50 Easy Dinner Ideas for Gestational Diabetes (Under 45g Carb)
I’ve compiled 50 easy dinner ideas for gestational diabetes. Feel free to steal mine for a spike-free pregnancy!
Just diagnosed and clueless about dinner ideas? Struggling to reduce that dreaded post-dinner sugar spike? Bored of the same old dinners? Maybe your family and kids aren’t loving the low-carb meals?
When I had my GDM, finding low-carb dinner options outside felt impossible, and cooking at home wasn’t much better.
I got SO TIRED of the same meals over and over again—and I was craving rice and pasta like crazy!
But after a month of experimenting, I finally cracked the code. I found ways to control my sugar levels without sacrificing variety!
Having GDM doesn’t mean your meals have to be boring or repetitive.
Here are 50 easy, low-carb dinner ideas for gestational diabetes—featuring everything from fish, chicken, beef, vegetarian options, salads, and more.
Check out: Quick and easy breakfast, lunch, dessert and bedtime snack ideas for gestational diabetes.
Key Principles for GDM-Friendly Dinners
What Foods are OK to Eat with Gestational Diabetes?
The American Diabetes Association recommends that pregnant women should consume at least 1,800-2,000 kcal of calorie, 175 g of carbohydrate, a minimum of 71 g of protein, and 28 g of fiber daily.
So if you break it down into every meal, here’s how you choose your easy dinner ideas for gestational diabetes:
PS: All my 50 dinner ideas for gestational diabetes (portion guide included) are fulfilling these amount as closely as possible.
It’s important to focus on low glycemic index foods that stabilize blood sugar. You can check out the infographic below and save it into your phone for daily reminder.
Meal Prep Tips
As a mom of two, I totally get how hectic life can be.
With handy tips in planning and prep, you can whip up healthy, balanced meals for yourself and your family without the daily hassle.
- Plan Your Week: Set aside time to plan your meals for the week, ensuring your dinner ideas for gestational diabetes is balanced with protein, healthy fats, fiber, and low-GI carbs. Also check out my 7-day meal plan all tailored for you.
- Batch Cook Proteins: Cook large portions of lean meats, fish, or plant-based proteins and store them in the fridge or freezer for easy access during the week.
- Prep Veggies in Advance: Chop and pre-cook non-starchy vegetables (like broccoli, spinach, and bell peppers) and store them in airtight containers to quickly add to meals.
- Portion and Store: Divide meals into individual portions using meal prep containers.
- Use One-Pot or Sheet Pan Meals: Prepare easy one-pan or slow-cooker dinners (all covered for ideas in the 50 dinner list below) that require minimal cleanup.
- Freeze Leftovers: Dishes like soups, stews, and casseroles freeze well and save time later in the week.
