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20+ High Protein After School Snacks For Kids

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These high protein after school snacks for kids are perfect for keeping kids full and satisfied until dinner time!

high protein after school snacks for kids

Hi friends!

Today we’re chatting high protein after school snacks for kids. I’ve written several snack posts over the years, including 10 Healthy After School Snacks, High Protein Kid Lunches, After School Healthy Snacks and Kid-Friendly Protein Energy Balls, but none that focus specifically on high protein after school snacks.

As parents, we know how critical the after school snack can be. It needs to be hearty enough to keep them from asking for a million more snacks and ruining their dinner! Pairing protein with carbs and fiber will help kids stay full and prevent constant snacking. This post has lots of good options that are good for active kiddos who are constantly on the move, playing sports etc.

And if you’re looking for high protein snacks for adults, check out:

How much protein do kids need each day?

Protein needs vary by age but are typically 0.5g per pound body weight:

  • 1-3 years: 13 grams of protein
  • 4-8 years: 19 grams of protein
  • 9-13 years: 34 grams of protein
  • 14-18 years: 46 grams (girls) or 52 grams (boys)

Active kids may have slightly increased needs. Here’s a more detailed article about how much protein your child needs.

What is a high protein snack for kids?

For older kids, I tend to aim for 10+ grams of protein for a high protein snack. Remember that most kids are already getting enough protein throughout the day and not every snack needs to be high protein.

More important than total protein, I encourage you to aim for balanced snacks- snacks that have at least some protein and fiber, not just empty carbs. This will help kids feel full and satisfied longer.

Why are high protein snacks for kids important?

Not every snack needs to be high protein, however, many kids tend to eat better at snack time than meal time. If that’s the case, aiming for high protein snacks can be important and beneficial to help meet total daily needs.

For athletes, it’s important to ensure they’re getting enough protein to help with muscle repair and recovery.

yogurt parfait with pancakes snack

If you’re looking for real life examples about how I combine some of these ideas (like the photo above) and serve them to my kids, scroll down!

Here’s a list of some high protein after school snack ideas that will actually keep kids full until dinner:

egg wraps

After School Snacks with Eggs

  • Egg wraps – These can be filled with cheese, pepperoni, turkey, avocado etc or just eaten plain. There is 6g of protein per egg and if you add a few slices of turkey (10g protein) and a slice of cheese (6g protein) you have a snack with 20+ grams of protein.
  • Hard Boiled eggs – Super easy to make in big batches, especially in the Instant pot. Most kids will eat at least 2 hard boiled eggs which is 12g protein.
  • Microwave egg sandwich – Easy enough that kids can make one themselves! The egg has 6g protein, two slices of bread gave give you 6-8g protein and a slice of cheese is 6g protein.
  • Egg muffins – Fill them with chopped veggies, cheese, bacon, etc.
yogurt bark

After School Snacks with Dairy

  • Yogurt bark – Let the kids choose their favorite mix-ins like fruit, mini chocolate chips, pumpkin seeds and more! Use Greek yogurt for more protein- most have at least 15g protein in a 3/4 cup serving. Cut the sugar by using half plain yogurt/half flavored. And mixing in pumpkin seeds adds even more protein.
  • Yogurt parfait – Layer yogurt with fresh fruit and cereal for an easy snack that feels fancy. If you use Greek yogurt you’ll get 15g protein, and you can add more by choosing a higher protein cereal.
  • Overnight oats – Another option that’s easy to customize and can be made ahead of time. 1/2 cup oats has approximately 5g protein, plus 3/4 cup milk has 6 grams. Adding chia seeds and a bit of Greek yogurt adds even more protein.
  • Smoothies – Use your favorite frozen fruit and combine with milk or yogurt to add protein.
  • Kefir – Lots of flavors to try. Mix half plain, half flavored to cut the sugar. An 8oz glass of Lifeway Kefir has 10g protein.
cottage cheese cookie dough bites

*Photo credit: Hummusapien*

Kid-Friendly Snacks with Cottage Cheese

Go-To Energy Ball Recipe great for kids or snack for breastfeeding moms

Kid-Friendly Snacks with Nuts & Seeds

  • Energy balls – Form them into balls or press into a pan and cut into bars
  • Trail mix – Grab some from the store or make your own with roasted edamame and roasted chickpeas for protein. 1/3 cup roasted edamame has 14g of protein.
  • Steamed edamame – Quick to microwave and top with a little salt. Has 14g protein per serving.
  • Frozen bananas – Top with peanut butter and hemp seeds and freeze! 2 Tbsp peanut butter adds 8g protein and 3 Tbsp hemp seeds adds another 10g to your batch of frozen bananas.
chicken salad

*Photo credit: Yummy Toddler Food*

After School Snacks with Meat

  • Chicken salad – Kids tend to like chicken better than tuna. Use canned chicken to make it easy. Serve with their favorite crackers. 3oz of canned chicken has 15g protein.
  • Mini meatballs – Can be eaten cold or serve with some pasta! 6 small meatballs can add 13g protein.
  • Half a sandwich – Whatever their favorite is
  • Turkey cheese and apple rollups – Roll cheese and turkey around a cheese stick!
  • Quesadilla – Add some beans or chicken for extra protein
  • Cheese, crackers and jerky- Cut jerky and cheese into cubes and pair with crackers

High Protein After School Snacks for Kids

I wanted to give you some actual visuals so you can get an idea how I serve these options to my kids as after school snacks. Here are some real-life examples. I tried to give you some rough estimations on protein content. Some will vary based on brands, ingredients used etc so it’s just to give you a general idea!

Most of these snacks examples contain more than enough protein for kids. These are snack examples for my older kids who are 9 &11 and are very active athletes.

Feel free to decrease portion sizes, which will decrease the grams of protein to closer to 10 grams if needed, depending on your child’s age and activity level.

high protein snacks for kids with eggs

High Protein Snacks For Kids with Eggs

  • Turkey, Cheese & Avocado Egg Wrap + Clementine (10g protein in the turkey, 6g in the slice of cheese and 6g in the egg = 22g protein)
  • Hard Boiled Eggs + Veggies + Kefir (12g protein from the eggs + 10g from the kefir = 22g protein)
  • Sausage & Egg Cups + Frozen Bananas with peanut butter and hemp (12g protein from eggs + 6g from the sausage + 5g from the pb bananas = 23g protein)
  • Microwave Egg Sandwich + Grapes (6g protein from the egg + 8 grams from the bread + 6 g from the cheese = 20g protein)
high protein dairy snacks for kids

High Protein Dairy Snacks for Kids

  • Yogurt Bark + Lentil Banana Muffin (Rough estimation – 15g from yogurt bark + 4g from muffin = 19g protein)
  • Overnight Oats + Trail Mix (Approximately 15g protein in the overnight oats + 5g protein from the trailmix = 20g protein
  • Yogurt parfait + Kodiak Cakes Pancakes (Approximately 15g protein from the yogurt + 10-15g protein from the pancakes = 25-30g protein)
  • Smoothie + Aloha Bar mini (aff link) Protein will vary depending on your smoothie recipe but most will have 15-20g protein at least, plus 6g protein from the bar = at least 25g protein)
  • Roasted Edamame & Roasted Chickpea Snack Mix + Cheese cubes & jerky (Approx 15g protein from the snack mix + 5g from the cheese + 10g from the beef stick =30g protein)
high protein meat snacks for kids

High Protein Meat Snacks For Kids

  • Chicken Salad + Crackers (Approximately 15g protein in the chicken salad -more if you use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese instead of mayo- plus a few grams protein from the crackers depending what kind you have = approximately 20g protein)
  • Protein Pasta + Meatballs (we like Simek’s) + Raisins (10g protein from the pasta + 15g protein from the meatballs = 25g protein)
  • Turkey, cheese & apple roll-up + crackers (10g protein from the turkey + 6g from the cheese + 2-4g from the tortilla + up to 4g from the crackers depending on brand = 20ish grams protein)
  • Chicken & Bean Quesadilla + Steamed Edamame (10-15g protein from the quesadila + 10+grams from the edamame = at least 20g protein)
These high protein after school snacks for kids are perfect for keeping kids full and satisfied until dinner time!

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

High Protein Vegan Snacks

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These high-protein vegan snacks are great for both adding to meals and pairing together for satisfying, high-protein snacks.

high protein vegan snacks

Hi friend!

It’s been a while since I shared a snack roundup but today we’re talking vegan snacks! If you’re looking for more snack ideas, be sure to check out some of these posts:

Why are high protein vegan snacks important?

As a Registered Dietitian, I frequently share the importance of high protein snacks, especially when paired with fiber, healthy fats and healthy carbs. While protein is important for muscle recovery, healthy, balanced snacks are also play a critical role in keeping energy levels up, helping you feel full and preventing sugar crashes.

Vegans do not eat food derived from animal proteins, which means they do not eat things like animal meats, animal dairy products, honey and more. While it’s definitely still possible to get all the protein you need on a vegan diet, sometimes it requires being a bit more intentional, especially at snack time.

How Much Protein Should A Vegan Snack Have?

There’s no hard and fast rule for protein requirements at snack time. In general for adults, a good goal might be to aim for at least 15-20g of protein for a high protein snack. In many cases, this will involve combining a couple of different snack components to hit that protein goal.

How To Build A High Protein Vegan Snack

Just like when building any other healthy snacks, I recommend focusing on a combination of protein and fiber. These will help keep you full and satisfied the longest. Adding healthy fats and carbs can make the snacks even more satisfying.

how to make roasted lentils

Cheap High Protein Vegan Snacks

Many vegan snacks can be a bit expensive. If you’re looking for more inexpensive vegan protein sources, try tofu – cook it in the air fryer and add to sandwiches or blend silken tofu into smoothies and dips! Making your own roasted chickpeas or roasted lentils to snack on is another good option. Beans are another budget-friendly protein source. You can use them to make soups, dips and salads that make great snacks. Also check the freezer section for frozen edamame.

High Protein Vegan Snacks Without Soy

Some of the best high protein vegan snacks without soy include hemp and pumpkin seeds, lentils, nuts, and homemade energy balls. You can also look for protein bars made with pea protein, Ripple milk and seiten. Nutritional yeast can also be a great addition for adding a “cheesy” flavor and some protein.

High Protein Vegan Snacks for Work or School

So here are some high protein vegan snack ideas. A few things to note:

  • Remember that exact nutrition may vary by brand and by flavor.
  • Some snacks are vegan but processed on shared equipment with non-vegan snacks. I tried to note that when possible but as always, do your own research.
  • Some items on this list may not fit your own personal nutrition requirements. In some cases you may need to accept something like higher sodium or more added sugar in order to also get more protein. As always, the decision on the snacks you eat is up to you. These are just ideas!
high protein vegan bean snacks

High Protein Vegan Snacks Without Nuts

Not all of these are inherently super high in protein on their own but most have fiber as well as protein, making them a great snacking option. Scroll down to see some ideas for snack combinations that will provide an even bigger boost of protein. Try combining several of your favorites here into a homemade trail mix!

crunchy vegan snacks

High Protein Vegan Snacks For Kids

Crunchy snacks are great for satisfying a snack craving but many options are low in protein and fiber. Here are some higher-protein options. Pair them with a vegan dip like Whipped Vegan Butterbean Dip, Green Goddess Dip or High Protein White Bean Dip and some veggies! Or pair with a piece of vegan jerky or some steamed edamame.

