25 Low-Carb Dinners That Are Actually Filling

25 Low-Carb Dinners That Are Actually Filling

Eating low-carb shouldn’t mean eating meals that leave you hungry an hour later. A pile of lettuce isn’t dinner, and no one wants to survive on plain grilled chicken forever. These meals are packed with real ingredients, solid portions, and enough protein and flavor to keep you full without needing a side of bread or pasta. From skillet dinners to crispy chicken and hearty casseroles, these recipes prove that cutting carbs doesn’t have to mean cutting out the good stuff.

Chicken sorrentino on a serving spoon.
Chicken Sorrentino. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These portobello mushrooms are packed with a creamy mix of cheese, spinach, artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes. They bring plenty of flavor and texture, making them a great meatless dinner that actually fills you up. No need for bread or pasta when you’ve got something this hearty on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Mexican Ground Beef Casserole

Mexican Ground Beef Casserole. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This casserole layers seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, peppers, and black beans under a blanket of melted cheese. Cauliflower rice keeps it thick and filling without loading up on carbs. It’s a great one-pan meal that comes together in 40 minutes and delivers big flavors without a pile of dishes.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Ground Beef Casserole

Flank Steak Pinwheels

Flank Steak Pinwheels. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Flank steak gets rolled up with pesto, Parmesan, prosciutto, and spinach for a meal that looks impressive but is actually easy to pull off. The pesto brings bold flavor, while the prosciutto adds a salty bite that works perfectly with the tender steak. It’s a great option for family dinners or a quick way to make an ordinary weeknight feel special.
Get the Recipe: Flank Steak Pinwheels

Chicken Saag

Chicken Saag. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This spinach-packed chicken curry brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen. Tender chicken simmers in a thick, spiced spinach sauce that pairs perfectly with a side of roasted veggies or a simple salad. It’s a no-fuss meal that delivers serious flavor without the extra carbs.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Saag

Pesto Salmon

Pesto Salmon. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This five-ingredient salmon dinner comes together in under 25 minutes. A thick layer of pesto keeps the fish juicy while adding plenty of flavor. It’s a great meal for busy nights when you want something healthy but don’t feel like putting in extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Salmon

Hot & Sour Egg Drop Soup

A bowl of soup with an egg on top.A bowl of soup with an egg on top.
Hot & Sour Egg Drop Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This soup combines two Chinese classics into one bold and flavorful bowl. A tangy, peppery broth gets thickened with silky egg ribbons, making it both filling and easy to throw together. It’s a great choice when you need a quick, light dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Hot & Sour Egg Drop Soup

Chicken Sorrentino

Chicken sorrentino on a serving spoon.Chicken sorrentino on a serving spoon.
Chicken Sorrentino. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Breaded chicken gets layered with prosciutto, roasted eggplant, and melted cheese, then baked in a rich tomato sauce. It’s a great dish when you want something hearty that skips the usual pile of pasta. Everything bakes together for a meal that’s big on flavor and easy to put on the table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Sorrentino

Pecan Crusted Chicken

Pecan crusted chicken cut into slices on a plate with honey dijon sauce and green beans.Pecan crusted chicken cut into slices on a plate with honey dijon sauce and green beans.
Pecan Crusted Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This crunchy pecan-crusted chicken gets served with a bold honey Dijon yogurt sauce that brings everything together. It’s a great way to make chicken more interesting without adding extra work. This one gets repeat requests for a reason.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Crusted Chicken

Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

Ground beef cabbage stir fry in a bowl with chopsticks.Ground beef cabbage stir fry in a bowl with chopsticks.
Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This quick and easy skillet dinner combines ground beef, cabbage, and a light, savory sauce for a meal that’s simple but packed with texture and flavor. It comes together in 30 minutes and keeps things low on carbs without skimping on the good stuff.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

Stuffed Chicken Marsala

Stuffed chicken marsala in a cast iron skillet.Stuffed chicken marsala in a cast iron skillet.
Stuffed Chicken Marsala. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This version of chicken marsala takes things up a notch by stuffing the chicken with melted mozzarella, fresh basil, and a rich tomato butter. It keeps all the deep, savory flavors of the classic dish while making it even more satisfying. Serve it with roasted veggies or a simple salad, and dinner is done.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Chicken Marsala

Ground Beef Stir Fry

Ground beef stir fry in a skillet.Ground beef stir fry in a skillet.
Ground Beef Stir Fry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This one-pan stir fry packs in plenty of vegetables and flavor without a complicated ingredient list. Ground beef gets cooked with a garlic-ginger sauce, making it a great go-to meal when you need something quick but loaded with flavor. It’s faster than takeout and way better.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Stir Fry

Greek Shrimp Skillet

Shrimp skillet dinner with kalamata olives, tomatoes and feta.Shrimp skillet dinner with kalamata olives, tomatoes and feta.
Greek Shrimp Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This shrimp skillet is packed with bold Greek flavors, thanks to a mix of tomatoes, Kalamata olives, spinach, feta, and plenty of oregano. Everything comes together in 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight meal that feels a little more put together without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Greek Shrimp Skillet

