120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (2024)

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (1)

We know what you're about to say: Low-carb recipes can tend to be kinda boring, and also kinda hard to convince the rest of the family to eat. But we're here to set the record straight. Whether you're following the keto diet, looking to cut back on gluten, or simply looking to try some new healthy recipes, there's tons of dishes that will make low-carb not only easy, but completely delicious (check out our keto beef stroganoff if you've got naysayers around). For those times you just need a weeknight dinner on the table ASAP, filling snacks for work, or even low-sugar desserts, we've got plenty of creative low-carb inspo (120 ideas, in fact) that you'll actually be excited to dig in to.

First of all, we promise these recipes are not all about the cauliflower. While some of our favorites do rely on that magical brassica, like this , we’ve also got tons of recipes that let other ingredients (zucchini, squash, and broccoli) shine. For example, we’re big fans of anything that replaces carbs with cheesy, eggy goodness, like these cacio e pepe egg noodles. Speaking of, zoodles are another favorite, especially when we expand beyond zucchini, like in these chicken alfredo spaghetti squash. And with our fast food- or deli-inspired dishes, you won’t even miss the bun.

Not sure if low-carb is right for you? We investigated low-carb diet culture, and what we found might surprise you. Think a low-carb diet is too expensive? We can show you how to make 9 low-carb meals for less than $25! Want more low-carb inspiration? Check out dessert recipes here, or in our Keto Made Easy Bookazine. Plus, try our best low-carb breakfasts and easy low-carb side dish recipes.

1

Philly Cheesesteak Lettuce Wraps

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (3)

You won't miss the hoagie in these low-carb Philly Cheesesteak lettuce wraps. Yes, they're made with provolone—NOT Cheez Whiz. And before you get all riled up, no, they're not in any way authentic. We'll be the first to admit it!

Get the Philly Cheesesteak Lettuce Wraps.

2

Cauliflower Fried Rice

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (4)

Fried rice is a classic and comforting recipe that everyone loves…except maybe those who are trying to eat less rice. So, we created this spin on the fave that subs cauliflower for rice, while still crushing the flavor game. Whether you’re skipping carbs, trying to eat more vegetables, or are just looking for a lighter side dish so you can eat more orange chicken (relatable!), this cauliflower fried rice is for you.

Get the Cauliflower Fried Rice recipe.

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3

Cajun-Stuffed Chicken

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (5)

Say goodbye to boring chicken dinners—this Cajun-stuffed chicken is here to shake up your weeknight rotation. Stuffed with peppers and cheese, this spiced chicken is packed with flavor, but ready to be served in under an hour.

Get the Cajun-Stuffed Chicken recipe.

4

Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (6)

Whether you're trying to go low-carb or simply love cooking spaghetti squash, this chicken Alfredo-inspired recipe is a worthwhile weeknight chicken dinner you should add to your rotation.

Get the Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash recipe.

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5

Turkey Taco Lettuce Wraps

We’re always on the lookout for yummy ground turkey recipes, and this one is one of our faves. These lettuce wraps come together fast (just 20 minutes!), are super flavorful, and can be customized how you like it. Top them with your favorite taco toppings, really anything goes!

Get the Turkey Taco Lettuce Wraps recipe.

6

Pizza Frittata

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (8)

While there's no shame in devouring slices of leftover pizza, if you're craving pizza for breakfast but want a substantial meal, turn to this pizza frittata. We load this frittata up with marinara, shredded mozzarella, and sliced pepperoni for savory pizza flavor in the classic frittata form. Serve at as the ultimate brunch dish, or for a protein-packed breakfast-for-dinner.

Get the Pizza Frittata recipe.

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7

Cacio E Pepe Egg Noodles

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (9)

Cacio e pepe is one of our all time FAVORITE pasta dishes. This lightened-up version calls for making your pasta from scratch—the good news is it's SO much easier than it sounds. All you need is a good nonstick pan. It's so simple and yet so fun to make and, of course, absolutely delicious.