  • Aggro Pops Lentil Puffs (18g protein, 8g fiber, 1g sugar/0g added sugar)
  • Peatos (4g protein, 3g fiber, 1g sugar/0g added sugar)
  • Kindling Snacks Pretzels – Sea salt and Dill Pickle flavors are vegan – made on shared equipment with non vegan snacks, may contain trace amounts of egg and dairy. (9g protein, 3g fiber, <1g sugar)
  • Hippeas (4g protein, 3g fiber, less than 1g added sugar)
  • Harvest Snaps – have vegan flavors but are made on shared equipment with milk (5g protein, 4g fiber, 0g added sugar)

It’s hard to find high protein crackers in general but both Simple Mills and Crunchmaster have vegan options with a few grams of protein and fiber. You could also check out Siete Queso Puffs.

vegan protein bars

Best Vegan Protein Bars For Snacking

There are lots of protein bar options out there. Here are a few of my favorite vegan protein bar options in terms of ingredients and nutritional value.

  • Aloha bars– These are my favorite and I’m not even vegan! (14g protein, 10g fiber, 5g sugar/4g added sugar) *Affiliate link
  • Go Macro Bars – (12g protein, 3g fiber, 9g added sugar)
  • IQ Bars -(12g protein, 8g fiber, 1g sugar)
  • TruBar – (12g protein, 13g fiber, 8g sugar/7g added sugar)
  • Skout Organic Protein Bars – (10g protein, 5g fiber, 18g sugar/0g added sugar)
  • Good! Snack Bars – (15g protein, 13g fiber, 10g sugar/9g added sugar)
high protein vegan dairy snacks

High Protein Vegan Dairy Snacks

While some vegan milk and yogurt options are fairly low in protein, there are some higher protein options out there including soy and pea milk, and a few yogurt options! To add more protein, top or pair with a higher protein cereal like Manibota Hemp Granola, Seven Sundays or Kashi Go Protein cereal.

vegan nuts and vegan jerky

High Protein Snacks For On the Go

Nuts and vegan jerky are great shelf-stable snacks that make it easy to grab or pack an on-the-go snack!

high protein vegan grain snacks

High Protein Vegan Grain-Based Snacks

Here are a few grain-based options that have a decent amount of protein and can be eaten on their own or combined with things like milk and yogurt for added protein.

And not a grain product but acts like one- Siete almond flour tortillas

Quick High Protein Vegan Snack Picks

Here are a few snack combos that are easy to throw together and high in protein.

high protein vegan snack ideas

High Protein Vegan Snack Combos

Need more ideas? Here are some ways you could combine the snacks in this post for a higher protein snack!

  • Cereal + soy milk
  • Yogurt + hemp granola
  • Pistachios + vegan jerky
  • Trail Mix- Roasted Edamame & chickpeas, dried fruit, peanuts
  • Hippeas + steamed edamame
  • Ezekiel bread + pb, banana and hemp seeds
  • Oatmeal + strawberries and chopped walnuts
  • Pretzels + protein bar
  • Energy balls + wasabi peas

High Protein Vegan Snack Swaps

Depending on what you’re in the mood for, making certain swaps can help you meet your protein goals. If you want crunchy, try swapping chips for roasted edamame and chickpeas or lentil puffs. If you want sweet, swap a cookie for a vegan protein bar. You can also try adding steamed edamame or tofu dip to your veggie plates, swap regular bread for a higher protein bread like Ezekiel bread or swap yogurt by itself to a parfait topped with nuts and seeds.

vegan white bean queso

High Protein Vegan Snacks For Meal Prep

If you’re looking for some homemade vegan snack options that can be made ahead of time, try:

High Protein Vegan Snacks FAQs

What are the best high protein vegan snacks?

Like with most snacks, the best options are the ones you’ll actually eat. You can make the healthiest snacks packed with nutrient dense ingredients but if you won’t eat them, you’re not getting the benefits. Aim for a higher protein snack that also has some fiber and healthy fats to keep you full and satisfied. Also look for options that are lower in sugar and sodium.

How can I get more protein in vegan snacks?

The best way to increase protein in vegan snacks is to combine snack ingredients to increase the protein total. You can also focus on adding high protein snack components to snacks you already enjoy – for example: If you like trailmix, add some roasted edamame. If you like yogurt, add a high protein cereal or granola. If you like peanut butter sandwiches, use a higher protein bread and add hemp seeds.

What vegan snacks have the most protein?

Some of the highest protein vegan snacks on their own include edamame, lupini beans, Agro Lentil Puffs, protein bars and soy milk.

What are easy high protein vegan snacks for beginners?

Some easy high protein snacks for beginners are high protein cereal with soy milk, yogurt with hemp seeds, berries and high protein granola, nuts and vegan jerky and trail mix with roasted edamame.

What are good high protein vegan snacks for work?

Some easy, portable vegan snacks that are high in protein include roasted edamame or fava beans, vegan jerky plus trail mix or vegan protein bars or homemade energy balls. If you have a fridge, pack a yogurt with protein granola or a frozen smoothie that can thaw by snack time!

What are good high protein vegan snacks for kids?

Some kid-friendly vegan snacks include hippeas, harvest snacks and lentil puffs. They might also like peanut butter toast on ezekial bread with hemp seeds, cereal and milk, energy balls, or oatmeal!

kale and white bean salad

What are cheap high protein vegan snacks?

Some cheap vegan snack options include tofu, beans and lentils. Use these to make your own high protein vegan snacks to save money.

What are high protein vegan snacks without soy?

Some of the best high protein snacks without soy include roasted nuts, seeds and edamame, dips made with beans or lentils, high protein muffins or bars or snacks with pea-based milk or protein powders.

What are high protein vegan snacks without nuts?

Try things like roasted edamame and chickpeas, chia pudding and oatmeal that you can top with seeds instead of nuts, and yogurt with hemp granola.

What are high protein vegan snack combinations?

Some high protein vegan snack combinations include cereal and soy milk, yogurt and hemp granola, steamed edamame and protein bar, and high protein trail mix.

These high-protein vegan snacks are great for both adding to meals and pairing together for satisfying, high-protein snacks.

As always, feel free to share your favorites in the comments!

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

Frozen Yogurt Bark

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This easy Frozen Yogurt Bark can be customized with your favorite mix-ins like fruit, chocolate & seeds. A perfect kid-friendly, high-protein snack for summer!

Frozen yogurt bark with strawberries, blueberries, chocolate chips and pepitas

Hi friends!

I have been making this frozen yogurt bark for my daughter for years and finally got around to making an official blog post I can refer people to when I make it!

It is so easy to make and one of her absolute favorite breakfasts. I love it because I can prep it ahead of time and break it into pieces and then I just pop a few pieces on a plate for her in the morning, usually served with a banana muffin. (We rotate through Lentil Banana Muffins, Banana Flax Muffins and Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins)

How To Prevent Icy Frozen Yogurt Bark

The key to preventing hard, icy yogurt bark is using yogurt with fat in it. Fat-free yogurt will not work for yogurt bark unless you’re looking for a broken tooth. The fat in the yogurt is what helps keep it creamy and easy to bite through after sitting out for just a few minutes.

You can use Greek yogurt or regular yogurt for this recipe.

Best Yogurt Fat Percentages for Yogurt Bark

My personal preference is to use full fat Greek yogurt. I use a mix of half plain, half flavored to cut down on added sugar. If you wanted to, you could use half full fat, half 2% but again, I would not use fat-free yogurt for this recipe.

How To Make High-Protein Yogurt Bark

To make this yogurt bark high-protein, use Greek yogurt over regular yogurt. Also choose mix-ins that add additional protein like pepitas (pumpkin seeds), hemp or chia seeds, chopped nuts, peanut butter, etc.

You could also try mixing some protein powder into the yogurt, but it might affect the texture a bit.

How To Sweeten Frozen Yogurt Bark Naturally

I like to use some flavored yogurt as an easy way to sweeten the frozen yogurt bark but if you prefer, you can use all plain yogurt and use your mix-ins to add sweetness. Adding chopped fruit is an easy way to add natural sweetness. If you don’t want chunks to bite into, you could mash or puree the fruit before mixing it in to the yogurt.

You could also choose to sweeten the plain yogurt with maple syrup or honey.

frozen yogurt bark with fruit and seeds

Layered Yogurt Bark

If you’re looking to make your yogurt bark look a bit fancier, using a swirl technique is fun! Make a fruit puree using your favorite fruit and grab some peanut butter or other nut butter. Spread the yogurt onto the pan and then place spoonfuls of both the peanut butter and fruit on top of the yogurt. Using a knife or spoon, spread the spoonfuls through the yogurt for a swirled look.

You could also try making a layered yogurt bark but be careful not to make it too thick. Spread a thin layer of yogurt, a layer of fruit puree or nut butter and then another thin layer of yogurt (or top it with a thin layer or drizzle of melted chocolate.

Dessert-Style Chocolate Yogurt Bark

To make a more dessert-style yogurt bark, lean into the use of chocolate! Instead of mixing chocolate chips into the yogurt bark, start with a layer of yogurt, top with diced strawberries or raspberries and cover the whole thing with a drizzle of chocolate and some flaky sea salt. You could also sprinkle some chopped nuts on top.

Low Sugar Yogurt Bark

To make a low-sugar yogurt bark, stick with plain Greek yogurt as your base. Add diced fruit for natural sweetness.

Kid-Friendly Yogurt Bark Combos

The best kid-friendly combo is the one using things your own kids like! Some initial combos to try include:

  • Strawberries + chocolate chips
  • Blueberries + sprinkles
  • Bananas + peanut butter

Make Ahead Snack Prep Strategy

The good news about frozen yogurt bark is that it’s stored in the freezer, so if you have the space, you can make several different flavor varieties, store them all in the freezer and rotate through the flavors you eat without worrying about them going bad.

Just be sure to store in Ziploc bags or other freezer-safe containers to avoid freezer burn.

If you’re looking for more make ahead snacks, check out:

How To Cut vs Break Yogurt Bark

Once frozen, the yogurt bark can be difficult to cut. You have two options – just break it! Don’t worry about getting pieces that are exactly the same size, just break into good-sized pieces.

If you prefer to try to cut it, it’s best to let it soften on the counter for at least 5 minutes before attempting to cut into pieces.

Best Thickness for Frozen Yogurt Bark

This is a personal preference. Some people prefer their bark to be fairly thin. They might like to start with a thin layer of yogurt and put the toppings on top.

Others prefer to have the toppings mixed into the yogurt. This will naturally make your bark a bit thicker, so just spread it as thin as possible. It should thaw enough to be able to bite through after just a couple minutes of sitting out.

healthy high protein frozen yogurt bark with fruit

Freezer Setup Tips

The key to making frozen yogurt bark is having enough space in your freezer for a baking sheet. Try to clear an area where the tray can lie flat and let the bark freeze for 3-4 hours at least.

How To Store Yogurt Bark Without Freezer Burn

Once your yogurt bark is completely frozen, remove it from the freezer. Let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes and then break it into smaller pieces.

Store the pieces in a Ziploc bag or other airtight container and return to the freezer to prevent freezer burn. Try to squeeze as much air as possible out of the Ziploc bag before storing in the freezer.

Seasonal Yogurt Bark Flavor Ideas

Feel free to customize your yogurt bark based on what’s in season! Berries are great in the summer. You could try mixing in some pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice in the fall! Get creative!

