I Use 17 Low Carb Mains to Avoid the Takeout Spiral

ByMandy

Late-night cravings and an empty fridge usually spell trouble, but having a lineup of 17 low carb mains makes skipping the delivery app way too easy. It’s like telling your future self, “Don’t worry, I’ve got us covered.” The best part is not trying to justify spending that much on lukewarm food. With these on hand, the takeout spiral doesn’t stand a chance.

Close-up of cooked beef chunks garnished with chopped herbs on a plate with a spoon nearby.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Pizza Casserole

Pizza Casserole in two serving dishes.
Pizza Casserole. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Whether it’s for lunch or dinner, a casserole can simplify planning meals. Packed with the bold flavors of Pizza Casserole, this dish skips the crust but keeps all the essence of your favorite pie. It’s great for those looking for a low-carb option without sacrificing familiar flavors. Perfect for anyone avoiding takeout temptations when pizza cravings hit.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Grilled Salmon

A close-up of a cooked salmon fillet topped with a mixture of chopped herbs, garlic, and seasonings.
Grilled Salmon. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Seafood lovers can enjoy a healthier, homemade option that doesn’t take long to prepare. Bringing out the tender qualities of Grilled Salmon, this recipe gives you a fulfilling protein that pairs well with vegetables or salad. It’s simple, flavorful, and works as a quick go-to meal after a long day. Ideal for those aiming to forgo greasy takeout seafood options.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Salmon

Low Carb Enchiladas with Chicken

Enchilada in a black casserole.
Low Carb Enchiladas with Chicken. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Enjoying enchiladas without the high-carb tortilla is easier than you think. Low Carb Enchiladas with Chicken offer the layers of flavor you want, like a more wholesome twist of your favorite Mexican dish. This option keeps it packed with protein but skips the empty carbs that might slow you down during the day.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Enchiladas with Chicken

Kimchi Stew

Close-up of a wooden spoon in a vibrant kimchi stew with tofu and pork, garnished with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes.
Kimchi Stew. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bold flavors of fermented vegetables can make for a deeply fulfilling meal. Adding a hearty element, Kimchi Stew combines heat and richness to deliver something unique yet comforting. It’s an option that brings traditional tastes to your table without the phone call for takeout. A great choice for nights when you crave something bold yet balanced.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Meaty Chicken Zucchini Poppers

A white bowl filled with Chicken Zucchini Poppers garnished with chopped herbs, with a fork holding one meatball above the bowl.
Meaty Chicken Zucchini Poppers. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Protein-packed snacks or dinner options don’t have to be complicated. Using zucchini and chicken as the base, Meaty Chicken Zucchini Poppers make a versatile dish filled with flavor. They’re light yet substantial enough to replace takeout appetizers or over-processed frozen snacks. Perfect for sharing or meal prepping with ease.
Get the Recipe: Meaty Chicken Zucchini Poppers

Brussel Sprouts Casserole

Brussel Sprouts Casserole piece on a white plate.
Brussel Sprouts Casserole. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Vegetables get a hearty upgrade in this warm, textured dish. Featured in this recipe, Brussel Sprouts Casserole turns everyday veggies into something fulfilling and filling. It’s a creative way to replace carb-heavy sides while keeping dinner interesting. Great for avoiding bland meals that leave you longing for takeout.
Get the Recipe: Brussel Sprouts Casserole

Low-Carb Mississippi Chicken

Low-Carb Mississippi Chicken garnished with parsley is served on a slate platter with yellow peppers.
Low-Carb Mississippi Chicken. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Southern favorites don’t have to rely on heavy breading or greasy sides. A low-carb twist to this classic, Low-Carb Mississippi Chicken creates a juicy, flavorful protein that doesn’t come with the guilt of traditional recipes. It’s an easy swap when you’re torn between cooking at home and ordering out for comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Low-Carb Mississippi Chicken

Lamb Chops

Grilled lamb chops garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs.
Lamb Chops. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A hearty protein like lamb makes it possible to have an indulgent meal without overdoing it. With Lamb Chops as the focal point, this dish delivers richness and balance on a plate. It’s a smart replacement for steakhouse delivery that might leave you feeling overstuffed. Perfect for elevating your dinner game without too much effort.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Chops

Philly Cheesesteak Stacks

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

A classic sandwich-inspired dish loses none of its magic in this low-carb rendition. Philly Cheesesteak Stacks layer meaty flavors and cheese without relying on a hoagie roll. It’s a quick option for lunch or dinner made to keep cravings in check. No need to order delivery when this simple recipe covers it well.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Stacks

Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

Cabbage beef casserole inside cast iron.
Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Combining beef and cabbage brings something sturdy to the dinner table without leaning into carb-heavy filler. Built around Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole, the dish offers something warm and flavorful while simplifying dinner decisions. Great for those evenings when carb-loaded casseroles don’t fit the plan.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

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.

Homemade options can be just as comforting as delivery if done right. The tender and flavorful Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs take the time to simmer down into a dish that feels fulfilling. Perfect for skipping pasta-heavy meals while staying fully satisfied with bold flavors. It’s a recipe to keep handy for busy days or laid-back weekends.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs

Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms

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

Rich meals don’t need to come from a restaurant. Bringing it home, Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms maintains the comforting texture of steak alongside earthy accents. It’s an excellent alternative to fast food burgers or steakhouse delivery when you want to stay in charge of ingredients. Great for balancing taste and practicality in one meal.
Get the Recipe: Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms

Broccoli Stir Fry with Chicken

Broccoli Stir Fry with Chicken in a skillet.
Broccoli Stir Fry with Chicken. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

Stir-fried dishes offer quick meals that skip carb-heavy sauces found in takeout versions. With Broccoli Stir Fry with Chicken, you have a versatile mix that’s both wholesome and easy to prepare. Great for when you want a light dish that doesn’t compromise on quality or taste. It’s an efficient way to replace overly oily restaurant stir-fry dishes.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Stir Fry with Chicken

Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Grilled ribs garnished with herbs and served with a side of sauce and onions.
Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Barbecue cravings don’t need to result in a heavy delivery bill. Homemade options like Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe bring out flavors you’d expect from a rib joint without excess grease. It’s a go-to for keeping meals hearty and fulfilling without ordering out. Perfect for special occasions or a simple weeknight indulgence when grilled meat is on your mind.
Get the Recipe: Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

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.

Simple, protein-loaded meals can be just as appealing as heavier options. Relying on Cobb Salad, this dish brings balance to your plate without falling short on flavor. It’s a smart option for lunch or dinner when avoiding the temptations of restaurant salads packed with sugary dressings. A quick, wholesome meal that won’t feel overly complicated.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips with mushroom gravy over mashed potatoes, garnished with chives on a white plate.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bold steakhouse flavors can easily come to your kitchen without delivery fees. Making use of Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips, this dish keeps the essence of restaurant cooking without the carb-heavy sides. Perfect for a dinner that doesn’t weigh you down or leave you searching for takeout. It’s great for anyone seeking steakhouse-style satisfaction.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Close-up of cooked beef chunks garnished with chopped herbs on a plate with a spoon nearby.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Steak doesn’t have to mean a complicated recipe or heavy delivery meals. Using Garlic Butter Steak Bites combines bite-sized convenience with rich flavors. Ideal for quick dinners when avoiding traditional steak plates piled high with carbs. It’s a better way to have flavorful bites without resorting to ordering out.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites