15 Yummy Low Carb High Protein Recipes

Low Carb High Protein Recipes meals are a popular choice for those looking to optimize their health, manage weight, and build muscle. These types of meals help regulate blood sugar levels, boost metabolism, and keep you feeling fuller for longer, which can be especially helpful in reducing cravings and preventing overeating. High-protein foods support muscle repair and growth, making them a go-to for fitness enthusiasts and anyone seeking to maintain lean muscle mass.

The 15 recipes featured in this article offer a perfect blend of flavor and nutrition, ensuring you don’t have to compromise on taste while meeting your dietary goals. Whether you’re looking to reduce carbs, increase protein, or simply enjoy a healthier meal, these dishes provide variety and satisfaction, with options that range from savory chicken and seafood to creative veggie-packed alternatives. Each recipe is designed to cater to different tastes and preferences, so you’ll never get bored with your low-carb, high-protein meals.

Low Carb High Protein Recipes

1. Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Description: Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a light yet flavorful dish that combines juicy, perfectly grilled chicken breasts with a zesty, fresh avocado salsa. The salsa, made with ripe avocado, tomato, cilantro, and lime, adds a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken. This meal is perfect for a low-carb, high-protein diet, providing a healthy dose of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 small tomato, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for the salsa)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken: Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Grill the chicken: Grill the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes.
3. Make the avocado salsa: While the chicken is resting, prepare the salsa. In a bowl, combine the diced avocado, tomato, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to mash the avocado too much.
4. Serve: Slice the grilled chicken and top with a generous portion of avocado salsa. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 30g
• Carbs: 12g
• Fiber: 8g
• Fat: 22g
• Sugars: 3g
• Sodium: 500mg

This Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a nutritious, delicious meal that’s low in carbs, high in protein, and packed with fresh flavors. It’s the perfect dish for a light lunch or dinner that satisfies your hunger while supporting your health and fitness goals.

2. Zucchini Noodles with Turkey Meatballs

Description: This delicious low-carb, high-protein dish features tender turkey meatballs paired with fresh zucchini noodles, creating a healthy alternative to traditional pasta. The savory meatballs are made with lean turkey, herbs, and spices, while the zucchini noodles offer a crisp, refreshing texture that complements the meatballs perfectly. Topped with marinara sauce and grated Parmesan, this meal is flavorful, nutritious, and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis (spiralized into noodles)
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for binding)
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup marinara sauce (sugar-free or homemade preferred)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the meatballs: In a bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs (if using), egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Form the meatballs: Shape the turkey mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set them aside.
3. Cook the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and fully cooked through.
4. Prepare the zucchini noodles: While the meatballs are cooking, spiralize the zucchinis into noodles. You can also use a vegetable peeler to create wide ribbons if you don’t have a spiralizer.
5. Sauté the zucchini noodles: In a separate pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they are slightly tender, but still crisp.
6. Combine and serve: Once the meatballs are cooked, pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs in the pan and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the sauce. Serve the turkey meatballs and sauce over the zucchini noodles, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 35g
• Carbs: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Fat: 18g
• Sugars: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg

This dish provides a great balance of lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a perfect choice for anyone following a low-carb or high-protein diet.

3. Eggplant Lasagna

Description: This Low Carb High Protein Recipes version of lasagna replaces traditional pasta with thin slices of eggplant, offering a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic comfort food. Layered with a savory blend of ground beef, ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella, this dish is both hearty and satisfying while being light on carbs. It’s perfect for anyone craving the rich flavors of lasagna without the extra carbs.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced thinly lengthwise
• 1 lb ground beef (lean or extra-lean)
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce (sugar-free or homemade preferred)
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil for grilling or sautéing

Instructions:

1. Prepare the eggplant: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the eggplants lengthwise into thin strips. Lightly salt the slices and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Grill or sauté the eggplant: Heat a grill pan or sauté pan over medium heat with a little olive oil. Grill or sauté the eggplant slices for 2-3 minutes per side until tender and slightly browned. Set aside.
3. Cook the ground beef: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes.
4. Assemble the lasagna: In a baking dish, spread a small amount of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer the grilled eggplant slices, followed by a layer of ricotta cheese, ground beef mixture, and shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of eggplant, marinara sauce, and mozzarella. Top with Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake the lasagna: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve: Let the lasagna cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 30g
• Carbs: 15g
• Fiber: 7g
• Fat: 24g
• Sugars: 8g
• Sodium: 650mg

This eggplant lasagna offers a rich, comforting meal that’s low in carbs but high in protein, making it an ideal choice for those following a low-carb or high-protein diet.

