This Keto Cheese Ball Recipe Is Loaded With All Your Fave Potato Fixings

When it comes to appetizers, the retro cheese ball is almost always met with excitement from the crowd. If you’ve gone keto, here’s a version you can safely nosh on too. Since you may be craving a baked potato, we pulled all the traditional fixings (cheddar cheese, chives, and bacon “bits”) and weaved them into this umami-licious, low-carb cheese ball. You can do your best to stop after one bite, but none of us have had success holding back. Rather than carb-heavy crackers, which are the traditional dipper, opt for crunchy vegetable medallions like radish, cucumber, and pepper. If you’ve been extra good with your carb count, toss in a few rainbow-hued baby carrots.

Keto cheese ball RECIPE

Serves 6-8

Ingredients:

Directions:

1. Mince garlic, and then add a generous pinch of salt. Mash the garlic and salt mixture with the flat side of your knife until a paste forms.

2. In a medium-sized bowl, stir garlic paste, chives, Worcestershire sauce, and cream cheese together until well combined. Then stir in cheddar cheese. Use a spatula to form a ball out of the cream cheese.

3. Refrigerate for 20 minutes, or until the texture has firmed up slightly.

4. In a small casserole dish or another dish with a flat surface, add bacon crumbles. Take the cheese ball and roll it in the bacon, patting the spices into the ball, until the ball is completely covered.

5. Place cheese ball on a small plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve cheese ball with veggie wedges.

Tag your cheeseball @britandco on Instagram so we can can be jealous.

  • 1 clove garlic
  • salt
  • 1/2 bunch chives, thinly sliced
  • 1 (8-ounce package) cream cheese, at room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 3 ounces bacon crumbles (microwave until very very crispy)
  • veggies, for serving (like peppers, cucumber, etc., cut into 1/4-inch thick medallions)

To us, the avocado toast craze is still in full swing. We'd happily take our Instagram feeds flooded with aesthetically-pleasing pics of avo toast! The crunchy-yet-creamy combo is delicious, nutritious, and easy to make, but let’s keep it real: the classic version of avocado toast (crispy bread + smashed avocado + sea salt + olive oil + lemon juice) has become a little — dare we say, basic?

With the help of a few tasty toppings, you can upgrade your avocado toast game and give this foodie favorite quite the gourmet flair. The results will make your followers jealous, but your taste buds oh-so happy. Check out this list of avocado toast recipes to keep your meals inspired!

Avocado Egg Salad

Made with four ingredients, this mayo-free avocado + egg salad is a game changer. It’s a fabulous make-ahead lunch that will give your work day some extra excitement! (via The Roasted Root)

Autumn Avocado Toast

We’re confident this toasted avocado toast treat can be enjoyed all year long, especially on chilly days or nights when you’re craving something that's both sweet and savory. (via How Sweet Eats)

Cottage Cheese Avocado Toast

Cottage cheese is a super easy way to give your avocado toast recipes a boost of protein! Its cheesy, creamy consistency blends exceptionally well with mashed or sliced avocado, and in this delicious case, fresh tomatoes. (via The Fast Recipe)

Roasted Chickpea Avocado Toast

Same goes for chickpeas! They're a nice, cheap source of vegan protein that can make your avocado toast recipes more fulfilling. This recipe calls for you to pan-roast them, so they get crispy and flavorful. (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Avocado Toast with Roasted Asparagus on Multigrain

This loaded toast is good for meals beyond just breakfast. The hearty roasted asparagus will warm you up from the inside out, all while incorporating tons of vitamins and minerals in each bite. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Avocado Toast with Brown Butter Sesame Seeds

The brown butter sesame seeds that adorn the top of this toast add a much-needed note of umami, balancing out the creamy avo in no time. (via The Original Dish)

Grilled Corn, Feta, + Egg in a Hole Avocado Toast

Bet you've never seen an avocado toast recipe like this before! This pick gets topped with grilled corn, feta cheese, egg, and if you feel like going gourmet with it, some fresh peach slices. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Avocado + Heirloom Tomato Toast

We can all agree that avocado toast is what dreams are made of. But when you add fresh, ripened tomatoes and drizzle some balsamic vinegar on top, it takes your avocado toast dreams to a whole new level. (via Blissful Basil)

Open-Faced Lemon Pepper Artichoke and Arugula Sandwich

Better known as fancy toast, this gourmet knife-and-fork meal tastes as good as it looks. With a stellar combo of white bean hummus, artichokes, lemon juice, baby arugula, and sweet balsamic glaze, this savory-yet-subtly sweet avocado toast will likely become your new favorite food. (via Veggie and the Beast)

Avocado Toast With Charred Tomatoes, Garlic Shrimp and Fried Egg

Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a late night snack, this flavorful and nutritious version of avo toast will have you thanking the food gods! (via Domesticate Me)

