31 low-carb meals for when you’re over the carb drama

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When carb-loaded meals start feeling like a bad relationship, it’s time to switch things up. These low-carb meals are like the fun, carefree fling your taste buds have been craving — no strings, low carbs, and just pure enjoyment. Get ready to ditch the carb drama and fall head over heels for these delicious alternatives.

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.

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 combine juicy chicken and tender artichokes in a lemony cream sauce, making for a robust and hearty dinner. This dish is ready in 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you want to minimize kitchen time without compromising on a filling meal. It’s also a great option for those cutting down on carbs but still craving rich flavors and good protein. The simplicity and quick cooking time help you enjoy a stress-free evening with a nourishing and indulgent meal without the carbs.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Keto Zuppa Toscana

A bowl of keto zuppa Toscana with a spoon in it.
Keto Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Keto Zuppa Toscana is a rich, creamy soup that comes together in an hour, perfect for when you need something warming and filling. This version uses radishes instead of potatoes (keeping it low in carbs) and simmers it with Italian sausage, bacon, and kale for a deeply rich flavor. It’s a great alternative for those looking to cut down on carbs while still enjoying the comforts of a traditional soup.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana

Bell Pepper Sandwich

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

Bell Pepper Sandwich is a creative version of the classic sandwich. It uses bell pepper halves instead of bread, making it a quick meal for those who want to reduce their carb intake. It’s filled with cream cheese, turkey, bacon, provolone cheese, avocado, and cucumbers, ready in just about 10 minutes. This sandwich alternative helps maintain your low-carb lifestyle while still giving the flavors and textures of a traditional sandwich. You won’t miss the bread with this crunchy, fresh, and filling option.
Get the Recipe: Bell Pepper Sandwich

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 combines broccoli and cauliflower with a cheesy, creamy bacon sauce, baked until golden and bubbling. Ready in about 30 minutes, this dish is a comforting and flavorful dinner option that’s low in carbs but high in flavor. It’s a great choice for those evenings when you’re craving something hearty but want to stay on track with your diet goals.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

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.

These Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats are a great alternative to carb-heavy meals that don’t skimp on flavor. They are ready in 30 minutes and combine the good crunch of cucumber with a rich filling of bacon and chicken salad. This dish is easy to prepare and light and refreshing, perfect for those hot days when you want something filling without feeling weighed down. They’re a great way to keep your meal low on carbs while still enjoying bold flavors and a good texture.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken features chicken thighs cooked with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. This dish is ready in 40 minutes and has a rich, comforting taste without relying on carbs. The combination of tender chicken and rich sauce gives a comforting dinner experience, perfect for those nights when you want a hearty meal without feeling weighed down by carbs.
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: Real Balanced.

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole packs the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak — steak, mushrooms, bell peppers, and provolone cheese — into an easy casserole in under an hour. This dish is hearty for anyone looking to reduce carbs but still want to enjoy robust flavors. It’s a great dinner option for those who want the satisfaction of a cheesesteak without the heaviness of bread. With this casserole, you can enjoy a flavorful, delicious meal that keeps you on track with your health goals.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

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 combine corned beef, coleslaw, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing for a delicious and easy dinner, ready in just 30 minutes. This dish brings all the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich without the bread, making it a great low-carb option for a quick meal. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you need something straightforward yet filling. These bowls help simplify your dinner routine while delivering a good meal aligned with your dietary preferences.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Bowls

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 perfect for anyone cutting down on carbs. These meatballs are prepared with ground turkey and spiced up with a homemade coconut curry sauce. Ready in 30 minutes, they give a filling and flavorful meal without the heaviness of traditional heavy-carb dishes. They’re also great for meal prep, perfect when you need a ready-to-go meal for those busy nights.
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.

