Are you struggling to put on pounds? Do you find yourself constantly losing weight, no matter how much you eat? You’re not alone! Gaining healthy weight can be just as challenging as losing it, but with the right recipes, you can finally start building up those calorie reserves. In this article, we’ll share 20 delicious high-calorie recipes that will help you gain weight in a healthy and satisfying way.
From comforting casseroles to decadent desserts, these recipes are designed to provide a boost of energy and nutrients while packing a punch of calories. Whether you’re trying to support muscle growth or simply need a little extra padding, we’ve got you covered with our collection of high-calorie recipes that will leave you feeling full and satisfied.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the first 10 recipes on our list…
Loaded Mac and Cheese with Bacon
This recipe is a twist on the classic macaroni and cheese dish, loaded with crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and a crunchy topping. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish to impress your friends.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 4 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 medium onion, caramelized (see note)
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cooked bacon. Stir until smooth.
4. Add caramelized onions and cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Note: To caramelize onions, cook them in a pan over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and indulgent recipe that combines succulent shrimp with a decadent garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine)
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Pour heavy cream into the skillet and stir in parsley. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and garlic butter sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Add cooked shrimp back into the pasta and toss gently.
8. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Deep Dish Pepperoni Pizza
Experience the classic taste of Chicago-style pizza with this recipe for deep dish pepperoni pizza.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup chopped fresh bell peppers
– 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh onions
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm) and place it in a deep-dish pizza pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Spread the olive oil evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the edges.
4. Top the dough with mozzarella cheese, bell peppers, pepperoni, and onions.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Triple Chocolate Brownies
Satisfy your chocolate cravings with these indulgent brownies packed with three types of chocolate: dark, milk, and white. Perfect for any occasion, these fudgy treats are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cocoa powder until well combined.
4. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Stir in flour, then chocolate chips (semi-sweet, milk, and white).
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cheesy Beef and Potato Casserole
This comforting casserole combines tender beef, creamy potatoes, and a rich cheese sauce, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. With its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Brown ground beef in a skillet; drain excess fat.
3. In a separate pan, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
4. Layer beef mixture, sliced potatoes, and sautéed onion mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Mix shredded cheese with milk and paprika; pour over potato layer.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Buttery Garlic Bread with Mozzarella
This rich and flavorful bread combines the savory goodness of garlic butter with the creaminess of melted mozzarella cheese, perfect for a quick snack or as a side to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of Italian bread (14-16 inches)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the Italian bread into 1-inch thick slices.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly onto each bread slice, leaving a 1/4 inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the garlic butter on each slice.
6. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each slice.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie with Heavy Cream
This rich and creamy smoothie combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the nutty flavor of peanut butter, all blended together with heavy cream for a decadent treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, peanut butter, and honey (if using). Blend until smooth.
2. Add the heavy cream and blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
4. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This smoothie is ready in just a few minutes.
Yield: 1-2 servings
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
A rich and satisfying twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the comfort of chicken alfredo with the ease of a one-dish meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, Alfredo sauce, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each shell with the chicken mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Sprinkle tops of shells with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until shells are golden brown and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender beef, melted cheese, and sweet bell peppers for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika, chili powder, or other spices of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic in a skillet until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Stir in cooked rice, cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture, filling to the top.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika or chili powder if desired.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Homemade Ice Cream Sundae with Hot Fudge
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this indulgent treat featuring creamy homemade ice cream, rich hot fudge, and crunchy toppings. Perfect for a special occasion or simply a Friday night pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup hot fudge sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream, chopped nuts, and a cherry for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add vanilla extract and whisk to combine.
3. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once frozen, scoop into sundae glasses or bowls.
