24+ Satisfying High Protein Low Carb Dinner Recipes to Power Your Evenings

Finding dinner recipes that are both high in protein and low in carbs can be a game-changer for anyone aiming to maintain muscle, lose weight, or simply eat healthier.

High-protein, low-carb meals help keep you fuller longer, support muscle repair, and stabilize blood sugar levels.

Whether you’re following a ketogenic diet, managing your carb intake, or just want a balanced, satisfying dinner, having a variety of recipes on hand makes meal planning easier and more enjoyable.

In this collection of over 24 high protein low carb dinner recipes, you’ll discover flavorful, nutrient-dense meals that don’t compromise on taste or convenience.

24+ Satisfying High Protein Low Carb Dinner Recipes to Power Your Evenings

Incorporating high-protein, low-carb dinners into your weekly routine doesn’t have to be complicated or boring.

From succulent grilled meats and seafood to creative vegetable substitutes like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice, these recipes provide delicious options that fit your dietary goals.

By focusing on whole, minimally processed ingredients and bold flavors, you can enjoy satisfying meals that support your health and energy needs.

Give these recipes a try, and you’ll find that healthy eating can be both simple and exciting.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a perfect high-protein, low-carb dinner option that delivers rich, savory flavors with minimal prep.

This recipe uses tender steak cubes quickly seared in a garlic-infused butter sauce, making it ideal for those who want a satisfying meal without the carbs.

Ingredients:

• Sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Butter
• Minced garlic
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Season steak bites with salt and pepper.
2. Melt butter in a hot skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.
4. Add steak bites and cook until browned and cooked to your desired doneness, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

This dish is packed with protein from the steak, while the garlic butter adds richness without carbs.

It pairs well with steamed or roasted low-carb vegetables like asparagus or zucchini noodles, making it a filling and nutritious dinner.

Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon

Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon is a light yet protein-rich dinner that perfectly balances citrusy brightness with fragrant herbs.

Salmon provides a hearty dose of protein and healthy fats while keeping carbs low, making it an excellent choice for low-carb meal plans.

Ingredients:

• Salmon fillets
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice and zest
• Fresh dill and parsley, chopped
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Mix olive oil, lemon juice, zest, herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
2. Brush the salmon with the marinade and let sit for 15 minutes.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, until cooked through.

The fresh lemon and herbs complement the richness of the salmon while keeping it light and flavorful.

Serve with a side of sautéed spinach or cauliflower rice to maintain the low-carb focus.

Chicken Avocado Salad

Chicken Avocado Salad is a creamy, protein-packed, low-carb dinner that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Combining grilled chicken with ripe avocado and fresh greens makes for a nutrient-dense meal loaded with healthy fats and lean protein.

Ingredients:

• Grilled chicken breast, sliced
• Ripe avocado, diced
• Mixed salad greens
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Toss salad greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado in a bowl.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper.
3. Top with sliced grilled chicken.

This salad is rich in protein from the chicken and heart-healthy fats from the avocado, making it ideal for those following a low-carb diet.

It’s light yet filling, perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep option.

Spicy Shrimp Stir-Fry

Spicy Shrimp Stir-Fry is a quick, protein-packed low-carb dinner that brings bold flavors and vibrant veggies together in one skillet.

Shrimp cooks fast and offers a lean source of protein, while the stir-fry vegetables add fiber and nutrients without adding carbs.

Ingredients:

• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Bell peppers, sliced
• Broccoli florets
• Soy sauce or tamari
• Minced garlic and ginger
• Red pepper flakes
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes, sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Toss in shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and broccoli, stir-fry until tender-crisp.
5. Splash with soy sauce or tamari and cook for another minute.

This dish is loaded with protein and nutrients while keeping carbs low and flavor high.

It’s a perfect weeknight dinner for anyone looking to maintain a low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing taste.

Turkey Zucchini Meatballs

Turkey Zucchini Meatballs offer a healthy twist on classic meatballs by using lean turkey and grated zucchini to keep them moist and low-carb.

They’re high in protein and make for a hearty yet light dinner option.

Ingredients:

• Ground turkey
• Grated zucchini (squeeze out excess water)
• Minced garlic
• Egg
• Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Mix ground turkey, grated zucchini, garlic, egg, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Form into small meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
3. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until cooked through.
4. Serve with a side of sautéed greens or a fresh salad.

These meatballs are packed with protein and moisture from zucchini, making them tender and delicious without the carbs of breadcrumbs.

Perfect for low-carb dinners that don’t skimp on flavor.