4. Salmon and Asparagus with Lemon Garlic Butter

Description: This simple yet elegant dish combines the rich flavors of salmon with the fresh, crisp taste of asparagus, all smothered in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce. The healthy fats from the salmon and the fiber from the asparagus make this meal a perfect option for anyone following a low-carb, high-protein diet. The lemon garlic butter adds a burst of flavor that brings the entire dish together, making it both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the asparagus: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle with a little olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, then toss to coat evenly.
2. Cook the asparagus: Roast the asparagus in the oven for about 10-12 minutes until tender but still crisp.
3. Prepare the salmon: While the asparagus is cooking, season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil. Once the pan is hot, add the salmon fillets and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is golden brown and cooked through.
4. Make the lemon garlic butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and cook for another 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the dish: Place the cooked salmon fillets on plates and drizzle with the lemon garlic butter sauce. Serve alongside the roasted asparagus and garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 36g
• Carbs: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Fat: 30g
• Sugars: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a balanced, low-carb, high-protein meal.

5. Cauliflower Fried Rice

Description: A healthy and low-carb alternative to traditional fried rice, this Cauliflower Fried Rice is packed with flavor and nutrition. Using cauliflower rice as a base, it’s sautéed with colorful vegetables like carrots, peas, and bell peppers, and tossed with scrambled eggs and savory seasonings. It’s an easy, quick dish that’s high in protein, low in carbs, and perfect for anyone following a clean eating or keto-friendly diet.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower (or 4 cups cauliflower rice)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil (or olive oil)
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup carrots, diced
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup frozen peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos (for a gluten-free version)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the cauliflower rice: If using a whole cauliflower, cut it into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice. Alternatively, you can use pre-packaged cauliflower rice.
2. Cook the eggs: Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the beaten eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Sauté the onions, carrots, bell pepper, and peas over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the cauliflower rice: Add the cauliflower rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the vegetables. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cauliflower is tender and slightly golden.
5. Season and combine: Stir in the garlic, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), and rice vinegar. Cook for another 1-2 minutes. Add the cooked eggs back into the skillet and mix everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot as a main dish or side dish.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 8g
• Carbs: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Fat: 12g
• Sugars: 4g
• Sodium: 550mg

This cauliflower fried rice is an excellent way to enjoy the comfort of fried rice without the extra carbs, and it’s packed with protein and healthy fats. Perfect for a quick meal that’s both delicious and nutritious!

6. Shrimp and Avocado Salad

Description: This refreshing Shrimp and Avocado Salad is a perfect low-carb, high-protein meal that’s both light and satisfying. The tender shrimp pairs beautifully with creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, and mixed greens, all tossed in a tangy lime vinaigrette. It’s a nutrient-packed salad full of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, ideal for anyone looking for a quick and nutritious meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, or lettuce)
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the salad ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, and red onion. Gently toss to mix.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Assemble the salad: Add the cooked shrimp to the salad and drizzle with the lime dressing. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 10g
• Fiber: 6g
• Fat: 18g
• Sugars: 3g
• Sodium: 500mg

This Shrimp and Avocado Salad is a light and flavorful dish that offers a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and low carbs, making it an ideal meal for anyone on a healthy diet or looking to fuel up after a workout.

7. Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Description: A low-carb twist on the classic Italian carbonara, this Spaghetti Squash Carbonara offers all the creamy, savory goodness without the pasta. The strands of roasted spaghetti squash mimic traditional spaghetti, while crispy pancetta, a rich egg-based sauce, and Parmesan cheese create a dish that’s both indulgent and nutritious. Perfect for anyone following a low-carb or gluten-free diet, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a comfort food favorite with fewer carbs.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 4 oz pancetta, diced
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the spaghetti squash: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the halves on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender. Once cooked, use a fork to scrape out the strands into a large bowl.
2. Cook the pancetta: While the squash is roasting, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the pancetta until crispy, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the carbonara sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine the ingredients: Add the minced garlic to the pancetta drippings in the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the spaghetti squash strands to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic and pancetta drippings.
5. Add the sauce: Remove the skillet from heat and slowly pour the egg mixture over the squash, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce. Add the crispy pancetta and toss everything together until well combined.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 18g
• Carbs: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Fat: 24g
• Sugars: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg

This Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is the perfect low-carb comfort food, rich in flavor and creamy texture, making it an ideal meal for anyone looking to enjoy a classic Italian dish with a healthy twist.