50 Easy & Low Carb Dinner Ideas for Gestational Diabetes
10 Chicken Ideas
1. Chicken Fajita Bowl
Sauté 1 lb sliced chicken breast, 1 sliced bell pepper, and 1 sliced onion in 1 tbsp olive oil with fajita seasoning until cooked. Serve over 1/2 cup brown rice per person with 1/4 avocado and salsa. (Serving: 4)
2. Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs with Roasted Veggies
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Coat 2 chicken thighs in 1/4 cup low-sugar BBQ sauce. Bake for 35-40 minutes. Serve with 1 cup roasted mixed vegetables (like zucchini and bell peppers). (Serving: 1)
3. Coconut Curry Chicken with Vegetables
Sauté 1 chopped onion in 1 tbsp coconut oil until translucent. Add 1 lb chicken and brown. Stir in 1 can coconut milk, 2 tbsp curry powder, and 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers and snap peas). Simmer for 20-25 minutes and serve with 1/2 cup brown rice per person. (Serving: 4)
4. Chicken and Black Bean Quinoa Bowl
Cook 1 lb diced chicken breast in 1 tbsp olive oil until browned. Add 1 can black beans (drained), 1 cup cooked quinoa, 1 cup diced tomatoes, 1/2 cup corn, and spices (cumin, paprika). Cook until heated through, then stir in 1 cup spinach. (Serving: 4)
5. One-Pot Chicken and Vegetable Stew
Sauté 1 chopped onion, 2 carrots, 2 potatoes and 2 celery stalks in 1 tbsp olive oil until soft. Add 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs and brown. Stir in 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth, 1 can diced tomatoes, 1 cup chopped kale, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add 1 cup mixed beans and simmer for 30-40 minutes. (Serving: 4)
6. Baked Lemon Garlic Chicken with Quinoa
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Marinate 1 chicken breast (6 oz) in juice of 1 lemon, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Serve with 1/2 cup cooked quinoa and 1 cup steamed broccoli. (Serving: 1)
7. Air Fryer Chicken and Sweet Potato
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Toss 1 lb diced chicken breast and 1 large sweet potato (cubed) in 1 tbsp olive oil and spices. Air fry for 25-30 minutes until golden. Serve with a side of 1 cup mixed greens per person. (Serving: 4)
8. Cajun Chicken and Lentils
Season 1 lb chicken thighs with Cajun seasoning and sauté in 1 tbsp olive oil until cooked. Serve over 1 cup cooked lentils and 1 cup steamed green beans per person. (Serving: 4)
9. Grilled Chicken Burger with Spinach Salad
Form 6 oz ground chicken into a patty, season with salt and pepper. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked. Serve on a whole-grain bun per person with a side salad (2 cups mixed greens, tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette). (Serving: 1)
10. Buffalo Chicken and Quinoa Wrap
Cook 3 oz chicken breast in buffalo sauce until cooked. Mix with 1/2 cup cooked quinoa and diced celery. Serve in a whole-grain wrap with leafy greens. (Serving: 1)
10 Beef Ideas
11. Beef Bourguignon
Brown 1 lb of cubed lean beef in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then set aside. In the same pot, sauté 1 cup each of diced onions, carrots, and sliced mushrooms with 2 minced garlic cloves for 5 minutes. Deglaze with 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, then add 1/2 cup low-sugar tomato sauce and 2 cups low-sodium beef broth. Return the beef, simmer on low for 2 hours. Serve over 0.5 cup cooked quinoa per person with 1 cup steamed green beans. (Serving: 4)
12. Lean Beef Stir-Fry
Cook 1 lb of lean beef strips in a hot pan with 2 cups of mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas). Add low-sodium soy sauce and stir-fry until cooked through. Serve over 1/2 cup of cooked brown rice per person. (Serving: 4)
13. Beef Lasagna
Layer 1 lb of lean ground beef with whole-grain lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese, marinara sauce (low-sugar), and mozzarella cheese. Bake at 375°F for 45 minutes. (Serving: 4)
14. Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