Avocado and Crab Crostini

Top your avocado toast with fresh, buttery crab and toasted baguette slices, then be prepared for your life to change — it’s that good. Serve these slices as an appetizer when hosting your next soirée, and your guests will be begging for the recipe. (via Confessions of a Chocoholic)

Green Goddess Toast

Roasted spring vegetables, tahini sauce, and avocado. Do we even need to say more? (via Feed Me Phoebe)

Vegan Hummus on Avocado Toast

If you’re getting a little bored with your avocado toast, but don’t want to put in a ton of effort to renew the meal, this recipe is for you! Slow-roasted tomatoes, hemp hearts, avocado, and hummus make for a winning combination. This also makes for the perfect post-workout snack! (via Oh She Glows)

Avocado Toast With Crisped Prosciutto

This take on avocado toast will make you hungry just thinking about it. Don’t say we didn’t warn you! (via Honest Cooking)

Spicy Steak and Avocado Toast

Don’t be afraid to step outside the box when it comes to your avocado toast recipes. Whether you’re headed to a summer potluck or making a meal for your boo, this filling steak dish will thrill even the pickiest eater. (via Heather Christo)

Smoked Salmon and Smashed Avocado Tartines

You’ll get a nutrient-rich dose of heart-healthy fats, vitamins, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids with these tasty avo-smothered tartines. (via Baker by Nature)

Spicy Maple Bacon and Scrambled Eggs on Avocado Toast

Are you just drooling reading the name of this dish? We are! Pair this crave-worthy comfort food with mimosas, and declare yourself the queen of brunch. (via Domesticate Me)

Which of these avocado toast recipes are you super excited to try? Let us know in the comments!

Lead image via Half Baked Harvest.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

College and high school graduations are just around the corner, and you may be wondering what to get your favorite Gen Z grads. Luckily for you, we compiled a list of 15 fabulous graduation gifts for every price range that are guaranteed to put a smile on your graduate’s face!

Set of 4 Meal Prep Containers

Who doesn’t love pretty Tupperware? Whether your 2024 grad is a gym rat or a library lover, they will definitely find a good use for these air-tight, leak-proof containers.

Benevolence LA New Beginnings Scented Soy Candle

Send them off with this sweet-scented candle that celebrates their achievements, as well as the next steps ahead of them!

A Hundred Other Girlsby Iman Hariri-Kia

This book is like a modern day Devil Wears Prada, and would make the perfect gift for any grad going into journalism, media, or PR — especially if they’re moving to a big city.

Stanley Quencher H2.0

Hydration is key for anyone, especially a new college student that's running between classes, club meetings, and friend hangs! This tumbler will also keep their liquids cold overnight so they don't have to go down the dorm hall in the middle of the night for a fresh refill.

Dagne Dover Mila Repreve® Recycled Polyester Large Toiletry Organizer Bag

If you're sending off a high school grad to communal dorms, they'll definitely benefit from having a compact toiletry bag like this one. This style is particularly nice since it's made from recycled polyester that resists water and debris.

2024 Daily Planner

Using a planner is such an underrated way to stay organized, whether it's prepping for college coursework or adulting stuff like work events, grocery shopping, and plans with friends. This all-in-one daily planner will help your grad keep their ducks in a row with fields for all of life's details.

Honeywell Mini Cool Mist Humidifier

This humidifier, made especially for small rooms and personal spaces (ahem, dorm rooms!) helps maintain humidity levels between 40-60%, which can help relieve congestion and keep the throat and nasal passages hydrated to prevent sickness. This is crucial for soon-to-be college students who may hang around a lot of different people.​

Fresh Sends Flower Bouquet

Flowers are a staple for any major life event, especially a graduation! Fresh Sends is perfect for sending beautiful bouquets for those who live far away, since they ship directly to the recipient's door.

The Beast Mini Blender

This super-effective, high-power portable blender is the perfect size for a dorm room or small apartment, plus it's very aesthetically-pleasing even if it's just sitting on the shelf. It comes equipped with a screw-on lid and straw, too, so your grad can take it on walks and in the car.

Béis The Sport Backpack

Perfect for grads on the go, this bag can hold their water bottle, phone, wallet and so much more when they're trekking across campus.

Loop Quiet Equinox Earplugs

These design-forward earplugs are multipurpose – they block out extra noise for study sessions and sleep time, or even loud parties and concerts! Your grad will appreciate that they come with an easy-to-carry case for keeping them on-hand in unforeseen, noisy situations.

Crush Your Goals Inner Truth Affirmations Deck

For an extra dose of motivation, this 40-count deck of cards will keep them going when times get tough!

Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

Coffee will ​always ​be a part of any new grad's life. Keep 'em caffeinated with this convenient coffee maker that's compatible with K-Cups for everyday ease.

Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers

Hokas are undoubtedly the cool girl of running shoes, and they will definitely make your grad hit the pavement smiling, no matter if they're stepping foot on their college campus for the first time or making big moves in a new city.

Great Jones The Starting Lineup

This trio of cookware is such a stylish way to give your recipient's post-grad kitchen an upgrade. All three pieces are oven-safe and dishwasher-friendly to make cleanup a breeze.

Find all of the greatest gifts with Brit + Co!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Low-carb recipes are wonderful because they serve up a mix of heart-healthy fats, protein, and healthy carbs (like veggies) that may help lower your risk for certain conditions like Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Got too much on your plate to cook those healthy low-carb meals that take literal hours? We got you. Just set aside an hour tops, and you can have a balanced meal on the table (and leftovers for lunch!) all week long. It really doesn't get much better than that!

Here are some of our favorite low-carb recipes that may just inspire you to toss those delivery menus out for good. They'll inspire you and remind you that being healthy doesn't mean skimping on flavor or variety.


Chilled Strawberry Soup

When it's too hot to even *think* about grilling a hamburger (that's how you know it's really hot), consider a chilly lunch instead. This pick is flavorful and will use up all those strawberries you have sitting in your fridge. (via Brit + Co)

Chicken Salad Keto Lettuce Wraps

Lettuce wraps make this recipe handheld, portable, and perfect for picnics, barbecues, and work. Top with raspberries and walnuts for some extra color and texture. (via Brit + Co)

Sweetgreen's Spicy Cashew Dressing

When you have a signature dressing on-hand, all of your salads, pasta salads, and sandwiches get exponentially better. (via Brit + Co)


Cardi B’s Spicy Bowl Recipe

Leave it to Cardi B to give us the best bowl recipe ever. Fair warning: if you don't like spicy foods, you'll really, really need to test this before you make a whole batch. (via Brit + Co)

Low-Carb Cauliflower Quiche Cups

These bites make for the *perfect* afternoon snack. Not only do they have cauliflower, but the kale and tomatoes add some extra nutrients. (via Brit + Co)

Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Get your share of delicious veggies smothered with mozzarella and parmesan, and achieve ketosis without the lingering hunger. (via Brit + Co)

Winter Greens & Citrus Salad

A crunchy salad is the ideal dinner when you just need a light meal. This colorful recipe features atahini-ginger dressing that's totally the bomb dot com. (via Brit + Co)

Whole30 Instant Pot Baked Potato Soup

As s creamy comfort soup at its finest, this Whole30-approved recipe is actually made with cashews and nutritional yeast instead of dairy! That's a double diet win! (via Brit + Co)

Bang Bang Cauliflower

Who needs chicken when cauliflower will do the trick instead? This straightforward dish works great for dinner or as a side dish — your choice. (via Brit + Co)

Low Carb Recipes That Are Both Delicious And Healthy

Keto Cauliflower Rice Casserole

Casseroles are one of our favorite comfort foods, but they're not always the healthiest option. The zucchini, mushrooms, and cheeses in this recipe are so flavorful, that you won't even notice the missing carbs. (via Brit + Co)

Keto Cheese Ball

Eating for one? This low-carb recipe is the perfect answer to a light dinner that's as good (or better) as a baked potato. And if you get peckish later, check out one of these low carb snacks. (via Brit + Co)

Brown Butter Salmon with Capers and Tomatoes

Simple, clean, and *so* tasty! Opt for quick sautéed wild salmon with just a few basic ingredients and enjoy big time flavor with your low-carb diet. (via Brit + Co)

Lemon Miso Spring Green Soup

Make this recipe for a very healthy, veggie-packed soup. This spring medley is as delicious as it is nutritious, plus it's quick and low in carbs. (via Brit + Co)

Whole30 Animal Style In-N-Out Burger

You can indeed transform an In-N-Out Animal-Style burger into a Whole30 masterpiece, down to a low-sugar special sauce and crunchy lettuce wrap. Make the caramelized onions ahead of time to cut down on the total cook time for this easy low-carb dinner idea. (via Brit + Co)

Mexican-Style Hot Dogs in Lettuce Wraps

Instead of a bun, this recipe uses lettuce wraps to keep things low-carb. The beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado add some fresh and oh-so delicious flavors. (via Brit + Co)

Steamed Sea Bass with Broccoli, Mushrooms, and Summer Squash

With lemons, squash, and other veggies, this easy recipe is a great option for summer dinners. If you're watching your saturated fats intake, just swap butter for EVOO. (via Brit + Co)