Crunch Factor Add-Ins

If you’re looking to add a little crunch to your yogurt bark, here are a few options:

  • Granola – Toss a couple handfuls of your favorite granola into the mix
  • Seeds- I like to use pepitas (pumpkin seeds) because they’re thin and add a bit of crunch without being super hard to bite through. You could also throw in hemp seeds or chia seeds.
  • Nuts – If you’re going to add nuts, be sure to chop them fairly small or choose softer nuts – walnuts or slivered almonds might work well
  • Chocolate – Chocolate chips or cacao nibs are also a fun way to add some crunch!

When To Eat Yogurt Bark

Yogurt bark makes a great snack anytime! Grab some as a post-workout snack, serve it for breakfast or an after school snack or even serve it for dessert!

Healthy Frozen Yogurt Bark

Here’s the recipe I use, but you don’t really need to use exact quantities. Feel free to make a bigger or smaller batch:

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Frozen Yogurt Bark

frozen yogurt bark
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This easy Frozen Yogurt Bark can be customized with your favorite mix-ins like fruit, chocolate & seeds. A perfect kid-friendly, high-protein snack for summer!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt*
  • 2 cups diced fruit (I like strawberries and blueberries but you could use banans, mango, raspberries etc)*
  • 1/4 cup pepitas
  • Other optional mix-ins – mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, granola, etc

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine.
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Spread yogurt mixture onto baking sheet so it’s about 1/2 in inch thick.
  4. Freeze 3-4 hours. 
  5. Remove tray, let sit for about 5 minutes, then break into pieces and store in a Ziploc bag in the freezer.
  6. Optional – If you prefer, you can mix the yogurt and spread into a layer of your desired thickness, then add the mix-ins on top, pressing down gently to ensure they will stick to the yogurt.

Notes

*Feel free to use all plain or all flavored yogurt if you prefer

* No need to chop fruit smaller fruits like blueberries or raspberries

Yogurt Bark FAQs

How do you keep frozen yogurt bark from getting icy? How do you make yogurt bark creamy instead of icy?

The best way to avoid icy yogurt bark is to use full-fat yogurt. The fat in the yogurt helps keep the bark creamy, whereas using fat-free yogurt will result in a lot of ice crystals forming.

What is the best yogurt for frozen yogurt bark?

You can use pretty much any kind of yogurt except fat-free! Flavored, plain, Greek, regular etc.

Can you use Greek yogurt for frozen yogurt bark?

Yes! It’s a great way to add some extra protein to the yogurt bark.

Why is my yogurt bark too hard to bite?

Likely because you used too much fat-free or low-fat yogurt. Try adding some full fat yogurt next time. You can also let the yogurt bark sit at room temperature for a few minutes to make it easier to bite into.

How thick should yogurt bark be?

This is a personal preference. To make it easy to bite, I would try to keep it to about 1/2 an inch thick.

Can you add protein powder to yogurt bark?

Yes. I haven’t tried it myself but you definitely can. It make alter the texture a bit depending how completely it mixes into the yogurt.

What toppings work best for yogurt bark?

You can get creative with the toppings. Fruit, chopped nuts, seeds, granola and chocolate chips all work great!

Can you make yogurt bark without added sugar?

You can choose to use plain yogurt with no added sugar and then add some sweetness with fruit!

frozen yogurt bark with strawberries and blueberries

How long does it take yogurt bark to freeze?

It depends how thick it is but it should freeze all the way through in 3-4 hours.

How do you store yogurt bark in the freezer?

Let the bark freeze completely, break into pieces and store in a Ziploc bag or other freezer-safe container.

How long does frozen yogurt bark last?

As long as it’s stored in an airtight container, it should last for 2-3 months.

Can you make dairy-free yogurt bark?

I haven’t tried it personally but you could try with a dairy-free yogurt brand.

Can kids eat frozen yogurt bark?

Yes! It makes a great snack for kids. Just be sure to let it sit for a few minutes before serving so they don’t hurt their teeth. And be mindful of what you mix-in depending on ages to avoid choking hazards.

Is yogurt bark a healthy snack option?

Yes! You can control the amount of added sugar based on your preference and it’s high in protein!

Can you use flavored yogurt for yogurt bark?

Yes, both plain and flavored yogurt work well in this recipe.

How do you break yogurt bark evenly?

It’s difficult to break the yogurt bark completely evenly. Just do your best to break it into similar sized pieces to enjoy!

Can you meal prep yogurt bark?

Yes! Yogurt bark is a great option for meal prep because it needs to be made ahead of time anyways. Make a batch, freeze and enjoy all week long!

What fruits work best in yogurt bark?

You can use most fruits but my favorites are berries. You could also try diced peaches, mango, banana or other soft fruits. I probably wouldn’t use apples.

This easy Frozen Yogurt Bark can be customized with your favorite mix-ins like fruit, chocolate & seeds. A perfect kid-friendly, high-protein snack for summer!

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

Healthy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins

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These Healthy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins are made with Greek yogurt and oats for protein and fiber and even sneak in some zucchini!

healthy oatmeal chocolate chip mini muffins

Hi friend!

I recently shared these Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins that were a big hit and today I’ve got another great muffin option for you! These mini muffins full of nutritious ingredients but still taste great! They’re nut-free and the perfect size for school lunchboxes and snacks!

I make these in the food processor because it does such a good job chopping up the oats, zucchini etc to make them barely noticeable in the muffins. If you don’t have a food processor, you can blend the wet ingredients in a blender and then transfer to a bowl to continue mixing.

Why Greek Yogurt Makes These Muffins Better

I absolutely love using Greek yogurt in my muffin recipes. It’s an easy way to add protein and also makes the muffins super soft and fluffy. I also use it in my son’s favorite Healthy Chocolate Muffins, as well as in these Healthy Blueberry Muffins.

Another added bonus of using Greek yogurt in muffins is that it helps keep the muffins super moist. It can be used to replace some of the fat that typically comes from oil or butter.

Protein-Packed Snacks for Kids and Adults

If you’re looking for even more protein-packed snacks, here are a few ideas:

Tips For Soft Tender Muffins

A few tips for keeping your muffins soft and tender:

  • Using oil instead of butter leads to more tender muffins.
  • Don’t overmix your muffins- when you add in the dry ingredients, mix until the wet and dry ingredients are just combined. Don’t go crazy with the stirring!
  • Adding yogurt also helps keep the muffins tender.
  • Don’t overbake! This will dry out your muffins and make them less soft.
  • Let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes to help the oats and flour hydrate.
healthy oatmeal yogurt muffins

Health Benefits of Oats + Yogurt Together

These muffins combine oats and yogurt to make a healthy, filling breakfast or snack option. These two ingredients together add both protein and fiber to the muffins to help make them more filling. While the yogurt adds protein, the oats add soluble fiber, which helps you stay full longer.

I also add hemp hearts for additional boost of protein and heart-healthy omegas.

Best Greek Yogurt To Use

I personally like to use whole milk plain Greek yogurt in this recipe. If you prefer, you can use low-fat but I would not recommend fat-free. You can also use plain regular yogurt if you don’t have Greek. The protein content will just be slightly lower.

Can You Use Flavored Yogurt?

Yes, I’ve made these muffins with vanilla yogurt and it works just fine. Just keep in mind that the flavored yogurt will have some added sugar.

Higher Protein Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Muffins

For an additional boost of protein, you can add a scoop of protein powder. I don’t recommend more than one scoop in baking recipes, however, because I find it dries out the baked goods.

No Added Sugar Oatmeal Muffins

To make this a no-added-sugar recipe, you can replace the sugar with mashed banana or applesauce. Note that this will change the flavor of the muffins, as well as the texture, likely making them a bit more dense. You could also leave out the chocolate chips or replace them with raisins, dried blueberries or frozen wild blueberries. Wil blueberries are smaller than regular blueberries so they work well in mini muffins.

oatmeal chocolate chip mini muffins

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins for Toddlers

These mini muffins are perfect for toddlers and young kids. They’re soft and moist, easy to eat and the perfect size for toddler hands! Need more toddler snack ideas? Try these:

How To Keep Muffins Moist for Days (How To Store Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins)

Using yogurt in these muffins will make them extra moist. You can store them in an airtight container lined with a paper towel on the counter for 3-4 days. The paper towel will help absorb any excess moisture. Be sure to cool the muffins completely before storing.

Freezer-friendly Healthy Muffins

These muffins can easily be frozen for future enjoyment. To freeze, cool the muffins completely then transfer to a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

When ready to eat, thaw on the counter or in the microwave.

Gluten-Free Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins

To make these muffins gluten-free, ensure you are using certified gluten-free oats. In addition, you can sub a 1:1 Gluten-free flour blend, like King Arthur Measure for Measure, for the flour in this recipe.

You could also try replacing the flour with oat flour.

Mini vs Regular Muffins

While I prefer to make these muffins in mini muffin tins, you could also make them as full-size muffins. You’ll have to extend the baking time by a few minutes for bigger muffins but remember not to overbake!

healthy oatmeal chocolate chip mini muffins with zucchini

Mix-In Ideas That Pair Well with Yogurt-Based Muffins

I chose mini chocolate chips as my mix-in for these muffins but there are lots of other possibilities including:

  • Dried fruit – raisins or dried blueberries would work well
  • Frozen fruit- blueberries or wild blueberries
  • Chopped nuts- if you don’t need these muffins to be nut-free, chopped walnuts would be a great addition!

Common Mistakes with Yogurt Muffins

A few common errors with making yogurt-based muffins include over-mixing which results in a dense, chewy muffins and over-baking which leads to dry muffins. Also, using cold ingredients can keep all of the ingredients from mixing fully. Letting yogurt and eggs come to room temperature is helpful.

Healthy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins Recipe

Here’s the recipe I use:

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Healthy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins

healthy oatmeal zucchini muffins
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These Healthy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins are made with Greek yogurt and oats for protein and fiber and even sneak in some zucchini!

  • Author: Lindsay
  • Yield: makes 36 mini muffins 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup oil (you can sub melted butter if needed)
  • 1 cup quick oats
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tsp vanilla
  • 1 cup shredded zucchini, lightly squeezed to remove some moisture
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup hemp seeds, optional
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. In a food processor, combine yogurt, oil, eggs, brown sugar, quick oats, vanilla and zucchini and process until smooth. (If you don’t have a food processor, you can combine these ingredients in a blender and then transfer to a bowl and mix the rest by hand)
  2. Add flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, salt and hemp and process until just combined.
  3. Add mini chocolate chips and pulse a few times.
  4. Scoop into mini muffin tins and bake at 375 for 10-12 minutes. Makes approximately 36 mini muffins.

Notes

If you prefer, you can replace the oil with 4 Tbsp melted butter.

If you have time, letting the batter sit for 10-15 minutes before baking will help hydrate the flour and oats and make the muffins a bit more tender.

Healthy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins FAQs

Are oatmeal chocolate chip mini muffins with Greek yogurt healthy?

Yes! These muffins are packed with protein thanks to the Greek yogurt and hemp seeds and also contain fiber from the oats! Plus they have zucchini!

What does Greek yogurt do in mini muffins?

Yogurt adds protein to any muffin recipe and also helps keep the muffins fluffy and moist.

Do Greek yogurt muffins have more protein?

Yes, Greek yogurt muffins typically have more protein than regular muffins due to the protein content of Greek yogurt.

