If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, fast food restaurants can seem like dangerous territory. But here’s the good news: Carl’s Jr and Hardee’s actually offer some excellent low-carb options, especially for burger lovers. Whether you’re trying to cut carbs for weight loss, blood sugar control, or general health, you don’t have to give up convenience or flavor.
This guide on how to eat low carb at Carl’s Jr or Hardee’s breaks down the best menu choices, what to avoid, and how to customize your order to stay keto-friendly without sacrificing satisfaction.
🥩 Understanding the Low-Carb and Keto Options
Before diving into the menu, let’s clarify what “low-carb” typically means:
- Low-carb: Generally under 100 grams of carbs per day
- Keto: Typically under 20–50 grams of net carbs per day
At Carl’s Jr and Hardee’s, the key to eating low carb is ditching the bun, fries, and sugary drinks. Focus on protein-heavy items like burgers, eggs, bacon, grilled chicken, and vegetables.
🔥 Best Low Carb & Keto Options at Carl’s Jr and Hardee’s
1. Low Carb Thickburger® (No Bun)
- Net Carbs: ~7g
- Calories: 450
- Details: This is a ⅓ lb. Angus beef patty wrapped in crisp lettuce with tomato, onion, pickles, and mayonnaise. No bun needed!
✅ This is one of the most keto-friendly items on the menu and is a favorite among low-carb dieters.
2. Low Carb Breakfast Bowl (Hardee’s Only)
- Net Carbs: ~5–7g
- Calories: ~660
- Details: A hearty bowl with scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, ham, and cheese—no potatoes or bread in sight.
3. Charbroiled Chicken Club (Lettuce-Wrapped)
- Net Carbs: ~6g
- Calories: ~450
- Details: A grilled chicken breast with bacon, Swiss cheese, lettuce, and tomato, wrapped in lettuce instead of a bun.
4. Double Cheeseburger (Lettuce-Wrapped)
- Net Carbs: ~7g
- Calories: ~470
- Details: Ask for no bun, no ketchup, and lettuce wrap. Add extra pickles, mustard, or jalapeños for more flavor.
5. Egg and Cheese Biscuit (No Biscuit)
- Net Carbs: ~2g
- Calories: ~190
- Details: Ask for just the egg and cheese portion without the biscuit. Add bacon or sausage for extra protein.
🙋 People Also Ask
🔹 Is Carl’s Jr. keto friendly?
Yes! Carl’s Jr. offers a Low Carb Thickburger® and allows customers to lettuce-wrap any burger, making it easy to stay within keto limits. They also provide customizable breakfast options.
🔹 What is the healthiest item at Carl’s Jr?
The Charbroiled Chicken Salad (without croutons) is among the healthiest. For low carb, the Lettuce-Wrapped Chicken Club is a great mix of lean protein and healthy fats.
🔹 How many carbs are in Hardee’s Low Carb Breakfast Bowl?
Approximately 5 to 7 grams of net carbs, depending on additions like cheese or sauce. It’s a great keto breakfast option.
🔹 How many carbs are in Carl’s Jr. Low Carb Burger?
About 6 to 7 grams of net carbs, mostly from vegetables and condiments. The patty itself is carb-free.
✅ Tips for Eating Low Carb at Carl’s Jr and Hardee’s
✔ Ask for Lettuce-Wrapped
This is your go-to replacement for buns. It holds everything together and adds crunch without carbs.
✔ Skip the Fries & Sugary Drinks
Replace fries with a side salad (no croutons) or simply skip it. Opt for water, unsweetened iced tea, or diet soda.
✔ Watch the Sauces
Avoid ketchup, BBQ sauce, and honey mustard. Stick with mayo, mustard, or hot sauce—all low in carbs.
✔ Customize Everything
Don’t hesitate to ask for no bun, no ketchup, extra lettuce, or double meat. Staff are generally familiar with low-carb requests.
🥗 Sample Low-Carb Meal Orders
🍳 Breakfast
“I’d like the Low Carb Breakfast Bowl, please. No toast or hash browns.”
🍔 Lunch
“I’ll take the 1/3 lb. Low Carb Thickburger, lettuce-wrapped, with no ketchup. Add bacon, please.”
🥤 Drink
“Just a bottle of water or unsweetened iced tea.”
🧠 Final Thoughts on How to Eat Low Carb at Carl’s Jr or Hardee’s
Staying low carb doesn’t mean you have to miss out on flavor or convenience. Carl’s Jr and Hardee’s both offer easy, customizable options that fit within low-carb and keto dietary guidelines. Whether you’re grabbing a quick breakfast, lunch on the road, or a protein-packed dinner, just remember to skip the bun, fries, and sugar—and you’re good to go.
By understanding how to eat low carb at Carl’s Jr or Hardee’s, you can enjoy satisfying meals that align with your health goals and keep you energized all day.