Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and many of us are already thinking about what dishes to serve at our holiday feast. But for those who follow a low-carb diet or have dietary restrictions, it can be challenging to find recipes that fit their needs without sacrificing flavor.
That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 20 delicious low-carb Thanksgiving recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic dishes like turkey and mashed potatoes to creative twists on traditional recipes, these recipes offer a range of options for anyone looking to keep their carb count in check without sacrificing taste.
In this article, we’ll explore some of our favorite low-carb recipes for Thanksgiving, from savory main courses to sweet desserts and everything in between. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just looking for some new recipe ideas, you’ll find inspiration here.
Cauliflower Mash with Garlic and Herbs
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional mashed potatoes, this cauliflower mash is flavored with garlic and herbs for a tasty side dish. Perfect for low-carb diets or as a flavorful alternative to mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets.
3. Toss the cauliflower with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. Use a food processor or blender to puree the roasted cauliflower until smooth.
6. Stir in chopped parsley and chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
Elevate your side dish game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the smoky goodness of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Meanwhile, cook the bacon pieces in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and toss with the cooked bacon pieces.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low Carb Green Bean Casserole
This classic casserole gets a low-carb twist by substituting traditional cream of mushroom soup with fresh mushrooms and heavy cream, resulting in a rich and savory dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté green beans, onion, and mushrooms in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and garlic powder. Pour over the green bean mixture and stir to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with cheddar cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms
Elevate your meal with this decadent and flavorful dish that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the richness of cream, garlic, and parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herb-Roasted Turkey with Lemon Butter
This recipe elevates the traditional roasted turkey to new heights by incorporating fresh herbs and a tangy lemon butter sauce. The result is a moist, flavorful bird that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and lemon juice.
3. Rub the herb-butter mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 2-1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-1/2 hours
Keto Stuffing with Almond Flour and Sausage
A twist on traditional stuffing, this recipe uses almond flour to reduce carbs while sausage adds savory flavor. Perfect for the holidays or any special occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together almond flour, melted butter, sage, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked sausage mixture to the bowl and stir until combined.
6. Stuff into a turkey or bake in a casserole dish at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin
Elevate your side dish game with this creamy and flavorful Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cauliflower florets and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
4. In a greased 8-inch square baking dish, arrange cooked cauliflower in an even layer.
5. Pour heavy cream over the cauliflower, followed by the cheese mixture.
6. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles
Elevate your vegetable game with these easy-to-make, flavorful bundles of asparagus wrapped in crispy bacon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the asparagus into 4-inch bundles, leaving the tips intact.
3. Wrap each bundle with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the asparagus is tender and the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Servings: 4-6 bundles
Low Carb Cranberry Sauce with Stevia
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional cranberry sauce, this recipe is perfect for those looking to reduce their carb intake without sacrificing flavor. Made with natural stevia and fresh cranberries, this sauce is a great addition to your holiday meals.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp Stevia liquid sweetener
– 1 tsp orange zest
– 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, water, stevia, orange zest, and lemon juice.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Fat Bombs
These bite-sized treats are the perfect fall treat to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping your diet on track. Made with coconut oil, pumpkin puree, and warm spices, these fat bombs will become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut oil
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil over low heat.
2. Add the pumpkin puree, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the melted coconut oil.
3. Stir until well combined and smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
6. Once set, remove from the refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of summer, with the sweetness of zucchini noodles paired with the savory goodness of homemade pesto.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup freshly made basil pesto (see below for recipe)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Pesto Recipe:
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the zucchini noodles and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until slightly tender.
4. Stir in the pesto sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Roasted Radishes
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that brings out the natural sweetness in radishes. This dish is perfect as a side or added to salads, wraps, and sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound radishes, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss radishes with melted butter, garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread radishes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Keto Dinner Rolls with Almond Flour
These keto dinner rolls are a game-changer for low-carb enthusiasts. Made with almond flour, they’re not only delicious but also paleo-friendly and gluten-free.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sweetener (such as Swerve or Erythritol)
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine almond flour, sweetener, and yeast.
3. Add melted coconut oil, eggs, and vinegar. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide into 6-8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between rolls.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Herbs
Moist and flavorful turkey breast cooked to perfection in a slow cooker with aromatic herbs. Perfect for a stress-free weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, and herbs.
2. In a slow cooker, mix olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
3. Place the turkey breast in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Roasted Cauliflower Bites
A flavorful twist on traditional roasted cauliflower, these bite-sized treats pack a punch with the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper until evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
6. Garnish with feta cheese or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe
Add a touch of sophistication to your next gathering with this deliciously creamy spinach and artichoke dip. Perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown and bubbly.
5. Serve warm with tortilla chips, pita bread, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Low Carb Pecan Pie Bars
These bite-sized bars combine the classic flavors of pecan pie with a low-carb twist, perfect for those looking to indulge in a sweet treat without sacrificing their dietary goals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sweetener (such as Swerve or Erythritol)
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour and granulated sweetener. Add melted coconut oil, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
3. Fold in chopped pecans and salt.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this crispy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously baked parmesan crusted salmon in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Drizzle salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic.
5. Coat each salmon fillet with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Place coated salmon on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Avocado Deviled Eggs with Bacon
Take your deviled eggs to the next level by adding creamy avocado and crispy bacon. This unique combination is sure to impress at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped chives or paprika for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and mash them with a fork until smooth.
3. Add the mashed avocado, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and horseradish to the yolks. Mix until combined.
4. Stir in the crumbled bacon and season with salt and pepper.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture back into the egg whites.
6. Garnish with chopped chives or paprika, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (prep time: 10 minutes)
Keto Pumpkin Cheesecake
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this creamy and indulgent Keto Pumpkin Cheesecake, perfect for the fall season. With its rich pumpkin flavor and velvety texture, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sweetener (such as Swerve or Erythritol)
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together almond flour and granulated sweetener.
3. In a separate bowl, combine eggs, cream cheese, sour cream, melted butter, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9-inch springform pan lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a delicious and healthy Thanksgiving feast with these 20 low-carb recipes! From savory dishes like Cauliflower Mash with Garlic and Herbs and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, to sweet treats like Pumpkin Spice Fat Bombs and Low Carb Pecan Pie Bars, there’s something for everyone. With creative twists on classic Thanksgiving dishes, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re counting carbs or just looking for a nutritious alternative, these low-carb recipes are a perfect fit for your Turkey Day celebration.
