Are you a low-carb lover looking for delicious and easy-to-make recipes to fuel your diet? Look no further! The Atkins diet has been a popular choice for many when it comes to reducing carbohydrate intake and promoting weight loss. With a focus on high-fat, moderate-protein, and low-carbohydrate foods, the Atkins diet can be a bit restrictive, but with these 20 delicious recipes, you’ll never feel deprived. From savory meats and seafood dishes to creamy soups and indulgent desserts, we’ve got you covered.
Get ready to indulge in Garlic Butter Steak Bites, Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Chicken, Creamy Tuscan Garlic Shrimp, and many more mouth-watering options that will keep your taste buds satisfied while staying within the boundaries of the Atkins diet. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out on your low-carb journey, these recipes are sure to become fast favorites.
Stay tuned for our list of 20 must-try Atkins recipes that will satisfy your cravings and support your dietary goals!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Treat your taste buds to the rich flavors of garlic and butter in these tender steak bites.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, and thyme until well combined.
3. Place the steak cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the steak, making sure each piece is coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Servings: 4-6 bite-sized pieces
Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each chicken breast with a slice of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cheese and parsley.
4. Place the wrapped chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each breast and sprinkle with the cheesy mixture.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Shrimp
This rich and flavorful recipe combines succulent shrimp with a creamy garlic sauce, perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of sautéed garlic, onions, and heavy cream creates a decadent and indulgent dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, and basil. Bring to a simmer and let reduce slightly, about 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
This recipe transforms zucchinis into a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pasta, paired with the rich flavors of homemade pesto.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional (about 1 tablespoon per serving)
Homemade Pesto Recipe:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodle-like strands.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pesto and stir to melt.
3. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet, tossing to combine with the pesto. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Cauliflower Crust Pizza
A game-changing twist on traditional pizza crust, this cauliflower-based version is low-carb, gluten-free, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Toppings of your choice (e.g. pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Pulse into a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Microwave for 4-5 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes, until the cauliflower is soft and easily mashed with a fork.
4. Allow the cauliflower mixture to cool slightly. Then, mix in olive oil, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a pizza pan or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Shape into a circle or rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and set.
7. Top with your favorite sauce and toppings, and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Avocado Stuffed Burgers
Elevate your burger game with this creamy and delicious twist! By stuffing juicy burgers with ripe avocados, you’ll add a rich and velvety texture that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 oz ground beef
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and any other toppings you desire
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Flatten slightly to form patties.
3. Place a spoonful of mashed avocado in the center of each patty, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Top with cheese (if using) and fold patties in half to enclose filling.
5. Brush tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
7. Serve on hamburger buns with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Bacon and Egg Breakfast Muffins
Start your day with a delicious and portable breakfast treat that combines crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and savory muffin goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, milk, eggs, and crumbled bacon until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
4. Sprinkle each muffin top with grated cheese and a pinch of salt.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A flavorful and spicy stir-fry that combines the savory taste of sausage with the crunch of cabbage, all cooked to perfection in a wok or large skillet. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious addition to your next potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy sausage (such as chorizo or andouille), sliced
– 1 medium cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1-2 teaspoons sriracha or hot sauce for extra heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add the thinly sliced cabbage to the pan and cook until slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Return the cooked sausage to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and optional sriracha or hot sauce to taste.
8. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet flavorful Parmesan crusted salmon recipe. A crispy, cheesy crust adds a delicious twist to the tender and moist fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and lemon zest.
3. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each salmon fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the coated salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch between each fillet.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the nutritious benefits of broccoli with the richness of cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree until smooth.
5. Stir in the milk and grated cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Add a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your dinner plate with this simple yet impressive chicken dish. Fresh spinach and tangy feta cheese create a delightful combination that’s sure to please.
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 medium 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 stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Skillet
A flavorful and filling skillet dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and crispy potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the potato slices to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to crisp up.
5. Add the cooked beef back into the skillet along with the paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your dinner table with the zesty flavors of lemon, garlic, and butter on tender chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 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 for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a large baking dish and brush the lemon-garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Keto-Friendly Taco Salad
This recipe combines the flavors of a traditional taco salad with the benefits of a keto-friendly twist. The addition of crispy bacon, avocado, and a dairy-free dressing make this dish a perfect fit for a low-carb lifestyle.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 pound ground beef (90% lean)
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons dairy-free ranch dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
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. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cooked beef, crumbled bacon, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
3. Drizzle with dairy-free ranch dressing and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Eggs in Avocado
Start your day with a creamy and flavorful twist on traditional scrambled eggs. This simple recipe combines the richness of avocado with the simplicity of baked eggs for a satisfying breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped cilantro, or crumbled feta cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the avocado halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Crack an egg into each avocado half.
4. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add red pepper flakes, chopped cilantro, or crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the eggs are set and the avocado is tender.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Alfredo Zucchini Lasagna
A creamy twist on the classic lasagna, this Alfredo Zucchini Lasagna combines the flavors of rich fettuccine alfredo with the sweetness of zucchini and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz. lasagna noodles
– 2 cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 lb. ground beef or sausage, cooked and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the zucchini slices until tender and lightly browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine Alfredo sauce and cooked ground beef or sausage. Stir until combined.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
6. Spread half of the zucchini slices over the noodles, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese.
7. Repeat layers: Alfredo sauce, noodles, zucchini, and mozzarella cheese.
8. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pork Rind Nachos
Elevate your nacho game with this mouthwatering recipe featuring crispy pork rinds instead of traditional tortilla chips. Perfect for a fun gathering or cozy night in, these nachos are sure to please!
Ingredients:
• 1 bag of pork rinds
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
• 1 lb ground beef (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef (if using) until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Arrange pork rinds in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Spread refried beans over the pork rinds, followed by shredded cheese.
5. Add cooked ground beef (if using), diced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro on top of the cheese.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate Peanut Butter Fat Bombs
Satisfy your cravings with these bite-sized treats that combine the richness of chocolate and peanut butter. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, these fat bombs are also a great way to get your daily dose of healthy fats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 85% cocoa)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine peanut butter, coconut cream, and melted coconut oil. Mix until smooth.
2. Add honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Pour the melted chocolate into the peanut butter mixture and mix until fully incorporated.
5. Use a spoon to drop small balls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined plate or tray. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! These fat bombs are best served chilled.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers! This recipe combines the spicy kick of buffalo chicken with the sweetness of roasted bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together chicken, buffalo wing sauce, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese until well combined.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture and top with green onions.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Coconut Flour Pancakes
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast by making these coconut flour pancakes. These pancakes are not only gluten-free but also packed with healthy fats from the coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Butter or coconut oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut flour, eggs, and melted coconut oil.
2. Add almond milk, honey or maple syrup (if using), and salt. Whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or coconut oil.
4. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary journey with these 20 delicious Atkins recipes! From savory dishes like Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Bacon- Wrapped Chicken to indulgent treats like Chocolate Peanut Butter Fat Bombs, there’s something for every low-carb lover. Satisfy your cravings with Creamy Tuscan Garlic Shrimp or Cauliflower Crust Pizza, or start your day with Bacon and Egg Breakfast Muffins. With a range of options from breakfast to dinner, these Atkins recipes are sure to delight your taste buds while keeping your carb count in check.