Can toddlers eat Greek yogurt oatmeal muffins?

These muffins make a great snack for toddlers! They contain protein, fiber and vegetables and they’re the perfect size for toddlers!

Can I use flavored Greek yogurt in muffins?

Yes, you can sub plain Greek yogurt for flavored if you prefer. It will, however, add some additional sugar to the recipe.

Greek yogurt oatmeal muffins

How do I keep yogurt muffins from getting dense?

Don’t overmix the batter! When adding the dry ingredients, stir until just combined.

Can I freeze mini muffins made with Greek yogurt?

Yes. Let the muffins cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I make these muffins gluten-free with oats?

To make these muffins gluten-free, you can replace the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. You could also try replacing the flour with oat flour.

What type of oats work best for mini muffins?

I prefer quick oats because they’re already broken into smaller pieces. You could also use rolled oats if that’s what you have on hand.

How long do Greek yogurt muffins stay fresh?

Store these muffins in a container lined with a paper towel for 3-4 days on the counter.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt in muffins?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular yogurt. You can also sub buttermilk. Or make your own buttermilk by adding a splash of vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

Can I turn these into baked oatmeal instead of muffins?

You could bake this in an 8×8 or 9×9 pan instead of muffin tins and then cut into bars. They will likely be fluffier than traditional baked oatmeal.

Are mini muffins a good high-protein snack?

These muffins do contain some protein. To make an even higher protein snack, serve them with a glass of milk, a cheese stick, some trail mix or a beef stick.

Can I add protein powder to oatmeal mini muffins?

Yes, you can add one scoop of protein powder to this recipe without a noticeable effect. Any more than that and it might dry out the muffins.

These Healthy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins are made with Greek yogurt and oats for protein and fiber and even sneak in some zucchini!

Make Ahead Snack Prep Ideas

Need a few more snack ideas? Try:

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins

by 3 Comments

These banana cottage cheese muffins are kid-friendly, high protein and so easy to make! The perfect addition to breakfast or snack time!

banana cottage cheese muffins

Hi friends!

I’ve got a new muffin recipe to share with you guys today. My daughter has been loving them lately and I love that they’re high in protein and easy to make! If you haven’t already, be sure to check out our other go-to banana muffins: Lentil Banana Muffins & Banana Flax Muffins.

Why You’ll Love These Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins

These will quickly become your new favorite muffins for a few reasons:

  • They’re high in protein thanks to the cottage cheese.
  • They’re light and fluffy. Blending the cottage cheese until it’s smooth helps create a great texture
  • You can easily add mix-ins. I add chocolate chips and hemp seeds but you could add ground flax, blueberries, raisins etc.

How Cottage Cheese Affects Texture and Moisture

These muffins have a few ingredients that help make them fluffy and moist:

  • Cottage cheese – Adding cottage cheese significantly increases the moisture content of the muffins
  • Mashed bananas – help add sweetness naturally without a lot of added sugar
  • Oil – helps emulsify the ingredients along with the cottage cheese

It took a few rounds of testing to find the right ratio of flour, cottage cheese and leavening agents but the end result is a moist, fluffy muffin everyone will love.

Best Bananas for Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins

Like with most types of baking, the riper the bananas the better for these muffins. Ripe bananas will be naturally sweeter which allows you to use less added sugar.

Banana Protein Muffins with Protein Powder

If you want to increase the protein content even more, you could try adding a scoop of protein powder to these muffins. Don’t overdo it with the protein powder though or your muffins will become dense and dry.

If you’re looking for more high protein snacks, try these Healthy High Protein Snacks or these Cottage Cheese Protein Snacks.

healthy banana cottage cheese muffins

Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins Variations

This recipe makes a great base and you can easily make a few tweaks to allow these muffins to fit your needs.

Whole Wheat Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins

Try using white whole wheat flour or whole wheat pastry flour in these muffins for an added nutrient boost of protein and fiber.

Gluten-free Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins

To make these muffins gluten-free, simply swap in a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend – I like King Arthur Measure for Measure.

Low Sugar Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins

You can swap the sugar in this recipe for honey or maple syrup if you prefer. You could also try replacing the sugar with applesauce for a no-added-sugar version that would be great for young kids.

Mix-In Ideas for Banana Protein Muffins

Feel free to mix in your favorites to these muffins! I like chocolate chips, ground flax and hemp but you could also add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds, frozen blueberries or dried fruit like raisins.

Mini Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins

To make these muffins mini, I would cook them at 375 for about 12 minutes and then check their doneness. You don’t really need to start them at a high heat and then drop the temperature because the mini muffins themselves are so small that they don’t have far to rise. That trick is really to help ensure full-size muffins rise high enough.

moist banana cottage cheese muffins

Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins for Meal Prep

These muffins are great for meal prep because they’re an easy high-protein option that you can add to breakfast, lunch or snack time! Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them all week long. They also freeze well for future eating!

How To Store Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins

I like to store these muffins in a ziploc bag on the counter. However, since they are moist, keep in mind that they will get moldy after a few days, especially in warmer temperatures.

Consider freezing half the batch after you make them and pulling them out mid-week so they’ll be fresh! You can also store them in the fridge after 2-3 days and reheat them in the microwave.

How To Freeze Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins

To freeze these muffins, let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as possible.

To thaw, simply place one in the microwave or let them thaw on the counter.

Soft and Fluffy Banana Protein Muffins Tips

The most important part of making these muffins soft and fluffy is to blend the cottage cheese until it’s smooth. You can use a food processor or blender. I prefer to blend all ingredients in the food processor because it makes everything extra smooth.

Also, don’t use fat-free cottage cheese. I think full fat works best but 2% is ok too.

fluffy banana cottage cheese muffins

Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins vs Regular Banana Muffins

These muffins are high in protein and get some added nutrition from the ground flax and hemp. If you’re looking for regular banana muffins without cottage cheese, here are some other options:

Or try these Banana Oat Cookies!

Healthy Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins for Breakfast

These muffins are great anytime of day. Pair them with a yogurt or glass of milk at breakfast, add them to a lunchbox or serve them at snack time with fresh fruit or some trail mix.

Healthy Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins

Here’s the recipe I use:

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Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins

banana cottage cheese muffins
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5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 2 reviews

These banana cottage cheese muffins are kid-friendly, high protein and so easy to make! The perfect addition to breakfast or snack time!

  • Author: Lindsay
  • Yield: 12–16 muffins 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 1 cup mashed banana
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup oil
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1.5 cups flour
  • 1/4 cup ground flax
  • 1/4 cup hemp seeds
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Blend cottage cheese until smooth in a blender or food processor.
  2. In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, mashed bananas, sugar, oil, eggs and vanilla and stir to combine. (Or you can make these entirely in the food processor – just blend until smooth.)
  3. Add remaining ingredients and stir until just combine. (If using a food processor, save the chocolate chips to pulse in at the end).
  4. Spoon into silicone or greased muffin tins. (Makes 16 small or 12 large muffins).
  5. Bake at 425 degreees F for 5 minutes, then drop the temperature to 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins FAQs

Are banana cottage cheese muffins high in protein?

Yes! These muffins get a nice boost of protein from the cottage cheese, as well as some from the hemp seeds and eggs!

Can I use cottage cheese in banana muffins?

Yes. Cottage cheese works well in muffins, especially if it’s blended smooth. It works similarly to yogurt in baked goods.

Do cottage cheese muffins taste like cottage cheese?

No! You can’t taste the cottage cheese at all when it’s blended into these mufins.

Are banana cottage cheese muffins healthy?

Yes! They’re full of protein and the ground flax and hemp seeds add a nutrient boost. They’re also low in added sugar.

Can I blend cottage cheese for muffins?

Yes, these muffins are definitely better when the cottage cheese is blended smooth before baking.

banana cottage cheese muffins with hemp and flax

What does cottage cheese do in baking muffins?

Cottage cheese helps increase the protein content of the muffins and also adds a lot of moisture to help make the muffins moist and fluffy.

Can I make these muffins with whole wheat flour?

Yes! Feel free to use white whole wheat flour or whole wheat pastry flour. I would not recommended regular whole wheat flour as it will make the muffins too dense.

Are banana cottage cheese muffins good for breakfast?

Yes! These muffins make a great addition to a healthy breakfast. Serve them with a glass of milk or some yogurt, or with fresh fruit and scrambled eggs for a healthy, balanced breakfast.

Can I freeze banana cottage cheese muffins?

Yes! These muffins freeze well. Let them cool completely and then put them in a freezer-safe bag in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How long do banana cottage cheese muffins last?

These muffins are moist so i don’t recommend leaving them on the counter for more than 3-4 days or they may spoil. You can freeze half the batch for later to help keep them from getting moldy or try storing them in the fridge after a few days.

Can I make banana cottage cheese muffins gluten-free?

Yes! To make these muffins gluten-free just sub a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the flour in this recipe. Also make sure your ground flax is gluten-free if needed.

Can I use low-fat cottage cheese in muffins?

These should work fine with low-fat cottage cheese. I prefer full fat and would not recommend fat-free.

How do I make banana cottage cheese muffins soft and fluffy?

I really think making these in the food processor helps make them soft fluffy. It helps puree the cottage cheese and makes sure all the other ingredients are evenly mixed.

What are the best mix-ins for banana protein muffins?

You can use a variety of mix-ins for this recipe. Try dried fruit like raisins, fresh or frozen blueberries or a some chopped nuts.

Can I make mini banana cottage cheese muffins?

Yes! Feel free to bake these in a mini muffin tin at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until baked through.

These banana cottage cheese muffins are kid-friendly, high protein and so easy to make! The perfect addition to breakfast or snack time!

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

Instant Pot Mushroom Risotto with Chicken

by 17 Comments

This easy Instant Pot Mushroom Risotto with Chicken is so creamy and delicious! No stirring required and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables!

instant pot mushroom risotto with chicken

*Originally published 1/2012. Updated 2/2026*

Hi Friends!

Today I’ve got a recipe for mushroom risotto made in the Instant Pot -plus chicken to add protein! I first shared this recipe way back in 2012. Recently, I made a few tweaks and I thought it was time to remind you how delicious it is!

Why Make Mushroom Risotto In the Instant Pot

This recipe gives you all the creamy deliciousness of risotto without requiring you to stand over the stove and stir for an hour straight! In addition, it’s:

  • Hands-off – no stirring required!
  • Uses simple ingredients – no crazy, hard-to-find ingredients in this recipe!
  • Easy to customize – If you don’t like mushrooms or peas, leave them out! You could add diced bell peppers, sweet potatoes, greens or broccoli instead!
  • Short cook time – This whole recipe only takes about 20 minutes start to finish!

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Mushroom Risotto

This recipe is perfect for getting the creamy risotto texture using just a few simple ingredients. And you don’t have to stand over the stove and stir it constantly! You’ll need:

  • Butter- You can use oil if you prefer.
  • Leeks – You can substitute onion.
  • Mushrooms – I use baby portabella mushrooms but you can use whatever kind you like, sliced or diced.
  • Spices – For flavor!
  • Arborio rice – This is “risotto” rice and very important to help get the traditional creaminess of risotto.
  • Broth – Feel free to use chicken broth or vegetable broth. You can also replace 1/4 cup of broth with white wine and use it to deglaze the bottom of the pot.
  • Chicken – I use boneless, skinless chicken breast diced into pieces
  • Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated is best!
  • Peas – Frozen peas work great!