Place 1 lb of lean beef slices and 2 cups of broccoli in a slow cooker. Add 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce, 1 cup beef broth, and garlic. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Serve over 2/3 cup of cooked quinoa per person. (Serving: 4)
15. Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
Brown 1 lb of lean beef with 2 cups of sliced mushrooms. Add 1 cup of low-sodium beef broth and 1 cup of Greek yogurt. Serve over whole-grain pasta per person. (Serving: 4)
16. Beef and Vegetable Stew
Brown 1 lb of lean beef in a pot. Add 2 cups of diced vegetables (carrots, potatoes, celery), 4 cups of low-sodium beef broth, and herbs. Simmer for 2 hours. Serve with ½ cup brown rice per person. (Serving: 4)
17. Slow Cooker Beef Tacos
Place 1 lb of lean beef in a slow cooker with 1 cup of salsa and taco seasoning. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Serve in corn tortillas with lettuce and tomato. (Serving: 4)
18. Oven-Roasted Beef Fajitas
Toss 1 lb of sliced lean beef, 2 sliced bell peppers, and 1 onion with fajita seasoning. Roast in the oven at 400°F for 25 minutes. Serve in whole-grain tortillas with lettuce. (Serving: 4)
19. Creamy Beef and Cauliflower Rice Casserole
Brown 1 lb of ground lean beef in a skillet. Add 1 cup of diced onions and 1 cup of diced bell peppers, cooking until softened. Mix with 6 cups of cauliflower rice, 1 cup of diced tomatoes, and 2 cups of diced butternut squash. Stir in 1 cup of low-fat cream cheese and 1/2 cup of milk until creamy. Bake at 375°F for 30-40 minutes, or until butternut squash is tender. (Serving: 4)
20. Slow-Cooker Beef Brisket
Place 1.5 lbs of lean brisket in a slow cooker. Add 1 cup of beef broth, 1 onion, and seasonings. Cook on low for 8 hours. Slice and serve with half cup brown rice per person and a side of roasted vegetables. (Serving: 4)
10 Fish & Seafood Ideas
21. Grilled Mahi-Mahi with Mango Salsa
Grill 1 lb of mahi-mahi (4 pieces, 4 oz each) brushed with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Serve with salsa made from 1 cup diced mango, ¼ cup diced red onion, and 1 tbsp lime juice. Pair with 1 cup of mixed greens per person. (Serving: 4)
22. Baked Lemon Herb Salmon
Bake 1 lb of salmon fillets (4 pieces, 4 oz each) at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, drizzled with 2 tbsp olive oil, the juice of 1 lemon, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp dried herbs (thyme and oregano). Serve with 1 cup steamed broccoli and ½ cup cooked quinoa per person. (Serving: 4)
23. Fish and Vegetable Curry
Simmer 1 lb of white fish (tilapia or cod) with 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk, 2 tbsp curry paste, 1 cup sliced bell peppers, and 2 cups spinach in a pot until cooked. Serve with 1 cup cooked lentils per person. (Serving: 4)
24. Garlic Butter Baked Cod
Bake 1 lb of cod fillets (4 pieces, 4 oz each) at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes with 3 tbsp unsalted butter, 3 minced garlic cloves, and the zest of 1 lemon. Serve with 1 cup roasted Brussels sprouts and ½ cup mashed sweet potato (cooked) per person. (Serving: 4)
25. Fish Tacos with Cabbage Slaw
Cook 1 lb of white fish (such as tilapia) in a skillet with 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tsp taco seasoning. Serve in 4 corn tortillas per person, topped with 1 cup shredded cabbage mixed with 1 tbsp lime juice and salt. (Serving: 4)
26. Pan-Seared Tilapia with Asparagus
Pan-sear 1 lb tilapia (4 pieces, 4 oz each) in 2 tbsp olive oil for about 3-4 minutes per side. Serve with 1 cup sautéed asparagus and ½ cup cooked brown rice per person. (Serving: 4)
27. Coconut Curry Shrimp
Sauté 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined) in 1 tbsp olive oil, then add 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk and 2 tbsp red curry paste. Serve with ½ cup cooked brown rice per person and 1 cup steamed broccoli. (Serving: 4)
28. Baked Halibut with Lemon-Dill Sauce
Bake 1 lb halibut (4 pieces, 4 oz each) at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes. Serve with a sauce made from 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp fresh dill, and 2 tbsp Greek yogurt. Pair with 1 cup steamed green beans and ½ cup whole grain pasta per person. (Serving 4)