5. Drizzle with hot fudge sauce and top with whipped cream, chopped nuts, and a cherry (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (depending on ice cream maker)
Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the rich flavors of pulled pork! This sweet and savory sandwich combines tender pulled pork, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pulled pork (leftover or store-bought)
– 2 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with pulled pork, shredded cheese, and a dollop of Dijon mustard.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Loaded Nachos with Ground Beef and Cheese
Loaded Nachos with Ground Beef and Cheese Recipe
Get ready to satisfy your snack cravings with this loaded nacho recipe, packed with flavorful ground beef, melted cheese, and crunchy toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of nacho cheese sauce
– 6-8 tortilla chips
– Optional toppings: jalapeños, sour cream, diced tomatoes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Spoon the cooked ground beef mixture over the tortilla chips, followed by the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
6. Pour the nacho cheese sauce over the top of the nachos.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Creamy Carbonara with Pancetta
Pancetta adds a deep, savory flavor to this classic carbonara recipe, while the cream and eggs create a rich and indulgent sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices pancetta or bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl with egg mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the bowl in small increments if needed to achieve creamy consistency.
6. Stir in cooked pancetta and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Milkshake
Get ready to indulge in a creamy, dreamy treat that combines the best of both worlds – chocolate chip cookie dough and milkshake. This indulgent drink is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vanilla ice cream
– 1/2 cup chocolate chip cookie dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and chocolate chips for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine ice cream, cookie dough, milk, and butter. Blend until smooth and creamy.
2. Add vanilla extract and blend until combined.
3. Pour into glasses and top with whipped cream and chocolate chips, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (depending on the speed of your blender)
Tips:
– Use high-quality cookie dough for the best flavor.
– Adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired thickness.
– Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Get ready to spice up your snack game with these crispy, savory, and slightly sweet Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers!
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jalapeños peppers
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut off the stems and carefully cut a slit down one side of each jalapeño pepper.
3. Stuff each pepper with about 1-2 teaspoons of cream cheese, leaving a small border at the top.
4. Wrap each stuffed pepper with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
5. Place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Mashed Potatoes with Sour Cream
This classic comfort food recipe gets a rich and creamy twist with the addition of sour cream. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup milk or half-and-half
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work best)
– 2 tablespoons sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
3. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until well combined.
4. Add the sour cream and mix until fully incorporated.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter and Jelly French Toast
A twist on the classic breakfast staple, this Peanut Butter and Jelly French Toast combines creamy peanut butter with sweet jelly for a tasty treat. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick morning pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1 tbsp grape or strawberry jelly
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– Pinch of salt
– Maple syrup or powdered sugar for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and pinch of salt.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
5. Spread peanut butter on one slice of French toast and jelly on another slice.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the peanut butter slice with the jelly slice.
7. Serve warm and enjoy! Optional: drizzle with maple syrup or sprinkle with powdered sugar for added sweetness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Beef and Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these savory empanadas filled with tender beef, melted cheese, and a hint of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the empanada dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border around it.
7. Sprinkle grated cheese over the beef mixture.
8. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal.
9. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden glaze.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns
Start your day with a sweet surprise – these Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns are soft, buttery, and loaded with gooey caramel and crunchy pecans. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Combine warm water, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead for 10 minutes; place in a greased bowl to rise (about 1 hour).
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Roll out the dough, spread caramel sauce and sprinkle pecans. Roll up, cut into 12 equal pieces, and place on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes
A creamy, cheesy, and savory potato dish that’s perfect as a side or main course. With the added smokiness of bacon and the tanginess of ranch dressing, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup ranch seasoning mix
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with ranch seasoning mix until coated.
3. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer.
4. Sprinkle cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the potatoes.
5. Drizzle sour cream and melted butter over the top.
6. Repeat layers: add remaining potato slices, then sprinkle with additional ranch seasoning mix if desired.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Are you looking to gain weight? Look no further! This article presents 20 mouth-watering recipes that are high in calories and designed to help you put on pounds. From comforting mac and cheese with bacon to indulgent triple chocolate brownies, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. You’ll also find savory options like beef and potato casserole, cheesy stuffed shells, and pulled pork grilled cheese sandwiches. Treat yourself to a creamy peanut butter banana smoothie or rich homemade ice cream sundae. Whether you’re trying to gain weight for medical reasons or simply want to indulge, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.