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is a straightforward solution for a hearty dinner that’s also easy on carbs. Ready in 30 minutes, you’ll roast sausages and a mix of zucchini, broccoli, and sweet mini peppers, all in just one baking sheet. It’s a perfect choice for a nutritious meal after a long day, helping you skip the carbs without missing out on flavor. The combination of veggies and sausage gives a balanced meal that fills you up without the heavy carbs.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

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

Try the Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach for a simple yet flavorful meal that’s ready in 25 minutes. This dish features shrimp sautéed with grape tomatoes and spinach, seasoned with Italian spices for a robust flavor. It’s a light, nutritious option that’s great for a quick dinner, especially on those busy evenings. This dish not only caters to seafood lovers but also keeps the carbs low, making it a perfect choice for a healthy lifestyle without compromising on taste.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

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

If you love a bit of spice without the carb overload, this Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad is your go-to. It combines charred jalapeños, crispy bacon, shredded chicken and creamy dressing for a bold flavor. It’s also perfect for meal prep, staying fresh and good throughout the week. This salad is a practical choice for busy days, helping you maintain a low-carb diet while enjoying a hearty meal. The spicy kick is a great way to liven up your diet without adding extra carbs.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

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

This Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a quick, comforting meal that’s perfect for a low-carb diet. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy juicy chicken thighs simmered in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. It pairs well with steamed vegetables or cauliflower rice, making it a complete meal without the pasta. It’s an easy one-pan dinner that simplifies your evening routine while giving a hearty dish that can simply help the transition away from carb-heavy meals.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

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.

Italian Sausage Soup is a hearty alternative for those looking to cut down on carbs. This dish combines Italian sausage with cream cheese, canned tomatoes, and heavy whipping cream, and simmers everything together to create a rich and flavorful soup. It’s quick to prepare, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish. This soup is perfect for those busy evenings when you need a comforting meal without the prep hassle. Plus, it’s great for leftovers (if you have any), making your meal planning easier.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sausage Soup

Big Mac Salad

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

Big Mac Salad brings the classic burger experience without the bun. It features crisp lettuce, pickles, ground beef, bacon, and cheddar, tossed in a creamy homemade Big Mac sauce. This salad is perfect for those who crave a cheeseburger but want to keep it light and carb-free. It gives the satisfaction of a hearty meal without leaving you feeling weighed down, making it perfect for a filling dinner that keeps you energized.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad

Asparagus Noodles With Alfredo Sauce And Bacon

In FDL library.
Asparagus Noodles With Alfredo Sauce And Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Asparagus Noodles With Alfredo Sauce And Bacon is a lovely low-carb option that replaces traditional noodles with fresh asparagus noodles. Combined with crispy bacon and a rich homemade Alfredo sauce, this hearty and delicious meal is ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This dish is a great way to enjoy a creamy, pleasing meal without the usual carb load. It’s great for those seeking a light yet filling dinner option during busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Noodles With Alfredo Sauce And Bacon

Cabbage and Sausage

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

Cabbage and Sausage is a simple yet delicious meal combining well-seasoned sausage and sautéed cabbage with a hint of apple cider vinegar and spices. This easy-to-make dish is ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a quick and hearty dinner. It’s a great option for those seeking comfort food without the carbs, giving a filling meal that supports your dietary goals. This dish is perfect for busy individuals who want a good dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

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 good and convenient option for anyone following a low-carb diet. Made with canned chicken, sunflower seed meal, Parmesan, and crushed pork rinds, these nuggets give a crispy texture and are ready in 30 minutes. They’re also easy to freeze and reheat, making them a perfect choice for meal prep. This dish is great for anyone looking for quick, family-friendly meals that fit a low-carb lifestyle.
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 a great choice for a quick, low-carb meal. It features tender chicken thighs cooked in a tangy Dijon mustard sauce with spinach and crumbled bacon, ready in under 30 minutes. The bacon adds a nice crunch and a punch of flavor, while the spinach gives a fresh contrast. This dish is perfect for those busy nights when you need something quick yet delicious without the carbs.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken

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

This Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken is a must-try for a filling and flavorful dinner in 30 minutes. It is layered with seasoned chicken breasts, cream cheese, and mini sweet peppers topped with mozzarella. It’s baked until the cheese melts perfectly, creating a creamy and slightly spicy flavor profile. It’s a great dish for busy nights, giving a hearty meal that keeps you full and content without relying on heavy carbs.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Fajita Baked 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.