Cheesy Bacon Brussels Sprouts

When you need a bowl of mac and cheese, this bacon-y Brussels sprouts in a thick cheese sauce will curb your noodle cravings. This low-carb recipe yields a big, casserole-sized batch, so you can munch on leftovers all week long. (via Brit + Co)

Photo via Ghazalle Badiozamani

Instant Pot Chinese Sesame Chicken

Eat this versatile chicken with a side of veggies for dinner, and simply reheat the next day for a salad or lettuce wrap. (via The Whole30 Slow Cookerfor Brit + Co)

Keto Ricotta Chicken Meatballs

Rich dark-meat chicken forms stellar meatballs with almond flour, heavy cream, and Parmesan and ricotta cheeses. Serve them with roasted vegetables or your favorite low-carb pasta substitute! (via Brit + Co)

Healthy Egg Muffins

Easy egg breakfast for dinner? We say "yes, please!" These bites go well as a savory app to snack on before your main dish! (via Brit + Co)

Keto Churro Cloud Bread

If you're avoiding cinnamon sugar cookies and churros after dinner, this cloud bread dessert is the next best thing. Plus it'll take you less than 30 minutes to make! (via Brit + Co)

Keto Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs

It's amazing how far a little almond meal and zucchini can go in place of bread and… well, more bread. This recipe is quick, low-carb, and oh-so filling for a weeknight dinner win. (via Brit + Co)

Photo via Ditte Isager

Halibut en Papillote with Lemon, Mushrooms, and Toasted Sesame Oil

This healthy (and quite fancy) fish dish fills your kitchen with the aromas of ginger and toasted sesame oil— and it even makes halibut taste glamorous. (via The Clean Plate: Eat, Reset, Heal for Brit + Co)

Fennel Salad with Blood Orange, Thyme, and Toasted Walnuts

Say hello to one of the most creative salads you've probably ever seen. With oranges, fennel, thyme, and roasted walnuts, this meal is full of winter's bounty, but if it's hard to find some of the ingredients once the weather warms up, swap for some in-season toppings (like peaches) instead. (via Brit + Co)

Paleo Shepherd's Pie

Don't let the cauliflower-mash topping turn you skeptical. This healthier take on a classic savory pie remains just as comforting with hearty ground beef and tender veggies. It's also flavored well with onion, cumin, coriander, and red pepper. (via Brit + Co)

From Pizza To Salmon, We Have Plenty Of Low-Carb Recipe Ideas To Share

Keto Cauliflower Rice Bowl

Make these customizable “rice" bowls when you need to clear your fridge of odds and ends like leftover meat, vegetables, and condiments. (via Brit + Co)

Keto Matcha Cheesecake

Low-carb recipes don't have to be boring, and this keto dessert proves it! Matcha and sugar-free chocolate chips are a true delight here. (via The Essential Instant Pot Keto Cookbookby Casey Thaler for Brit + Co)

Bacon and Gruyère Sous Vide Egg Bites

Enjoy this Starbucks copycat recipe as a new breakfast fave without all the carbs. Don't worry though, this recipe still has all the bacon-y, cheesy goodness you could ever want! (via Brit + Co)

Low-Carb Egg in a Basket

You won't miss the bread in this low-carb version of eggs in a hole, as its cauliflower-crust base tastes *just* like crisped cheese. (via Cali'Flour Kitchen for Brit + Co)

Chocho Carrot Muffins

Chocho flour — which has been eaten in South American Andean communities for generations — is a great way to get in some of your favorite baked goods, without the same levels of carbs that you might find in more mainstream flours. (via Brit + Co)

Mini Cloud Bread Pepperoni Pizzas

Cloud bread, a miracle mixture of baked eggs, cheese, and cream of tartar, satisfies the carb-y cravings of keto dieters everywhere. We like it best topped with pizza sauce, more cheese, and plenty of pepperoni. (via Brit + Co)

Keto Ramen Zoodles

Swapping traditional noodles for zucchini noodles allows you to enjoy richly flavored ramen, crispy pork belly, jammy egg, and all, without the dreaded carb bloat. (via Brit + Co)

Pan-Seared Fish with Buttery Caper Sauce

Use a pan-searing technique to cook your favorite lean fish, such as tilapia or striped bass. When a quick pan sauce of butter, capers, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs is involved, you really can't go wrong. (via Brit + Co)

Cheesy Garlic Roasted Asparagus

When you're craving garlic bread, whip up this insanely cheesy side dish instead. It gives you both a dose of greens and a ton of garlicky flavor. (via Cafe Delites for Brit + Co)

Spaghetti Squash Pasta

Make three different pasta sauces — sugo, arugula pesto, and lemon ricotta — and you'll be excited to eat spaghetti squash all week. (via Brit + Co)

