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35 Low-Carb Meals That Taste Like a Cheat Day Without the Consequences

Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too? These 35 low-carb meals prove you can still enjoy great flavors without worrying about your waistline. Low-carb meals that taste like a cheat day without the consequences mean you can have a cheat meal every day of the week—minus the food coma. It’s like getting a dessert buffet without ever needing to book a treadmill session afterward. The best part? No more regret-filled “what did I just do?” moments.

Bowl of browned Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs garnished with chopped parsley and yellow pepperoncini peppers.
Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Want the crispy crunch without the carbs? Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu gives you all the satisfaction of the classic dish minus the heavy breading. It’s a perfect option for a dinner that feels indulgent, but actually supports your health goals. You’ll get the crispiness and savory flavors of a traditional cordon bleu without the guilt.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms

Salisbury Steak on a bed of mashed potatoes.
Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms is a classic that won’t weigh you down. With rich, savory flavors and a satisfying texture, this dish feels like a cheat day meal but keeps things low-carb. It’s a hearty, filling dinner that’ll hit the spot while sticking to your healthy eating plan. It’s comfort food without the extra carbs—just pure flavor.
Get the Recipe: Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Need a light yet filling meal? Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts delivers on both fronts. It’s a balanced dish with just the right mix of flavors, making it perfect for a lunch that won’t leave you feeling sluggish. Plus, it feels like a treat without throwing off your low-carb plan. This salad is a go-to for those days when you need a meal that’s easy and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

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Broccoli Cheese Soup

Broccoli Cheese Soup in two bowls with spoons nearby.
Broccoli Cheese Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

When comfort food is calling, Broccoli Cheese Soup answers. You can enjoy the creamy goodness without any of the heavy carbs usually found in traditional recipes. This soup is perfect for those cold nights when you need something cozy, but don’t want to stray from your low-carb goals. You won’t even miss the carbs—promise.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheese Soup

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Mediterranean Chicken Bake with herbs, cheese and tomatoes in a platter.
Mediterranean Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mediterranean Chicken Bake hits all the right notes when you need something flavorful and low-carb. Packed with rich flavors, this dish will satisfy your cravings without going overboard on calories. It’s an ideal dinner that tastes like a cheat meal but won’t undo all your hard work. Serve it up on busy nights or when you’re looking to impress guests.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Hungarian Goulash in two white bowls.
Authentic Hungarian Goulash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you love a hearty meal, Authentic Hungarian Goulash will quickly become a favorite. It’s rich, flavorful, and feels like a cheat meal while staying on track with your low-carb lifestyle. This dish brings comfort and warmth without the heavy carbs that usually accompany goulash. You can enjoy it guilt-free, making it perfect for your next dinner.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Grilled Greek Chicken

Grilled Greek Chicken on a white plate with lemon slices.
Grilled Greek Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Looking for a satisfying meal without the carbs? Grilled Greek Chicken is the answer. This dish combines savory flavors with a juicy chicken that’s both filling and guilt-free. It’s a great choice when you want something that feels like a cheat meal but sticks to your healthy eating goals. Plus, it’s super easy to make for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Greek Chicken

Greek Salad

Greek Salad with a round block of feta in the middle.
Greek Salad. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Greek Salad is a crisp, fresh dish that will never disappoint. It’s perfect for those days when you want something light but satisfying, and still low in carbs. You get all the bold flavors without the guilt of extra calories and carbs. Whether it’s a side dish or main, this salad fits in perfectly with your healthy eating plan, while still feeling like a treat.
Get the Recipe: Greek Salad

Oven Baked Ribs

Pieces of oven bake ribs on a black slate plate.
Oven Baked Ribs. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Craving ribs but want to skip the carbs? Oven Baked Ribs let you enjoy juicy, tender ribs without the heavy side effects. They’re slow-cooked to perfection, offering that melt-in-your-mouth flavor you love. This dish tastes just like the cheat meals you’ve been missing, but stays true to your low-carb goals. A perfect way to enjoy a meal that feels like an indulgence but leaves you guilt-free.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