Dijon Almond Crusted Tilapia

Almond crusted tilapia with fresh herbs.Almond crusted tilapia with fresh herbs.
Dijon Almond Crusted Tilapia. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This crispy pan-fried tilapia is coated in a crunchy almond and Dijon crust, making it a great alternative to traditional breaded fish. It cooks in just 10 minutes and keeps things simple while still feeling like a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Dijon Almond Crusted Tilapia

Cream Cheese Chicken

Cream cheese chicken in a white skillet.Cream cheese chicken in a white skillet.
Cream Cheese Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This chicken gets coated in a rich, seasoned cream cheese sauce that makes every bite packed with flavor. With just five key spices, it’s a great way to turn plain chicken into a meal that feels a little more special without much work.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken

Bacon Wrapped Salmon

Plate of salmon with bacon.Plate of salmon with bacon.
Bacon Wrapped Salmon. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Wrapping salmon in bacon locks in moisture and adds a salty, crispy layer that makes this meal feel restaurant-worthy. It’s a great way to keep dinner both wholesome and packed with flavor without needing a bunch of extra ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon

Sheet Pan Roasted Peri Peri Chicken

Spatchcock chicken with peri peri seasoning on a baking sheet with green beans and sweet potatoes.Spatchcock chicken with peri peri seasoning on a baking sheet with green beans and sweet potatoes.
Sheet Pan Roasted Peri Peri Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This peri peri chicken is spiced, roasted, and cooked flat on one pan for even, crispy skin. The spatchcock method speeds up cooking, so this bold-flavored dinner is ready in just 35 minutes. Less time, more flavor, and only one pan to clean.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Peri Peri Chicken

Reverse Sear Tri Tip

Reverse seared tri tip cut in half on a cutting board with fresh rosemary.Reverse seared tri tip cut in half on a cutting board with fresh rosemary.
Reverse Sear Tri Tip. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This tri-tip steak gets cooked low and slow before getting a final sear to lock in flavor and create a crispy crust. The reverse-sear method guarantees tender, juicy steak every time. This is a great way to cook steak when you want it done right without the guesswork.
Get the Recipe: Reverse Sear Tri Tip

Reuben Strip Steak

Reuben strip steaks on a cutting board.Reuben strip steaks on a cutting board.
Reuben Strip Steak. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This dish takes the best parts of a Reuben sandwich—Swiss cheese, Russian dressing, and sauerkraut—and stacks them on top of a thick strip steak. It’s a bold, flavor-packed meal that skips the bread but keeps everything that makes a Reuben great.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Strip Steak

Instant Pot Brisket

Instant Pot BBQ beef brisket shredded on a plate.Instant Pot BBQ beef brisket shredded on a plate.
Instant Pot Brisket. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This brisket cooks under pressure for a tender, juicy finish that’s perfect for slicing or shredding. Serve it as a roast for dinner, or use the leftovers for quick meals throughout the week. It’s a great way to get BBQ-worthy brisket without spending all day at the grill.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Brisket

Grilled Ham Steak

Grilled fresh ham steak with rosemary dijon maple glaze.Grilled fresh ham steak with rosemary dijon maple glaze.
Grilled Ham Steak. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Grilled ham steaks bring a change of pace to the usual grilling routine. A rosemary maple Dijon glaze keeps them from drying out while adding great flavor. Use fresh or cured ham steaks for a quick and easy meal that feels different but takes almost no effort.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ham Steak

Baked Wild Sockeye Salmon

Baked sockeye salmon with herb caper crust and lemon slices on a sheet pan.Baked sockeye salmon with herb caper crust and lemon slices on a sheet pan.
Baked Wild Sockeye Salmon. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This sockeye salmon bakes up fast with a garlic caper citrus crust that keeps it juicy and full of flavor. With a bake time of just 10-12 minutes, it’s a great option for nights when you need something fast but still want a solid dinner.
Get the Recipe: Baked Wild Sockeye Salmon

Air Fryer Cod

Air fryer cod on a plate with green beans and rice.Air fryer cod on a plate with green beans and rice.
Air Fryer Cod. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This cod cooks up tender and flaky in under 20 minutes with a simple seasoning of lemon and spices. The air fryer keeps it crispy without the extra oil, making it a great option for a quick seafood dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cod

Air Fryer Cornish Hens

Air fryer Cornish hens on a cutting board with carving knife.Air fryer Cornish hens on a cutting board with carving knife.
Air Fryer Cornish Hens. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These Cornish hens roast up golden brown and crispy in the air fryer while staying juicy inside. Cooking them whole keeps things simple while making a dinner that feels a little more put together.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cornish Hens

Beef Kafta

Beef Kafta on a plate with veggies.Beef Kafta on a plate with veggies.
Beef Kafta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This Lebanese-style beef kafta is packed with garlic, herbs, and spices, then shaped into kabobs for an easy meal. Serve it with a tomato cucumber salad, a sprinkle of feta, or a dollop of hummus for a great dinner that’s simple but loaded with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Beef Kafta

Air Fryer Skirt Steak

Air fryer skirt steak sliced on a cutting board.Air fryer skirt steak sliced on a cutting board.
Air Fryer Skirt Steak. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

The air fryer makes quick work of cooking skirt steak while keeping it tender and juicy. It’s a great option when grilling isn’t an option but you still want a perfectly cooked steak.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Skirt Steak


Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.

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