Get the Cacio E Pepe Egg Noodles recipe.

8

Italian Antipasto Brussels Sprouts Salad

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (10)

Piled high with a variety of cheeses, slices of cured meats, and briny veggies, an antipasto platter is a beautiful sight to behold. If you too love the famed spread and want to enjoy its flavors in as many ways as possible, you've gotta make this Brussels sprouts salad next.

Get the Italian Antipasto Brussels Sprouts Salad recipe.

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9

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Skillet

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (11)

If you’re looking for ways to jazz up your average rotisserie chicken and get your family excited about mealtime, look no further than this skillet recipe. With all the flavors of the beloved bar appetizer, it can take a boring roasted bird to new levels of deliciousness.

Get the Jalapeño Popper Chicken Skillet recipe.

10

Keto Beef Stroganoff

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (12)

Nothing says comfort food quite like a warm bowl of classic beef stroganoff. This keto dinner replaces the usual egg noodles with steaming cauliflower rice for a cozy bowl of goodness.

Get the Keto Beef Stroganoff recipe.

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11

Spicy Sesame Salmon

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (13)

If you’re looking for a new way to cook salmon, may we introduce this spicy sesame salmon? Similar to the beloved sesame-crusted tuna, this salmon gets coated in sesame seeds to lend crunch and flavor.

Get the Spicy Sesame Salmon recipe.

12

California Grilled Chicken

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (14)

When it comes to reliable summer dinners, grilled chicken is a staple in our weekly rotation. Along with being easy to whip up on the grill, chicken breasts are endlessly versatile: they can take to a variety of flavors, seasonings, and toppings, so dinner never has to be boring. In this California version, our seasoned grilled chicken is topped with mozzarella, avocado, and tomato on the grill, resulting in a cheesy, flavor-packed main course. Top it with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and fresh basil, and you've got a fresh dinner on your hands in under an hour. Just be sure to swap in a keto honey for that glaze or just drizzle with vinegar!

Get the California Grilled Chicken recipe.

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13

Greek Salmon

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (15)

We love our classic baked salmon recipe, but sometimes we want to jazz things up. To do so, we created a Greek-salad inspired topping of marinated feta, tomatoes, olives, cucumbers, red onion, and dill. Put it all together, and the result is an under-an-hour dinner that’s special-occasion worthy.

Get the Greek Salmon recipe.

14

Caprese Chicken Stuffed Peppers

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (16)

From classic fillings of ground beef and rice to cheesy pizza stuffed peppers, stuffed peppers are our favorite way to add a veggie boost to classic weeknight dinners. For this recipe, we decided to fit everything you love about our caprese chickenchicken breasts, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, balsamic—all into these gorgeous stuffed peppers for a satisfying (and eye-catching) meal.

Get the Caprese Chicken Stuffed Peppers recipe.

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15

Za'atar Sheet-Pan Chicken

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (17)

We’ve made a lot of great sheet-pan dinners, but this za’atar chicken recipe is a new favorite. Bone-in chicken thighs, baby potatoes, broccoli, and red onion are all tossed in a simple olive oil, lemon juice, and za’atar marinade, then roasted to crispy, schmaltzy perfection. And just to kick it up another notch, we’re drizzling it all in a creamy tahini sauce to finish it off.

Get the Za'atar Sheet-Pan Chicken recipe.

16

Turkey Zucchini Enchilada Casserole

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (18)

There are few things zucchini can't do, it seems. From grilled zucchini to zucchini soup and zucchini lattice lasagna, you can use it in so many different ways. Here, the summer squash is standing in for corn tortillas in this casserole recipe that takes the summer squash fully into the colder months.

Get the Turkey Zucchini Enchilada Casserole recipe.

