30 low-carb dinners that hit every craving

Finding dinners that fill you up without taking all evening to make can be a challenge, but I've put together a collection that does just that. These meals are full of flavor, quick to prepare, and perfect for keeping weeknights stress-free. I love having options that hit every craving while still being simple enough to cook even on the busiest nights.

A close-up of braised short ribs in a tomato-based sauce, garnished with herbs. — Braised Short Ribs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Close-up of a crispy air fried chicken drumstick on a white plate garnished with parsley, with hot sauce in the background. — Air Fryer Chicken Legs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crispy skin and tender meat come together in this chicken leg recipe. It cooks quickly in the air fryer, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The flavors are straightforward, letting the chicken shine while being hearty enough to fill everyone. This recipe works well when you want a protein-packed meal with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

A skillet containing a stir-fried mix of ground meat, sliced bell peppers, leafy greens, and white sesame seeds, with a wooden spoon resting on the side. Plates with flatbreads are in the background. — Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

A single-pan meal that combines seasoned ground beef with tender cabbage for a filling dinner. It comes together quickly and leaves minimal cleanup, which is ideal for busy nights. The mix of textures keeps each bite interesting while keeping the meal hearty. This skillet balances protein and vegetables for a dinner that hits multiple cravings.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables

Baked salmon fillet with asparagus, zucchini, and bell peppers on a white plate, garnished with herbs. — Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Salmon and fresh vegetables roast together on one pan for an effortless dinner. Prep is simple, and cooking time is short, making it easy to plan around a busy schedule. The combination gives a warm, complete meal that fills the plate and the appetite. It's a good choice when you want something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Pouring savory sauce over a bowl of rice topped with beef and bell peppers. — Slow Cooker Pepper Steak. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Tender strips of beef and crisp peppers simmer all day in the slow cooker. Minimal effort is needed, and the aroma fills the house as it cooks. The dish provides a balanced mix of protein and vegetables, making it hearty and warming. Perfect for a dinner that feels substantial without being complicated.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

Roasted broccoli and tofu cubes garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, served with a wooden spoon. — Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Firm tofu and broccoli come together in a simple stir fry that's full of flavor. It cooks quickly on the stove and works well as a weeknight dinner. The mix of protein and vegetables keeps the meal filling without being heavy. It's a practical option for a fast, nutritious dinner that hits every craving.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

Creamy Chicken Curry

Chicken curry with rice. — Creamy Chicken Curry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken pieces simmer in a lightly creamy sauce that's ready in under an hour. It delivers a comforting meal without requiring complicated prep or cooking techniques. The combination of protein and vegetables keeps it hearty for dinner. This recipe works well when you want a filling dish that's rich in flavor but easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Curry

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

A bowl of meat and green peppers with a spoon. — Garlic Butter Steak Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Small, seared steak pieces cook quickly in garlic butter for a meaty dinner. Prep is minimal, and cooking time is short, making it perfect for busy evenings. The bites are filling enough to pair with a side or enjoy alone. This recipe is practical for anyone wanting a flavorful protein-packed meal in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

A basket of crispy roasted pork belly chunks garnished with parsley, served in a white paper-lined wicker basket. — Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali). Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crispy pork belly bites cook in the air fryer for a crunchy outside and tender inside. Minimal prep and fast cooking make this a weekday-friendly option. The portion size works well for a main or sharing with family. It's a good choice when you want a rich, flavorful meat dish without long cooking times.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

A plate of pork chops stuffed with mushrooms and cheese served with green beans. — Baked Stuffed Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Pork chops filled with a savory mix bake evenly in the oven. This dish requires simple prep and gives a hearty dinner with minimal effort. Each chop is a complete portion, making meal planning easier. It's ideal for a filling dinner that feels special without being complicated.
Get the Recipe: Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

