Who needs pasta when you have these 27 low-carb dinner recipes?

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Who needs pasta when you have these 27 low-carb dinner recipes that are just as great and will keep you feeling light and energized? Sometimes, it feels like every good meal is loaded with noodles or bread, but that’s not the case. These meals are perfect for those nights when you want something hearty but don’t want to be weighed down by a ton of carbs. Whether you’re watching your carb intake for health reasons or just trying to cut back a bit, you’ll find plenty of options here that’ll make you forget all about spaghetti and meatballs.

Chicken thighs in cream sauce with artichoke hearts in a pan with a spoon.
Creamy Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

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.

In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs, bringing a burst of flavor to your dinner table. This dish, with its combination of coconut milk and curry, is a simple way to travel to Thailand from your dining room. It’s a break from the usual that’s both exciting and nutritious. Perfect served over a bed of cauliflower rice for a complete meal. These meatballs freeze beautifully, so make a double batch and save some for later!
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 hit for any night of the week. It takes just 30 minutes to whip up, mixing broccoli and cauliflower in a cheesy sauce, all topped with crispy bacon. Super easy to make, and you probably have all you need in your fridge already. It’s a cool way to get everyone eating more veggies without missing out on great flavor. Plus, it’s so good that you’ll forget it’s good for you. Serve it straight from the oven for that perfect, bubbly cheese topping that everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

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

This Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach dish, ready in 30 minutes, turns any dinner into a special occasion. Shrimp, tomatoes, and spinach come together in a garlicky sauce for a meal that’s bursting with flavor. It’s surprisingly easy and makes dinner feel like an event. Serve it with cauliflower rice or zoodles for a full, fancy dinner. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store the sauce and veggies in the fridge and add fresh shrimp when reheating.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Bacon Cheeseburger Salad

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

Imagine all the great taste of a bacon cheeseburger but in a salad. This dish is easy to put together, combining ground beef, bacon, cheese, and greens. It’s perfect for a quick meal and a fun new way to have a salad. This recipe is a game changer, making you rethink what a salad can be. Plus, it’s so flavorful that you won’t believe it’s not a cheat meal. 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

Keto Zuppa Toscana

A bowl of keto zuppa Toscana with a spoon in it.
Keto Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Change up your dinner game with this soup, ready in just one hour. By swapping potatoes for radishes, you keep it light without losing any of the classic flavors. It’s a great pick for when you want something cozy without too much trouble. Prep it ahead for even easier weeknights. Trust me, this soup makes staying in feel like a treat. Serve with a side of keto-friendly bread for dipping into that rich, flavorful broth. This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days, and it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. It’s also freezer-friendly, so feel free to make a big batch and save some 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.

Here’s a dish that gets dinner on the table fast — 30 minutes, one pan, and you’re done. Chicken in a creamy mushroom sauce that tastes like you’ve been cooking all day. It’s the perfect pick for busy evenings when you still want something that feels a bit special. And the best part? It’s so delicious you won’t be thinking about carbs. Pair it with a light, leafy green salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal. Leftover chicken and sauce can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to enjoy a quick and delicious meal any time during the week.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Creamy Bacon Asparagus Pasta

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

Transform pasta night with this dish, featuring a creamy sauce, bacon, and asparagus, ready in 30 minutes. The asparagus stalks are sliced into noodle-like strips and then topped with a homemade creamy sauce. It’s a fun and flavorful meal that is great for a date night dinner. You’ll love how it makes sticking to your eating plan feel like no work at all.
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.

These chicken thighs are cooked in a creamy sauce with artichokes and a splash of lemon juice, which is a flavor-packed meal that’s easy to make. It’s an excellent way to spice up your dinner routine, ready in 30 minutes and loaded with taste. Serve with a side of steamed green beans for a complete meal. This dish keeps well in the fridge, making leftovers a treat. It’s so rich and delicious that you’ll hardly remember it’s low-carb. Consider throwing in some capers or olives for a briny flavor addition.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

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, ready in 30 minutes with just one pot, is the definition of comfort food. With Italian sausage, cream cheese, and tomatoes, it’s a hearty, rich soup that’s incredibly easy to prepare. A great starter or a meal on its own, it’s sure to be a hit. Perfect with a side of keto bread for dipping. Soup stores well in the fridge for up to four days, or freeze it for a cozy meal any time.
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 is a one-pan recipe that can be made in less than 30 minutes and yields a delicious and filling dish.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

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.

Whip up a Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner for a no-stress evening. In 30 minutes, you get a hearty meal with sausage and a bunch of vegetables roasted together. It’s perfect for those busy nights, giving you an appetizing dinner with hardly any cleanup. Serve it straight from the oven for a cozy and pleasant meal. Leftovers store well in the fridge, and they’re just as good reheated the next day. Plus, it’s so full of flavor that you’ll forget it’s keeping your carb count down.
Get the Recipe: Sausage And Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

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.

Whip up these Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats in no time. They’re filled with chicken, bacon, and cheese, making for a refreshing and low-carb lunch option. They’re simple and save time, smoothing out your lunch prep. It’s hard to believe something this good is also keeping you on track with your health goals. Serve them as a cool, crisp lunch or a snack on hot days. For best results, store the filling and cucumbers separately in the fridge and assemble before serving.
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.

