I’m Still Mad I Didn’t Find These 17 Low Carb Recipes Earlier

Turns out, there is a way to cut carbs without cutting happiness—who knew? These 17 low-effort gems are the kind of thing you wish had shown up before the emergency salad-for-dinner phase kicked in. They’re easy wins with zero drama. Late to the party, but still worth showing up for.

Close-up of golden-brown air fryer mushrooms garnished with chopped parsley. The mushrooms appear perfectly cooked to a tender texture.
Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Air Fryer Pig Shots

Close-up of shrimp wrapped in bacon secured with toothpicks, on a parchment-lined surface, seasoned with spices.
Air Fryer Pig Shots. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

People don’t expect these to be low carb, but that’s part of the fun. Air Fryer Pig Shots come out bold, crispy, and great for sharing—just try stopping at one. They’re easy to plate up for guests or grab straight from the tray. Once you try them, you’ll wonder how they weren’t already part of your regular rotation.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pig Shots

Beef Bourguignon

Close-up of a savory beef stew with chunks of beef, bacon, onion, and vegetables in a rich, glossy sauce, served over creamy mashed potatoes.
Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

You’d think something this rich wouldn’t fit into a low-carb plan, but Beef Bourguignon proves otherwise. It’s warm, slow-built, and holds up as a meal on its own. This one’s great for anyone who misses comfort food but doesn’t want the extra carbs. You’ll probably end up making it again before the week’s out.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon

Cobb Salad

A close-up of a Cobb salad featuring sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, boiled eggs, red onion, bacon bits, and blue cheese crumbles on a bed of lettuce.
Cobb Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you need something fresh but still filling, Cobb Salad covers both. It’s packed in all the right ways and doesn’t leave you looking for more later. It works well for lunch or dinner without ever feeling like you’re giving something up. If you’ve skipped salads before, this one might actually change your mind.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Air Fryer Shrimp

A close-up shot of seasoned, air fryer shrimp garnished with fresh herbs.
Air Fryer Shrimp. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Quick, simple, and a good break from heavier dishes—Air Fryer Shrimp makes things feel lighter without cutting corners. They work great as a main or a side, especially when you’re short on time. You can season them however you want and they still keep their crunch. No one ever guesses they’re low carb.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken breast slices served over a bed of greens with lemon wedges on the side.
Chipotle Grilled Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s something bold about Chipotle Grilled Chicken that keeps it interesting. It gives you that smoky, grilled flavor without needing a pile of carbs on the side. Easy to make ahead and even easier to reheat later. This is one of those meals that just slides into your week without any effort.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Air Fryer Twisted Bacon

Close-up of several crispy, twisted strips of cooked bacon on a white surface.
Air Fryer Twisted Bacon. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

You don’t realize how much you needed Air Fryer Twisted Bacon in your life until you try it. It’s crispy, salty, and fun to eat—makes breakfast or snacks way more fun. You can throw it into almost anything or eat it straight. Either way, people always ask how you made it so good.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Twisted Bacon

Buffalo Chicken Dip

A hand dips a tortilla chip into a cheesy baked dish topped with sliced green onions.
Buffalo Chicken Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you’re low carb but still want party food, Buffalo Chicken Dip saves the day. It’s bold, creamy, and totally scoopable with whatever you’ve got on hand. Works well for gatherings or even meal prep if you’re into that. No one’s missing chips when this is on the table.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Bengali Fish Curry

A bowl of Bengali Fish Curry with chunks of meat and vegetables, garnished with cilantro, served next to a plate of rice.
Bengali Fish Curry. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

A dish that stands out with deep, layered flavor—Bengali Fish Curry hits that perfect spot between spicy and comforting without weighing you down. You won’t need anything extra on the side to make it work. It’s one of those meals that makes you forget it’s low carb because it’s so fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Bengali Fish Curry

Cauliflower Steaks

Cauliflower steaks with pomegranate and pistachios on a plate.
Cauliflower Steaks. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Some people hear “low carb” and expect something boring—but Cauliflower Steaks flip that idea fast. They’re hearty, bold, and way more filling than you’d think. Put them on a plate and they hold up just like any main dish would. You won’t miss anything after a few bites of these.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Steaks

Chettinad Chicken

A bowl of Chettinad Chicken Curry garnished with fresh cilantro, displaying chunks of chicken and spices in a rich, creamy sauce.
Chettinad Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

There’s heat, depth, and just enough kick in Chettinad Chicken to keep things interesting. It’s one of those dishes that grabs your attention and doesn’t let go. Great when you want something bold without breaking your low-carb streak. You’ll probably want to keep it in your regular dinner lineup.
Get the Recipe: Chettinad Chicken

Avocado Salad

Avocado salad with dressing in a serving bowl.
Avocado Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You wouldn’t think something so simple could be this filling, but Avocado Salad proves otherwise. It’s fresh, smooth, and still holds its own next to any main dish. Works great on its own or packed into a bowl with extras. It’s one of those go-to meals that doesn’t get old fast.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Salad

Chicken Korma

A bowl of Chicken Korma garnished with herbs and sliced almonds, served with a spoon on the side.
Chicken Korma. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

If you’re after something rich that still fits your low-carb plan, Chicken Korma nails it. It’s got that slow comfort feel but without the usual heaviness. Pairs easily with lighter sides or works well solo when you need something quick. This one’s easy to go back to without getting bored.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Korma

Best Vegan Cashew Queso Recipe

A bowl of creamy hummus surrounded by tortilla chips on a white plate, with a glass of olive oil in the background.
Best Vegan Cashew Queso Recipe. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

You don’t need dairy—or carbs—to make something creamy and bold like Best Vegan Cashew Queso Recipe. It works well as a dip or topping and adds a kick to almost anything. Great for sharing, or just keeping in the fridge when hunger hits. This one proves plant-based and low carb can actually go hand in hand.
Get the Recipe: Best Vegan Cashew Queso Recipe

Air Fryer Whole Chicken Recipe (Super Easy!)

Roasted air fryer whole chicken served on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Air Fryer Whole Chicken Recipe (Super Easy!). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

It’s hard to beat something that works for lunch, dinner, and leftovers like Air Fryer Whole Chicken Recipe (Super Easy!). It’s crispy, juicy, and comes out just right every time. You can serve it plain or dress it up with whatever’s in the fridge. Either way, it stays low carb and high on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whole Chicken Recipe (Super Easy!)

Cabbage Salad

Cabbage salad in a white bowl with chips in the background.
Cabbage Salad. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

You want something crunchy and fresh without reaching for carbs? Cabbage Salad gets it done. It holds up well, feels filling, and plays nice with almost everything on your plate. Works as a full meal or something to keep things balanced—either way, it won’t get old fast.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Salad

Balti Chicken

A bowl of traditional balti chicken garnished with cilantro, served next to naan bread on a blue tablecloth.
Balti Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Bold and low carb don’t always go together, but Balti Chicken makes it work without trying too hard. It’s got layers of flavor that hit fast and stick around. Great when you want something warm without all the usual extras. You’ll want to double the batch next time.
Get the Recipe: Balti Chicken

Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

Close-up of golden-brown air fryer mushrooms garnished with chopped parsley. The mushrooms appear perfectly cooked to a tender texture.
Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

These are small, but Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms hit harder than expected. They bring tons of flavor in every bite and work whether you’re using them as a side or a snack. They’re quick to disappear and always a hit when you serve them to others. Keep this one close—it’s low effort and high reward.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

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