Usually Love Pasta? These 30 Low-Carb Dishes Might Just Win You Over

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Usually Love Pasta? These 30 Low-Carb Dishes Might Just Win You Over

So you’re a pasta fanatic, and the thought of low-carb dishes has you raising an eyebrow? Well, buckle up, because these 30 recipes might just change your mind. We’re talking about plates piled high with flavors that give your beloved spaghetti a run for its money, without all the carbs that usually come with it. Whether you’re watching your carb intake or just looking for something new to try, these dishes are great for shaking things up in the kitchen.

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

Keto Zuppa Toscana

Two bowls of soup with bacon and kale.
Keto Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Keto Zuppa Toscana is a great choice for those who are on a low-carb diet but still crave a hearty, flavorful soup. By substituting radishes for potatoes, this soup maintains a low carb count while including delicious ingredients like Italian sausage, bacon, and a creamy broth enhanced with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for advance meal planning and holds up well in the fridge or freezer. Pair it with some keto-friendly bread, and you have a comforting meal that shows you don’t need pasta to feel satisfied.
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.

Tender chicken thighs are coated in a rich mushroom sauce made with heavy cream, chicken stock, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese, creating a dish that feels gourmet but is incredibly easy to whip up. Ready in just 30 minutes using one pan, it’s perfect for those evenings when you need a quick yet impressive meal. The creamy sauce is a great alternative to pasta, keeping things low-carb but high in flavor.
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.

Revitalize your dinner menu with Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs. These meatballs introduce the bright flavors of Thailand with ground turkey, coconut milk, red curry paste, ginger, and garlic. They are low-carb and perfect for those avoiding pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, these meatballs are an easy way to bring variety to your meals. Serve them over cauliflower rice to keep it keto-friendly and complete the meal. This recipe makes it easy to enjoy bold flavors without compromising your dietary goals.
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 your answer to a quick, creamy dinner that skips the carbs but not the flavor. This dish combines broccoli and cauliflower in a cheesy sauce, topped with crispy bacon and baked to perfection. It’s a great way to get your veggies in a way that even kids will love. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s a straightforward dish that’s great for a busy weeknight. Serving it fresh from the oven means enjoying melted cheese and tender veggies, making it a delicious alternative to pasta-based meals.
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.

If you love bacon cheeseburgers but are watching your carbs, the Bacon Cheeseburger Salad is for you. This dish packs all the flavors of a traditional cheeseburger — seasoned ground beef, crisp bacon, and shredded cheddar, tossed with fresh lettuce and dressed with a Big Mac sauce. It’s quick to assemble and perfect for a filling meal that keeps carbs in check. This salad is a creative solution for burger lovers, serving all the enjoyment without the bun. It’s especially good for those looking to maintain a low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing their favorite flavors, making it a practical and delicious meal option.
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.

Swap out the pasta for something more exciting with this dish of creamy chicken thighs paired with artichoke hearts, all brought together in a sauce with a hint of lemon. It cooks up in 30 minutes and serves as a great low-carb option that doesn’t compromise on depth or flavor. The combination of juicy chicken and tender artichokes makes each bite exciting, you won’t miss pasta at all. It’s also great for meal prep, keeping well for a delicious dinner the next day, saving you time and making your meal planning easier.
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.

This Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach recipe is a fabulous way to skip the pasta without feeling like you’re missing out. Loaded with shrimp, juicy tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a savory garlic sauce, it’s a dish that’s both simple to make and rich in flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for anyone looking for a quick yet impressive meal that’s low in carbs. This dish is great for those evenings when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen, helping you maintain a healthy diet easily.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Bell Pepper Sandwich

Two slices of a bell pepper sandwich on a plate.
Bell Pepper Sandwich. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Ditch the bread and welcome the crunch with the Bell Pepper Sandwich, a bright and fresh alternative that’s ready in just 10 minutes. Stuffed with deli turkey, bacon, cucumbers, and a hint of mustard, these bell pepper halves show that a sandwich doesn’t need bread to be complete. It’s perfect for anyone looking for quick, delicious lunch options that cut down on carbs without losing the crunch and flavor of a traditional sandwich. Plus, it’s so easy to make that you can throw it together for a last-minute meal that’s both healthy and filling.
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 hello to this low-carb dish featuring asparagus smothered in a creamy sauce with crispy bacon and shredded Parmesan. It’s the perfect mix of textures and flavors, making your low-carb journey effortless and appetizing. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also a great way to enjoy a rich, creamy meal without the carbs.
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.