Crispy chicken thighs meet sun-dried tomatoes and spinach in a rich, creamy sauce in this one-pan Creamy Tuscan Chicken, ready in 40 minutes. It’s an easy, mess-free meal that makes your weekday dinners anything but ordinary. The taste and convenience are unmatched. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for a filling meal. The chicken and sauce keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making leftovers just as good as the first day.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

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 mixes the kick of jalapeños with creamy chicken salad for a fresh take on lunch. It’s super easy to make and perfect for preparing in advance, so you’re set for the week. It’s so packed with flavor you’ll forget you’re eating something that’s good for you. This salad is great on its own or wrapped in lettuce leaves for an extra crunch. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making it a great pick for meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

Bell Pepper Sandwich

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

Mix up your lunch routine with this Bell Pepper Sandwich. You can have it ready in 10 minutes flat. Bell peppers take the place of bread, stuffed with whatever you love in a sandwich. It’s a simple, fresh change that’s also smart for keeping things light and getting that extra serving of vegetables into your day. Really, it’s so good, you won’t even miss the bread. Great with a side of crunchy veggie chips or a fresh salad for a full meal.
Get the Recipe: Bell Pepper Sandwich

Keto Chicken Nuggets

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

Enjoy these Keto Chicken Nuggets, a 30-minute meal that is a crispy, tender alternative to traditional nuggets. They’re simple, delicious, and a hit with everyone, making mealtime easy and pleasant. A great option for busy days. Serve with a side of low-carb veggies or a simple salad for a complete meal. Nuggets can be frozen after cooking and reheated in the oven for a quick meal or snack anytime. To vary the taste, try using different herbs and spices in the coating or serve with a variety of dipping sauces to keep things interesting. From spicy buffalo to creamy ranch, the possibilities are endless.
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 makes your weeknights special without the hassle. Ready in 30 minutes, this dish blends chicken, a creamy mustard sauce, spinach, and bacon all in one pan. It’s easy, quick, and brings a gourmet feel to your dinner table. This dish is great with a side of steamed veggies or a light salad. Any leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed within the next few days, making meal prep a breeze. And it’s another dish that proves low-carb doesn’t mean low in taste.
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.

On any busy night, the Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach is a lifesaver. It takes 30 minutes to make and combines ground beef, cauliflower rice, spinach, and cheese into a hearty, flavorful dish. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting meal without all the carbs. It’s great on its own or with a side salad for an extra veggie boost. This casserole reheats well, so feel free to make extra for easy meals throughout the week. A great example of how comfort food can still fit into a healthy lifestyle.
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 a speedy, 25-minute meal that’s simple yet packed with flavor. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something delicious without a lot of effort. This dish is a great side or can be enjoyed as a light main course. Leftovers are great the next day, either warmed up or cold from the fridge. It’s the perfect mix of simplicity and flavor that’ll make you forget all about carbs. For a variation, consider adding different spices like smoked paprika or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy taste. You could also throw in other vegetables like sliced bell peppers or onions to mix it up.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage With Bacon

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

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

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms is a sophisticated yet easy side dish you can make in 30 minutes. This one-pot wonder is perfect for dressing up weeknight dinners without the stress. Serve it alongside your favorite protein for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and make an appetizing addition to lunch the next day. It’s a dish that showcases how luxurious low-carb eating can be. To vary this dish, you can incorporate different types of mushrooms like shiitake or porcini for a new depth of flavor or add a handful of spinach or peas for a pop of color and extra nutrition.
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.

In just one pan and no time at all, Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken brings a rich, flavorful dinner to your table. With sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan, it’s a meal that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is easy on cleanup. It pairs beautifully with zoodles for a fuller meal. This dish keeps well in the fridge, so go ahead and prepare a bit extra for future meals. This is what low-carb dreams are made of – creamy, comforting, and utterly delicious.
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 quick, 30-minute dinner that’s both nutritious and full of flavor. It’s an excellent choice for those hectic evenings when you want something good but simple. This salmon is perfect with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. The salmon is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge overnight if needed. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a fancy dinner without the carbs, showing that healthy eating can also be luxurious.
Get the Recipe: Baked Parmesan Salmon

Sticky Sauce Chicken

Sticky Sauce Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Dive into Sticky Sauce Chicken for a meal that’s both simple and bursting with a sweet and tangy garlic-ginger sauce. This dish is an easy win for any dinner that everyone will love. It goes great with a side of roasted broccoli for a well-rounded meal. Leftovers are fantastic the next day, either reheated or cold. A perfect example of how quick, low-carb meals can also be incredibly delicious. For a variation, add a splash of orange juice or some chili flakes to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
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 chicken breasts in a luscious garlic sauce with this one-pan wonder. Served over cauliflower rice, it’s a savory feast that’s quick to prepare. This dish is perfect for a nourishing dinner that’s both filling and flavorful. The creamy sauce can be stored separately and added to freshly prepared cauliflower rice when ready to eat. A standout dish for those busy nights when you want something special without the carb count.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Canned Chicken Patties

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

These Canned Chicken Patties are a straightforward and delicious option, ready in 20 minutes. They’re perfect for those days when time is tight but you still want a full meal. Serve them with a side salad for a quick, balanced dinner. Patties can be frozen and reheated, making them a great prep-ahead option. They prove that low-carb eating doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Incorporate different herbs like dill or parsley, or mix in some minced vegetables for a nutritious boost.
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, Lemon Garlic Scallops are a simple yet elegant meal. They’re perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet dinner without the hassle. Serve over a bed of zucchini noodles for an exquisite low-carb meal. Scallops are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in the fridge for a quick next-day lunch. An effortlessly delicious way to keep meals light and carb-conscious. Try adding a dash of saffron or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs before serving for an aromatic smell.
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 Shawarma Kebabs are easy to prepare, flavorful, and baked right in the oven. Make them for a weeknight dinner for a delicious and high-protein meal. Serve the kebabs with tzatziki and a side of cilantro lime cauliflower rice.
Get the Recipe: Shawarma Kebabs

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