Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for a healthy diet? Look no further! Low-carb cooking has never been easier or more enjoyable. With the rise of the keto and low-carb lifestyles, it’s clear that people are hungry for (pun intended) new and exciting recipe ideas that fit their dietary needs.
In this article, we’re excited to share 20 mouth-watering low-carb dinner recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. From savory steak bites to creamy chicken dishes, and from seafood options to vegetable-packed stir-fries, these recipes are sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these easy-to-follow recipes will guide you every step of the way.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into our collection of 20 delicious low-carb dinner recipes for weight loss success!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Zucchini Noodles
This recipe is a perfect combination of tender steak bites, savory garlic butter, and healthy zucchini noodles. It’s an easy and quick dinner option that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strip loin or ribeye, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter.
3. Season the steak bites with salt and pepper.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the garlic butter mixture. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add the steak bites to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
6. Meanwhile, cook zucchini noodles in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
7. Serve steak bites with zucchini noodles and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken with Spinach
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy and savory dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium; add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and spoon some of the creamy sauce over the top.
6. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and basil. Top with spinach and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Lemon Butter Salmon with Asparagus
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic salmon dish, this recipe combines the rich flavors of lemon butter with the tender flakiness of fresh asparagus. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 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 or aluminum foil.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lemon juice, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread the lemon butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Arrange asparagus spears alongside the salmon.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry with Shrimp
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with this flavorful and nutritious stir-fry! This recipe combines the creamy texture of cauliflower “rice” with succulent shrimp, all wrapped in a savory and spicy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add shrimp, onion, and garlic; cook 2-3 minutes or until shrimp are pink.
4. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sriracha sauce; stir-fry for an additional 1 minute.
5. Stir in cauliflower “rice” and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and savory recipe, featuring chicken breast stuffed with a blend of melted cheese and crispy bacon. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together shredded cheese and crumbled bacon.
3. Cut a horizontal slit in each chicken breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the cheese-bacon mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed breasts and season with salt and pepper.
5. Wrap each breast with 2-3 slices of cooked bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
6. Place the wrapped breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Zucchini Lasagna with Ground Turkey and Ricotta
This recipe combines the flavors of lasagna with the added nutrition and moisture of zucchini, making it a perfect vegetarian option. The addition of ground turkey adds protein to this satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook zucchini slices in a skillet with a little oil until tender.
3. Brown ground turkey in the same skillet, then drain excess fat.
4. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Add beaten egg and mix well.
5. Assemble lasagna by layering cooked zucchini, ground turkey, and cheese mixture.
6. Top with additional mozzarella cheese and chopped basil (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Avocado and Lime Grilled Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on classic chicken salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime, all wrapped up in a flavorful grilled chicken package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and lime juice. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and finely chopped jalapeño.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the bowl.
5. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Divide mixed greens onto four plates and top with the chicken-avocado mixture.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Brussels Sprouts
A flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of garlic parmesan chicken with the earthy sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts, all in one pan!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add Brussels sprouts to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, until slightly tender.
6. Return chicken to the pan and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and thyme.
7. Dot the top with butter and transfer to the oven.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and Brussels sprouts are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Eggplant and Ground Beef Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the richness of ground beef with the tender sweetness of eggplant, all wrapped up in a crispy, cheesy blanket.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
4. Arrange eggplant slices in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Spoon the meat mixture over the eggplant, followed by tomato sauce.
6. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until eggplant is tender and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Low Carb Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This recipe is a perfect combination of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory flavors, all in under 30 minutes. It’s a great option for a low-carb diet or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the broccoli to the pan and cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and garlic powder. Pour the mixture over the broccoli and stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Zoodles with Grilled Shrimp
Get ready for a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional pasta dishes! This recipe combines the creaminess of pesto with the zucchini noodles and succulent grilled shrimp, all in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush shrimp with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, spiralize zucchinis into noodles.
