These 30 Low-Carb Dishes Will Make You Question Your Carb Choices

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These 30 Low-Carb Dishes Will Make You Question Your Carb Choices

Ever thought you’d never part ways with your beloved carbs? Think again. These low-carb dishes are so good, they’ll make you question every bread, pasta, and potato decision you’ve ever made. These meals are not only great for your waistline but also perfect for making you rethink your carb-loaded past.

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

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 great for those on a low-carb diet who still crave a hearty soup. By swapping potatoes for radishes, this soup stays low-carb, including Italian sausage, bacon, and a creamy broth with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for meal planning and holds up well in the fridge or freezer. Pair it with keto-friendly bread, and you will have a comforting meal showing you don’t need pasta to feel full. This soup is perfect for days when you want something delicious without the carbs.
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.

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is perfect for pasta lovers looking for a low-carb option. Tender chicken thighs are in a rich mushroom sauce made with heavy cream, chicken stock, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. It feels gourmet but is super easy to whip up in 30 minutes using one pan. This creamy sauce is a great pasta alternative, keeping things low-carb but flavorful. Perfect for weeknights when you need something quick yet impressive, this dish is a winner.
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.

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs are perfect for adding variety to your low-carb meals. These meatballs bring the bright flavors of Thailand with ground turkey, coconut milk, red curry paste, ginger, and garlic. Ready in just 30 minutes, they are great for those avoiding pasta. Serve them over cauliflower rice to keep it keto-friendly, and enjoy a bold and diet-friendly meal. These meatballs are a great way to spice up your dinner routine without the carbs.
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.

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is great for pasta lovers looking for a low-carb alternative. This dish combines broccoli and cauliflower’s rich flavor in a cheesy sauce, topped with crispy bacon, and baked to perfection. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy melted cheese and tender veggies as a great alternative to pasta-based meals. This casserole is a hit for kids and adults, making it a great family dinner option.
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.

Bacon Cheeseburger Salad is perfect for those who love bacon cheeseburgers but are watching their carbs. This dish has all the flavors of a traditional cheeseburger with seasoned ground beef, crisp bacon, and shredded cheddar tossed with fresh lettuce and dressed with a Big Mac sauce. It’s a creative solution for burger lovers, quick to assemble and perfect for a filling low-carb meal, serving all the fun without the bun. This salad is great for lunch or dinner, keeping you full and satisfied without the carbs.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Cheeseburger Salad

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 perfect for pasta lovers seeking a low-carb option. This dish features creamy chicken thighs with artichoke hearts, all in a lemony sauce. It cooks in 30 minutes, giving a great low-carb meal without skimping flavor. Juicy chicken and tender artichokes excite each bite, showing you won’t miss pasta. It’s also great for meal prep, saving time and making planning easier. Perfect for those busy nights when you need a quick and flavorful dinner.
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.

If you love pasta but want to go low-carb, this Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach is great. It’s loaded with shrimp, juicy tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a garlic sauce. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a quick and impressive meal perfect for those nights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. The shrimp adds a nice protein boost while the spinach and tomatoes bring in fresh flavors, making it a balanced meal that helps you stick to your low-carb goals without feeling deprived.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

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.

Forget the heavy carbs with this Philly Cheese Steak Casserole that packs loads of flavor without the carbs. Loaded with sirloin steak, green bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and melted provolone cheese, it’s perfect for a filling dinner when you’re short on time. This easy casserole brings all the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak, making it perfect for a stress-free weeknight meal that fits your low-carb goals. It’s ready in about 55 minutes and can be prepped ahead of time for an even quicker dinner.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

Bell Pepper Sandwich

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

If you miss sandwiches but want to cut carbs, the Bell Pepper Sandwich is perfect. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s stuffed with deli turkey, bacon, cucumbers, and mustard. These bell pepper halves are great for a quick, delicious lunch that keeps the crunch and flavor of a traditional sandwich without the bread. The bell peppers add a fresh crunch and bright color, making your meal exciting and keeping you on track with your low-carb lifestyle. It is an easy way to enjoy a good lunch that is both healthy and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Bell Pepper Sandwich

Creamy Bacon Asparagus Pasta

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

Say goodbye to regular pasta and try this low-carb Creamy Bacon Asparagus Pasta. It features asparagus in a creamy sauce with crispy bacon and Parmesan. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a great mix of textures and flavors, making it easy to enjoy a rich, creamy meal without the carbs. The combination of creamy sauce and crispy bacon creates a hearty meal that feels indulgent without being high in carbs, making it perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Bacon Asparagus Pasta

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.