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17

Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (19)

We’re kind of obsessed with Philly cheesesteaks. Thinly sliced beef, melty cheese, onions and peppers, all tucked into a hoagie roll—it's everything we love. But what if you’re avoiding gluten or carbs (maybe on that low-carb or keto life)? Don’t worry, we’ve got you too. Try these Philly cheesesteak cabbage wraps—they’re everything you love about the OG, without the bread.

Get the Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps recipe.

18

Bacon Guac Bombs

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (20)

Bacon + guacamole = our ideal combo always. Put them in bite-sized form like these in these snack bombs, and we truly can't get enough. Homemade guacamole is rolled into pieces of bacon in these keto-friendly apps that are just as perfect for snacking on throughout the day as they are at your Super Bowl party.

Get the Bacon Guac Bombs recipe.

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19

Air Fryer Steak Bites

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (21)

Meat lovers alert! Your favorite steak dinner is now the ultimate party food. Air-fried to juicy perfection and tossed in warm garlic butter, these irresistible steak bites are great for a pre-dinner treat or as the main event!

Get the Air Fryer Steak Bites recipe.

20

Keto Bacon Chicken Thighs With Garlic Cream Sauce

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (22)

There’s nothing more magical than a juicy chicken thigh topped with a perfect shard of crispy skin. Here, we amp it up even MORE (if that’s possible) by cooking the chicken thighs in bacon fat and topping them in a mushroom Parmesan cream sauce. Bacon, mushrooms, cheese—need we say more? Rich, creamy, and comforting, this easy skillet dish will become your new weeknight favorite, whether you follow a keto diet or not.

Get the Keto Bacon Chicken Thighs With Garlic Cream Sauce recipe.

120 Recipes To Help You Cut Down On Carbs Even When You Go Back For Seconds (Or Thirds) (2024)

FAQs

How do I go back to a low carb diet? ›

13 Easy Ways to Reduce Your Carbohydrate Intake
  1. Curb sugar-sweetened drinks.
  2. Eat less refined bread.
  3. Reconsider fruit juice.
  4. Choose low carb snacks.
  5. Focus on low carb breakfasts.
  6. Try sugar alternatives.
  7. Rethink restaurant meals.
  8. Substitute alternative flours.

What are some examples of dishes that contain carbohydrates? ›

These dishes are full of the good carbs that nutrition experts say we should all be eating more of.
  • 1Sweet potato and corn salad. ...
  • 2Healthy Mexican fried rice. ...
  • 3Oaty apple muffins. ...
  • 4Lemon and oregano bulgur pilaf. ...
  • 5White bean puree. ...
  • 6Lentil and vegie dhal. ...
  • 7Healthy nuts and bolts slice. ...
  • 8Stuffed baked sweet potatoes.

What dinner is high in carbs? ›

  • Spaghetti with tomato sauce.
  • Garlic bread.
  • Garden veggie salad.
  • Low-fat frozen yogurt.
  • Low-fat milk.

Is pasta high in carbs? ›

Though pasta is versatile and inexpensive, it's also high in carbs. Choosing a whole wheat variety is typically lower in carbs. Just 1 cup (151 grams) of cooked spaghetti packs 46 grams of carbs (43 grams net carbs). The same amount of whole wheat pasta provides 45 grams (39 grams net carbs).

How much weight can you lose in 2 weeks without carbs? ›

The amount of weight you can lose on a low-carb diet in 2 weeks can vary widely depending on factors such as your starting weight, adherence to the diet, and individual metabolism. Some individuals have reported losing up to 10 pounds or more in two weeks, while others may experience less dramatic results.

What is the hardest day of keto? ›

1.The First 10 Days May Be The Toughest

Before starting, you should be aware that if you drop carbs cold-turkey, the first few days you will most likely experience symptoms of your body adjusting to lack of glucose. Many people starting off keto will go through this and it's often referred to as the “Keto Flu”.

What is the healthiest carb to eat? ›

The healthiest sources of carbohydrates—unprocessed or minimally processed whole grains, vegetables, fruits and beans—promote good health by delivering vitamins, minerals, fiber, and a host of important phytonutrients.