How to Make Instant Pot Mushroom Risotto

Making this recipe is simple, just:

  • Use the saute function to saute the butter, leeks and mushrooms.
  • Season the chicken pieces.
  • Add the rice and stir to coat.
  • Add the chicken and broth.
  • Cook 5 minutes, quick release and stir in the remaining ingredients.
instant pot mushroom risotto

Instant Pot Mushroom Risotto with Chicken Variations:

If this recipe isn’t exactly what you’re looking for you can try:

Instant Pot Chicken Risotto

This is a basic risotto recipe that works with our without the mushrooms. If you don’t like them, leave them out!

Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Risotto

If you’re a fan of lemon, you can definitely add some freshly grated lemon zest into this recipe and finish it with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after it’s done cooking!

Instant Pot Mushroom and Asparagus Risotto

You can add asparagus to this recipe, but I would not add it at the beginning of the recipe or it will be mushy. You can cut it into bite-sized pieces, pan saute it for a couple minutes while the risotto is cooking and add it in at the end, similar to how you add the peas at the end in this recipe.

Instant Pot Vegan Mushroom Risotto

To make a vegan version of this recipe, use oil instead of butter, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can replace the Parmesan cheese with a vegan option or try adding some nutritional yeast instead.

Mushroom Risotto Pressure Cooker Tips

A few tips for making mushroom risotto in a pressure cooker:

  • When cooking in the Instant Pot, the best ratio is 2:1 liquid to rice. So we’re using 3 cups of broth and 1.5 cups of rice.
  • Sauteeing the veggies in butter before cooking helps add some flavor and and helps melt the butter so it can coat the rice.
  • Use quick release so that the risotto doesn’t get overcooked.

Chicken Risotto Pressure Cooker Tips

When using chicken in the pressure cooker:

  • Cut the chicken before cooking to allow it to cook quickly enough that the rice doesn’t get overdone.
  • Don’t cut the chicken pieces too small or they will become overcooked and dry.

How To Avoid Mushy Instant Pot Risotto

To avoid mushy risotto:

  • Don’t overcook it. Typically, 5-6 minutes works best.
  • Use the quick-release button to release the pressure, otherwise the rice will cook too long.
  • Use the right kind of rice – arborio works best, not regular long grain brown or white rice.
  • Don’t rinse the rice – this will rinse away some of the critical starches.

How To Thicken Instant Pot Risotto

Risotto will naturally start to thicken as it sits. If you find there’s still too much liquid in the pot after the designated cooking time you can let the risotto rest. You can also switch to the saute function for a few minutes to help incorporate more of the liquid.

In addition, stirring in more vegetables and grated cheese will thicken the risotto as well.

Best Mushrooms for Instant Pot Risotto

Baby bella mushrooms are my personal favorite for this recipe. You could also use white mushrooms, cremini or others if you prefer.

easy instant pot risotto

Chicken Cuts That Work Best in Instant Pot Risotto

Boneless cuts of chicken will work best in this recipe. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs if you prefer.

Make-Ahead Instant Pot Risotto (Storage Guidance)

Risotto is best served right after making it, when it will be at its creamiest. You can store it in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Since it will thicken considerably as it sits in the fridge, you can add a splash of broth or some additional butter when reheating.

Freezing Risotto

Risotto is best frozen as soon as it has cooled down after cooking versus after storing it in the fridge for several days.

Freeze in an airtight container for 2-3 months and add some additional liquid when reheating. You can also thaw the risotto and turn it into arancini.

Scaling the Recipe for a Crowd

You could try doubling this recipe in the Instant Pot but I have not tried it myself. I would not try tripling the recipe.

Instant Pot Mushroom Risotto with Chicken Recipe

Here’s how to make it:

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Instant Pot Mushroom Risotto with Chicken

instant pot risotto
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 1 review

This easy Instant Pot Mushroom Risotto with Chicken is so creamy and delicious! No stirring required and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables!

  • Author: Lindsay
  • Yield: serves 4-6 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 Tbsp butter, divided
  • 1 cup slice leeks (can sub 3/4 cup diced onion)
  • 4 oz sliced mushrooms (can use up to 8oz if you prefer)
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 2 tsp oregano
  • 1.5 cups arborio rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup frozen peas

Instructions

  1. Use the saute function on the Instant Pot to saute 2 Tbsp butter, leeks and mushrooms for 3-4 minutes. 
  2. Combine spices and sprinkle over chicken pieces, tossing to coat.
  3. Add rice to mushroom mixture and stir to coat.
  4. Add chicken and broth to Instant pot.
  5. Use the manual butter and set timer for 5 minutes.
  6. Use the quick release button, remove lid and stir.
  7. Add remaining Tablespoon of butter, Parmesan and peas and stir to combine.
  8. Let risotto sit for 5 minutes to allow peas to heat up!

Instant Pot Mushroom Risotto FAQs

Can you make mushroom risotto in the Instant Pot?

Yes! This recipe is specifically designed to be made in the Instant Pot for an easy risotto recipe that’s hands-off, no stirring required!

How do you keep Instant Pot Risotto creamy?

The key to a good risotto is using the right kind of rice. Arborio rice is best. I like this Lundberg White Arborio Rice. It has a higher starch content than most rice which helps make it creamy.

Can I add chicken to mushroom risotto in the Instant Pot?

Yes. This recipe uses chicken, cut into pieces so that it cooks in the same amount of time as the rice. I would not recommend putting full chicken breasts in this recipe or the chicken will be undercooked when it’s done.

What mushrooms work best for Instant Pot risotto?

You’re welcome to use almost any type of mushroom. My favorite are baby bella (cremeni), but shitake and oyster mushrooms would work too. You can even use white mushrooms if that’s all you have.

Can you make vegan mushroom risotto in the Instant Pot?

To make this recipe vegan, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You’ll also need to either leave out the parmesan cheese or choose a vegan replacement.

instant pot risotto with peas, mushrooms and chicken

How long does chicken risotto take in the Instant Pot?

The actual cook time on this recipe is approximately 15-20 minutes. The Instant Pot will take 10-15 minutes to come to full pressure and 5 minutes to actually cook.

Can I add asparagus to Instant Pot mushroom risotto?

Yes, but I would stir it in at the end or it will be overcooked and mushy. You can pan saute or roast the asparagus while the risotto is cooking and stir it in at the end like you do with the peas.

Can you freeze chicken mushroom risotto?

Yes. Risotto is best frozen right after cooking. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing. Risotto will thicken as it cools so when you reheat it, you may need to add some extra broth to make it creamy again.

Why is my Instant Pot risotto mushy?

The two most common culprits of mushy risotto are overcooking the rice or not using the right type of rice. Follow the directions in this recipe using arborio rice and you should be just fine.

Can I make risotto in a pressure cooker instead of an Instant Pot?

Yes. Traditional pressure cookers are usually stovetop-based. While they tend to come to pressure more quickly, you may need to play around with the amount of heat so that you don’t burn the contents inside. The Instant Pot is a great set it and forget it option.

This easy Instant Pot Mushroom Risotto with Chicken is so creamy and delicious! No stirring required and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables!

Instant Pot Risotto for Weeknight Dinners

This is an easy, delicious weeknight dinner recipe. Want to try some other variations? Try:

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–


 

Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

by 1 Comment

These Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas are quick, easy and perfect for dinner on a busy night. They cook quickly and make great leftovers for lunch or dinner later in the week.

sheet pan chicken fajitas with cilantro, lime and avocado

*Originally published 2/2018. Updated 2/2026*

Hi friends!

Just popping in to share my new favorite sheet pan dinner. This is an easy chicken fajita recipe made in the oven. It’s quick and easy and a fun way to change things up from taco Tuesday.

Why Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas Work So Well

This recipe works so well because, while it does require some slicing, the actual cooking process is totally hands-off! Just dump the bag of marinated chicken, peppers and onions on a foil-lined baking sheet and stick it in the oven.

Lining the pan with foil makes clean-up a breeze and slicing the chicken prior to cooking helps the strips of chicken, peppers and onions cook evenly.

Chicken Fajita Marinade

The key to adding flavor to this recipe is a simple marinade. After combining the sliced peppers and onions in a bag, you’ll add the marinade ingredients including:

  • Oil
  • Lime Juice
  • Chili Powder
  • Cumin
  • Paprika
  • Garlic Powder
  • Salt
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Cilantro

This recipe is best if the ingredients are combined and then allowed to marinate for at least and hour. But if you’re in a hurry, you can skip the marinade time and the recipe will still have good flavor. After baking, you can taste and sprinkle with additional seasonings if necessary.

How To Make This Chicken Fajita Recipe In the Oven

Making this recipe involves just a few simple steps:

  • Slice the peppers and onions and add them to a ziploc bag.
  • Pound or slice the chicken to an even thickness, slice against the grain into strips and add to the ziploc bag.
  • Add lime juice and oil to the bag.
  • Combine spices in a small bowl and stir to combine, then pour into the bag, seal and massage the bag until everything is evenly coated.
  • Let the chicken and peppers marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, up to overnight.
  • Pour the mixture onto a foil-lined bag and bake.
sheet pan chicken fajitas with tortillas

Are These Healthy Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas?

Yes! This is a simple, healthy meal that’s perfect for busy nights. The chicken is a lean protein, it’s packed with vegetables and baking in the oven is a healthy cooking option.

Quick Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas Variations

This sheet pan recipe is great because after prepping, you can have it on the table in about 15 minutes.

If you’re looking for other variations:

Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas Using Chicken Thighs

If you prefer, you can make this recipe using chicken thighs. Just slice the chicken thighs into strips the same way you would with chicken breasts.

Chicken and Steak Sheet Pan Fajitas

If you prefer steak, you can try these Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas or these. If you like both, good news! The strips of steak and chicken cook at approximately the same rate. So if you wanted to do a combination of the two, feel free!

Chicken Fajita Quesadillas

If you’re not in the mood for fajitas/tacos you can easily make this recipe as directed, chop up the peppers and onions a bit once they’re cooked and use them as the filling for quesadillas!

Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas

If you’re looking for a way to make chicken fajitas in the air fryer, try this recipe for Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas. Or these 30 Min Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas.

Instant Pot or Crockpot Chicken Fajitas

In addition, you can also make chicken fajitas other ways – try these Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas or these Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Fajitas – the chicken will be shredded but they’ll still taste great!

sheet pan chicken fajitas

How To Slice Chicken and Vegetables for Fajitas

The vegetables work best if they’re cut into slices of similar thickness. Here’s how to cut onions for fajitas.

For the chicken you want to slice it against the grain. Here’s a great article about how to cut chicken if you’re not sure how to do it.

Best Vegetables for Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

Bell peppers and onions are the traditional vegetables to use for fajitas. Unless you REALLY like onions, it’s best for the ratio to be roughly 3:1, peppers to onions. I typically use 3 large bell peppers and one medium onion.

Make-Ahead Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

You can easily make this recipe ahead of time. To reheat, you can use the microwave, a skillet or even return to a sheet pan and stick under the broiler for a few minutes.

Freezer-Friendly Chicken Fajita Prep

This recipe is great for the freezer. You can freeze it before or after you cook it.

To freeze ahead of baking, combine all the ingredients in a ziploc bag, remove any excess air and freeze. Transfer to the fridge the night before you’re ready to bake.

To freeze after baking, bake according to the recipe directions, let cool completely and transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze.

Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas for Meal Prep

This recipe is great for meal prep. Make as directed and store in the fridge. You can easily reheat and add to tortilla shells, quesadillas, rice bowls and more as a quick way to add protein and veggies to your meals.

Serving Ideas for Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

You can enjoy this recipe as directed using tortillas to hold the chicken and veggies. You could also serve the chicken and fajita veggies over rice or quinoa or as part of a lettuce-based salad.

Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas Recipe

Here’s how you make it:

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Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

sheet pan chicken fajitas in the oven
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5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 1 review

These Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas are quick, easy and perfect for dinner on a busy night. They cook quickly and make great leftovers for lunch or dinner later in the week.

  • Author: Lindsay
  • Prep Time: 5 min
  • Cook Time: 10 min
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: serves 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 3 bell peppers (red, orange and yellow), sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 Tbsp oil
  • juice from one lime
  • 1 Tbsp chili powder
  • 1 Tbsp cumin
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 – 1 tsp cayenne pepper, optional 
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, minced
  • additional toppings: guacamole, pico de gallo, avocado,sour cream, tortillas, cheese, etc

Instructions

  1. Slice chicken against the grain into strips and place in a ziploc bag.
  2. Add sliced peppers and onions, lime juice and oil.
  3. Combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic, salt and cayenne and stir to combine.
  4. Pour into the Ziploc bag, seal and move everything around until evenly coated. You can add the cilantro to the marinade or save to sprinkle on top after baking.
  5. Let the chicken and vegetables marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, up to overnight.
  6. Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture onto a foil-lined baking sheet and spread everything out evenly.
  7. Bake at 425 degrees F for 10-12 minutes or until chicken reaches 165 degrees F.
  8. Serve with tortillas and your favorite toppings.

Notes

To make it even easier, skip the spice mix and use your favorite taco seasoning!

See what I mean? Piece of cake. Let me know if you guys try it!

Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas FAQs

Can you make chicken fajitas on a sheet pan?

Yes! Sheet pans are perfect for fajitas. They’re big enough that you can spread out the sliced chicken and vegetables and allow them to all cook evenly.

What temperature is best for sheet pan chicken fajitas?

High heat is best – I use 425 degrees F but you can bump it down to 400 degrees F if you prefer.

How do you keep sheet pan chicken fajitas from getting soggy?

Don’t crowd the pan. If your pan is too small, consider splitting the mixture between two pans so that you can spread the chicken and veggies out and allow them to roast. If the pan is too crowded they will steam instead of roast, making them soggy.

Can I use chicken thighs for sheet pan fajitas?

Yes! Boneless chicken thighs work just as well as chicken breasts for this chicken fajita recipe.

chicken fajita recipe oven

Do you need to marinate chicken for sheet pan fajitas?

It’s best to marinate the chicken and vegetables for at least an hour. This will help the chicken tenderize and let the flavor develop

Are sheet pan chicken fajitas healthy?

Yes! This recipe is a great mix of lean protein and veggies. You can also choose whole wheat tortillas or serve the chicken and veggies over brown rice or quinoa. Adding beans will add even more protein and some fiber and avocado can add healthy fats.

Can you make sheet pan chicken fajitas ahead of time?

You can prep this recipe ahead of time and allow it to marinate until you’re ready to bake it. Or you can cook the recipe ahead of time and reheat in the microwave, oven or on the stovetop when ready.

Can I freeze sheet pan chicken fajitas?

Yes. You can slice the chicken and veggies, add the marinade ingredients and freeze in a ziploc bag. Or you can allow the chicken and veggies to cool completely after cooking and freeze until ready to eat.

How long do chicken fajitas take in the oven?

You only need to cook the chicken, peppers and onions for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165 degrees F.

What’s the best way to serve sheet pan chicken fajitas?

You can serve the chicken and veggies in tortillas or add them to a bowl with rice and beans. You could also serve them over lettuce to make a salad or chop them and use to make a quesadilla.

These Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas are quick, easy and perfect for dinner on a busy night. They cook quickly and make great leftovers for lunch or dinner later in the week.

Sheet Pan Recipes:

Want more sheet pan recipes? Try:

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

White Chicken Chili

by 31 Comments

This White Chicken Chili will quickly become your go-to for lunch or dinner on cold nights. Make it in the slow cooker, Instant Pot or on the stove. 

healthy white chicken chili

*Originally published 10/2015. Update 2/2026*

Hi Friends!

I have been making this White Chicken Chili for over 10 years now and it’s still a household favorite. Soup is perfect for the cold winter months but it can also be a great year-round addition to your weekly food prep.

Healthy White Chicken Chili

This White Chicken Chili is a slight twist on one of my mother-in-law’s recipes and I love it because it’s high in protein and fiber and despite using several canned ingredients, you do have some control over the amount of sodium. You can choose low-sodium broth and no-salt-added beans and tomatoes if you prefer.

The chicken adds protein and the beans also add protein and fiber.

Can You Make White Chicken Chili For Meal Prep?

Yes! Soup is great for food prep because it’s easy to make in big batches. You can even double the recipe and freeze half for later. Using Souper Cubes (aff link) makes it easy to freeze in small portions to thaw as needed.

The great thing about soup is that the flavor of most soups deepens as it sits in the fridge so making it ahead of time is always a good idea. Plus it’s easy to pack and reheat for a quick lunch!

Why is this White Chicken Chili Different?

This recipe is a little different from other white chili recipes because it doesn’t use cream cheese. It’s light and fresh and gets a lot of its flavor from the salsa verde in the broth. If you like spice, don’t be afraid to use a medium or hot jar of salsa verde.

How To Thicken White Chicken Chili // How To Make White Chicken Chili Creamier without Dairy

If you’re craving creaminess without cream cheese, try grabbing an extra can of Great Northern beans and pureeing them with some of the broth! This adds creaminess without the need for a dairy-based product like cream cheese or sour cream.

white chicken chili with cilantro and salsa verdr

Why Make White Chicken Chili with Salsa Verde?

A lot of white chicken chili recipes use canned green chilis which help add some flavor, but adding the salsa verde directly to the broth allows you to add all of those flavors into each bite of soup!

Serving Ideas for White Chicken Chili

Another fabulous thing about this soup is that the possibilities for toppings are pretty much endless. Some of my favorites include:

  • Avocado
  • Shredded cheese,
  • A squeeze of fresh lime juice
  • Crushed tortilla chips

You could also serve with a side of rice or quinoa or some crusty bread or corn tortillas for dipping.

Spicy White Chicken Chili

If you’re looking to make this chili spicier, you have several options. You can:

  • Add diced fresh jalapenos or serrano peppers, both before cooking and as a topping.
  • Use hot diced green chilis.
  • Use hot salsa verde.

No Bean White Chicken Chili Option

Yes, you can easily leave the beans out of this recipe. You can also mash or puree them into the broth to make them less noticeable.

If you don’t like beans you could try adding some cooked rice or quinoa to the recipe as well.

How To Make Kid-Friendly White Chicken Chili

To make this soup more kid-friendly you can:

  • Use mild salsa verde and green chilis.
  • Leave out the jalapenos.
  • Puree the beans into the broth instead of leaving them whole.
  • Let them add lots of shredded cheese and crushed tortilla chips as toppings.
slow cooker white chicken chili

Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili Tips

My favorite way to make this soup is in the crockpot. It really couldn’t be simpler, just dump everything in and set the timer! A few tips:

  • How long you need to cook this soup really depends on how thick your chicken breasts are. If you want them to cook more quickly, cut them in half horizontally or pound them thinner before adding them to the crockpot.
  • You’ll know the chicken is done because you can shred it easily with a fork.
  • To thicken the broth, use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree an extra can of great northern beans with 1 cup of broth before adding to the slow cooker.
  • If you prefer stew vs soup, you can start by adding less broth. You can always add more after it’s done cooking.

Instant Pot White Chicken Chili Tips

If you don’t have all day to let things simmer in the crockpot, the Instant Pot is your best option. This is the one I have (aff link). A few tips:

  • Since this is a soup, you don’t have to worry too much about messing up the timing. Your main goal is to cook the chicken.
  • You can let the pressure release naturally or manually release the pressure.
  • I always start with less liquid when using the Instant pot vs the crockpot. You can always add more!
  • Be sure not to fill past the max liquid line.
  • If you want to add some extra flavor, you can use the saute function to saute the onions and brown the chicken before cooking.

Stovetop White Chicken Chili Tips

Making this chili on the stovetop is similar to making it in the crockpot. You can pretty much just putting everything into the pot, bring it to a boil and then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the chicken shreds easily.

Best Chicken Cuts for White Chicken Chili

Any boneless cut of chicken will work well for this recipe. It’s totally up to you whether you prefer using breasts or thighs. I typically prefer breasts for this recipe.

Here’s how you make it:

White Chicken Chili Without Cream Cheese

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White Chicken Chili

white chicken chili
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5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 5 reviews

This Easy White Chicken Chili is the perfect lunch or dinner soup and a nice change from traditional tomato-based chili.

  • Author: Lindsay L
  • Prep Time: 5
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.5 pounds chicken breast (sliced in half horizontally to make them thinner)
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 can no-salt-added cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can no-salt-added diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 jar salsa verde (mild, medium or hot)*
  • 1–2 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • salt, to taste
  • optional: juice from one lime and a jar of canned green chilis, diced jalapenos
  • optional toppings: fresh cilantro, cheese, avocado, salsa, sour cream, tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. To make in the crockpot: Add all ingredients, stir, cover and cook on low for 8 hours. Shred the chicken and serve with toppings
  2. To make in the Instant Pot: Add all ingredients except toppings to the instant pot and cook for 12 minutes. Release pressure manually, remove the chicken to shred and return to the pot. Add toppings and serve.
  3. To make it on the stove: Saute onion and garlic in a large pot for 5 minutes. Add remaining ingredients, bring to a boil, reduce heat and let simmer until chicken is cooked through. Remove chicken to shred and return to pot. Spoon into bowls, top as desired and serve warm.

Notes

*Use 1-2 cups of salsa verde – whatever size your jar is should be fine

White Chicken Chili FAQs

What makes white chicken chili different from regular chili?

Regular chili is typically made with ground beef and is tomato-based. This chili is made with chicken and although it uses tomatoes, the broth remains light and most of the flavor comes from the salsa verde vs tomatoes and chili powder.

Can you make white chicken chili without cream cheese?

Yes! Although most white chili does have a creamier broth, thanks to the addition of cream cheese, you can definitely make it without. This recipe adds salsa verde to the broth to add flavor and if you want creaminess, you can puree beans into the broth!

Is white chicken chili healthy?

Yes! It’s full of lean protein and the beans add an extra dose of protein and fiber!

Can I make white chicken chili in a slow cooker?

The crockpot is my favorite way to cook this soup. The flavors will deepen as it cooks all day and it truly is a dump-and-go recipe, perfect for busy families!

How do you thicken white chicken chili?

Traditionally, white chicken chili is thickened with cream cheese. If you prefer a dairy-free option, puree white beans with broth and add them to the soup to help thicken!

crockpot white chicken chili

Can you freeze white chicken chili?

Yes! This recipe freezes beautifully. You can combine all the ingredients in a ziploc bag and freeze so that all you have to do is dump it in the crockpot later. Or you can cook as directed, let it cool and then freeze in a bag or freezer-safe storage container.

What’s the best salsa verde for white chicken chili?

You can use whichever is your favorite! My favorite is Herdez Roasted Salsa Verde.