Image via Rachel Mansfield

Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl

Make a healthy lunch and save some cash when you make this yummy Sweetgreen copycat recipe. That's two thumb's up from us! (via Brit + Co)

Blackened Chicken and Avocado Salad

This popular Pinterest salad gained fame for many reasons, but the tender 20-minute chicken on top might be the most compelling part. Indulge in this low-carb recipe for dinner any night of the week, since it's super easy to prepare. (via North South Blonde for Brit + Co)

The Best Main Course, Side Dish, And Dessert Low-Carb Recipes To Cut Back On Carbs

Baked Almond-Crusted Cod

Skip your typical chicken breast in favor of this heart-healthy cod that's crusted with almonds and parmesan, and served with a lemony yogurt sauce. (via Brit + Co)

Low-Carb Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs

These babies, which feature smoked salmon, lemon, and dill, make for an amazing Easter brunch addition. (via Brit + Co)

Keto Steak Cheese-Shell Tacos

The best part of this low-carb recipe (second to the crispy cheddartaco shells, of course) is the leftover taco-seasoned steak, which you can use to top salads, wraps, and other lunches later on. (via Brit + Co)

Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas

This garlicky marinated shrimp dish needs just 8 minutes in the oven to form a hearty accompaniment to roasted peppers and onions, riced cauliflower, and any low-carb ingredient under the sun. This flavorful (and low-carb) bite will seriously blow you away. (via Brit + Co)

Crispy Chicken Thighs with Honey-Lemon Pan Sauce

No part of flavorful chicken thighs goes to waste in this single-skillet dish, which makes a pan sauce from leftover chicken juices, butter, garlic, honey, and lemon juice. (via Brit + Co)

Paleo Instant Pot Orange Chicken

You can make this healthy orange chicken faster than you could grab it from Panda Express. This diet-friendly version employs coconut sugar and orange zest to replicate the classic's citrusy sweetness, while arrowroot powder maintains the signature crispy crust. It's a classic in our arsenal of easy low-carb meals. (via Brit + Co)

Ketotarian Alfredo Zoodles

This creamy zoodle dish, laden with a dairy-free macadamia-nut “alfredo" sauce, proves that a keto-vegetarian diet is both possible and delicious. (via Brit + Co)

Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potatoes

In lieu of French fries, try this baked and bacon-wrapped alternative. Not only are you cutting out the oil, but you're adding in some bacon, which is definitely an upside in our book. (via Brit + Co)

Cauliflower Rice Sushi

If you're looking for something low-carb, you might be hesitant to try sushi, because of the rice that's inside. But there's an easy way to fix that — use cauliflower rice instead! (via Brit + Co)

Smoked Salmon Poke Bites

Turn your go-to poke bowl into bite-sized goodies. They make for an awesome low-carb appetizer, or even an effective WFH snack if you need something filling to hold you over until lunchtime. (via Brit + Co)

Photo via Ghazalle Badiozamani

Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore with Zucchini Noodles

Drift away to the Italian countryside with this vibrant dish of mushrooms, tomatoes, and herbs. (via The Whole30 Slow Cooker for Brit + Co)

Koufteh Ghelgheli

This Middle Eastern recipe is chock full of veggies and lamb meatballs. The flavor pairings of turmeric, pepper, and lemon are simple enough for a beginner cook, but are oh-so tasty. (via Brit + Co)

Low Carb Meal Ideas To Cook For The Whole Family

Cast Iron Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter

Serve this juicy chicken with roasted veggies or a low-carb salad for a healthy weeknight meal. (via Barley & Sage)

Super Green Sundried Tomato Herb Salad with Crispy Chickpeas

Shredded kale, arugula, sun-dried tomatoes, carrots, and fresh herbs are generously tossed in a lemon vinaigrette and topped with crispy chickpeas, toasted pine nuts, feta, and avocado in this low-carb recipe. This pick makes for a great side salad, or you can enjoy it in bigger portions as a main course. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Low-Carb Bell Pepper Sandwiches

Hollow out a bell pepper, and stuff it with a cream cheese-mustard mix, as well as slices of your favorite deli meat and cheese. Load it with spinach, bacon, sprouts, cucumbers to craft a delicious, healthy meal — for really, whatever time of day you want. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Spicy Pesto and Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Involtini

Ribbons of zucchini are rolled up with a pesto and ricotta cheese mixture, and baked in a herby red-pepper tomato sauce. Doesn't that sound so yum? Plus, this dish is super good for you! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Teriyaki Beef Stir Fry

This versatile stir fry is a great way to get some low-carb veggies into your diet. Swap the beef for chicken, or another easy protein like tofu. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Grilled Caprese Pesto Chicken Skewers

Grill up pesto chicken and cherry tomatoes, then serve with burrata cheese and fresh basil for some low-carb, late-summer meal perfection. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

