Title: 18 Nutritious Recipes for Weight Gain Quickly
Are you looking to put on some healthy weight? Gaining weight can be just as challenging as losing it, especially when you’re trying to do so in a nutritious way. The key is to focus on calorie-dense foods that are rich in nutrients and will help you build lean muscle mass. In this article, we’ll share 18 delicious and nutritious recipes that are perfect for those looking to gain weight quickly.
From creamy smoothies and hearty pasta dishes to indulgent desserts and satisfying snacks, our recipe collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re an athlete trying to bulk up or simply want to put on some healthy pounds, these recipes will provide the boost you need to reach your goals. So grab a pen and paper (or open up your favorite cookbook app), because it’s time to get cooking!
Creamy Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this creamy and delicious peanut butter banana smoothie that’s perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, peanut butter, and honey.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the Greek yogurt and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately. You can add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker texture.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and enjoy.
High-Calorie Avocado Toast with Eggs
Start your day off right with this decadent breakfast treat that combines the creaminess of avocado, the richness of eggs, and the crunch of toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 4 large eggs
– 1 baguette or ciabatta loaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added spice
Instructions:
1. Preheat your toaster or oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
3. Melt 1-2 tablespoons of butter on each slice, then set aside.
4. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Mash them with a fork until mostly smooth.
5. Fry the eggs in a non-stick pan over medium heat until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired doneness.
6. Assemble the toast by spreading mashed avocado on each slice, topping with a fried egg, and sprinkling with salt and pepper to taste.
7. If desired, add red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Mashed Potatoes with Butter
Elevate your mashed potatoes game with this simple yet indulgent recipe that combines the comfort of butter, cheese, and creamy spuds. Perfect as a side dish or a main event.
Ingredients:
– 3 large Russet potatoes
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons grated cheddar cheese (or more to taste)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Boil the potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes.
3. Drain and return potatoes to the pot with butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth.
4. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until well combined.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Protein-Packed Chicken Alfredo Pasta
A creamy and protein-rich pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup low-fat chicken broth
– 1/2 cup reduced-fat cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
4. Add garlic, chicken broth, and cream to skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Sweet Potato with Cheese and Sour Cream
Elevate your snack game with this loaded sweet potato recipe that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with creamy cheese and tangy sour cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or bacon bits for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, mix softened butter and sour cream in a bowl.
4. Remove sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
5. Slit each sweet potato lengthwise and top with shredded cheese, then dollop with the butter-sour cream mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions or bacon bits, if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Homemade Granola with Nuts and Honey
Elevate your breakfast game with this easy-to-make homemade granola recipe, packed with crunchy nuts and a hint of honey sweetness. Perfect for snacking or topping yogurt and oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, and brown sugar.
3. In a small saucepan, heat honey over low heat until warm and runny. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour the honey mixture over the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until lightly toasted.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before breaking into chunks.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rich Chocolate Milkshake with Whipped Cream
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this decadent treat that combines the richness of chocolate and creaminess of whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vanilla ice cream
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– Chocolate syrup or shaved chocolate (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine ice cream, milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Top the milkshake with the whipped cream and drizzle with chocolate syrup or sprinkle shaved chocolate, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (blending) + 1 minute (whipping)
Beef and Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender beef and melted cheese with sweet bell peppers for a satisfying and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off tops of bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook beef, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up with spoon.
4. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture, followed by cooked rice and shredded cheese.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish, spray or drizzle with oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Mac and Cheese with Bacon
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of crispy bacon, creating a rich and satisfying comfort food dish. This recipe combines creamy goodness with smoky savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add butter and whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, cheddar, mozzarella, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Add the bacon and cream mixture, stirring until well combined.
7. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Nut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats
Start your day with a creamy and sweet treat that’s ready when you are! These overnight oats combine the best of both worlds – nut butter and jelly – for a delicious breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon grape jelly
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional toppings: sliced banana, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of honey
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container, combine oats, almond milk, peanut butter, grape jelly, and vanilla extract. Stir until the peanut butter is fully incorporated.
2. Cover the jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (8-10 hours).
3. Just before serving, give the oats a good stir to redistribute the ingredients.
4. Top with your desired toppings, if using.
Cooking Time: None! The oats will be ready when you wake up.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Tomato Soup
This recipe combines the gooey goodness of grilled cheese with the warm, comforting taste of tomato soup for a match made in heaven. Perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 slices of cheddar, American, or your preferred cheese
– 1 tablespoon of butter
– 1 medium-sized tomato, diced (for the soup)
– 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 can of condensed tomato soup
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Add cheese on top of the bread, then place the second slice, butter-side up.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and flip.
6. Meanwhile, combine broth, condensed tomato soup, and diced tomato in a pot.
7. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
8. Serve the grilled cheese sandwich with a bowl of warm tomato soup.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
High-Calorie Trail Mix with Dried Fruits
Elevate your snack game with this indulgent trail mix recipe, packed with sweet and crunchy elements to satisfy your cravings. Perfect for a quick energy boost or as a post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed nuts (peanuts, almonds, cashews)
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup honey-roasted peanuts
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed nuts and set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together dried cranberries, chopped dark chocolate chips, honey-roasted peanuts, and golden raisins.
3. Add the dry mixture to the nut mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Sprinkle brown sugar over the top and toss gently to distribute.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply mix and enjoy.
Cheesy Spinach and Mushroom Quesadilla
Savor the flavors of this creamy, cheesy quesadilla filled with sautéed spinach and mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, mushrooms, and a pinch of salt. Heat the olive oil in the skillet and sauté the mixture until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla. Add the cooked spinach-mushroom mixture on top of the cheese.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
5. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also lightly browned.
6. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Banana Bread with Walnuts and Chocolate Chips
This classic banana bread recipe gets a delicious twist by adding crunchy walnuts and sweet chocolate chips, creating a perfect treat for any time of day. With its moist texture and rich flavors, this loaf is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, eggs, and softened butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts and chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice
This classic seafood dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, served atop flavorful jasmine rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the jasmine rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Stir in any accumulated juices from the shrimp.
6. Serve the garlic butter shrimp atop the cooked jasmine rice. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Protein Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these protein-packed pancakes and a drizzle of pure Canadian maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 scoop whey protein powder
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
– Maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine protein powder, oats, almond flour, and baking powder.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together almond milk, egg, and salt.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
4. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until bubbles appear on surface.
5. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 minutes
Loaded Nachos with Ground Beef and Cheese
Get ready to devour a platter of gooey, cheesy goodness loaded with savory ground beef and crunchy tortilla chips. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for game days, parties, or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortilla chips
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and taco seasoning to the ground beef; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Spread cooked ground beef mixture evenly over tortilla chips.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the top.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Top with chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeño, and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Creamy Pasta Carbonara with Pancetta
This classic Italian dish gets a rich and creamy twist with the addition of pancetta, adding a deep smokiness to the traditional carbonara. This recipe is quick, easy, and indulgent enough for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium skillet, cook pancetta over low heat until crispy.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss until coated with egg mixture.
5. Add cooked pancetta to the bowl and toss until combined.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Are you struggling to gain weight? Look no further! This article presents 18 delicious and nutritious recipes designed specifically for weight gain. From creamy smoothies and high-calorie snacks to hearty meals and indulgent treats, these recipes are packed with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates to support muscle growth and weight gain. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just looking to bulk up, these mouth-watering dishes are sure to satisfy your appetite and help you achieve your goals.
