In the quest for weight gain, incorporating energy-dense ingredients into the diet becomes paramount. Choosing foods that pack a high number of calories by volume may make it easier to meet daily intake goals, helping to jumpstart weight gain.
From tantalizingly sweet treats to hearty savory dishes, these 10 high-calorie recipes are tailored to help with a weight gain goal without compromising on flavor or nutrition. Enjoy! – Summer Yule, MS, RDN
1000 Calorie Pasta
Image Credit: Summer Yule
Pasta is a comforting canvas for calorie-rich sauces and toppings. Here we’ve tossed it in a creamy sauce and added lots of hearty mushrooms.
Get the recipe: High Calorie Pasta for Weight Gain
Avocado Smoothie
Image Credit: Summer Yule
Blend up a creamy concoction of peanut butter and avocado for a nutrient-packed smoothie that fuels your body with healthy fats and proteins. A touch of cocoa powder plus dates for sweetness adds a rich chocolatey flavor that’s difficult to resist.
Get the recipe: Avocado Smoothie for Weight Gain
Mango Coconut Popsicles
Image Credit: Summer Yule
These tropical delights offer a refreshing twist to your weight gain regimen. Packed with the natural sweetness of mangoes and the richness of coconut milk, these creamy popsicles not only tantalize the taste buds but also provide a convenient way to sneak in extra calories during hot summer days.
Get the recipe: Mango Popsicles for Weight Gain
Parmesan Roasted Chickpeas
Image Credit: Summer Yule
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, Parmesan roasted chickpeas are a savory snack that packs a flavorful punch. They’re rich in plant-based protein and fiber, and kids tend to love them too!
Get the recipe: High Calorie Chickpeas for Weight Gain
Overnight Oats
Image Credit: Summer Yule
A time-saving breakfast option that doesn’t skimp on calories, overnight oats are a versatile canvas for your culinary creativity. By soaking oats in milk and yogurt overnight and adding your favorite toppings such as nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, you can create a nutrient-dense meal that fuels your day ahead.
Get the recipe: Overnight Oats for Weight Gain
High Calorie Muffins
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Indulge your sweet tooth with these portable treats that are packed with peanuts! Muffins make for convenient snacks or quick breakfasts that provide a delicious energy boost to support your weight gain journey.
Get the recipe: High Calorie Muffins for Weight Gain
Strawberry Banana Smoothie
Image Credit: Summer Yule
Sip on a refreshing strawberry banana smoothie that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from fresh fruits, this creamy concoction provides a burst of energy to kickstart your day or replenish your body after a workout.
Get the recipe: High Calorie Strawberry Banana Smoothie
St Louis Ribs
Image Credit: Summer Yule
Sink your teeth into succulent St. Louis ribs that are slow-cooked to perfection and slathered in a tangy barbecue sauce. These fall-off-the-bone ribs are a carnivorous delight that satisfies cravings for hearty, protein-rich meals, making them an ideal addition to your weight gain repertoire.
Get the recipe: St Louis Ribs in Oven
High Calorie Granola
Image Credit: Summer Yule
A delectable blend of oats, nuts, and dried fruits, granola serves as a powerhouse of calories and nutrients. Laden with healthy fats and complex carbohydrates, this crunchy delight can be enjoyed on its own as a snack, sprinkled over yogurt, or paired with milk for a hearty breakfast that fuels your weight gain goals. I’ve added extra coconut here to boost the calories!
Get the recipe: High Calorie Granola for Weight Gain
High Calorie Vegan Meals
Image Credit: Summer Yule
Need more ideas? These plant-based dishes offer ample opportunities to meet your caloric needs while giving your fiber intake a boost. Your digestive system will thank you!
Get the recipe: High Calorie Vegan Meals
Hello! I’m Summer, a registered dietitian and home chef who loves to cook, eat, and create recipes for you! Every recipe on this site has been tested by me to help ensure your success in the kitchen. All eaters are welcome here 🙂