Eggplant Parmesan Bake (Low Carb)

Eggplant Parmesan Bake is a satisfying, low-carb alternative to the traditional Italian favorite.

By skipping the breading and focusing on layers of grilled eggplant, marinara, and cheese, this recipe delivers high protein with minimal carbs.

Ingredients:

• Eggplant, sliced
• Marinara sauce (low sugar)
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Italian herbs

Instructions:

1. Brush eggplant slices with olive oil and grill or roast until tender.
2. In a baking dish, layer marinara sauce, grilled eggplant, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Repeat layers and finish with cheese on top.
4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

This bake is rich in protein from the cheese and naturally low in carbs from the eggplant base.

It’s a comforting, nutritious dinner perfect for anyone wanting a delicious low-carb meal without sacrificing flavor.

Cajun Grilled Chicken Salad

Cajun Grilled Chicken Salad is a protein-packed, low-carb dinner that combines spicy grilled chicken with fresh greens and crunchy vegetables.

The bold Cajun seasoning adds depth and excitement, making this salad anything but ordinary.

Ingredients:

• Chicken breasts
• Cajun seasoning
• Mixed salad greens
• Cherry tomatoes
• Cucumber slices
• Red onion
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Coat chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning and grill over medium-high heat until cooked through.
2. Slice the grilled chicken and set aside.
3. Toss salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion in a bowl.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then top with sliced chicken.

This salad offers a great balance of lean protein and fresh veggies with very few carbs, perfect for a satisfying dinner that supports your low-carb lifestyle.

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a classic low-carb dinner packed with protein and fiber.

Tender strips of beef paired with crisp broccoli florets are tossed in a savory sauce that’s full of flavor yet light on carbohydrates.

Ingredients:

• Thinly sliced beef sirloin
• Broccoli florets
• Soy sauce or tamari
• Minced garlic and ginger
• Sesame oil
• Green onions

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a skillet and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned.
3. Toss in broccoli and stir-fry until tender-crisp.
4. Pour soy sauce over the mixture and cook for another minute.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy a high-protein, low-carb meal with bold Asian-inspired flavors that come together quickly on the stove.

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Turkey

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Turkey are a hearty and healthy low-carb dinner option.

Filled with lean ground turkey, veggies, and cheese, these peppers provide a well-rounded meal that’s rich in protein and low in carbohydrates.

Ingredients:

• Bell peppers, halved and seeded
• Ground turkey
• Diced onions and tomatoes
• Garlic
• Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Olive oil
• Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. Sauté ground turkey with onions, garlic, and tomatoes until cooked through.
2. Season with Italian herbs and salt.
3. Stuff bell pepper halves with the turkey mixture.
4. Top with shredded cheese.
5. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until peppers are tender and cheese is melted.

This dish combines lean protein and fresh vegetables in an easy, flavorful way, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious low-carb dinner.

Herb-Crusted Pork Chops

Herb-Crusted Pork Chops make for a juicy, protein-rich, and low-carb dinner that’s bursting with fresh herb flavors.

The simple herb crust adds an aromatic, savory touch without any added carbs.

Ingredients:

• Pork chops
• Fresh rosemary, thyme, and parsley, finely chopped
• Garlic powder
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Rub pork chops with olive oil, then coat them evenly with the herb mixture.
4. Sear pork chops in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side to develop a crust.
5. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until cooked through.

This dish highlights the natural flavor of pork enhanced by fresh herbs, creating a satisfying low-carb dinner.

Pair with roasted cauliflower or sautéed green beans for a complete meal.

Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce

Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce is a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes, delivering plenty of protein with lean ground beef and a rich tomato sauce.

It’s a comforting dinner that feels indulgent but fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle.

Ingredients:

• Spaghetti squash
• Ground beef
• Onion and garlic
• Low-sugar marinara sauce
• Olive oil
• Italian herbs

Instructions:

1. Roast spaghetti squash cut side down at 400°F (200°C) for about 40 minutes until tender.
2. Meanwhile, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil, add ground beef, and cook until browned.
3. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian herbs, simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Scrape out the spaghetti squash strands and serve topped with the meat sauce.

This meal provides a hearty serving of protein while keeping carbs low, making it perfect for anyone seeking a pasta-like dinner without the carbs.

Tofu Stir-Fry with Vegetables

Tofu Stir-Fry with Vegetables is a plant-based, high-protein, and low-carb dinner option that’s flavorful and easy to prepare.

The tofu soaks up the savory sauce while the crisp vegetables add texture and nutrients.

