Finding the perfect low-carb side dish can transform any meal from simple to spectacular.
Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle, counting carbs, or just looking for healthier options, these 15 low carb side recipes bring taste and nutrition together beautifully.
From creamy cauliflower mash to garlic butter green beans and roasted Brussels sprouts, each dish offers delicious comfort without extra carbs.
They’re versatile enough for family dinners, special occasions, or everyday meal prep, proving that low-carb eating never has to be boring or bland.
15 Irresistible Low Carb Side Dishes You’ll Want Every Night
Eating low-carb doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor, comfort, or variety.
These 15 low carb side recipes show just how easy it is to create satisfying meals that keep you full and energized.
With recipes featuring vibrant vegetables, creamy sauces, and bold seasonings, every dish offers a healthy twist on traditional comfort food.
Pair them with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian mains for balanced, wholesome dining that tastes indulgent but supports your goals.
Healthy, hearty, and delicious — these sides redefine low-carb eating.
Cauliflower Mash with Cream Cheese and Chives
This creamy cauliflower mash offers all the comfort of mashed potatoes without the carbs.
Smooth, buttery, and lightly flavored with garlic and chives, it’s the ideal side dish for hearty meals.
Each bite feels luxurious while keeping your meal perfectly keto-friendly.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, chopped into florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Instructions:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add cauliflower florets and cook for 10–12 minutes until very tender.
- Drain well and pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- In a food processor, combine cauliflower, butter, cream cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Transfer to a bowl and stir in the chopped chives.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving warm.
This velvety mash mimics traditional potatoes with far fewer carbs and calories.
It’s a versatile companion for steak, chicken, or roasted vegetables and adds a touch of elegance to any dinner.
Garlic Butter Green Beans with Toasted Almonds
Tender-crisp green beans tossed in rich garlic butter and topped with toasted almonds make a flavorful, low-carb side dish.
This dish delivers freshness, crunch, and a nutty aroma that pairs perfectly with any protein.
The buttery glaze enhances the beans’ natural sweetness while keeping the texture vibrant and lively.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted
Instructions:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt.
- Blanch the green beans for 3–4 minutes until tender yet crisp.
- Drain immediately and place in ice water to stop the cooking process.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic.
- Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds, then add the green beans.
- Toss to coat evenly and season with salt and black pepper.
- Sprinkle with toasted almonds before serving warm.
Crisp, buttery, and slightly nutty, these green beans make a perfect balance to heavier main dishes.
Their simple preparation and elegant flavor make them a dinner favorite for low-carb eaters.
Cheesy Broccoli Bake with Heavy Cream
This cheesy broccoli bake combines tender florets with rich heavy cream and melted cheddar for a luscious, satisfying side dish.
Each bite is loaded with creamy goodness while keeping the carbs low and the flavor high.
It’s ideal for cozy dinners or holiday spreads without the guilt.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Steam or boil broccoli until just tender, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir over low heat until smooth and well combined.
- Add half of the shredded cheddar and stir until melted.
- Place broccoli in a baking dish and pour the cheese sauce over it.
- Sprinkle remaining cheddar on top and bake for 15–18 minutes until bubbly and golden.
This rich, cheesy side offers indulgence without compromising your low-carb goals.
Its creamy texture and savory flavor complement chicken, steak, or roasted meats effortlessly.
Cabbage Steaks with Olive Oil and Herbs
Cabbage steaks are thick slices of roasted cabbage brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with herbs.
They’re caramelized on the edges, tender inside, and bursting with simple, rustic flavor.
A perfect low-carb alternative to potatoes or bread sides.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice cabbage into 1-inch thick rounds and place them flat on the sheet.
- Brush each slice with olive oil on both sides.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper evenly over each steak.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden brown.
- Serve hot as a hearty and flavorful side dish.
Crispy outside and tender inside, these cabbage steaks make a surprisingly satisfying low-carb dish.
Their savory, herb-kissed flavor works well with grilled meats or vegetarian entrees.
Cauliflower Fried Rice with Egg and Vegetables
Cauliflower fried rice delivers the beloved flavors of traditional fried rice without the carbs.
It’s light, flavorful, and packed with low-carb vegetables and protein-rich eggs.
Perfect as a side or even a main dish substitute.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, riced
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- ½ cup diced carrots
- ½ cup frozen peas
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos
Instructions:
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and onion, sautéing until fragrant.
- Stir in carrots and peas, cooking for about 3 minutes.
- Add the riced cauliflower and toss well to combine.
- Push the mixture to one side of the skillet and scramble the eggs on the other.
- Once cooked, mix the eggs into the cauliflower rice.
- Add soy sauce or coconut aminos and stir well.
- Cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.
This cauliflower fried rice tastes indulgent but stays completely keto-friendly.
It’s a colorful, satisfying side that adds both nutrition and comfort to your meal.
Baked Mushrooms with Garlic and Mozzarella
Savory mushrooms baked with garlic, olive oil, and gooey mozzarella cheese create an irresistible low-carb side dish.
Their earthy flavor and cheesy topping make them a restaurant-quality addition to your table.
They’re hearty, aromatic, and ready in minutes.
Ingredients:
- 12 large white mushrooms, cleaned and stems removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Arrange mushroom caps in the dish, cavity side up.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Drizzle the mixture evenly into each mushroom cap.