4. In a large skillet, combine pesto sauce and zoodles. Toss to coat, adding salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add grilled shrimp to the skillet and toss with zoodles and pesto.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Cod with Lemon and Herb Butter
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of cod with a zesty lemon and herb butter, creating a dish that’s both moist and aromatic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together softened butter, lemon juice, parsley, and thyme until well combined.
3. Place the cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread one-fourth of the lemon herb butter evenly over each cod fillet.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cauliflower Crust Margherita Pizza
A game-changing twist on the classic Neapolitan-style pizza, this Cauliflower Crust Margherita Pizza is a healthier and more innovative alternative to traditional crusts. With its subtle cauliflower flavor and perfectly cooked crust, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. In a bowl, combine the cauliflower “rice,” mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Form into a circle or rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Top with fresh mozzarella cheese slices and basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce
Transform your pork shoulder into tender, flavorful pulled pork using a slow cooker and sugar-free BBQ sauce. This recipe is perfect for a stress-free dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup sugar-free BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker and add the sugar-free BBQ sauce.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
5. Serve with additional sugar-free BBQ sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Low: 8-10 hours
– High: 4-6 hours
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Cauliflower Rice
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy ground beef, tender bell peppers, and nutritious cauliflower rice for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook cauliflower rice according to package instructions or pulse in a food processor until fine.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the cooked beef mixture, rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and top with shredded cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Keto-Friendly Creamy Mushroom Chicken Thighs
Savor the rich flavors of sautéed mushrooms and creamy sauce infused with savory chicken thighs, perfect for a low-carb dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs; cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until browned. Remove from skillet.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Add mushrooms, garlic, and thyme. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, or until mushrooms are tender.
4. Pour in heavy cream; stir to combine with mushroom mixture. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return chicken thighs to skillet; spoon creamy mushroom sauce over them. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer skillet to preheated oven; bake for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Grilled Lamb Chops with Rosemary and Garlic
Grilled Lamb Chops with Rosemary and Garlic Recipe
Elevate your grilling game with this flavorful and aromatic lamb chops recipe, infused with the earthy essence of rosemary and pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp minced fresh rosemary
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, and garlic.
3. Brush both sides of lamb chops with the rosemary-garlic mixture.
4. Season lamb chops with salt and pepper.
5. Grill lamb chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
6. Let lamb rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spaghetti Squash with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon
This recipe combines the comfort of spaghetti with the nutty flavor of squash, topped with a rich Alfredo sauce and crispy bacon. A perfect twist on a classic dish!
Ingredients:
– 1 large spaghetti squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Place squash cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Dot the top of each squash half with butter, then sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Roast squash for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
6. While squash is roasting, combine heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and basil in a saucepan over medium heat.
7. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Toss cooked squash with Alfredo sauce and top with crumbled bacon.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Low Carb Taco Lettuce Wraps with Avocado Crema
This recipe is a twist on traditional tacos, using lettuce wraps instead of shells and topped with a creamy avocado sauce. Perfect for low-carb dieters or those looking for a healthier taco option.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 leaves of romaine lettuce
– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for alternative options)
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and taco seasoning to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Warm the lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the wraps by placing some of the beef mixture onto a lettuce leaf, followed by a dollop of avocado crema (see below).
5. Drizzle with lime juice and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Avocado Crema:
– Mash 1 ripe avocado in a bowl until smooth.
– Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan-Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter and Lemon
This classic recipe combines succulent scallops with the rich flavors of garlic butter and a squeeze of fresh lemon, making for a quick and impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the scallops to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
6. Pour the lemon juice into the skillet and stir to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
7. Serve the scallops with the garlic butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with parsley or thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover the secrets to weight loss success with these 20 delicious low-carb dinner recipes. From savory steak bites to zucchini noodles, and from spicy shrimp stir-fries to cheesy chicken breasts, there’s something for everyone. These mouthwatering dishes are not only low in carbs but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Say goodbye to guilt-ridden meals and hello to a healthier you. Whether you’re a keto enthusiast or just looking for some inspiration, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. Start cooking your way to weight loss success today!