Can I make white chicken chili without beans?

Yep. You can easily leave the beans out of this recipe if you prefer, or puree them to make them less noticeable. You can also replace them with rice or quinoa.

How spicy is white chicken chili?

This chili can be as spicy or mild as you prefer. Use mild salsa and chilis if you don’t like spice or try hot diced green chilis, hot salsa verde and top with freshly sliced jalapenos for an extra kick.

Can I make white chicken chili ahead of time?

 Yes. This recipe can easily be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or frozen.

This White Chicken Chili will quickly become your go-to for lunch or dinner on cold nights. Make it in the slow cooker, Instant Pot or on the stove. 

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

Banana Oat Cookies

by 9 Comments

These banana oat cookies and fluffy and delicious – like banana muffin tops. They’re packed with hemp and flax and perfect for breakfast or snack time.

easy banana oat cookies with chocolate chips

*Originally published 2/2011. Updated 1/2026*

Hi friends!

These banana cookies with oats are an update to an old recipe from 2011 and they are absolutely delicious! They’re packed with oats, hemp and ground flax and could easily make it into your breakfast or snack rotation. Plus they’re perfect for meal prep.

Why Banana Oat Cookies Are A Better-For-You Cookie

These cookies are great for several reasons:

  • They’re fluffy! These are not a dense, chewy cookie. They’re light and fluffly, kinda like a banana muffin top.
  • They’re nutrient-dense. They contain ground flaxseed, oats and hemp hearts which gives them a boost of fiber and other nutrients.
  • Naturally sweet – The banana adds natural sweetness
  • Easy to make gluten-free. To make these gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats and swap a 1:1 gluten-free flour baking blend for the flour.
  • Only one bowl required. They’re quick and easy to whip up in just one bowl.

Banana Cookies with Oats vs. Traditional Banana Cookies

Traditional banana cookies are more of a dessert and are typically high in added sugar. These Banana Oat Cookies have several nutrient-dense ingredients added to help make them a more filling and nutritious option. They are lower in added sugar as well.

How Ripe Should Bananas Be For Banana Cookies

Typically, the riper the better. Since the bananas are being used to add sweetness and help you reduce the amount of added sugar, look for bananas that have started to develop brown spots.

Healthy Banana Breakfast Cookies

These cookies make a great addition to your breakfast rotation. To cut back on the added sugar you could reduce to 1/4 cup and swap the chocolate chips for raisins! Serve them with yogurt or a glass of milk for added protein.

banana cookies with oats

Ingredients for Banana Oat Cookies

To make these cookies you’ll need:

  • Butter- Melted and slightly cooled
  • Mashed Banana- The riper the better for sweetness
  • Sugar – for sweetness. You can reduce to your taste, especially if your bananas are very ripe
  • Egg – for structure
  • Vanilla & Cinnamon – for flavor
  • Hemp & Flax – for added protein, fiber and other nutrients
  • Flour – Can sub 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed
  • Oats – I prefer quick oats/instant oats for the texture but you can use rolled oats if you prefer.
  • Baking soda
  • Chocolate chips – These can be omitted or you could swap in dried fruit like raisins

How To Make Banana Oat Cookies

To make these cookies just follow a few simple steps:

  • Melt the butter.
  • Add the mashed banana, sugar, egg, vanilla, cinnamon, hemp and flax and stir to combine.
  • Add flour, oats, baking soda and chocolate chips and mix until just combined.
  • Scoop, flatten and bake!

Banana Oat Cookies Variations

Gluten-Free Banana Cookies with Oats

To make these cookies gluten-free, use a 1:1 GF flour blend (I like King Arthur Measure for Measure) and use certified gluten-free oats. I like Bob’s Red Mill Quick Cooking Rolled Oats.

Peanut Butter Banana Oat Cookies

The original version of this recipe had peanut butter but I found that the taste of the bananas overwhelmed the taste of the peanut butter so I took it out. You could add it it in if you’d like for some extra healthy fats for satiety. I’d start by adding 1/4 cup and go up from there.

Protein Banana Cookies

To increase the protein content of these cookies, you could try swapping butter for 1/4 cup full-fat Greek yogurt. Or you could add some unflavored protein powder. I’d start with one scoop.

Vegan Banana Cookies with Oats

To make these cookies vegan, leave out the egg and add a flax egg and swap the butter for 1/4 cup oil. Be sure to use vegan chocolate chips or swap them for dried fruit.

No-Bake Banana Oat Cookies // 3 Ingredient Banana Oat Cookies

If you’re looking for a recipe for no-bake cookies using bananas, try one of these:

banana oat cookies on baking sheet

Easy Banana Cookies Recipe Tips

How To Store Banana Oat Cookies

These cookies are best stored in an airtight container or bag on the counter for 2-3 days. If you’re planning to keep them longer than that, I would move them to the fridge.

How To Freeze Banana Oat Cookies

To freeze these cookies, bake as directed, let them cool completely and then transfer to a freezer-safe container or ziploc bag. Transfer to the counter to thaw when ready to eat!

Cookie Baking Tips

For consistent results, use a cookie scoop to portion the cookies. I like the OXO medium scoop (aff link). You can get pre-cut parchment paper to make life easier and bake on my favorite USA pan half sheet baking sheets.

Also, these cookies won’t spread much so be sure to flatten gently with a fork before baking.

Banana Oat Cookies Recipe

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Banana Oat Cookies

banana oat cookies
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No reviews

These banana oat cookies and fluffy and delicious – like banana muffin tops. They’re packed with hemp and flax and perfect for breakfast or snack time.

  • Author: Lindsay
  • Yield: 18–24 cookies 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 Tbsp butter, melted
  • 1 cup mashed banana (approx 3 medium)
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup hemp hearts
  • 1/4 cup ground flax
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 cup quick oats (or rolled oats)
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • chocolate chips or raisins

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
  2. Melt butter in microwave safe bowl.
  3. Combine melted butter, mashed banana, sugar, egg, vanilla, cinnamon, hemp and flax and stir until well combined.
  4. Add remaining ingredients and stir until just combined.
  5. Scoop onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten gently with a fork.
  6. Bake 9-10 minutes

Notes

Should make 18-24 cookies depending on the size.

Banana Oat Cookies FAQs

Are banana cookies with oats healthy?

These cookies are healthier than a traditional cookie. They are lower in added sugar and have some added fiber and protein from the oats, flax and hemp seeds.

Can I make banana oat cookies for breakfast?

Yes! You can tweak them to make a healthier breakfast option by reducing the amount of sugar and using raisins instead of chocolate chips!

What kind of oats are best for banana cookies?

I prefer instant or quick-cooking oats for the texture. These oats are basically rolled oats that have been chopped up slightly to make them smaller. If you prefer, you can use rolled oats.

Can I make banana cookies with oats gluten-free?

Yes, you just need to use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and be sure you’re using certified gluten-free oats.

How ripe should bananas be for banana cookies?

The riper the bananas are, the more naturally sweet they will be. I like to use bananas that are brown and spotted but not completely mushy.

banana oatmeal cookies

Are banana oat cookies good for meal prep?

Yes, these cookies can be made ahead of time and enjoyed all week long for meals and snacks as long as they’re stored in an airtight container.

Can I freeze banana cookies with oats?

Yes! Just make sure the cookies are completely cool before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Can I make banana oat cookies with peanut butter?

Yes, feel free to add up to 1/2 cup peanut butter to this recipe!

How do I make banana cookies soft and fluffy?

Follow this recipe exactly as written! The cookies will come out soft and fluffy!

These banana oat cookies and fluffy and delicious - like banana muffin tops. They're packed with hemp and flax and perfect for breakfast or snack time.

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

Caramel Chocolate Bars

by 41 Comments

These Caramel Chocolate Bars are perfect for everything from birthday parties to holiday cookie trays. Sweet, chewy and stuffed with delicious caramel and chocolate.

caramel chocolate bars

*Originally published 12/2011. Updated 1/2026*

Hi friends!

I’m excited to share these Caramel Chocolate Bars with you guys today! This recipe was originally shared on the blog way back in 2011 and now here we are 15 years later! Thery’re still a favorite so I decided they could use a little refresh!

Why You’ll Love These Caramel Chocolate Bars

An easy, crowd-pleasing recipe, I’m sure they’ll be a hit because:

  • They’re made with simple ingredients
  • Also known as caramelitas, they are a staple on a lot of holiday cookie trays.

Caramel Chocolate Bars Ingredients

To make these bars, you just need a few simple ingredients including:

  • Butter – melted and cooled slightly
  • Brown Sugar – works better than white sugar in this recipe
  • Vanilla extract – for flavor
  • Flour- can sub a 1:1 gluten-free flour if needed
  • Oats – I use quick oats instead of rolled oats because I like texture better in cookies
  • Baking soda and salt
  • Chocolate chips – dark or semi-sweet
  • Caramels – the individually wrapped kind, not the the caramel sauce
  • Heavy cream – to mix with the caramel

How To Make Caramel Chocolate Bars

These bars are met in a few separate phases:

  • Melt the butter and mix it with the brown sugar, vanilla, flour, oats, baking soda and salt until well combined. The mixture will be a bit crumbly.
  • Divide the oat mixture in half and press half into a pan.
  • Bake the bottom layer.
  • Melt the caramels and cream in the microwave to make a sauce.
  • Top bottom layer with chocolate chips. Then add caramel sauce.
  • Top with the remaining oat mixture and bake again!
stack of easy caramel chocolate bars with a bowl of oats

Bar Variations

If you’re looking to change things up a little bit, try:

Salted Caramel Chocolate Bars

You can either sprinkle the layer of caramel with flaky sea salt or add a sprinkle of salt over the oat topping before baking.

Pretzel Caramel Chocolate Bars

Another option if you love the sweet and salty combo, would be to chop up some pretzels and add them to the dough. You could reduce the oats my 1/4 cup and replace with 1/4 cup chopped pretzels.

Pecan Caramel Chocolate Bars

These bars are also great with the addition of nuts. Add some chopped pecans on top when you add the chocolate chips and then top with caramel. You could also use walnuts.

Coconut Caramel Chocolate Bars

Try adding some shredded sweetened coconut for a fun twist! You can mix into the crust or sprinkle on top as you add the oat topping over the caramel.

Peanut Butter Caramel Chocolate Bars

Try mixing 1/3 cup peanut butter into the dough mixture when you add the brown sugar and vanilla.

caramel chocolate bars wtih caramel and oats

How To Freeze and Store Caramel Chocolate Bars

These bars can be stored at room temperature in a sealed container for a week or two! If you’d like to freeze them, place in a freezer-safe bag with parchment paper between layers and freeze up to 3 months. To thaw, let sit at room temperature until thawed all the way through.

Cutting Caramel Bars

Perhaps the most important part of this recipe is to let the bars cool completely before trying to cut them. If you try to slice into the bars while they are still warm, you’ll be left with a gooey, sticky mess. The bars will crumble and the caramel will stick to the knife.

Let the bars cool completely and it should be very easy to cut into bars of your desired size.

Cookie Swap & Dessert Bar

These bars are perfect for a holiday cookie swap or dessert bar. They are nut-free which helps to avoid a common allergen and can also be made gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend (I like King Arther Gluten-free Measure for Measure) as well as certified gluten-free oats.