- Top each with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and cheese is golden and bubbly.
These baked mushrooms offer a satisfying, cheesy bite without the carbs.
They pair wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed alone as a warm, savory snack
Lemon Butter Cauliflower Rice
This lemon butter cauliflower rice is light, fluffy, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor.
The buttery notes blend perfectly with the zesty lemon to create a refreshing, low-carb side dish.
It’s a perfect companion for seafood, chicken, or grilled vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, riced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions:
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the riced cauliflower and cook for 5–7 minutes until tender.
- Add lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper.
- Toss to coat evenly and cook for another minute.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving.
This side dish combines simplicity and brightness in every bite.
Its tangy flavor cuts through rich meats and creamy sauces, balancing your meal beautifully.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Radishes
These garlic Parmesan roasted radishes offer a delicious twist on classic potatoes with far fewer carbs.
Roasting softens their peppery bite, transforming them into a buttery, flavorful treat.
They’re a perfect side for keto or low-carb dinners.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound radishes, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss radishes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Spread them out on a lined baking sheet.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and tender.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley before serving.
These roasted radishes turn wonderfully tender and savory with a light crisp on the outside.
They provide a satisfying, low-carb substitute for traditional roasted potatoes.
Creamy Garlic Mushrooms
Rich, creamy garlic mushrooms are an indulgent low-carb side that’s full of earthy flavor.
The velvety sauce coats each mushroom, making it a comforting and versatile dish.
Perfect alongside grilled steak or roasted chicken.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound button or cremini mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
Instructions:
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add mushrooms and cook for 5–6 minutes until they release their moisture and start to brown.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir until it thickens slightly.
- Add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce becomes creamy and coats the mushrooms.
This dish is rich, aromatic, and full of depth.
It turns simple mushrooms into an elegant side with a restaurant-quality finish.
Spicy Roasted Cauliflower Bites
These spicy roasted cauliflower bites are crispy, flavorful, and full of bold seasoning.
They’re an excellent alternative to fried snacks and make a perfect side for any meal.
The combination of smoky paprika and chili heat creates an irresistible bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil and all spices until well coated.
- Spread evenly on the baking sheet.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
These cauliflower bites are bold, smoky, and satisfying without being heavy.
They add color and spice to your table while keeping your carbs in check.
Zucchini and Mushroom Stir-Fry with Soy Sauce
This zucchini and mushroom stir-fry is light, savory, and packed with umami flavor.
Quick to make and low in carbs, it’s an excellent side for Asian-inspired dishes.
The tender zucchini absorbs the garlic-soy glaze perfectly.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
- Add mushrooms and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add zucchini and stir-fry for another 4–5 minutes until just tender.
- Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, and pepper.
- Toss well and remove from heat.
This stir-fry delivers flavor, freshness, and texture all in one.
It’s quick, satisfying, and complements any protein-rich entrée beautifully.
Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
These balsamic roasted cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness and tang, creating a simple yet flavorful low-carb side dish.
The roasting process caramelizes their juices, bringing out rich, savory undertones that elevate any meal.
Perfect for pairing with grilled chicken, fish, or even a creamy cauliflower mash.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried basil or oregano
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and toss to coat evenly.
- Spread them on the baking sheet in a single layer, cut side up.
- Roast for 18–20 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
The tangy balsamic glaze enhances the tomatoes’ natural sweetness beautifully.
Each bite delivers a burst of juicy flavor, perfect for balancing rich main dishes.
Keto Creamed Cabbage with Bacon
Creamed cabbage with crispy bacon is a comforting, low-carb dish full of rich, smoky flavor.
The combination of tender cabbage, cream, and bacon makes this side irresistibly hearty.
It’s a wonderful companion for grilled meats or roasted poultry.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Instructions:
- Cook chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
- Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of fat in the skillet.
- Add butter and minced garlic to the pan and sauté until fragrant.
- Add shredded cabbage and cook for 5–6 minutes until wilted.
- Pour in heavy cream, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
- Simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened slightly.
- Stir in the cooked bacon before serving.
This dish delivers a beautiful blend of creaminess and smokiness.
Each spoonful melts in your mouth, offering a rich and comforting low-carb experience.
Herbed Cauliflower Gratin
This herbed cauliflower gratin is creamy, cheesy, and full of aromatic herbs.
It’s a luxurious low-carb take on classic potato gratin that’s perfect for special dinners.
The golden, bubbling top gives it a beautiful finish.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Steam or boil cauliflower florets until just tender, then drain well.
- In a saucepan, heat heavy cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Combine the cauliflower with the sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
This gratin is creamy, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.
It’s a decadent yet healthy choice that fits perfectly into any low-carb lifestyle.
Garlic Lemon Roasted Broccoli
Garlic lemon roasted broccoli is a vibrant, zesty side dish that’s both nutritious and flavorful.
Roasting enhances its natural sweetness while the lemon and garlic bring a fresh, lively twist.
It’s simple, quick, and ideal for any low-carb meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Spread evenly on the baking sheet.
- Roast for 18–20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until edges are crisp and browned.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle with lemon juice and zest.
- Toss gently before serving warm.
This roasted broccoli is crisp, tangy, and full of life.
It adds color and brightness to any meal, making it both healthy and irresistible.