Whip this Cheesy Beef Casserole in 30 minutes for an easy yet delicious meal. It features ground beef, cauliflower rice, and spinach in creamy cheese sauce. This dish simplifies dinner, making it perfect for meal prep and those busy weeknights. It’s a practical choice that delivers a flavorful and creamy dinner, giving the comfort of a casserole with none of the carbs.
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 your go-to for a quick and hearty meal that’s ready in 25 minutes. It combines green cabbage, crispy bacon, and sautéed onions for a meal that is rich in flavors and textures. This dish is not only fast to prepare but also makes a light and filling alternative to heavy-carb dinners. It suits various dietary preferences and adds an energizing touch to your dinner options, perfect for those evenings when you want something simple yet good.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

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

Enjoy the comfort of risotto without the carbs with Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms. Ready in 30 minutes, it uses cauliflower rice and rich Portobello mushrooms, giving the dish a creamy texture and deep flavors similar to traditional risotto but without a long cooking time. It’s a perfect dish for a cozy night in and a smart choice for anyone looking for a low-carb option that still tastes great.
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.

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken is perfect for those evenings when you need a quick yet filling meal. Ready in about 30 minutes, it features chicken thighs in a creamy sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan. This dish is a great alternative to carb-loaded dishes, bringing you the comfort of Italian flavors in a lighter form.
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.

Baked Parmesan Salmon is a perfect dinner choice when you’re looking for something nutritious yet delicious. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish features salmon topped with a golden, crispy coating of pork rinds and Parmesan cheese, seasoned with dried dill, garlic, and a hint of butter. This recipe creatively substitutes breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds to maintain a lower carb count, making it a great choice for those following a keto diet. This dish is quick to make and packed with omega-3s, which are great for your heart.
Get the Recipe: Baked Parmesan Salmon

Sticky Sauce Chicken

Sticky Sauce Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sticky Sauce Chicken is a flavorful meal that fits perfectly into a carb-conscious diet. It features chicken thighs cooked in a garlic and ginger sauce, all in just 30 minutes and using just one pan. Pair it with roasted veggies for a nutritious dinner that leaves you feeling good without the heaviness of carby dinners.
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.

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a perfect alternative to traditional high-carb dishes. Cooked with garlic and Parmesan in a creamy sauce, this dish delivers great flavors in a light, non-carby package. It’s ready in 30 minutes and uses only one skillet, making cooking and cleanup easy. Serve this dish with cauliflower rice or vegetables for a complete, carb-conscious dinner. It’s a great choice for those seeking a filling meal without the usual carb-induced sluggishness.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Canned Chicken Patties

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

Canned Chicken Patties are smart for a low-carb diet, blending convenience with classic flavors. These patties mix canned chicken with sunflower seed meal, eggs, and Parmesan, and they’re ready in just 20 minutes. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they are perfect for a quick dinner. Serve these patties with steamed vegetables for a balanced, delicious meal. This recipe is perfect for those evenings when time is short, but you still want a meal that keeps you on track with your health goals.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties

Lemon Garlic Scallops

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

Lemon Garlic Scallops are perfect for anyone avoiding carbs but still craving something special. These scallops are quickly sautéed in a light lemon, butter, and garlic sauce, combining great taste with simplicity. The whole dish comes together in under 20 minutes, making it a great option for a fast yet elegant dinner. Scallops are a light meal that can help you avoid the bloating often associated with high-carb dishes, making them perfect for a delicious yet straightforward dinner.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Scallops

Shawarma Kebabs

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

Shawarma Kebabs bring Mediterranean flavors to your dinner routine without loading up on carbs. This recipe involves marinating chicken in shawarma spices and baking it on skewers. It’s simple and pairs well with tzatziki and cilantro lime cauliflower rice for a full meal. These kebabs are great for anyone looking for an easy, delicious way to maintain a low-carb diet. They make dinner feel like a special occasion without the stress.
Get the Recipe: Shawarma Kebabs

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Spoon scooping up jalapeño popper casserole from a baking dish.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole is a spicy, hearty dish that makes dinner exciting without the carbs. It combines shredded chicken, bacon, cream cheese, hot sauce, and jalapeños, topped with shredded cheese and baked until bubbly. Ready in just a little over an hour, this casserole is a perfect choice for those who want a comforting meal that’s still mindful of carb intake. It’s a great way to enjoy a flavorful, filling dinner without feeling weighed down.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

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