Cool, crisp, and full of flavor, Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats are great for a meal prep or a quick lunch option. The cucumbers serve a refreshing crunch, perfectly balancing the creamy filling of chicken, bacon, and cheese, all seasoned with a homemade ranch. It’s a fresh alternative to heavier meals, perfect for those looking to reduce carbs without feeling weighed down. Easy to assemble and fun to eat, these cucumber boats keep you full and energized. You don’t need bread or pasta to enjoy a complete, delicious meal.
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.

Comfort food doesn’t have to be carb-heavy, and this Italian Sausage Soup is proof of this. With robust Italian sausage, rich cream cheese, and hearty diced tomatoes, this soup is a warming, hearty meal perfect for a low-carb lifestyle. It comes together in just 30 minutes in one pot, making cleanup a breeze and giving you more time to relax. This soup is a great alternative to traditional pasta-based meals, serving all the flavor and comfort you desire without the carbs, making it easier to stick to your dietary goals.
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 sweet and savory Cabbage and Sausage dish, where flavors and simplicity collide. It shows that low-carb meals can be both easy and delicious. In under 30 minutes, you can enjoy a meal that combines perfectly browned sausage with tender, slightly caramelized cabbage, delivering a hearty and filling dinner. It’s a straightforward, one-pan meal that is perfect for those busy nights when you need a dinner option that keeps you on track with your low-carb lifestyle.
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 is your go-to for a spicy, creamy meal that’s easy to put together. It’s inspired by the bold flavors of traditional jalapeño poppers, blending spicy jalapeños with savory bacon and a creamy base of mayonnaise or sour cream. The heat from the jalapeños perfectly complements the cool, creamy chicken, perfect for those who love bold flavors but need quick, straightforward meal solutions. This salad can be served in lettuce wraps or alone for a filling meal.
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.

The Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner simplifies mealtime without skimping on taste. Just chop, season, and bake — a medley of sausages and hearty vegetables roast together to create a flavorful, comforting meal. It’s the perfect solution for anyone looking to reduce their carb intake but still craving cozy and filling dinners. With minimal prep and cleanup, this meal fits perfectly into a busy schedule, giving you a great way to enjoy a nutritious dinner that keeps you on track with your low-carb goals.
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 serves a luxurious taste with minimal effort. It features chicken thighs in a rich cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. This one-pan meal is quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights when time is short, but you’re craving something special. It’s also great for leftovers, keeping well in the fridge for a few days. This dish demonstrates that a low-carb meal can still be creamy and comforting, making it a perfect option for anyone missing pasta dinners.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

A fork is being used to take a piece of Philly cheese steak casserole out of a dish.
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Forget pasta, this Philly Cheese Steak Casserole packs a punch with loads of flavor without the carbs. Loaded with sirloin steak, green bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, and topped with melted provolone cheese, it’s a great choice for a filling dinner when you’re pressed for time. This dish brings all the beloved flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak in a simple, easy-to-make casserole form, perfect for a stress-free weeknight meal that keeps you on track with your low-carb goals.
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 show you can enjoy a classic favorite without the carbs. Coated in a mix of almond flour or ground sunflower seed meal, Parmesan cheese, and pork rinds, these nuggets are crispy and tender. Perfect with a side of veggies or a salad, they’re a go-to for a quick, crowd-pleasing meal that skips the pasta. Perfect for families looking to reduce their carb intake, these nuggets are a great way to keep everyone happy and healthy. Plus, they’re easy to make in batches for meal prep.
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 all about bringing big flavors to your dinner without needing pasta. This quick, one-pan meal combines chicken, spinach, and bacon in a creamy Dijon mustard sauce. It’s a great pick for a rich and hearty dish that’s ready in 30 minutes. The combination of flavors serves a comforting meal that’s still light on carbs, perfect for those looking to enjoy a creamy, hearty dinner without overloading on carbs. This dish also pairs well with various sides, making it versatile for any dinner occasion.
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 makes it clear: you don’t need pasta to have a great meal. It mixes ground beef, cauliflower rice, and spinach under a layer of melted cheese, all ready in 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy nights, and leftovers reheat well, making your week easier. This casserole is a lifesaver for anyone looking to cut carbs without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a comforting, cheesy dish that fills you up and fits perfectly into a low-carb, busy 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 great low-carb alternative to pasta dishes. Quick to prepare in just 25 minutes, it features a hearty mix of green cabbage, crisp bacon, and white onion, sweetened slightly to enhance the natural flavors. All cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup, this dish stands out for its simple preparation and hearty qualities. It’s great for those busy nights when you need a filling meal without the hassle or carb overload. Plus, it stores well, making sure you have a hearty and convenient meal ready for the next day.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

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

Ditch the pasta for this low-carb Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms. Ready in just 30 minutes and made in a single pot, this dish brings together the mild, nutty flavor of cauliflower rice with the rich taste of mushrooms. Garlic powder and grated Parmesan add a depth of flavor that makes this dish stand out at any dinner table. It’s a stress-free option that simplifies cooking and cleaning, perfect for those seeking a gourmet meal without the 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 anyone cutting carbs. This 30-minute, one-pan meal features boneless, skinless chicken thighs seasoned with Italian seasoning and cooked in a creamy sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. This recipe is particularly great for those who appreciate a hearty, protein-packed meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. It’s perfect for creating a full meal that feels indulgent without straying from healthy eating goals.
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 delicious, low-carb alternative to pasta that’s ready in 30 minutes. This recipe creates a crispy, low-carb meal rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, thanks to the crust made from pork rinds and Parmesan cheese — both keto-friendly ingredients. The salmon is seasoned, enriched with melted butter and minced garlic for extra flavor, and then baked until the crust is golden and crispy. This dish is great for health-conscious individuals looking for a nutritious dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste or convenience.
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 looking for a break from pasta. Quick and easy, this recipe features tender chicken pieces coated in a sticky sauce made with coconut aminos, fish sauce, garlic, and ginger, creating a burst of flavors that enliven the dish. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for guests, pairing beautifully with roasted vegetables. Plus, it’s just as delicious the next day, solving the dilemma of what to eat when you’re short on time.
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’re looking for a low-carb meal that won’t leave you missing pasta. This dish combines chicken breasts in a rich, creamy garlic sauce. Cook the chicken in a hot pan with avocado oil until it’s golden, and serve it drenched in the thickened sauce, garnished with parsley and fresh pepper for a bit of zing. Everything cooks in one pan, reducing your cleanup time significantly. It’s perfect for those busy evenings when you need a quick dinner that keeps you full and happy and supports your low-carb lifestyle.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Canned Chicken Patties

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

If you need a quick meal that’s both filling and low-carb, these Canned Chicken Patties are just the ticket. Made with canned chicken, sunflower seed meal, and simple seasonings, these patties are a breeze to prepare and are a versatile component of any meal. Serve them with a side salad for a complete meal, or stuff them into low-carb wraps for a filling lunch. They freeze well, so you can prepare them in bulk and have a meal ready in minutes on busy days. It’s perfect for anyone looking to reduce their carb intake without sacrificing 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.

For a dish that feels gourmet but is simple to make, Lemon Garlic Scallops are the answer. This recipe features tender scallops sautéed in a flavorful lemon garlic butter sauce — a perfect, low-carb alternative to pasta. It’s quick to prepare, which means you don’t have to spend all night in the kitchen to enjoy a meal that tastes like it’s from a restaurant. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or just want to treat yourself, this dish serves a filling experience without the carb overload.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Scallops

Shawarma Kebabs

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

Ditch the pasta for something equally delicious but far more protein-rich with these Shawarma Kebabs. Marinated chicken is threaded onto skewers and baked, creating a meal that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for a low-carb diet. Serve with tzatziki sauce and cilantro lime cauliflower rice for a complete meal. You can also prepare these kebabs in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer for a quick dinner on demand. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a high-protein, low-carb option that doesn’t skimp on 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, creating a dish that’s simple yet packed with flavor. This recipe is easy to assemble, making it perfect for a no-stress weeknight dinner that keeps carbs in check. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of a Mexican meal without the carbs. You stay full without feeling like you’re missing out.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

A casserole dish with jalapeño popper chicken and a spoon.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Spice up your dinner routine with the Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole, a perfect 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. It’s perfect for anyone looking to cut down on carbs without losing out on flavor. This hearty, spicy casserole serves all the enjoyment of a jalapeño popper in a filling dinner form, which shows that low-carb eating can be exciting and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

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