Air Fryer Cornish Hen

A small bird roasts evenly in the air fryer for a tender and juicy meal. Cooking is quick and hands-off, leaving time for side dishes. The result is a meal that looks impressive but requires little effort. This recipe is a practical way to enjoy a complete dinner with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cornish Hen

Pan-Fried Pork Chops

Pork chops on a plate with rosemary sprigs. — Pan-Fried Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Quick-seared pork chops deliver a golden crust and tender inside. Prep is straightforward, and cooking time is short. They pair well with simple sides for a complete dinner. This method works well for a protein-rich meal that's ready fast.
Get the Recipe: Pan-Fried Pork Chops

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Shrimp cook quickly on the grill for a smoky, light dinner. Prep is simple, and skewers make serving easy. The meal is protein-focused and pairs well with vegetables or rice alternatives. It's a practical option for a fast, flavorful weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Ground Pork Burgers

Close-up of grilled pork burger patties stacked on a white plate. — Ground Pork Burgers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Juicy ground pork patties cook quickly on the stovetop or grill. The recipe is simple to prepare and satisfying without being heavy. Each burger works well with a variety of toppings or a side salad. It's a solid choice for a protein-packed dinner that comes together quickly.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Burgers

Braised Short Ribs

Slow-cooked short ribs become tender while filling the kitchen with rich aromas. Though they cook low and slow, prep is minimal. The meal is hearty and filling, making it perfect for dinner with a side. It's a practical option for a comforting meal that impresses without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Braised Short Ribs

Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

A plate of salmon on a white plate with lemon slices on it. — Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

A simple sauce brightens roasted or pan-seared salmon without extra steps. Prep is fast, and it complements protein and vegetables for a balanced meal. The light lemon flavor keeps the dish fresh while still feeling full. It's ideal for adding a quick finishing touch to dinner.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

Shrimp Scampi

A plate with shrimp and bread on it. — Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp cook quickly in a flavorful, buttery sauce for a ready-in-minutes meal. Prep is minimal, and the dish works well over a simple base or alone. The combination of protein and light sauce makes it filling without being heavy. It's a practical option for a quick, complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Ground Pork Stir Fry

A plate with ground pork and vegetables on top of cauliflower rice. — Ground Pork Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Ground pork cooks fast with vegetables for a balanced and filling dish. Prep and cooking are straightforward, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. The mix keeps the meal hearty and flavorful. It's a reliable choice when you want a quick, protein-forward dinner.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Stir Fry

Slow Cooker Beef Tips

A spoon holding chunks of beef in a rich, brown stew garnished with small pieces of green herbs. — Slow Cooker Beef Tips. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Tender beef tips simmer slowly with minimal effort required. Prep is easy, and the slow cooker does most of the work. The meal is rich in protein and filling enough to pair with vegetables or sides. It's a practical option for a stress-free, hearty dinner.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Tips

Baked Lemon Butter Fish

Fish fillets bake quickly with a simple lemon butter topping. Cooking is easy and hands-off, leaving time for a side dish. The meal is light but filling enough to be a complete dinner. This recipe works well when you want a fresh, quick fish dinner.
Get the Recipe: Baked Lemon Butter Fish

Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce

A plate with steak, tomatoes and cucumbers on it. — Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Steak cooks to your preference with mushrooms in a tangy sauce. Prep and cooking are manageable for a weeknight dinner. The combination delivers protein and flavor without taking hours. It's a practical choice for a quick but hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce

Oven Baked Pork Steaks

Oven baked pork steak on a plate with green beans and a fork on the side. — Oven Baked Pork Steaks. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Pork steaks bake evenly in the oven with minimal hands-on time. The meal is hearty, protein-focused, and pairs well with simple sides. Cooking is straightforward, making it suitable for busy schedules. It's a reliable option for a filling, ready-to-serve dinner.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Pork Steaks

Stuffed Flank Steak Pinwheels

Stuffed steak pinwheels sliced on platter. — Stuffed Flank Steak Pinwheels. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Flank steak rolls are filled and baked for a structured, easy-to-serve dinner. Prep is simple, and baking time allows for hands-off cooking. The meal is protein-rich and visually appealing for any dinner. It's practical for a satisfying weeknight or weekend meal.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Flank Steak Pinwheels

Best Crack Chicken

A baked dish with stuffed chicken breasts topped with melted cheese, bacon bits, and chopped herbs in a white baking dish on a beige woven cloth. — Best Crack Chicken. Photo credit: LikeHotKeto.