What are the top 10 foods with most carbohydrates? ›

High carb foods that people should try to avoid include:
  • candy.
  • sugary breakfast cereals.
  • white pasta.
  • white bread.
  • white rice.
  • cookies, muffins, and other baked products.
  • flavored and sweetened yogurt.
  • potato chips.
Jul 19, 2022

What foods are carbs to avoid? ›

Carbs to Avoid, Plus Better Bets
  • Sugary drinks, sodas, and fruit juices. These often have added sugar. ...
  • White bread. Simply substitute your normal sandwich bread for a whole grain or whole wheat option.
  • Pasta. ...
  • French fries and potato chips. ...
  • Cookies, cakes, and pastries. ...
  • Candy, chocolate, and ice cream.
Oct 8, 2023

What is an easy high carb meal? ›

- Sweet potato and corn chowder

This super easy recipe is high in carbs and nutrients. Sweet potatoes provide powerful antioxidants in the form of vitamins A and C. This chowder is also high in fiber which increases fullness and supports digestive health. Each serving provides 40 grams of carbs and 6 grams of protein.

What 3 foods contain the highest amount of carbohydrates? ›

Foods High in Carbohydrates
  • Grains such as rice, wheat, barley and maize.
  • Bread, pasta and cereal.
  • Beans, nuts, seeds, vegetables and fruits.
  • Potatoes and root vegetables like yams and sweet potatoes.
  • Bran.

What are the best carbs for sleep? ›

Refined grains like white rice, corn grits, and white bread raise blood sugar quickly and may help people fall asleep faster. However, refined grains contain less fiber and natural vitamins than whole grains. Fruits: Fruits contain naturally occurring sugars that are excellent sources of carbohydrates.

What is the number 1 worst carb? ›

1. Sugary Foods. Most people already think of many of the foods in this category as unhealthy treats. Candy, soft drinks, and sweet desserts such as cake, chocolate, and ice cream are all expected entries on a list of carbs to avoid to lose weight.

Is spaghetti a bad carb? ›

Carbs. Made from grain, spaghetti is energy-dense, with more than 200 calories per cup. It is a good source of complex carbohydrates, with more than 40 grams of carbs in one serving. It's not well suited to low-carbohydrate diets, but it is a low-fat food on its own and encouraged as part of a heart-healthy diet.

What carbs should I avoid to lose weight? ›

These eight foods are some of the high-carbohydrate foods that should be avoided:
  • Soft pretzel. While delicious, the soft pretzel is a nutrition-poor source of carbohydrates. ...
  • Processed sugary cereal. ...
  • Canned fruit. ...
  • Doughnuts. ...
  • Soda. ...
  • Potato chips and corn chips. ...
  • Gummy candy. ...
  • French fries.

What does carb withdrawal feel like? ›

Nausea, constipation, headaches, fatigue and sugar cravings are common in some people who are adapting to a high-fat, low-carb diet. Staying hydrated, replacing lost electrolytes, getting enough rest and ensuring you are consuming proper amounts of fat and carbohydrates are ways to reduce keto-flu symptoms.

How do I reintroduce carbs after a low-carb diet? ›

To reverse carbohydrate intolerance, it's important to add carbs back in slowly, starting with small servings and low-GI foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods have “good carbs,” which are higher in fiber, which can help prevent large blood sugar spikes.

Does carb cycling work for weight loss? ›

And in regard to weight, be aware that you might gain pounds on high-carb days even with the increased physical activity due to increased carbohydrates stored in your muscles. “Again, though, carb cycling isn't meant for losing weight,” notes Patton. “It's about fueling your body.”

How long does it take for your body to get used to a low-carb diet? ›

While the length of time it takes to adapt to a keto diet varies, the process begins after the first few days. Then, after about a week to 10 days, many low-carbers suddenly start to feel the positive effects of keto-adaptation. They report improved mental concentration and focus and more physical energy as well.

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