Slice up a zucchini, toss it in olive oil and spices, and pop it in the air fryer to get these crunchy zucchini chips. A low-carb snack is as easy as that! (via A Spicy Perspective)

Spicy Oregano Meatballs with Grilled Vegetables and Tzatziki

Spicy meatballs and grilled vegetables are tossed in lemon-herb vinaigrette and served with cooling, creamy tzatziki. This low-carb meal option will win everyone over! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Pesto Salmon

Salmon gets a nice crunch from the tiniest bit of panko breadcrumbs, while pesto gives it a burst of herby flavor. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Turkish Eggs

This low-carb breakfast, AKA çilbir (pronounced chil-bir), is a popular breakfast in Turkey that's made with poached eggs over creamy, garlicky yogurt, and drenched in a warm spicy butter. (via Forks & Foliage)

4-Cheese Roasted Garlic Alfredo Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Swap pasta for spaghetti squash and stuff it with béchamel sauce, sage, and roasted garlic. There's no other way to do it! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Chicken Fajitas

Why opt for takeout when you can make your own Mexican dishes at home? Begin with this easy fajitas recipe that doesn't skimp on healthy additions. (via Culinary Hill)

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

These baked meatballs make a great addition to any low-carb wraps or bowls you have planned. (via Bowl of Delicious)

Easy Carrot Pumpkin Soup

This warm bowl of soup is so fitting for the fall season. When you need a comfort meal, this low-carb dish comes in hot with flavor. (via The Fast Recipe)

Greek Chicken Bowls

The Mediterranean diet is a great gateway to get into eating low-carb. Start with this recipe first! (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Sheet Pan Lemon Dill Salmon with Baby Bok Choy

The lemon and dill included in this recipe pair like a dream with baby bok choy. When you want something healthy yet fancy, reach for this dish. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Pizza with Roasted Onion Cream

Just look at this low-carb recipe. It's delish AF, thanks to the healthy crust, spicy cauliflower, and creamy onion sauce that you could either dip into or drizzle on your pie. (via The First Mess)

Loaded Cheesy Cauliflower Bake

Cauliflower takes on the role of potatoes in this mash recipe that gets saturated in melty cheese! Yum! (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Easy Vegan Ratatouille

Whether you enjoy this low-carb recipe as a side dish or a main course, it's going to deliver on texture and flavor. (via A Virtual Vegan)

One-Skillet Sesame Mango Chicken

One skillet? That means we're in. This simple low-carb recipe is great for low-carb eaters, especially when you pair it with your favorite veggie! (via Averie Cooks)

Low-Carb Lasagna Stuffed Peppers

Get ready to go in on these stuffed peppers. They hold a handful of nutritious ingredients, from ground beef to spinach. (via The Girl On Bloor)

Korean Cauliflower Wings

These cauliflower wings carry a savory-sweet flavor that's sure to satisfy – low-carb style. (via The Edgy Veg)

Vegan Tomato Zucchini Casserole

This easy-to-make casserole is packed with fiber, but is still low on carbs. Using fresh tomatoes and zucchinis will help you achieve that tender, flavorful texture that's great for feeding a crowd. (via Give Recipe)

Low-Carb Mock Potato Salad

This healthy dish is perfect for holiday gatherings and potlucks alike! It replaces potatoes with non-starchy cauliflower, but still retains all the flavor. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Korean Cauliflower Wings

These vibrant vegetarian wings make all other low-carb recipes look drab. The soy-BBQ-garlic sauce is just to die for! (via The Edgy Veg)

Cheesy Sausage + Egg Muffins

You'll always want a batch of these savory low-carb bites on hand to snack on between meals! (via Averie Cooks)

Find more easy low-carb meals, keto cocktails, and keto-friendly dessert ideas by checking out Brit + Co's Food page. Join our newsletter for more recipes and inspiration!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

I have such a love/hate relationship with haircuts. While I love the feeling of a fresh look as much as the next girl, I hate having to spend $100+ for a simple cut and blow dry session. During my recent trim, I talked with my hairdresser, Jack Rehak of Jack’s Hair Design in Hinsdale, Illinois, about ways to keep a haircut looking new and best practices for keeping hair healthy. Here's what he had to say!

Here's How Often You Should Cut Your Hair, According To Professionals

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

I’ll admit it — it had been eight months since my last haircut. My hair had lost its shape, my layers were nowhere to be found, and my ends were begging for mercy. Life got busy over the last few months and I was neglecting my haircare like never before.

My hairdresser could immediately see that I was beyond due for a cut and said I needed to get more taken off than I was hoping. I was definitely disappointed — I'd been working on growing out my hair for a while now, and it just felt like my hard work had completely gone to waste. He explained that getting consistent haircuts is the key to growing out healthy and strong hair, rather than letting it grow and grow until it eventually breaks. So let's dig into the top three things you can do to avoid this scenario!