Ingredients:

• Firm tofu, cubed
• Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas
• Soy sauce or tamari
• Sesame oil
• Garlic and ginger
• Green onions

Instructions:

1. Press tofu to remove excess moisture, then pan-fry cubes in sesame oil until golden.
2. Remove tofu and stir-fry garlic and ginger in the same pan.
3. Add vegetables and cook until tender-crisp.
4. Return tofu to the pan, add soy sauce, and toss everything together.
5. Garnish with sliced green onions.

This dish offers a satisfying, protein-rich meal with minimal carbs, perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their low-carb diet.

Cajun Blackened Catfish

Cajun Blackened Catfish is a flavorful, high-protein, low-carb dinner that brings a spicy Southern twist to your plate.

The bold Cajun spices create a crispy crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• Catfish fillets
• Cajun seasoning
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Olive oil or butter

Instructions:

1. Mix Cajun seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder in a bowl.
2. Coat catfish fillets evenly with the spice mixture.
3. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Cook catfish for about 3-4 minutes per side until blackened and cooked through.

This dish is rich in protein and low in carbs, perfect when paired with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced, flavorful dinner.

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto Chicken

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto Chicken is a refreshing and light low-carb dinner option packed with protein and healthy fats.

The zucchini noodles serve as a nutritious pasta substitute, while the pesto sauce adds vibrant herbaceous flavors.

Ingredients:

• Chicken breasts, sliced
• Zucchini, spiralized
• Basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil
• Cherry tomatoes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken slices until browned and cooked through.
2. Add zucchini noodles and toss gently to warm them without overcooking.
3. Stir in pesto sauce and cherry tomatoes if using.
4. Serve immediately for a fresh and satisfying meal.

This recipe delivers a high-protein, low-carb dinner that’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Greek Stuffed Peppers

Greek Stuffed Peppers combine lean ground lamb or beef with Mediterranean herbs and vegetables, creating a protein-rich, low-carb dinner that’s both hearty and flavorful.

The peppers hold the delicious filling, making it a complete meal in one dish.

Ingredients:

• Bell peppers, halved and seeded
• Ground lamb or beef
• Diced tomatoes
• Onion and garlic
• Feta cheese
• Oregano and parsley
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil, then add ground meat and cook until browned.
2. Stir in diced tomatoes, oregano, and parsley.
3. Stuff the pepper halves with the meat mixture.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese.
5. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until peppers are tender and cheese is slightly browned.

This dish is packed with protein and Mediterranean flavors while keeping carbs low, perfect for a wholesome and satisfying dinner.

Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is a delicious, high-protein, low-carb dinner that combines tender salmon fillets with a zesty lemon and rich garlic butter sauce.

This dish is simple to prepare yet full of bold, fresh flavors.

Ingredients:

• Salmon fillets
• Garlic, minced
• Butter
• Lemon juice and zest
• Fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Melt butter and mix with minced garlic, lemon juice, and zest.
4. Brush the salmon with the lemon garlic butter mixture.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

This meal offers a great balance of protein and healthy fats with minimal carbs, making it perfect for anyone wanting a nutritious and flavorful low-carb dinner.

Cauliflower Fried Rice with Chicken

Cauliflower Fried Rice with Chicken is a tasty, protein-packed, and low-carb alternative to traditional fried rice.

Using cauliflower rice instead of regular rice keeps the carbs low while still delivering the satisfying texture and flavor of a classic fried rice dish.

Ingredients:

• Cauliflower, grated into rice-sized pieces
• Chicken breast, diced
• Eggs
• Green onions
• Soy sauce or tamari
• Garlic and ginger
• Sesame oil

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a skillet and cook diced chicken until browned and cooked through.
2. Push chicken to the side and scramble eggs in the same pan.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and cauliflower rice, stir-fry until tender.
4. Mix everything together and add soy sauce to taste.
5. Stir in chopped green onions before serving.

This recipe provides a satisfying, nutrient-rich meal that’s high in protein and low in carbs, great for a healthy dinner that won’t weigh you down.

Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is a low-carb twist on the classic Italian pasta dish.

By substituting spaghetti squash for traditional pasta, this recipe reduces carbohydrates while keeping all the creamy, savory flavors intact.

Ingredients:

• Spaghetti squash
• Bacon, diced
• Eggs
• Parmesan cheese
• Garlic
• Black pepper

Instructions:

1. Roast spaghetti squash at 400°F (200°C) for 40 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook diced bacon in a skillet until crispy, then set aside.
3. In a bowl, whisk eggs and Parmesan cheese together.
4. Scrape out the spaghetti squash strands and toss them in the hot pan with garlic and bacon.
5. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the egg mixture to create a creamy sauce without scrambling the eggs.
6. Season with black pepper and serve immediately.

