10 Best High-Protein Recipes Under 10g Carbs 2026

Eating high-protein meals while keeping carbohydrates to a minimum can be a challenge, especially for those adhering to strict low-carb diets. In this guide, we’ve curated ten recipes that not only provide over 30 grams of protein per serving but also keep total carbohydrates under 10 grams. These recipes are designed to be easy to prepare, use high-quality ingredients, and maintain a balanced macro profile, making them perfect for anyone looking to maximize protein intake while minimizing carbs.

How We Selected These Recipes

In curating this list, we focused on recipes that deliver a minimum of 30 grams of protein while strictly limiting carbohydrates to under 10 grams per serving. Each recipe was evaluated based on its overall nutritional profile, ease of preparation, and ingredient quality. We aimed to include a variety of protein sources and meal types to cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences.

1. Garlic Butter Shrimp

Garlic Butter Shrimp is a delightful dish that’s not only packed with flavor but also loaded with protein. This recipe stands out for its quick preparation time and the rich taste of garlic and butter that complements the shrimp perfectly, making it a versatile choice for any meal.

Ingredients

• 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 30g butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 10g fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 3–4 minutes until they turn pink.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley before serving.
5. Enjoy as is or serve over a bed of greens for extra fiber.

Pro tip

Substitute the shrimp with scallops or chicken for a different protein source while keeping the dish equally delicious.

2. Cheesy Chicken Thighs

Cheesy Chicken Thighs are a hearty and satisfying meal that combines the richness of cheese with tender chicken. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, as it keeps well and can be enjoyed throughout the week.

Ingredients

• 250g chicken thighs, skin-on
• 50g cheddar cheese, shredded
• 30g cream cheese
• 10g olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Rub chicken thighs with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Place chicken in a baking dish and top with cream cheese and cheddar.
4. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro tip

For a lower-fat option, use skinless chicken thighs and reduce the amount of cheese.

3. Beef Jerky Bites

Beef Jerky Bites are an excellent high-protein snack that’s easy to prepare and perfect for on-the-go. This recipe allows you to customize flavors, making it a fun and versatile choice.

Ingredients

• 150g lean beef, sliced thinly
• 15g soy sauce
• 5g Worcestershire sauce
• 5g smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. Marinate the beef slices in soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the dehydrator or oven to low heat.
3. Arrange beef on trays and dry for 4–6 hours until fully dehydrated.
4. Store in an airtight container for up to a month.
5. Enjoy as a snack or protein boost during the day.

Pro tip

Use a mixture of spices to create different flavors, such as teriyaki or spicy chili.

4. Egg and Spinach Scramble

Egg and Spinach Scramble is a quick and nutritious breakfast option that’s rich in protein and low in carbs. This dish is perfect for busy mornings and can be customized with various vegetables or cheeses.

Ingredients

• 3 large eggs
• 50g fresh spinach
• 30g feta cheese, crumbled
• 10g butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
3. Whisk eggs in a bowl and pour them into the skillet.
4. Stir gently until eggs are cooked through, then add feta.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Pro tip

Add other vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrients.

5. Salmon with Dill Sauce

Salmon with Dill Sauce is a flavorful and elegant dish that’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein. This recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

• 200g salmon fillet
• 20g sour cream
• 10g fresh dill, chopped
• 5g lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Season the salmon with salt and pepper, then place it on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 15–20 minutes until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, mix sour cream, dill, and lemon juice for the sauce.
5. Serve salmon topped with dill sauce.

Pro tip

For a crispy skin, broil the salmon for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.

6. Pork Chops with Mustard

Pork Chops with Mustard is a savory dish that combines the flavor of mustard with juicy pork. This recipe is a fantastic option for a filling dinner that’s still low in carbs.

Ingredients

• 250g pork chops
• 20g Dijon mustard
• 10g olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper, then sear in the skillet for 4–5 minutes on each side.
3. Brush with Dijon mustard and cook for an additional minute.
4. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
5. Serve with steamed vegetables or a salad.

Pro tip

Marinate the pork chops in mustard overnight for enhanced flavor.

7. Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps

Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps are a refreshing and convenient meal option that’s high in protein and low in carbs. These wraps are perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Ingredients

• 150g canned tuna, drained
• 30g mayonnaise
• 20g celery, diced
• 5g red onion, diced
• 4 large lettuce leaves

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. In a bowl, mix tuna, mayonnaise, celery, and red onion until well combined.
2. Spoon the tuna mixture onto lettuce leaves.
3. Wrap the lettuce around the filling and secure with a toothpick if needed.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
5. Enjoy as a quick and satisfying meal.

Pro tip

For added flavor, mix in herbs like dill or parsley to the tuna salad.

8. Cottage Cheese Bowl

Cottage Cheese Bowl is a simple yet nutritious option that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. This dish is high in protein and can be customized with various toppings.

Ingredients

• 200g cottage cheese
• 50g almonds, chopped
• 10g chia seeds
• 5g cinnamon

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. In a bowl, combine cottage cheese, almonds, chia seeds, and cinnamon.
2. Mix well until evenly distributed.
3. Serve immediately or store in the fridge for later.
4. Enjoy as a high-protein snack or breakfast option.
5. Add fresh berries for extra flavor if desired.

Pro tip

Use flavored cottage cheese for a different taste profile without adding many carbs.

9. Grilled Chicken Skewers

Grilled Chicken Skewers are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy chicken while keeping carbs low. This recipe is perfect for barbecues or quick weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

• 250g chicken breast, cubed
• 10g olive oil
• 5g garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers.
4. Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.
5. Serve with a low-carb dipping sauce if desired.

Pro tip

Marinate the chicken in your favorite spices overnight for enhanced flavor.

10. Shrimp Avocado Salad

Shrimp Avocado Salad is a light and refreshing dish that’s packed with protein and healthy fats. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• 200g shrimp, cooked
• 100g avocado, diced
• 20g lime juice
• 10g cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Macros per serving

Quick prep

1. In a bowl, combine cooked shrimp, diced avocado, lime juice, and cilantro.
2. Toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
5. Enjoy as a light meal or appetizer.

Pro tip

Add chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick and extra flavor.

Bottom Line

These ten recipes provide a diverse range of high-protein, low-carb meal options that are perfect for anyone looking to maintain a strict low-carb lifestyle. The top three choices—Garlic Butter Shrimp, Cheesy Chicken Thighs, and Beef Jerky Bites—offer excellent protein content, quick preparation times, and versatile uses. Whether you are meal prepping or looking for a quick snack, these recipes can easily be logged in calorie tracking apps like Nutrola, MyFitnessPal, or Cronometer for seamless dietary management.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main benefits of high-protein low-carb diets?

High-protein low-carb diets can help with weight management, muscle preservation, and satiety. They often lead to improved metabolic health and can reduce cravings.

Can these recipes fit into a calorie tracking app?

Absolutely! Each recipe includes detailed macros, making them easy to log in apps like Nutrola, MyFitnessPal, or Cronometer.

Are these recipes suitable for meal prep?

Yes, many of these recipes can be made in bulk and stored for later, making them great for meal prep.

What types of protein sources are included in these recipes?

The recipes feature a variety of protein sources, including seafood, poultry, beef, eggs, and dairy, catering to different dietary preferences.