Achieving weight loss success requires a combination of healthy habits, including a balanced diet. While it can be challenging to stick to a strict low-carb diet, having delicious and satisfying recipes at your fingertips can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering low-carb recipes that will keep you satisfied while helping you reach your weight loss goals.
From savory dishes like Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Zucchini Noodles to sweet treats like Avocado Chocolate Mousse with Stevia, these recipes showcase the versatility and flavor of low-carb cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned keto enthusiast or just starting out on your low-carb journey, these dishes are sure to become new favorites.
In this article, we’ll explore a range of recipes that cater to various tastes and dietary needs. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists on international cuisine, our collection of low-carb recipes has something for everyone.
Stay tuned for the full list of recipes and start cooking your way to weight loss success!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Zucchini Noodles
Savor the rich flavors of tender steak bites smothered in a decadent garlic butter sauce, served alongside light and refreshing zucchini noodles. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium zucchini
– 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 steak bites with salt and pepper. Cook in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, spiralize zucchini into noodle-like strands. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook noodles for 2-3 minutes or until slightly tender.
5. Remove steak bites from the oven and brush with garlic butter sauce. Serve immediately alongside zucchini noodles. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Avocado and Egg Breakfast Salad
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast salad that combines creamy avocado, rich eggs, and fresh greens.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 4 large eggs, hard-boiled and sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced avocado, sliced eggs, chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy, ready in under 10 minutes.
Cauliflower Crust Margherita Pizza
A game-changing twist on the classic margherita pizza, this recipe uses cauliflower crust to create a low-carb and gluten-free masterpiece.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup crushed tomatoes
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cauliflower “rice” and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it’s lightly toasted and has a cooked consistency.
5. Transfer the cauliflower crust to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Top the cauliflower crust with mozzarella and parmesan cheese, crushed tomatoes, and chopped basil.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado and crunchy lettuce for a perfect snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 large lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together shrimp, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Meanwhile, wash and dry the mixed greens.
4. Assemble wraps by placing a few pieces of shrimp mixture onto each lettuce leaf, followed by diced avocado.
5. Fold or roll the wraps to enclose filling.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
This creamy, aromatic Indian-inspired dish is a crowd-pleaser. With minimal prep work and hands-off cooking time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garam masala powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and mix until coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
3. Place the marinated chicken in a slow cooker with diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Keto-Friendly Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your keto game with this rich and savory recipe that combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the indulgent taste of bacon and cheese. Perfect for a low-carb snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp works best)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate pan, sauté the mushrooms in a little oil until they release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with crumbled bacon, grated cheese, chopped parsley, and minced garlic.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini Lasagna with Ground Turkey
This zucchini lasagna recipe is a creative take on the classic Italian dish, featuring ground turkey and zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta. The result is a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground turkey in a skillet until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pot, combine crushed tomatoes and cooked turkey mixture. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Cook zucchini noodles according to package instructions or spiralize fresh zucchinis.
6. Assemble lasagna by layering zucchini noodles, turkey tomato sauce, and cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon with Asparagus
This recipe combines the brightness of lemon, the richness of garlic butter, and the tenderness of salmon to create a flavorful and healthy dish. Paired with crispy asparagus, this meal is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, garlic, and softened butter.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Spoon the lemon-garlic butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a separate baking sheet and roast for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
7. Serve salmon with roasted asparagus and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-Carb Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash
Transform traditional chicken alfredo into a low-carb delight by substituting spaghetti squash for the pasta. This creamy, flavorful dish is perfect for those watching their carb intake.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 medium spaghetti squash
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and bake for 30 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook chicken breast with olive oil, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper until cooked through.
4. In a large skillet, combine Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add cooked chicken to the sauce and stir until coated.
6. Scoop out the squash flesh and top with the chicken alfredo mixture.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken and Feta
Elevate your salad game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the freshness of Greece with the richness of grilled chicken and crumbly feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 4-6 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced tomato, thinly sliced red onion, and cucumber slices.
3. Slice the grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad.
4. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and white wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan with Almond Flour Coating
A gluten-free twist on the classic Italian-American dish, this recipe uses almond flour to coat crispy eggplant slices, which are then baked with melted mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together almond flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the almond flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle marinara sauce over the eggplant slices, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until eggplant is tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Coconut Aminos
Savory beef and crunchy broccoli come together in a quick and easy stir-fry, elevated by the rich flavor of coconut aminos. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons coconut aminos
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add garlic to the pan and cook for an additional minute.
5. Return beef to the pan and stir in coconut aminos.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over your favorite grain or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and flavorful Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken recipe, featuring tender chicken breast smothered in a velvety sauce infused with the aroma of garlic and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; stir until smooth.
6. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe for baked parmesan crusted pork chops. With a crispy, cheesy crust and tender, juicy pork, you’ll be the star of the show.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. In a separate dish, whisk together egg and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Dip each pork chop into the egg mixture, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
This creamy cauliflower macaroni dish is a game-changer for keto dieters who crave comfort food without the carbs. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a rich and satisfying meal that’s also low-carb and high-fat.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (make sure it’s a keto-friendly brand)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cauliflower and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine the cheddar cheese, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine the cooked cauliflower and cheese sauce in a baking dish. Top with chopped parsley.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast
This recipe combines the flavors of spinach, feta cheese, and chicken breast to create a delicious and impressive main course. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-Carb Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups
Elevate your snack game with these scrumptious low-carb turkey and cheese roll-ups, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sliced deli turkey breast
– 4 slices of cheddar cheese (reduced-fat)
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay a lettuce leaf flat on a clean surface.
2. Place 2-3 slices of turkey breast along the center of the lettuce, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Place 1 slice of cheddar cheese on top of the turkey.
4. Spread a small amount of cream cheese along the edge of the turkey to “glue” the roll-up together.
5. Roll up the filling tightly but gently, applying even pressure to ensure the filling stays secure.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None, as these are no-bake snacks!
Grilled Lemon Herb Cod with Roasted Brussels Sprouts
This recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon and herbs with the rich taste of grilled cod, paired with a simple and delicious roasted Brussels sprouts side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the cod fillets with the lemon mixture.
4. Grill cod for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
6. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
7. Serve cod with roasted Brussels sprouts.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Chocolate Mousse with Stevia
This unique dessert combines the creamy texture of avocados with the decadent flavor of dark chocolate, sweetened with Stevia for a guilt-free treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup granulated Stevia
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados, then blend them in a food processor until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and Stevia.
3. Add the dry mixture to the avocado puree and blend until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream or coconut cream until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate-avocado mixture until smooth.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake dessert!
Keto-Friendly Peanut Butter Fat Bombs
A sweet treat that’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats, these peanut butter fat bombs are a great way to satisfy your cravings while staying on track with your keto diet.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon granulated sweetener (such as Swerve or Erythritol)
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter and granulated sweetener until well combined.
2. Add in the coconut oil and heavy cream, mixing until smooth and creamy.
3. Use a spoon to drop small balls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. You should end up with around 12-15 fat bombs.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These fat bombs are no-bake, making them quick and easy to prepare.
Summary
Discover the power of low-carb cooking with these 20 delicious recipes for weight loss success. From savory dishes like Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Zucchini Noodles and Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Lettuce Wraps, to satisfying meals like Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala and Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, get creative with breakfast options like Avocado and Egg Breakfast Salad and sweet treats like Avocado Chocolate Mousse with Stevia. Start your low-carb journey today with these mouthwatering dishes!
