great way to change things up. Instead of bread, you get crunchy bell peppers stuffed with turkey, cream cheese, and bacon. It’s ready in just 10 minutes, making it a perfect quick and low-carb option for lunch or dinner. This fresh, light sandwich helps you stay on track with your health goals.
Get the Recipe: Bell Pepper Sandwich

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

A glass bowl of jalapeño popper chicken salad ingredients.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

If salads feel bland and you’re over carbs, Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad brings the heat. This low-carb dish is packed with jalapeños, crispy bacon, and a creamy dressing that keeps things flavorful without the carbs. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for those nights when you want something fresh and exciting. The spicy kick from the jalapeños paired with the rich dressing makes this salad anything but boring. Plus, it’s loaded with protein from the chicken and bacon, so it’s a filling meal that won’t leave you feeling hungry later.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

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 Italian Sausage Soup is a great choice if you want to cut out carbs but still crave something hearty. It combines Italian sausage with cream cheese and tomatoes, all thickened with rich cream. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting soup keeps you full without feeling heavy. Perfect for cozy weeknights, this soup gives you the feel of comfort food without the carbs weighing you down.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sausage Soup

Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon

In FDL library.
Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

If you’re ready to swap traditional pasta, try these Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon. We use fresh asparagus instead of noodles, tossed in creamy Alfredo sauce and topped with crispy bacon. This dish is a great low-carb option that’s ready in 30 minutes. Its rich, creamy flavors make it special without the carbs holding you back. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something delicious but easy to make. Pair it with a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon

Big Mac Salad

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

For those who love Big Macs but want to skip the carbs, our Big Mac Salad is just what you need. This salad has all the classic flavors: crunchy lettuce, tangy pickles, juicy beef, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar, all drizzled with that signature sauce. It’s a great way to enjoy a filling meal while keeping your carbs in check. Ready in just minutes, this salad transforms your fast-food favorite into a hearty dinner.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad

Cabbage and Sausage

A pan of cabbage and sausage garnished with fresh herbs.
Cabbage and Sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When you’re done with carbs but still want something delicious, our Cabbage and Sausage dish is a smart choice. It features fresh cabbage and juicy sausage sautéed with a touch of apple cider vinegar for a bit of tang. This meal is quick, ready in under 30 minutes, and perfect for busy nights. It’s filling and comforting, making it a great option when you need something simple yet delicious. Plus, this dish keeps well in the fridge, so you can enjoy it again later.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Creamy Dijon Chicken

A pan of creamy dijon chicken with herbs and bacon.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Dijon Chicken is a low-carb dinner that feels indulgent. Juicy chicken thighs, tangy Dijon mustard, fresh spinach, and crispy bacon come together in under 30 minutes. This dish is perfect for those nights when you want something flavorful but don’t have much time. The creamy sauce adds a rich touch, making every bite comforting. Enjoy this meal confidently, knowing you’re treating yourself without the carbs.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Tuna Egg Salad

A close-up of a bowl of tuna egg salad mixed with celery, onions, and dill, topped with freshly ground black pepper, with a spoon placed on the side.
Tuna Egg Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tuna Egg Salad is ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for a quick and nutritious meal. This low-carb salad is filled with hard-boiled eggs, albacore tuna, Greek yogurt, celery, red onion, pickles, and seasonings. It’s a simple and protein-packed choice for dinner that keeps things light and easy. This salad is a great way to stay on track with your health goals and still enjoy a filling and delicious meal!
Get the Recipe: Tuna Egg Salad

Keto Chicken Nuggets

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

Keto Chicken Nuggets are a great choice if you’re cutting carbs but still want something comforting. Made with canned chicken, Parmesan, and sunflower seed meal and coated with crushed pork rinds, these nuggets are crunchy and filling. They’re quick to make and freeze well, making them a perfect go-to when you need something fast. These nuggets remind you that you don’t have to give up your favorites to stick to your health goals.
Get the Recipe: Keto Chicken Nuggets

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.

If you’re looking for something hearty but low in carbs, this Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach has you covered. Ground beef, cauliflower rice, and spinach are combined in a cheesy sauce for a meal that’s done in about 30 minutes. It’s a comforting dish that is perfect for when you want something filling but must keep your carb intake in check. This casserole is a great option that keeps things simple without compromising flavor.
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.