29. Seared Scallops with Zucchini Noodles
Sear 1 lb scallops (approximately 12) in 2 tbsp olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side. Serve over 2 cups Zucchini noodles sautéed in 1 tbsp olive oil with garlic and topped with 1 tbsp Parmesan. (Serving: 4)
30. Spicy Blackened Catfish
Coat 1 lb of catfish fillets (4 pieces, 4 oz each) with blackening spice and sear in 2 tbsp olive oil for 3-4 minutes per side. Serve with 1 cup mixed greens, ½ cup brown rice and ½ avocado sliced per person. (Serving: 4)
10 Plant Protein Ideas
31. Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu
Sauté 4 oz firm tofu (cubed) in 1/2 tbsp sesame oil until golden. Add 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots) and 1/2 tbsp soy sauce, cooking until tender. Serve over 1/4 cup cooked brown rice. (Serving: 1)
32. Chickpea Curry with Cauliflower Rice
In a pot, cook 1/4 can (about 4 oz) chickpeas (drained and rinsed) with 1/4 can (about 3.4 oz) coconut milk, 1/2 tbsp curry powder, and 1/4 cup diced tomatoes for 20 minutes. Serve over 1 cup cauliflower rice (grated). (Serving: 1)
33. Vegetable and Cheese Frittata
Whisk 3 eggs with 1/2 cup diced vegetables (spinach, bell peppers, onions) and 1/2 cup shredded cheese. Bake in a skillet at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. (Serving: 1)
34. Quinoa and Black Bean Stuffed Pepper
Mix 1/4 cup cooked quinoa with 1/4 can (about 4 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed), 1/4 cup corn, and spices. Stuff into 1 halved bell pepper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. (Serving: 1)
35. Eggplant Parmesan with Whole Wheat Pasta
Layer 1/2 medium eggplant (sliced) with 1/2 cup marinara sauce and 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese in a baking dish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Serve with 1/2 cup cooked whole wheat pasta. (Serving: 1)
36. Spicy Lentil Soup with Spinach
Simmer 1/2 cup lentils with 1 cup vegetable broth, 1/2 diced onion, 1/2 diced carrot, and 1/2 cup fresh spinach for 30 minutes. Season with spices to taste. (Serving: 1)
37. Mushroom and Spinach Quesadilla with Whole Wheat Tortilla
Sauté 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms with 1 cup spinach until wilted. Place filling between 1 whole wheat tortilla and cook in a skillet until golden. (Serving: 1)
38. Vegetable and Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
Cook 1/2 cup lentils and mix with 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn) and 1/4 cup vegetable broth. Top with 1/2 cup mashed potatoes (made with 1/4 cup milk) and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. (Serving: 1)
39. Quinoa and Vegetable Casserole
Mix 1/2 cup cooked quinoa with 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers) and 1/4 cup shredded cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. (Serving: 1)
40. Zucchini Noodles with Marinara and Lentil Meatballs
Spiralize 1 medium zucchini to make noodles. Cook 1/2 cup cooked lentils with 1/4 jar (6 oz) marinara sauce. Serve 5-6 lentil meatballs over zucchini noodles. (Serving: 1)
10 Salad Ideas
41. Smoked Salmon Salad with Mixed Greens
Toss 4 oz smoked salmon with 2 cups mixed greens, 1/4 cup red onion, and 1 tbsp capers. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil and lemon juice. (Serving: 1)
42. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta and Grilled Shrimp
Grill 4 oz shrimp and mix with 1/2 cup cooked quinoa, 1/4 cup diced cucumber, 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, and 2 tbsp feta cheese. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil and lemon juice. (Serving: 1)
43. Steak and Arugula Salad with Parmesan
Grill 4 oz flank steak and slice. Toss with 2 cups arugula, 2 tbsp shaved Parmesan, and 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with 1 tbsp balsamic vinaigrette. (Serving: 1)
44. Chicken Caesar Salad
Grill 4 oz chicken breast and slice. Toss with 2 cups romaine lettuce, 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, and 2 tbsp Caesar dressing. Top with 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese. (Serving: 1)