1. Just Get The Dang Haircut

Photo by RDNE Stock project/PEXELS

Also avoiding a haircut like I was? You might want to schedule one at your nearest salon. Like my stylist said, when you wait too long between trims like I did, you risk your hair becoming heavy, dull, and lifeless. When the hair is dry or even dead, it’s nearly impossible for it to hold a curl or style, essentially collapsing on you and taking on more and more heat damage all the while. I know the pain of spending time on a blowout only for it to fall minutes later — it’s the worst.

According to Jack, getting a haircut every 10-12 weeks is the best time frame or your ends will pay the price. Between blow-drying, curling, straightening, sun, and weather, our ends get dry and start to break without the proper care. Getting consistent haircuts allows hair to bounce back, shine, and perform the way we want in a healthy way.

2. Leave-In Conditioners Are Your Friend

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

His top piece of advice to keep your hair looking and feeling hydrated between trims? Invest in conditioning treatments. Jack swears by the Olaplex conditioning system, specifically the No 3 Hair Perfector. Made with patented OLAPLEX Bond Building Technology™, this conditioning treatment repairs and prevents damage in as little as three minutes. No 3 promises to reduce breakage and visibly strengthen hair, so it’s the perfect assistance to keep ends fresh between cuts. Another conditioning treatments I’ve used and loved for years is the Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask, which is designed to restore moisture, elasticity, and shine to dry hair.

3. Switch Up Your Shampoos

Photo by Karolina Grabowska/PEXELS

Switching shampoos frequently is a pretty hot tip that I honestly hadn't thought of. Our hair gets used to the same products and grows tired of them, resulting in lackluster locks. Jack’s advice is to switch brands after finishing every bottle of shampoo to bring life back to your hair. Have two brands that you’re loyal to? Even switching back and forth between them after every bottle should make a big difference in your hair. I’m a huge fan of the R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo, which makes my hair look thick and full, as well as the Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo, which is so hydrating and gives so much shine.

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

In the end, navigating your back-and-forth relationship with haircuts often feels like a rollercoaster ride between wanting that fresh look and cringing at the receipt. Luckily, by using conditioning treatments and switching up your products,, you can keep your locks healthy, shiny, and full of life between trims. But take a newly learned lesson out of my book: don't let your ends pay the price for procrastination and just book the haircut.

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Header image via Nataliya Vaitkevich/PEXELS

With Mother's Day around the corner, it's time to celebrate moms of all kinds, and step moms deserve some special recognition, too! If you're grappling with finding the perfect gift that expresses your love and gratitude for your step mom, these 20 gifts are the way to go. This curated list of thoughtful step mom gifts for Mother's Day will get you going on a gifting kick and make any step mom's heart swell with joy and appreciation. 💓

Rinna Beauty Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil

The glossiness of this lip oil alone will feel like a total gift! One swipe using the soft, sizable wand delivers a sheer tint of color, all while encouraging plumpness and moisture with its peptide formulation.

The Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil from Rinna Beauty comes in 5 other shades for $24 on Amazon.

Anthropologie Faye Planter

For the step mom with an undeniable green thumb, this decorative purple planter from Anthropologie makes repotting process super fun! Dotted in adorable outdoor creature and plant motifs, the pot is not only practical, but looks good, too. It measures about 8 inches in diameter to fit a variety of small house plants.

The Faye Planter is currently on sale for $31 (was $44) for a limited time.

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Cotton Checkered Throw

She's gonna want to live in this cozy throw blanket 24/7. It's crafted from a blend of Barefoot Dreams' CozyChic material and a light cotton for added breathability. The light, neutral checkered pattern makes it the perfect match for any space!

This stylish throw, made to last a lifetime, goes for $148 from Barefoot Dreams.

DedCool Room & Linen Spray

Think of this spray as an instant refresh for any bedroom, bathroom, or living room, supplying a saturated scent of bergamot, vanilla, and amber. It's also compatible to spritz on sheets, blankets, and pillows to create a soothing atmosphere every time your step mom comes home!

The DedCool Room & Linen Spray comes in two other scents for $40.

Compartés Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers 20-Piece Truffle Gift Box

When all your other gift ideas fail, there's nothing wrong with chocolate! This truffle box is perfectly elevated to give as a standalone gift – it's impressively decorated and seamlessly packaged for a memorable Mother's Day treat. Some of the spring-inspired flavors included are: raspberry rose, lavender, poppy seed, and passionfruit.

The Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers gift box is $60 and comes with 20 gourmet truffles.

Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer

This moisturizer delivers 24-hour hydration with a dense formula of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and glycerin. It has a lightweight yet creamy feel, perfect for slathering on under SPF and makeup. Your step mom's skin will absolutely soak this clinically-proven cream up, and she'll be feeling like a new woman every single time she puts it on!

The Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer goes for $32 and is also refillable once it's fully used up.

Little Secret Round Sunglasses

Keep her lookin' so cool with a pair of trendy sunnies! This timeless style from Free People channels the 90's and makes for chic everyday eyewear with any outfit.

The Little Secret Round Sunglasses are shoppable in 5 other colors for $30.

The Pioneer Woman 3-Piece Floral Check Ceramic Lidded Bowl Set

Your step mom's serving, baking, and cooking projects just got such a stylish upgrade! This trio of checkered ceramic bowls designed by The Pioneer Woman make every dish look stunning, plus each one comes equipped with a decorative wooden lid for convenient storage.

This 3-piece bowl set goes for $33 at Walmart.

Sand + Fog Pistachio Dream Eau De Parfum Oil

This perfume oil can be used sparingly – meaning it'll last a long time – and delivers delicious notes of pistachio, vanilla, brown sugar, and cream to make step mom smell like a total treat. She won't want to go a day without putting some on!

This perfume is $13 at Marshall's.

Versed Total Package SPF 30 Body Lotion

This body lotion is really a 2-in-1 deal: hydrating and protective against the sun. It's packed with SPF 30 to give the skin a light shield against harmful UV rays, all while replenishing moisture with a delightfully-smelling mix of cupuaçu butter and grapeseed oil. It's not sticky or oily at all!

The Versed Total Package body lotion is $20 at Target.

Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals

These trendy slip-on sandals from Maeve are the epitome of cool girl style for summertime. Your step mom will be stepping out looking so good with these as a gift! The upper is made from durable leather, while the sole is a comfortable rubber material to withstand walking.

The Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals are shoppable in 4 other colors and are on sale for $104 (was $130) for a limited time.

Chamberlain Coffee Strawberry Matcha Latte Mix

Switch up her morning routine with this deliciously sweet matcha mix from Chamberlain Coffee! It's earthy, fruity, and made with oat milk for otherworldly creaminess. All it requires is some hot water, a good froth, and from there, your step mom can customize her sip with more milk or creamer.

This drink mix goes for $19 at Target.

L.L. Bean Open-Top Boat and Tote

This classic tote bag from L.L. Bean is the perfect vehicle for carrying work essentials, groceries, clothing, and more! It can be ordered in small, medium, large, or extra-large sizes, with the option for short or long straps.

This bag comes in 11 other colors. The small size is $30 and the extra-large is $45.

Ban.do Oven Mitt Pot Holder Set

For the step mom that loves all things colorful, this oven mitt + pot holder set will bring some joy into her kitchen set-up. Both are crafted from cotton with quilted stitching and feature small loops for easy hanging.

The duo is shoppable for $30 from Ban.do.

Auburn Home 3-Piece Glass Taper Candle Holders

These funky candle holders can go together as a set, or spread out around the house for a unique touch. Bundle them with some taper candles to complete the gift!

This colorful trio goes for $25 at Marshall's.

Verloop Raffia Phone Sling

Any on-the-go step mom will appreciate this convenient phone sling for its carrying capabilities, but it's also supremely stylish! The bright colorway is summertime's perfect match, so she can take it along for vacations and outdoor outings alike. The thin shoulder strap is adjustable in length so she can find the best fit for her needs.

The Verloop Raffia Phone Sling is shoppable in three other colors for $38.

Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set

Gift sets are always a good bet if you're stuck on what to get your step mom for Mother's Day. This luxe 4-piece set from Osea comes complete with body butter, body oil, body balm, and body scrub (all inside a cute zip bag) so she can treat herself to a full-on spa day right at home!

The Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set is $52 (a $78 value).

UrbanStems The Parade Bouquet

Flowers are welcome any time of year, but a gorgeous bouquet like this one is so fitting for Mother's Day. With UrbanStems, you can select a specific delivery date, and your step mom will receive a fresh grouping, ready to display at home!

The Parade Bouquet is $60, with the option to add a vase for $15+.

Material Kitchen The Cloud Pitcher

Whether it's used for a batched cocktail or a big serving of iced coffee, this stylish glass pitcher from Material Kitchen is a statement piece to be reckoned with. The glass is surprisingly light for transport, and it's dishwasher-safe for added convenience after the fact!

The Cloud Pitcher comes in three other colors for $95.

Ban.do Meal Planner

This meal planner pad is *the* way to keep track of what she'll make and when she's gonna eat it. It has three lines for each day of the week, plus a roomy list for ingredients she may be missing.

This meal planner is $15 from Ban.do and has 50 sheets.

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