Fried Cabbage with Bacon is perfect for nights when you need a filling meal but don’t want any carbs on your plate. Cabbage, bacon, and onion are cooked together in 25 minutes to give you a hearty, flavorful dish that fits right into your low-carb lifestyle. It’s simple, comforting, and flavorful, making it a great option for busy nights when you don’t want to overthink dinner. Bacon and cabbage come together perfectly, giving you a meal that’s easy to make and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

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.

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken is a perfect pick for a quick and comforting low-carb dinner. Chicken thighs are cooked in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan, all in about 30 minutes. It’s a flavorful dish that feels special without being complicated. Serve it with low-carb veggies like broccoli, and you’ve got a well-rounded meal that’s hearty and great for staying on track with your health goals. This dish is perfect for those nights when you want something a little extra without hassle.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato 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.

If you’re tired of carbs but still want something fresh and fun, Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats are a great way to mix things up. Ready in just 30 minutes, these crisp cucumber halves are filled with chicken, bacon, cheddar, and ranch seasoning. They’re light but still packed with flavor, making them perfect for busy days or when you want a quick meal that won’t weigh you down. They’re a refreshing, creative, low-carb option that keeps things simple, delicious and hearty.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Sticky Sauce Chicken

Sticky Sauce Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When you want something flavorful but are done with carbs, Sticky Sauce Chicken hits the mark. Chicken thighs are fried until golden and mixed with a no-sugar-added garlic and ginger sauce. The whole meal comes together in just 30 minutes. Everything is made in one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to relax. Pair it with roasted veggies like broccoli for a filling meal that still fits your low-carb goals.
Get the Recipe: Sticky Sauce Chicken

Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken

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

Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken is a great choice if you’re looking for a low-carb dinner that doesn’t feel like you’re giving up flavor. This dish has tender chicken breasts layered with cream cheese and bell peppers and covered in melted mozzarella. It’s a simple way to get all those fajita flavors without the carbs from tortillas. Ready in just 30 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something filling but need to stay on track with your health goals.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken

Shawarma Kebabs

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

Shawarma Kebabs are a great option if you’re cutting carbs and need something new to add to your dinner lineup. These chicken skewers are full of bold spices and are easy to make. You’ll have a flavorful, low-carb dinner without much effort. Pair them with a light side like cauliflower rice and tzatziki to keep everything balanced. This recipe is especially good when you want something that feels special but is still quick to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Shawarma Kebabs

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white skillet of creamy garlic chicken garnished with herbs.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a perfect choice for a low-carb meal that feels comforting without the extra carbs. In just 30 minutes, this dish comes together with tender chicken in a garlic and Parmesan sauce that’s rich and flavorful. Paired with cauliflower rice, it’s an easy way to enjoy a filling meal that checks your health goals.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Lemon Garlic Scallops

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

If you’re in the mood for something different but still want to keep things low-carb, Lemon Garlic Scallops are a great choice. Sear the scallops until crispy crust forms then toss in a mix of garlic, butter, and lemon. They’re ready in just 20 minutes. They bring big flavor without the carbs, making them perfect for a quick, light dinner. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or someone special, this dish is easy to prepare but tastes and feels extra special.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Scallops

Canned Chicken Patties

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

Canned Chicken Patties are a quick and easy dinner solution when you’re short on time and carbs are off the table. Just mix canned chicken with a few ingredients, pan-fry them, and dinner’s ready in 20 minutes. Pair with steamed veggies or a salad, and you’ve got a simple, low-carb meal that’s perfect for those busy nights. These patties are a helpful way to stay on track with your health goals while keeping things easy in the kitchen. Using pantry ingredients, you won’t have to worry about a last-minute grocery run.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Spoon scooping up jalapeño popper casserole from a baking dish.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

For a dinner that’s both hearty and low on carbs, Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole is a great option. Shredded chicken, bacon, cream cheese, and jalapeños all come together under a cheesy crust, making this casserole flavorful. It takes just over an hour, but the prep is easy, and the result is perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. This casserole is especially helpful when you need something filling that fits your low-carb lifestyle.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Baked Parmesan Salmon

Keto baked parmesan salmon on foil on a baking sheet.
Baked Parmesan Salmon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Baked Parmesan Salmon is a great option if you want a quick and simple low-carb dinner that still feels special. A fillet of salmon gets a crispy topping of Parmesan and pork rinds, and it’s ready to eat in about 30 minutes. This dish is easy enough for a weeknight but can also be dressed up if you’re cooking for guests. Pair it with veggies or a light salad, and you’ve got a healthy and delicious dinner.
Get the Recipe: Baked Parmesan Salmon

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