Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for a healthy diet? Look no further! Low-carb cooking has come a long way, and we’re excited to share 18 delicious and easy-to-make dinner recipes that will keep your taste buds happy and your carb count low. From classic comfort foods like steak and salmon to international-inspired dishes like stir-fry and tacos, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
Whether you’re following a specific diet like keto or just looking to mix things up in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. With ingredients like zucchini noodles, cauliflower “rice,” and avocado, you’ll be getting plenty of nutrients while still enjoying the rich flavors and textures you love.
Garlic Butter Steak with Zucchini Noodles
This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic butter steak with the light and refreshing taste of zucchini noodles, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 medium zucchinis
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Season the steak with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness. Transfer to a baking sheet and roast in the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, spiralize the zucchinis into noodles. In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat and cook the zucchini noodles for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly tender.
5. Serve the steak with the garlic butter sauce spooned over top and the zucchini noodles on the side. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Spinach
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy and savory dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a decadent cream sauce to create a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken with garlic until cooked through.
3. Remove chicken from skillet; set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and spinach. Stir until spinach is wilted.
5. Add cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Keto-Friendly Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
This recipe combines the flavors of beef, broccoli, and savory sauces to create a delicious and keto-friendly meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With only 5g of net carbs per serving, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings while staying within your daily keto limits.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (make sure it’s sugar-free)
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
5. Return the beef to the skillet and stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Lemon Butter Salmon with Asparagus
Baked Lemon Butter Salmon with Asparagus: A bright and flavorful seafood dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the rich flavors of salmon, lemon butter, and asparagus for a delicious and impressive meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, lemon juice, and chopped parsley.
5. Spread the lemon butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
9. Add the asparagus to the baking sheet with the salmon and continue roasting for an additional 5-7 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole with Bacon
This creamy casserole combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the smoky flavor of bacon, all wrapped up in a rich and cheesy package.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups of milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then set aside.
3. In a separate pot, steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked cauliflower, butter, flour, and milk. Stir until smooth.
5. Add the cheddar and Parmesan cheese to the mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with crispy bacon bits.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Salad
A refreshing twist on a classic salad, this Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Salad combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado, tangy lime juice, and a kick of heat from diced jalapeños. Perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
2. Add the shrimp and marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the shrimp from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked shrimp, diced avocado, red onion, and chopped jalapeño.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-30 minutes
Zucchini Lasagna with Ground Turkey
This recipe takes the traditional lasagna game to new heights by incorporating sautéed zucchini and ground turkey for added flavor and nutrition. The result is a deliciously moist and satisfying vegetarian alternative.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Assemble lasagna by spreading ricotta cheese on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by layers of noodles, zucchini slices, ground turkey mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat this process two more times, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Low Carb Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash
Transform a classic Italian dish into a low-carb delight by substituting traditional spaghetti with nutritious spaghetti squash. This creamy and flavorful recipe is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 large spaghetti squash
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken breast with butter, garlic, salt, and pepper until cooked through.
3. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet, whisking constantly. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
4. To assemble, scoop out the roasted spaghetti squash flesh and toss with the creamy chicken Alfredo sauce. Top with chopped parsley (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Pork Chops with Mushroom Cream Sauce
Pork Chops with Mushroom Cream Sauce Recipe
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this rich and flavorful dish that combines tender pork chops with a decadent mushroom cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add heavy cream, mustard, and pork chops. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until pork chops reach desired doneness.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cauliflower Fried Rice with Chicken
A creative twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe substitutes cauliflower for the usual grains and adds protein-rich chicken for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 2 teaspoons of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Remove chicken from pan, set aside.
5. In the same pan, add onion, garlic, peas, and carrots. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
6. Add cauliflower “rice” to the pan, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until tender.
7. Return chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Cheese
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor! This recipe is a great way to enjoy the sweetness of bell peppers paired with savory ground beef and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until heated through.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, topping with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad (No Croutons)
A classic salad gets a flavorful boost with the addition of grilled chicken and a tangy Caesar dressing, all without the need for croutons. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
4. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and shaved Parmesan cheese.
5. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Add sliced grilled chicken on top of the salad.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Eggplant Parmesan (Baked, Not Fried)
Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This baked version skips the frying step, making it a healthier and just-as-delicious option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the eggplant slices.
6. Top each slice with an onion ring, a sprinkle of garlic, and a spoonful of crushed tomatoes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown and tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Keto Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers
Transform the classic Philly cheesesteak into a flavorful and nutritious stuffed pepper dish, perfect for a low-carb diet. This recipe combines tender peppers with savory beef, cheese, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each pepper with the beef mixture, then top with grated cheese.
6. Drizzle olive oil over peppers and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Herb Butter Pork Tenderloin
This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic, herbs, and butter to create a mouthwatering pork tenderloin that’s sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can achieve a restaurant-quality dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, rosemary, and thyme until well combined.
3. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the garlic-herb butter mixture evenly over the pork tenderloin.
5. Place the tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps
Elevate your salad game with this refreshing recipe that combines the creaminess of avocado, the tenderness of chicken, and the crunch of fresh lettuce. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large lettuce leaves (Romaine or Butter works well)
– Optional: cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, or red onion for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine avocado, chicken, yogurt, lime juice, and Dijon mustard. Mix until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spoon the salad mixture onto the lettuce leaves.
4. Add optional toppings if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Low Carb Taco Stuffed Avocados
Add a twist to traditional tacos with this creative recipe that combines the creamy richness of avocado with the bold flavors of taco filling. Perfect for low-carb enthusiasts and taco lovers alike!
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for alternative options)
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
3. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add diced tomatoes, cilantro, olive oil, and taco seasoning to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stuff each avocado half with the taco filling, mounding it slightly in the center.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top (if using).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the avocados are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and effortless recipe that combines the best of chicken, garlic, butter, and Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet; set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 1 tbsp butter, minced garlic, and Brussels sprouts to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
5. Return chicken to the skillet with Brussels sprouts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If using white wine, add it to the skillet; simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Are you looking for delicious and healthy dinner recipes that are low on carbs? Look no further! This article features 18 mouth-watering recipes that are perfect for a low-carb diet. From garlic butter steak with zucchini noodles to creamy tuscan chicken with spinach, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to make keto-friendly beef and broccoli stir fry, baked lemon butter salmon with asparagus, and many more dishes that are not only tasty but also good for you.
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