Chicken cooks quickly in a creamy mix for a hearty and flavorful meal. Prep is simple, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner. The combination of protein and richness keeps the meal filling. It's a practical option for an easy, protein-forward dinner.
Get the Recipe: Best Crack Chicken

Skillet Parmesan Chicken and Zucchini

Pan with breaded chicken cutlets and slices of yellow and green zucchini, garnished with lemon slices and parsley, placed on a white surface with a beige cloth on the side. — Skillet Parmesan Chicken and Zucchini. Photo credit: Wholesome Made Easy.

Chicken and zucchini cook together in one pan for a ready-in-minutes dinner. Prep is minimal, and cleanup is easy. The combination of protein and vegetables keeps the meal filling. It's a good choice for a quick, balanced weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Parmesan Chicken and Zucchini

Egg Roll in a Bowl

A bowl of seasoned ground meat with vegetables, topped with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, placed on a wooden board with chopsticks nearby. — Egg Roll in a Bowl. Photo credit: Frozen Bananas.

Ground meat and vegetables mix in a single pan for a quick, filling dinner. Cooking is fast, and prep is straightforward. The combination delivers protein and texture without extra steps. It's a practical option for a fast, complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Egg Roll in a Bowl

Pasta e Fagioli

Two bowls of pasta and vegetable soup with sprigs of rosemary, served with two glasses of red wine on a marble surface. — Pasta e Fagioli. Photo credit: Stefania's Kitchenette.

This hearty soup mixes protein and vegetables in a warming, ready-in-one-pot meal. Prep is simple, and cooking time is manageable. Each serving is filling enough for dinner with minimal sides. It's a practical choice for a comforting, complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli

Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

A skillet filled with a creamy chicken dish featuring chunks of chicken, tomatoes, spinach, and broccoli, garnished with herbs. — Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach. Photo credit: Low Carb Spark.

Chicken cooks quickly with broccoli and spinach for a balanced, protein-rich meal. Prep is minimal, and the skillet makes cleanup easy. The meal is filling and nutritious without extra steps. It's a practical option for a fast weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

Chicken Piccata

A platter with breaded chicken cutlets topped with capers, garlic, and herbs, garnished with lemon wedges and parsley. — Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Christian.

Chicken in a light, lemony sauce cooks quickly for a full dinner. Prep is easy, and the meal pairs well with vegetables or simple sides. The protein-forward dish is filling without being heavy. It's a practical choice for a quick, elegant dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Curried Riced Cauliflower with Shrimp

Two bowls of shrimp and rice dish garnished with lime wedges and cilantro, placed on a patterned tablecloth. — Curried Riced Cauliflower with Shrimp. Photo credit: Living Sweet Moments.

Shrimp and riced cauliflower cook fast with aromatic spices for a filling dinner. Prep is minimal, and cooking is straightforward. The meal delivers protein and flavor in a compact dish. It's practical for a quick dinner that covers all bases.
Get the Recipe: Curried Riced Cauliflower with Shrimp

Crispy Coconut Pan-Fried Salmon

A plate with breaded fish, green beans, and a lemon wedge. — Crispy Coconut Pan-Fried Salmon. Photo credit: Raias Recipes.

Salmon gets a golden coconut crust in a fast pan-fry for a rich, protein-packed meal. Prep is simple, and cooking is quick. Each piece works well with a vegetable or side for a complete dinner. It's a practical option for a quick, flavorful seafood dinner.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Coconut Pan-Fried Salmon

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