Table of Contents
If you think being a carnivore means sticking to just steak and bacon, think again!
Even the most dedicated meat-eater can appreciate a bit of variety on the plate. Whether you’re craving something crunchy, creamy, or savory to complement your main dish, these 8 carnivore-friendly side dishes are here to add a burst of flavor to your meals.
Get ready to discover sides that are just as satisfying as the meat itself.
1. Pork Belly Chips
Crispy, salty, and melt-in-your-mouth, these Pork Belly Chips with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce are a must-try side for any carnivore. The tangy-sweet honey mustard perfectly complements the rich pork belly flavor, making every bite irresistible.
Simply slice pork belly into 1-inch pieces, bake until crispy, and serve with a homemade honey mustard dipping sauce. In just over an hour, you’ll have a crunchy, savory dish that’s sure to steal the show at any meal. Perfect for a snack or a side, these chips are both easy to make and unforgettable.
Check out the full recipe at Ash Eats.
2. Carnivore Crunchy Beef Bars
Carnivore Crunchy Beef Bars are a savory, high-protein snack that mimics the crunch of nuts in a candy bar, but with all the rich, savory flavor of beef. Ground beef is cooked and dehydrated to create a crunchy texture, while ghee (or butter) binds everything together, adding a subtle sweetness. A sprinkle of sea salt enhances the flavors, resulting in a satisfying, nutrient-dense snack that’s perfect for the carnivore diet.
To prepare, cook the ground beef until done, then dehydrate it in the oven for 3-4 hours until crispy. Once the beef is dehydrated, mix it with melted ghee and salt, then press it into a container to form bars. Let the mixture cool in the fridge for a few hours until it hardens into bars.
These bars can be stored in the fridge for weeks, making them an ideal on-the-go snack. Enjoy them directly from the fridge for the perfect crunch!
Try this recipe from Ash Eats.
3. Crispy Chicken Skins
Why waste the best part of the chicken? Crispy chicken skins are the ultimate carnivore snack, and they make a fantastic side dish too. Simply remove the skin from chicken thighs, season with salt, and bake until crispy.
The result is a crunchy, savory treat that’s packed with flavor. Serve these alongside your favorite meat dishes for an extra dose of deliciousness, or enjoy them as a snack when you’re craving something crispy.
Here’s the original recipe from Nom Nom Paleo.
4. Meat Chips
Forget potato chips and indulge in these savory, protein-packed meat chips! Crafted from pork loin, beef roast, or turkey sirloin, these snacks deliver an irresistible crunch. Perfectly seasoned with smoked salt, they’re ideal for carnivore cravings. The recipe requires freezing the meat for precision slicing, ensuring ultra-thin, crispy perfection.
Dehydrating at 160–165°F transforms these slices into crunchy, satisfying chips that rival any store-bought snack. The key? Slice against the grain for that delightful snap! Store leftovers in an airtight container, and re-crisp them in the oven if needed.
Visit Oh, The Things We’ll Make for the complete recipe.
5. Bone Marrow Butter
Upgrade your carnivore sides with this rich, velvety bone marrow butter. Start by roasting beef bones and garlic at 400°F to unlock their deep, savory flavors. Once cooled, extract the marrow with ease, and blend it into softened ghee or butter for an ultra-smooth texture.
Herbs like oregano and rosemary can add aromatic depth, but for a pure carnivore twist, omit them and let the marrow’s natural flavor shine. Season lightly with sea salt and ground pepper, and mold the mixture into a roll or store it in a dish.
This butter enhances steaks, roasts, or even grilled vegetables for an indulgent finishing touch!
For a guide on how to prepare it, visit CaveGirl Cuisine.
6. Creamy Egg Yolk Sauce
Transform your meals with this velvety, carnivore-friendly Hollandaise sauce. Made from rich egg yolks and butter, this classic recipe delivers creamy decadence. Skip the lemon juice and cayenne for a pure, savory flavor that complements meats without compromise.
Gently whisk the yolks over simmering water until thickened, then incorporate butter piece by piece for a smooth, luscious texture. Serve immediately to elevate steak, roasted meats, or eggs.
This luxurious sauce is perfect for those embracing carnivorous dining, adding richness and elegance to every bite. A true staple for indulgent, protein-packed dishes!
Check out this simple recipe at Serious Eats.
7. Carnivore Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a classic that’s easily adapted for the carnivore diet. Mix hard-boiled egg yolks with a dollop of mayonnaise, a dash of mustard, and some crispy bacon bits for added texture and flavor.
These deviled eggs are rich, satisfying, and perfect as a side dish or snack. They’re also easy to prepare ahead of time, making them a convenient option for gatherings or meal prep. You can even get creative with toppings like smoked salmon or extra bacon for added indulgence.
Try this recipe from The Primal.
8. Carnivore Fried Chicken Strips
These Carnivore Fried Chicken Strips are a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional fried chicken, with no breadcrumbs or industrial seed oils.
Made with chicken thighs or tenders, they’re coated in a flavorful blend of finely ground pork cracklings (or pork rinds) for a crunchy, satisfying crust. The chicken is dipped in beaten eggs before being coated in the pork crackling powder, ensuring a thick, crispy layer.
The strips can be baked in the oven or cooked in an air fryer, offering a healthier cooking method without compromising on flavor. Each batch results in perfectly crispy, tender chicken that’s ideal for dipping in your favorite carnivore-friendly sauces like honey mustard or ranch.
These strips are not only easy to make but also store well in the fridge for up to three days, making them a great meal prep option.
Get the full recipe at Ash Eats.
A World of Flavor Beyond Meat
Who says a carnivore diet has to be monotonous? With these 8 carnivore-friendly side dishes, you can add variety, texture, and a whole lot of flavor to your meals without stepping outside the boundaries of your meat-based lifestyle.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or preparing a feast for fellow carnivores, these sides will enhance your meals and keep your taste buds excited. Happy cooking!