45. Tuna Salad with Chickpeas and Spinach
Mix 1 can (5 oz) tuna (drained) with 3/4 cup chickpeas (rinsed), 1 cup fresh spinach, and 1 tbsp olive oil. Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice. (Serving: 1)
46. Grilled Chicken and Mixed Greens Salad
Grill 4 oz chicken breast and slice. Toss with 2 cups mixed greens, 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, and 1/4 cup cucumber. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar. (Serving: 1)
47. Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Hummus
Toss 4 oz grilled chicken with 2 cups mixed greens, 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, 1/4 cup cucumber, and 2 tbsp hummus. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. (Serving: 1)
48. Cobb Salad with Chicken, Eggs, and Blue Cheese
Toss 2 cups mixed greens with 4 oz grilled chicken, 1 hard-boiled egg (chopped), 2 tbsp crumbled blue cheese, and 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with 1 tbsp vinaigrette. (Serving: 1)
49. Shrimp and Mango Salad with Lime Vinaigrette
Toss 4 oz grilled shrimp with 1 cup mixed greens, 1/2 cup diced mango, and 1/2 cup diced bell peppers. Drizzle with 1 tbsp lime vinaigrette. (Serving: 1)
50. Beef Taco Salad with Salsa
Brown 4 oz lean ground beef and season with taco spices. Serve over 2 cups lettuce, topped with 1/4 cup salsa, 2 tbsp shredded cheese, and 1/4 cup black beans. (Serving: 1)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Eat Noodles / Processed Foods / Fast Foods with Gestational Diabetes?
You totally can!
The trick is all about smart choices, reduced frequency and portion control during pregnancy.
I’ll admit, I still indulge in my favorites – pasta and McDonald’s fries! But only once a while with portion control. I pair my fries with a salad too to help stabilize my blood sugar.
It should not be your frequent dinner ideas for gestational diabetes.
1. Noodles
- Swap traditional noodles for whole grain, zucchini, or shirataki noodles.
- Pair them with protein (like chicken or tofu) and veggies to slow down those carb cravings during pregnancy.
- Regular noodles can spike your blood sugar fast, so aim for just about 1/2 cup cooked.
2. Pizza
- Go for a thin whole-wheat crust and keep it to 1-2 slices. Limit processed meats (like pepperoni). Load up on veggie toppings and lean meats.
3. Burgers
- Choose a whole wheat bun or go bunless with a lettuce wrap.
- Lean meats like turkey or grilled chicken are your BFFs, and don’t skimp on the veggies.
4. Sausages
- Lean sausages, like chicken or turkey, are a great option
- Watch out for hidden sugars and unhealthy fats. Always check those labels for sneaky carbs and fillers! Aim 1g or less of carbs per serving.
5. Curry
- Lean meat or veggie-based curries are perfect! Avoid the super creamy ones. Serve them with brown or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb twist during pregnancy.
6. Subway
- Choose a 6-inch whole grain sub, stack on lean meats like turkey or grilled chicken, and pile up the veggies. Go easy on the sauces.
- Skip the chips and cookies (sorry!), and avoid white bread or high-fat meats like meatballs.
7. KFC
- Grilled chicken is the way to go! Pair it with a side salad or green beans instead of fries or mashed potatoes.
8. McDonald’s
- A small burger (ditch the cheese) or a grilled chicken sandwich with a side salad is a good call.
Conclusion
With these 50 easy dinner ideas for gestational diabetes, you can enjoy a variety of satisfying meals without worrying about blood sugar spikes.
The key to managing GDM is making informed food choices, and the glycemic index (GI) can be a powerful tool in that process.
The GI ranks foods based on how fast the foods spike your blood sugar levels, helping you select low-GI options that promote stable blood sugar. For example, white rice has a higher GI than brown rice, meaning it spikes blood sugar faster.
Learn more here.
Ready to take control of your GDM diet? Grab my detailed GI food list, featuring over 650 foods!
This expertly curated guide will help you choose the best foods to keep your blood sugar balanced and make mealtime easier.