8. Grilled Steak with Garlic Butter Mushrooms

Description: This Grilled Steak with Garlic Butter Mushrooms is a perfect low-carb, high-protein meal that combines the richness of a perfectly grilled steak with the savory goodness of garlic butter mushrooms. The steak is seasoned to perfection and grilled to your preferred doneness, while the mushrooms are sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, adding depth and flavor to this delicious, satisfying dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless ribeye or sirloin steaks
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the steak: Preheat the grill or a grill pan to medium-high heat. Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper. Drizzle olive oil on both sides of the steaks.
2. Grill the steaks: Place the steaks on the hot grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side (for medium-rare), or until your desired doneness is reached. Remove from the grill and let the steaks rest for a few minutes.
3. Cook the mushrooms: While the steaks are resting, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-6 minutes until tender and golden brown.
4. Add garlic and herbs: Stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme or rosemary (if using). Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Place the grilled steak on a plate and top with the garlic butter mushrooms. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 500
• Protein: 40g
• Carbs: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Fat: 36g
• Sugars: 4g
• Sodium: 700mg

This Grilled Steak with Garlic Butter Mushrooms is an ideal meal for steak lovers, offering a rich, flavorful combination that’s both low-carb and high in protein, making it a satisfying and healthy choice for any meal.

9. Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Description: These Turkey Lettuce Wraps are a quick, low-carb, high-protein meal that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Ground turkey is sautéed with savory spices and vegetables, then wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing and healthy alternative to traditional wraps. These wraps are packed with flavor and nutrition, offering a delicious way to enjoy a low-carb, high-protein meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 zucchini, diced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 head of iceberg or butter lettuce, separated into leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional toppings: avocado, shredded cheese, salsa

Instructions:

1. Cook the turkey: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
2. Add vegetables and spices: Add the diced onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the soy sauce (or coconut aminos), cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Prepare the lettuce wraps: While the turkey mixture is cooking, separate the lettuce leaves and rinse them well. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
4. Assemble the wraps: Spoon the turkey mixture into each lettuce leaf, adding a generous amount of filling. Top with optional toppings such as avocado, shredded cheese, or salsa.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 30g
• Carbs: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Fat: 12g
• Sugars: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg

These Turkey Lettuce Wraps are a flavorful, low-carb alternative to traditional wraps, making them a perfect option for anyone looking for a high-protein, healthy meal.

10. Baked Chicken with Broccoli and Cheese

Description: Baked Chicken with Broccoli and Cheese is a delicious, low-carb, high-protein meal that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with roasted broccoli and a creamy, melted cheese topping. This easy-to-make dish is a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, all while being rich in flavor. The cheesy broccoli adds a comforting, indulgent touch to the meal, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
3. Prepare the broccoli: Toss the broccoli florets with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange the broccoli around the chicken in the baking dish.
4. Add the cheese sauce: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Once warm, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the dish: Pour the cheese sauce over the chicken breasts and broccoli, ensuring everything is well coated.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The broccoli should be tender and the cheese bubbly and golden.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 40g
• Carbs: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Fat: 30g
• Sugars: 3g
• Sodium: 700mg

This Baked Chicken with Broccoli and Cheese is a comforting, nutritious, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for anyone looking for a low-carb, high-protein meal. The creamy cheese sauce and roasted broccoli complement the chicken perfectly, making it an easy yet indulgent dinner option.

FAQ

What are the benefits of low-carb, high-protein meals?

Low-carb, high-protein meals can help with weight management by promoting satiety, stabilizing blood sugar levels, and supporting muscle growth. These meals provide the energy you need without the excess carbohydrates that can lead to weight gain or blood sugar spikes.

Are these recipes suitable for people on a ketogenic or paleo diet?

Yes, many of the recipes in this collection are compatible with both the ketogenic and paleo diets. They focus on lean proteins and non-starchy vegetables, which are staples in both eating plans. However, it’s always important to check the ingredient list and make sure they align with your specific dietary preferences.

Can I substitute ingredients in these recipes?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute proteins or vegetables according to your preferences or dietary needs. For example, you can swap chicken for turkey, or use cauliflower instead of broccoli. Just be mindful of how substitutions may affect the overall flavor and nutritional content of the dish.

How can I meal prep these low-carb, high-protein recipes?

These recipes are perfect for meal prepping. You can cook and store them in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze individual portions, and simply reheat when ready to eat. Make sure to store any toppings or sauces separately to maintain freshness.