Chicken Stir Fry

A white plate with chicken and mushrooms in a sauce.
Chicken Stir Fry. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Chicken Stir Fry brings all the flavor without the extra carbs. Packed with savory, fresh ingredients, this meal gives you the satisfaction of a traditional stir fry, minus the rice. It’s a go-to dinner for busy nights when you want something quick, tasty, and low-carb. You get all the deliciousness of a cheat meal but none of the carbs that usually come with it.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stir Fry

Baked Pesto Salmon

Salmon with spinach sauce on a white plate.
Baked Pesto Salmon. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Want a dish that feels indulgent but won’t undo your hard work? Baked Pesto Salmon is packed with flavor and low in carbs. It’s an easy go-to dinner for when you want something flavorful and filling without sacrificing your healthy eating goals. This dish brings the perfect balance of flavors that taste like a cheat meal, but actually supports your wellness.
Get the Recipe: Baked Pesto Salmon

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

A plate of Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Craving a fast food meal but don’t want the carbs? Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl has you covered. It gives you the flavors you love from the famous bowl, but without the high-carb rice or tortillas. This dish delivers that satisfying fast-food fix while keeping your eating plan on track. It’s the perfect meal when you want a cheat day experience without the carbs.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

Grilled Pork Souvlaki

Ninja Woodfire Pork Souvlaki with Horiatiki Salad and pita bread on a white plate.
Grilled Pork Souvlaki. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilled Pork Souvlaki is a flavorful meal that’s easy to throw together and perfect for your low-carb lifestyle. With just the right spices, this dish feels indulgent without the carb overload. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or weekend treat, it offers big flavor and satisfaction. You’ll feel like you’re enjoying a cheat day, but your waistline won’t notice.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Souvlaki

Philly Cheesesteak Stacks

A white plate with a Philly Cheesesteak Stack and a bowl of soup.
Philly Cheesesteak Stacks. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

If you’re missing a classic Philly cheesesteak, Philly Cheesesteak Stacks are here to bring back that flavor without the carbs. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a hearty meal without going off your low-carb plan. This dish layers all the deliciousness of a cheesesteak, but you won’t need to worry about the bread. You’ll get all the cheesy, savory goodness you crave, without the carb coma.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Stacks

Diner Style Salisbury Steak

A white plate with Salisbury steak topped with mushroom gravy on mashed potatoes, accompanied by a side of green peas.
Diner Style Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When you want that diner-style comfort food, Diner Style Salisbury Steak has got your back. It’s hearty, flavorful, and filling, while still staying low in carbs. This dish hits the spot when you’re craving something like a cheat meal but want to keep your health goals in check. It’s the ultimate balance between indulgence and nutrition, and it will quickly become a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Copycat Alice Springs Chicken

Close-up of a hand holding a fork with a bite of copycat Alice spring chicken.
Copycat Alice Springs Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you’re missing the flavors of your favorite restaurant, Copycat Alice Springs Chicken is here to save the day. It’s a rich, satisfying meal that feels like an indulgence, but stays low-carb. This dish gives you all the flavors you crave without the extra carbs that usually come with it. You’ll feel like you’re at a restaurant, but it’s a home-cooked meal without the guilt.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Springs Chicken

Turkey Vegetable Soup

Two bowls of turkey and vegetable soup with spoons.
Turkey Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Turkey Vegetable Soup is a perfect blend of savory and hearty, without the carb overload. It’s the ideal comfort food when you want something warm and filling, but still light. This soup is satisfying enough to replace a heavy meal, but won’t make you feel sluggish afterward. It’s a cozy dish that feels like a cheat day meal, but fits right into your low-carb routine.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Vegetable Soup

Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri

A plate of sliced grilled steak topped with a green herb sauce, served on a white rectangular dish.
Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

When you want a steak dinner that feels like a cheat day, Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri is the dish you need. The grilled steak is juicy and tender, paired with a tangy chimichurri sauce that hits all the right notes. It’s a perfect way to enjoy steak while keeping things low-carb. You can indulge without the guilt, making this meal a win every time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri

Cream of Asparagus Soup

Cream of Asparagus Soup in a white bowl.
Cream of Asparagus Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

An ideal choice for those chilly nights when you need something filling but low-carb. Cream of Asparagus Soup gives you a creamy, comforting meal without the carb-heavy ingredients. It’s a great option for when you’re craving a cozy soup, but don’t want to throw your healthy eating plan out the window. This soup is smooth, rich, and feels like a cheat meal, without the heavy carbs.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Asparagus Soup

Southern Green Beans

Green beans with sausage on a white plate.
Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Looking for a low-carb side that feels like a cheat meal? Southern Green Beans are just what you need. They’re savory, satisfying, and perfect for pairing with any main dish. This side is hearty enough to feel indulgent but stays true to your low-carb plan. It’s the kind of dish that will leave you feeling satisfied but not weighed down.
Get the Recipe: Southern Green Beans

Chinese Chicken Salad

A bowl of Chinese chicken salad with shredded chicken, snap peas, carrots, and peppers, accompanied by a bottle of dressing on the side.
Chinese Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

A light yet filling meal that tastes like a cheat day, but it’s not. Chinese Chicken Salad is a flavorful, crunchy meal that fits into your low-carb lifestyle without missing the usual carb-loaded extras. It’s a great option when you’re craving a salad that feels like more than just greens. This salad hits all the right notes with a satisfying crunch and deliciously bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Korean Galbi Ribs

Two Korean galbi ribs on a black slate plate with red chopsticks placed beside them.
Korean Galbi Ribs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Whether you’re grilling or baking, these ribs are sure to become a favorite when you want something hearty but healthy. Korean Galbi Ribs bring bold, savory flavors to your low-carb routine. These ribs are perfectly tender and full of flavor without the carbs you’d usually expect from this type of dish. It’s a great way to enjoy ribs without the carbs that typically come with them.
Get the Recipe: Korean Galbi Ribs

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken on a white plate.
Grilled Bruschetta Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

A great low-carb option that still packs in plenty of taste. Grilled Bruschetta Chicken offers a fresh take on a classic Italian dish, minus the carbs. With all the flavor you love from bruschetta, this dish feels indulgent without the bread. It’s perfect for a quick dinner that’s filling and satisfying. You get all the bold flavors, but without worrying about carbs sneaking in.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bruschetta Chicken

Classic Caprese Salad

A top-down shot of a classic caprese salad in a black dish.
Classic Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

An easy choice when you want a simple, refreshing dish that feels like a cheat meal, minus the guilt. Classic Caprese Salad is the perfect option when you want something fresh and light. It brings together all the flavors of a delicious Italian dish without the carbs you don’t need. This salad is satisfying on its own, or as a side to any meal, keeping you on track with your low-carb goals.
Get the Recipe: Classic Caprese Salad

Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki Sauce with pita dipped in a black bowl.
Authentic Tzatziki Sauce. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

This sauce gives you the richness of a cheat meal without derailing your healthy eating goals. Authentic Tzatziki Sauce brings that fresh, tangy flavor you love without any carbs. It’s the perfect dip or sauce to add to your low-carb meals for a boost of flavor. You can pair it with grilled meats, veggies, or use it as a dressing for your salads.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

Grilled Smoky Whole Chicken

Smoked whole chicken on Ninja Woodfire Grill.
Grilled Smoky Whole Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

When you want a juicy, smoky chicken that feels indulgent but still fits your low-carb needs, Grilled Smoky Whole Chicken is the way to go. It’s tender, full of flavor, and perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. You can enjoy this dish without worrying about breaking any eating rules. It’s comfort food at its finest, minus the carbs, and it’s bound to be a hit every time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoky Whole Chicken