For a fresh alternative to heavier meals, try Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats. They are perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch. The cucumbers add a refreshing crunch, balancing the creamy chicken, bacon, and cheese filling with homemade ranch seasoning. They help you cut carbs while keeping you full and energized. This dish is easy to assemble and makes for a fun and light meal you can enjoy anytime, keeping your diet on track without feeling like you’re missing out on anything.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

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 great if you want comfort food without the carbs. It has sausage, cream cheese, and hearty tomatoes, making it a warming meal perfect for a low-carb lifestyle. Ready in 30 minutes in one pot, it makes cleanup easy and gives you more time to relax while enjoying all the flavor and comfort you want. The rich sausage flavors and the soup’s creamy texture make it perfect for days when you want something hearty and delicious.
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.

Ditch the pasta for this Cabbage and Sausage dish. In under 30 minutes, you get perfectly browned sausage with tender, slightly caramelized cabbage. It’s a straightforward, one-pan meal perfect for busy nights, helping you stay on track with your low-carb lifestyle. The cabbage brings in a slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the sausage, making this dish both flavorful and filling without the need for carbs. It is a simple and quick dinner that keeps you full and satisfied.
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.

If you usually love pasta, this Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad might win you over. It’s a spicy, creamy meal inspired by jalapeño poppers, mixing spicy jalapeños, crispy bacon, and a creamy base of mayonnaise or sour cream. The heat from the jalapeños goes great with the cool, creamy chicken, making it perfect for a quick, bold-flavored meal. Serve it in lettuce wraps or on its own for a filling dish. This salad quickly prepares and keeps well for a few days, making it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

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 perfect for pasta lovers looking for a low-carb option. Just chop, season, and bake a mix of sausages and hearty vegetables for a delicious dinner. This meal fits busy schedules with minimal prep and cleanup, helping you stick to your low-carb goals. Enjoy a comforting dinner that’s filling without the carbs. It’s a one-pan meal that makes cleanup a breeze, and you can easily customize the veggies to suit your taste or what’s in season.
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 perfect if you miss pasta but want a low-carb meal. This dish has chicken thighs in rich cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Quick to make, it’s great for busy nights when you want something special. It’s also great for leftovers, making it practical for a creamy, comforting meal that fits a low-carb diet. This one-pan dish is ready in about 40 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner that feels like a treat.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

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 a great low-carb option for pasta lovers wanting a classic favorite. These nuggets are crispy, tender and coated in almond flour or ground sunflower seed meal, cheese, and pork rinds. Perfect with a side of veggies or a salad, they’re a quick, crowd-pleasing meal that skips the pasta. Great for families looking to cut carbs, these nuggets are easy to make in batches for meal prep. They’re ready in about 30 minutes, making them perfect for a quick dinner or snack.
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 perfect for those wanting a low-carb meal without missing pasta. This quick, one-pan dish combines chicken, spinach, and bacon in a creamy Dijon mustard sauce. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a rich and hearty dinner that’s light on carbs. The combination of flavors gives a comforting meal that pairs well with various sides, making it versatile for any dinner occasion. It’s also great for meal prep, staying fresh in the fridge for a few days.
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.

This Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach shows you don’t need pasta for a great meal. It mixes ground beef, cauliflower rice, and spinach under melted cheese, ready in 30 minutes. Perfect for busy nights and leftovers, which reheat well. This dish is great for anyone looking to cut carbs without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a comforting, cheesy meal that fills you up and fits perfectly into a low-carb, busy lifestyle. This casserole is perfect for anyone craving comfort food without 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 a great alternative to high-carb dishes. It is quick to prepare in 25 minutes. It features green cabbage, crisp bacon, and white onion sweetened slightly to enhance natural flavors. It’s cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup, this dish is perfect for busy nights needing a filling meal without hassle or carbs. It stores well, ensuring a hearty and convenient meal is ready for the next day. This dish is great for those who want a quick, low-carb meal that still feels hearty.
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 Cauliflower Risotto With Mushrooms is perfect for anyone wanting a low-carb meal that still feels indulgent. Ready in 30 minutes and made in one pot, this dish combines cauliflower rice’s mild, nutty flavor with the rich taste of mushrooms. Garlic powder and Parmesan add depth, making this dish stand out. It’s a stress-free option that simplifies cooking and cleaning, perfect for a gourmet meal without long prep times or heavy carbs.
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 a rich, flavorful choice for cutting carbs. This 30-minute, one-pan meal features chicken thighs seasoned with Italian seasoning in a creamy sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. It’s great for those who appreciate a hearty, protein-packed meal without spending much time in the kitchen. It’s perfect for a full meal that feels indulgent while staying healthy.
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 great low-carb alternative to pasta, ready in 30 minutes. This recipe creates a crispy meal rich in Omega-3 fatty acids with a crust made from pork rinds and Parmesan cheese. The salmon is seasoned and baked with butter and garlic until the crust is golden and crispy. Perfect for health-conscious individuals looking for a nutritious dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste or convenience. This salmon dish is great for those who want a quick and healthy meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Parmesan Salmon

Sticky Sauce Chicken

Sticky Sauce Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sticky Sauce Chicken is a great low-carb solution for anyone missing takeout or pasta. Quick and easy, this recipe features tender chicken pieces in a sticky sauce made with coconut aminos, fish sauce, garlic, and ginger. Simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for guests, it pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables. It’s just as great the next day, perfect for when you’re short on time. This chicken dish is perfect for those craving takeout flavors without the carbs.
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.

Try the Creamy Garlic Chicken when you want a dinner that won’t make you miss the carbs. Chicken breasts are cooked in a rich garlic sauce. Cook the chicken in avocado oil until golden, and serve it with the thickened sauce, parsley, and fresh pepper for extra flavor. Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup easy. This recipe is great for busy evenings when you need a quick dinner that fits your low-carb lifestyle. The creamy sauce and tender chicken make this a comfort meal that keeps carbs low.
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 perfect when you need a quick meal that’s filling and low-carb. It’s made with canned chicken, sunflower seed meal, and simple seasonings. These patties are easy to make and versatile. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal, or put them in low-carb wraps for a filling lunch. They freeze well, so you can prepare in bulk and have a meal ready in minutes on busy days. It is great for cutting carbs without losing convenience or flavor.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties

Lemon Garlic Scallops

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

This Lemon Garlic Scallops is a perfect dish that feels gourmet but easy to make. Tender scallops are sautéed in a flavorful lemon garlic butter sauce — a great low-carb alternative to pasta. Quick to prepare, so you don’t have to spend all night in the kitchen. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, this dish gives you a great meal without the carbs. The tangy lemon and rich garlic butter make these scallops a special treat that’s simple to whip up.
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 bring a touch of the Middle East to your dinner table without the carbs. Marinated chicken is threaded onto skewers and baked, creating a meal full of flavor and perfect for a low-carb diet. Serve with tzatziki sauce and cilantro lime cauliflower rice for a complete meal. You can prep these kebabs in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer for a quick dinner. Great for a high-protein, low-carb option that’s full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Shawarma Kebabs

Fajita Baked Chicken

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

Switch out your high-carb dishes for this flavorful, low-carb Fajita Baked Chicken. Seasoned chicken breasts are layered with cream cheese, sweet peppers, and mozzarella, making a simple yet delicious dish. This recipe is easy to assemble and perfect for a no-stress weeknight dinner that checks carbs. It’s a great way to enjoy Mexican flavors without the carbs. You stay full without feeling like you’re missing out. This dish makes weeknight dinners a breeze while filling your cravings.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

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

Spice up your dinner with the Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole, a great dish for those who love a bit of heat. This low-carb casserole combines shredded chicken thighs, bacon, cream cheese, hot sauce, and jalapeños, topped with a generous layer of cheese. Perfect for cutting down on carbs without losing flavor. This hearty, spicy casserole gives you all the fun of a jalapeño popper in a filling dinner form, showing that low-carb eating can be exciting and delicious. This casserole is perfect for adding a kick to your meal without the carbs.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

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