This dish is creamy and comforting, with plenty of protein and minimal carbs, making it ideal for those following a low-carb diet without missing out on classic flavors.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet

Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet is a quick and protein-rich low-carb dinner that features tender shrimp cooked in a luscious garlic butter sauce.

The addition of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon brightens the dish, making it both satisfying and light.

Ingredients:

• Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Butter
• Garlic, minced
• Lemon juice
• Fresh parsley
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
2. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
3. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

This dish delivers a protein-packed dinner full of rich flavors and minimal carbs, perfect for a speedy and elegant meal.

Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Turkey Lettuce Wraps are a flavorful and protein-dense low-carb dinner that uses crisp lettuce leaves as a fresh and crunchy alternative to traditional wraps or tortillas.

Ground turkey seasoned with Asian-inspired spices makes the filling hearty and delicious.

Ingredients:

• Ground turkey
• Garlic and ginger
• Soy sauce or tamari
• Green onions
• Water chestnuts, chopped
• Lettuce leaves (butter or romaine)

Instructions:

1. Cook ground turkey with garlic and ginger until browned.
2. Stir in soy sauce and chopped water chestnuts for crunch.
3. Spoon the turkey mixture into lettuce leaves.
4. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve.

These wraps are perfect for a low-carb, high-protein meal that’s fresh, flavorful, and easy to customize with your favorite toppings.

Baked Herb-Crusted Chicken Thighs

Baked Herb-Crusted Chicken Thighs provide a juicy, protein-rich dinner with a crispy, flavorful crust that’s low in carbohydrates.

Fresh herbs combined with garlic and olive oil create an aromatic coating that makes these thighs irresistible.

Ingredients:

• Chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• Fresh rosemary, thyme, and parsley
• Garlic powder
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Mix chopped herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper with olive oil.
3. Rub the mixture onto the chicken thighs.
4. Place chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes until the skin is crispy and the meat is cooked through.

This dish is a satisfying low-carb dinner choice with robust flavors and a perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat.

Mediterranean Grilled Lamb Chops

Mediterranean Grilled Lamb Chops are a protein-rich, low-carb dinner option that bursts with bold herbs and spices.

Marinated in garlic, lemon, and rosemary, these lamb chops deliver a juicy and flavorful meal perfect for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

• Lamb chops
• Garlic, minced
• Lemon juice and zest
• Fresh rosemary
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Combine garlic, lemon juice, zest, rosemary, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
2. Marinate lamb chops for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and cook chops for about 4-5 minutes per side until desired doneness.
4. Let rest a few minutes before serving.

This dish offers a satisfying and elegant low-carb dinner, rich in protein and Mediterranean flavors, perfect when paired with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.

Eggplant Parmesan Bake (Low-Carb)

Eggplant Parmesan Bake is a delicious low-carb alternative to the traditional Italian favorite.

Instead of breadcrumbs, this recipe uses Parmesan and almond flour for a crispy coating, paired with a rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella for a hearty, protein-packed dinner.

Ingredients:

• Eggplant slices
• Almond flour
• Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Marinara sauce (low sugar)
• Olive oil
• Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Coat eggplant slices with almond flour and Parmesan mixture.
3. Lightly fry or bake the eggplant until crispy.
4. Layer eggplant, marinara sauce, and mozzarella in a baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

This casserole-style dish provides a satisfying mix of protein and healthy fats while keeping carbs low, perfect for a comforting dinner.

Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna

Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna is a quick, high-protein, low-carb dinner that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.

The sesame seeds add a nutty crunch while the seared tuna stays tender and flavorful, making this a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients:

• Ahi tuna steaks
• Sesame seeds (white and black)
• Soy sauce or tamari
• Olive oil
• Wasabi and pickled ginger (optional)

Instructions:

1. Pat tuna steaks dry and brush lightly with soy sauce.
2. Press sesame seeds onto all sides of the tuna.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat and sear tuna for about 1-2 minutes per side, keeping the center rare.
4. Slice and serve immediately with wasabi and pickled ginger if desired.

This dish is an excellent choice for a light but protein-packed low-carb dinner with bold textures and flavors.

Conclusion

Choosing high-protein, low-carb dinners is a smart way to nourish your body while managing your carbohydrate intake effectively. This diverse collection of recipes offers something for everyone — whether you’re in the mood for comforting casseroles, quick skillet meals, or fresh salads. Experimenting with these dishes will not only boost your protein intake but also keep your dinners interesting and flavorful. Embrace these options to fuel your lifestyle with meals that promote wellness without sacrificing deliciousness.