Cream of Mushroom Soup

A white bowl of soup with mushrooms and chives.
Cream of Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Perfect for a cozy meal that won’t derail your health goals. Cream of Mushroom Soup is a rich, smooth dish that fills you up without the carbs you’d expect. It’s a great option when you’re craving something creamy, but still want to stick to your low-carb plan. This soup has all the comforting flavors you love without the guilt.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Mushroom Soup

Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breasts

Four bacon-wrapped chicken breasts on a white rectangular plate garnished with sprigs of parsley.
Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breasts. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

This dish is a real crowd-pleaser and keeps things guilt-free. Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breasts offer a savory, indulgent dish that stays low-carb. The crispy bacon adds that perfect texture, making it feel like a cheat meal but without the added carbs. It’s perfect for grilling season, but it’s also great for any night when you want something quick and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breasts

Horiatiki Salad

A black bowl contains a Horiatiki salad with blocks of feta cheese, garnished with herbs.
Horiatiki Salad. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Horiatiki Salad is a vibrant, fresh dish that keeps things light and low-carb. It’s perfect for when you want something filling, but don’t want to load up on carbs. This Greek-inspired salad has all the flavors of a cheat meal, without the extra calories. It’s a go-to for days when you need something satisfying and easy, but still in line with your healthy eating goals.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich on a white plate with chips.
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Want the taste of a classic loose meat sandwich but without the bread? Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich is the answer. This dish gives you all the flavors you love without the heavy carbs that usually come with a sandwich. It’s a great low-carb version of a comfort food favorite that feels indulgent but won’t sabotage your eating plan. It’s a quick and satisfying option for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Cucumber Salad with Feta

Cucumber and Feta salad in a black bowl.
Cucumber Salad with Feta. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Cucumber Salad with Feta is a light, refreshing dish that pairs well with any meal. This salad is crisp and full of flavor, making it the perfect low-carb side. It’s a great choice when you want something cool and satisfying but without all the extra carbs. Plus, it’s easy to whip up and will keep you on track with your healthy eating goals, making it a perfect addition to any plate.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta

Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Sliced turkey breast on a white plate with sprigs of thyme.
Air Fryer Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Looking for a healthier twist on turkey? Air Fryer Turkey Breast delivers all the flavor and juiciness of roasted turkey but without the carbs that usually come with heavy sides. This dish is simple to make, perfect for busy nights when you want a filling, low-carb meal. The air fryer ensures a crispy, golden exterior with a tender interior that’s sure to impress without the carb overload.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Ribs and Sauerkraut

Ribs and Sauerkraut with a fork.
Ribs and Sauerkraut. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal, Ribs and Sauerkraut delivers just that. It’s a filling dish that’s full of rich flavors but without the carbs you might expect. The combination of tender ribs and tangy sauerkraut feels like a cheat day meal, but it fits perfectly into a low-carb plan. It’s a great dinner option for when you want something hearty but won’t throw you off track.
Get the Recipe: Ribs and Sauerkraut

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken served on a white plate.
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Ideal for busy days when you need a delicious, low-carb meal that still feels like a treat. Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken is the perfect dish for those who crave bold, savory flavors without the carbs. The chicken is tender and flavorful, with just the right amount of spice to satisfy your taste. This dish feels like a cheat meal, but it’s completely guilt-free.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs

Bowl of browned Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs garnished with chopped parsley and yellow pepperoncini peppers.
Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal that feels like a cheat day without the carbs, Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs is the way to go. These meatballs are tender, savory, and perfectly spiced, all without the usual carb-heavy sides. The slow cooker does all the work for you, so you can enjoy a low-maintenance, indulgent meal. It’s a great choice when you need something filling and satisfying, but still low in carbs.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs

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