Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for a healthy diet? Losing weight doesn’t have to mean giving up your favorite dishes. With the right low-carb dinner recipes, you can indulge in delicious meals that will support your weight loss goals. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering and easy-to-make low-carb dinner recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From savory steak bites to flavorful salmon fillets, these recipes use creative ingredients like zucchini noodles, cauliflower crust, and almond flour coating to reduce carbs without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for quick weeknight meals or a health-conscious individual seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, this collection of low-carb dinner recipes has got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll take a closer look at each recipe, including its nutritional information and step-by-step cooking instructions. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the flavors of a healthier, happier you!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Zucchini Noodles
Savor the flavors of tender steak bites smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce, served atop a bed of nutritious zucchini noodles. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 medium zucchinis
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add steak bites to the saucepan and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Transfer steak bites to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Top each bite with Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, spiralize zucchinis into noodles. Cook in boiling water for 2-3 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
7. Serve steak bites over zucchini noodles and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Lemon Herb Salmon with Asparagus
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic salmon recipe, this dish combines the flavors of lemon, herbs, and garlic with tender asparagus for a well-rounded and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound 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. Drizzle the lemon juice over the salmon, then sprinkle with parsley, dill, and garlic.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread it out around the salmon.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Cauliflower Crust Pizza
A game-changing twist on traditional pizza, this recipe uses cauliflower as the crust, topped with melted cheese and your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Toppings of your choice (e.g. tomato sauce, pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem.
3. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. Microwave the cauliflower “rice” for 4-5 minutes, stirring every minute, until tender.
5. Allow the cauliflower to cool slightly, then mix with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, shaping into a circle or rectangle.
7. Top with your desired toppings and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines succulent shrimp with the creaminess of avocado, a kick of heat from sriracha, and a burst of freshness from cilantro. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 medium red bell pepper, seeded and chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and sriracha sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped red bell pepper, if using.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, this slow cooker recipe is perfect for a busy day. With tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a rich sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
2. Add the beef, broccoli, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, water, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
4. Pour the sauce over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Zucchini Lasagna with Ground Turkey
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the health benefits of zucchini, creating a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional lasagna. Ground turkey adds protein and texture to this vegetarian-friendly dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook zucchini noodles according to package instructions or spiralize fresh zucchini.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Combine cooked turkey mixture with marinara sauce.
5. In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Assemble lasagna by spreading a layer of turkey-marinara mixture, followed by zucchini noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat two more times, finishing with mozzarella on top.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Keto Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash
A creamy, low-carb twist on the classic Italian dish. This recipe combines tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and nutritious spaghetti squash for a satisfying keto meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups cooked spaghetti squash
– 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted 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).
2. Cook spaghetti squash according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken breast and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Pour heavy cream into the same skillet.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Slice cooked chicken into strips and toss with Alfredo sauce.
8. Serve chicken over cooked spaghetti squash, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breast
A flavorful twist on traditional chicken breast, this recipe wraps tender chicken in crispy bacon and fills it with a savory blend of herbs and cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cheese, parsley, and garlic.
3. Lay each chicken breast flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Wrap each stuffed breast with 1-2 slices of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
6. Place the wrapped breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan with Almond Flour Coating
This recipe puts a gluten-free spin on the Italian-American classic, using almond flour to coat tender eggplant slices. The result is a crispy exterior and a creamy interior, all wrapped up in melted mozzarella goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together almond flour and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the almond flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook coated eggplant slices for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. In a separate baking dish, spread marinara sauce on the bottom. Arrange cooked eggplant slices on top.
6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the eggplant.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with Green Beans
A flavorful and effortless one-pan wonder that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Pan-seared chicken thighs, crispy green beans, and a rich garlic butter sauce come together in harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
4. Add remaining 1 tablespoon butter, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add green beans to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the garlic butter sauce over the top.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Low Carb Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed bell peppers, this recipe combines the savory flavors of tacos with the convenience of a low-carb main dish. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for alternative options)
– 1/2 cup taco seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (reduced-fat or low-carb option available)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, cilantro
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. Cook ground beef with taco seasoning until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, followed by shredded cheese.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this rich and flavorful Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken recipe. Tender chicken breasts are smothered in a creamy sauce infused with the deep flavors of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and basil.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Serve chicken breasts with creamy sauce spooned over the top. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pan-Seared Pork Chops with Roasted Brussels Sprouts
This classic combination is a staple of comfort food, where the crispy pork chops pair perfectly with the tender and caramelized sprouts. In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to go.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Toss Brussels sprouts with garlic and add to the skillet. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
6. Serve pork chops with roasted Brussels sprouts and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Avocado and Lime Grilled Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and zesty lime juice, making it a perfect summer meal or light lunch. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious salad in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced avocado, sliced red onion, and grilled chicken.
4. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp
This recipe is a creative spin on traditional fried rice, substituting cauliflower for the grains. The result is a delicious and healthy dish that’s perfect for low-carb diets or as a tasty alternative to regular fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Add cauliflower “rice” to the skillet and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and easy-to-make dish, featuring earthy portobello mushrooms filled with a creamy spinach and feta mixture.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 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, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Keto Butter Chicken with Cauliflower Rice
Transform your taste buds with this rich and creamy Keto Butter Chicken dish, served with a side of cauliflower “rice” that’s just as delicious. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a mouth-watering meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Add thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Meanwhile, pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
7. Cook cauliflower “rice” in olive oil over medium heat, stirring frequently, until tender but still crisp, about 5 minutes.
8. Serve chicken with the creamy butter sauce and cauliflower “rice”.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto
Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto: A refreshing twist on a classic dish, this recipe combines the rich flavor of lamb with the bright, herbaceous taste of mint pesto.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine mint leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Process until smooth, adding olive oil as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Season lamb chops with salt and pepper.
4. Grill lamb chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Serve grilled lamb chops with a dollop of mint pesto spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers
A creative twist on a classic comfort food, these stuffed peppers bring the flavors of a Philadelphia cheesesteak to a low-carb and healthy dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Slice the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the steak, onion, and garlic until the steak is browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in cream cheese until melted. Add mozzarella cheese; stir until combined.
5. Stuff each pepper with the cheesesteak mixture and top with chopped parsley (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Curry Chicken with Cauliflower
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of coconut milk with the warmth of Indian spices, served alongside a deliciously roasted cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 8 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-7 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Toss cauliflower with oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
7. Serve chicken over roasted cauliflower and garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in delicious and healthy low-carb dinner recipes! This article features 20 mouth-watering dishes that are perfect for weight loss success. From savory steak bites with zucchini noodles to cheesy cauliflower crust pizza, you’ll find a variety of options to satisfy your cravings. Other standout recipes include baked salmon with asparagus, slow-cooked beef and broccoli, and keto chicken alfredo with spaghetti squash. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or just looking for new meal ideas, these tasty and nutritious recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