Bars are great for swaps because you can cut them into whatever size you want – smaller for a cookie swap where there are going to be a lot of dessert exchanged or larger if they are the star of the show!

caramel chocolate bars with oats

Troubleshooting

Can I make in a 9×13 pan?

I would not attempt to make these in a 9×13 pan without doubling the recipe. You won’t have enough dough to split it in half and cover the entire layer of a 9×13 pan with the original recipe.

What if the caramel overflows?

If the caramel overflows around the edges of the bars, you may have used a few too many caramels. But don’t worry! You can just slice of a very thin bit around the entire outside edge to clean them up and make them look pretty again!

Why are my caramel chocolate bars crumbly?

If you follow the recipe as written, your bars should not be crumbly. They should hold together well UNLESS you try to slice them before they are completely cool.

Caramel Chocolate Bars Recipe

Here’s the exact recipe I use:

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Caramel Chocolate Bars

caramel chocolate bars square
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5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 1 review

These Caramel Chocolate Bars are perfect for everything from birthday parties to holiday cookie trays. Sweet, chewy and stuffed with delicious caramel and chocolate.

  • Author: Lindsay
  • Yield: 8x8 pan 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 Tbsp butter melted
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla 
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 cup oats
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 8oz caramels (approx 30 caramels)
  • ⅓ cup heavy cream
  • Pecans optional

Instructions

Caramel Chocolate Bars FAQs

What are caramel chocolate bars made of?

These bars are a simple mix of butter, sugar, vanilla, oats and flour, with a layer of chocolate and caramel in between the crust and topping.

Are caramel chocolate bars the same as caramelitas?

If you’re a super long-time reader, you may remember these were originally published as Caramelitas. The title has been changed to more accurately reflect the ingredients and make it easier to describe the bars! Both names describe these bars.

Can I make caramel chocolate bars ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, making caramel chocolate bars ahead of time is a must. They need to cool completely before you can cut them so be sure to plan ahead!

Do caramel chocolate bars need to be refrigerated?

No. These bars can be stored at room temperature.

caramel chocolate bars with oat crumble topping

Can I freeze caramel chocolate bars?

Yes! These bars can be frozen in a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment paper between the layers for up to 3 months.

How do I keep caramel chocolate bars from falling apart?

Be sure to let the bars cool completely before cutting. This will help them firm up so they hold together well.

What’s the best caramel to use for caramel chocolate bars?

Any variety of individually wrapped caramels should work. I like Kraft’s caramels.

Can I make salted caramel chocolate bars?

Yes. Feel free to add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to the top of the caramel layer or on top of the oat topping.

Are caramel chocolate bars good for cookie swaps?

Yes. Bars are great for cookie swaps because you can easily cut them into whatever size bars you need, large or small!

These Caramel Chocolate Bars are perfect for everything from birthday parties to holiday cookie trays. Sweet, chewy and stuffed with delicious caramel and chocolate.

 

–Lindsay–

Easy Canned Food Recipes

by 48 Comments

These easy canned food recipes are perfect for quick, simple meals that are budget-friendly, nutritious and full of flavor!

easy canned food recipes

*Originally published 2/2015. Updated 1/2026*

Hi Friends!

Let’s chat about easy canned food recipes, shall we? Canned foods are often over-looked or get a reputation for not being as good as fresh or frozen food, but in reality they are nutrient-dense and budget-friendly, making them a great option for most people.

How To Use This Guide

This post is meant to be a resource for busy families looking for easy pantry meals that can be cooked on a budget. Be sure to bookmark this blog post so you can easily refer back to it.

Below you will find some general information about the nutritional benefits of a variety of canned foods, as well as lots of recipe suggestions.

The recipes are grouped by type of canned food to make it easier to find what you’re looking for!

Benefits of canned food

While the nutrients in canned fruits and vegetables are locked in at peak freshness soon after they are harvested, fresh fruits and veggies are losing nutrients as they travel across the country and while sitting in the grocery store.

A mix of canned, fresh, frozen and dried foods can help you get all the nutrients you need and canned foods are a great option if, for example, certain produce isn’t in season near you.

Stocking up on canned fruits and vegetables and canned protein sources like tuna and beans is a great way to fill your pantry to help ensure you always have these healthy staples on hand to make quick canned food recipes for healthy weeknight meals!

Hot Taco Layer Dip in a cast iron skillet with chips and a can of pinto beans

How To Choose Healthy Canned Foods

When choosing which canned foods to buy, here are a few tips:

  • Look for low-sodium or no salt added varieties so that you can control sodium levels.
  • If you can’t find low-sodium options, rinse your canned foods with water before using them in a recipe to help remove some of the added salt.
  • Look for BPA-free cans so that those chemicals are getting into your food.
  • Aim for variety. There are tons of canned food options out there. Challenge yourself to try different types of vegetables, beans etc that you haven’t had before as well as mixing up your intake of fresh, frozen and canned fruits, vegetables and protein.

Common Mistakes When Cooking with Canned Foods

A few things to keep in mind when cooking with canned foods:

  • Consider added sodium. Either choose low-sodium, rinse before using or adjust additional added salt to take the sodium in canned foods into consideration.
  • Don’t skip the seasoning! Some people complain or think they don’t like canned foods because they are lacking flavor but a lot of canned foods do not come pre-seasoned. So make sure to add your favorite spices and seasonings to help your food taste its best!
  • Don’t overcook – Unlike fresh vegetables and protein, canned foods are already cooked. They don’t need long cooking times like some fresh food does. So don’t over-do it on the cooking or you’ll end up with mush. If mixing fresh and canned ingredients, consider adding canned near the end!
Easy Pantry and Freezer Meals

Easy Pantry Meals

Canned foods are great for making quick meals. Here are some of my favorite easy Pantry and Freezer Meals. You can use a variety of canned foods to make:

  • Budget-Friendly Meals – Canned foods are typically fairly inexpensive and they can be a great way to make nutrient-dense meals as grocery costs continue to rise. Especially in cooked dishes like soups, casseroles etc, canned foods are hard to distinguish from fresh and often contain more nutrients.
  • Last-Minute Dinners – Despite ours best planning, sometimes we find ourselves needing a quick dinner with not much left in the fridge. Keeping a well-stocked pantry with a variety of canned foods can help ensure we can still throw together a healthy dinner quickly.
  • Emergency or Pantry cooking – In the event of an emergency like a hurricane, power outage, etc, canned foods can sometimes be the only source of available food. Having a stock of canned goods can help you continue to feed your family even when disaster strikes.

Easy Canned Food Recipes

The internet has an endless supply of delicious recipes using canned food. I’ve rounded up some of my favorites in a variety of different categories – everything from lean protein to delicious vegetables!

Canned Protein Recipes

Canned protein is a great option for those looking to meet protein goals and add protein to their meals in a budget-friendly way. There are a wide variety of canned protein options available including chicken, tuna, salmon, sardines and more.

Canned Chicken Recipes

Canned chicken is a fully cooked lean protein that can be packed in water, oil or broth. It’s convenient for quick meals during busy weeks.

What canned you make with canned chicken?

  • Dips
  • Casseroles
  • Chicken salad
  • Chicken patties

Here are some ideas for canned chicken recipes:

buffalo chicken dip crescent ring

Buffalo Chicken Dip Crescent Ring

Makes an easy appetizer or a quick weeknight dinner!

Grab the recipe!
white cheddar mac chicken bake

White Cheddar Mac and Chicken Bake

Creamy cheesy pasta with chicken and peas

Grab the recipe!
mexican chicken tortilla casserole

Mexican Chicken Tortilla Casserole

Comfort food that’s easy enough to pull together on a busy night.

Grab the recipe!
canned chicken casserole

Canned Chicken Salad

An easy, high-protein option that’s great for scooping with veggies or crackers.

Grab the recipe!
chicken cakes with remoulade

Chicken Cakes with Remoulade Sauce

Like crab cakes but easier and cheaper without losing any flavor!

Grab the recipe!

Canned Salmon Recipes

Canned salmon is a convenient way to add more seafood to your diet. It’s rich in omega 3’s, high in protein and lasts for a while in your pantry.

What can you make with canned salmon?

  • Salmon cakes with dipping sauce
  • Soup or chowder
  • Pasta
  • Casseroles

Here are some canned salmon recipes:

salmon cakes

Salmon Patties

Golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Grab the recipe!
salmon chowder

Salmon Chowder

Easy, creamy and delicious!

Grab the recipe!
easy salmon salad

Easy Salmon Salad

Full of flavor and packed with heart-healthy fats.

Grab the recipe!
salmon garlic linguine

Garlic Salmon Linguine

Simple, delicious pasta recipe with added protein.

Grab the recipe!
salmon potato casserole

Salmon Potato Casserole

A one pot dinner that can use leftover salmon or canned salmon.

Grab the recipe!

Canned Tuna Recipes

Canned tuna is a great source of heart-healthy omega 3 fatty acids. It can be packed in oil or water and it’s a great, shelf-stable source of protein.

What can you make with canned tuna?

  • Tuna cakes
  • Rice bowls
  • Salad
  • Sandwiches
  • Avocado melts

Here are some canned tuna recipes:

Easy Tuna Melt 3

Easy Tuna Melts

This recipe for Easy Tuna Melts comes together quickly and is great for lunch! Try it to help add more seafood to your diet!

Grab the recipe!
Tuna Quinoa Cakes 1

Tuna Quinoa Cakes

These Tuna Quinoa Cakes are a great way to add some extra protein to your day. Eat them plain, put them on a bun, or use them to top your salad for a healthy lunch or dinner!

Grab the recipe!
spicy tuna with crispy rice

Spicy Tuna with Crispy Rice

Spicy, crunchy and bursting with flavor!

Grab the recipe!
mediterranean tuna salad

Mediterranean Tuna Salad

Bright Mediterranean flavors topped with a creamy feta dressing.

Grab the recipe!
avocado tuna melts

Avocado Tuna Melts

Perfect for a quick, easy lunch!

Grab the recipe!
tuna chickpea salad

Tuna Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Eat it with crackers, on bread or stuffed in a pita.

Grab the recipe!
tuna broccoli avocado

Broccoli Avocado Tuna Bowl

Packed with lean protein, healthy fats and broccoli

Grab the recipe!

Canned Sardine Recipes

Canned sardines can be intimidating but they are nutrient dense and versatile, making them a great addition to your weekly meals. They’re full of nutrients like calcium, potassium, magnesium and more and they can be used in a variety of ways.

What can you make with canned sardines?

  • Sandwiches
  • Fish Cakes
  • Tacos
  • Pasta
  • Salad

Here are some canned sardine recipes like:

canned sardine sandwich

Canned Sardine Sandwich

Similar to tuna salad and easy to customize!

Grab the recipe!
sardine cakes

Canned Sardine Cakes

Mini fish cakes made with sardines and topped with a spicy yogurt sauce.

Grab the recipe!
sardine tacos

Sardine Tacos

Canned sardines topped with a simple slaw and a spicy sauce.

Grab the recipe!
green goddess pita

Green Goddess Pita with Sardines

Sardines, avocado, veggies and sardines with a green goddess dressing

Grab the recipe!
instant pot pasta with sardines

Instant Pot Pesto Pasta with Sardines

An easy instant pot dinner that’s ready in 15 minutes.

Grab the recipe!

Canned Vegetables Recipes

Canned vegetables are a great source of nutrition for many families. They are inexpensive and nutritious because the vegetables are picked at their peak ripeness and processed to lock in the nutrients. You can find canned versions of most all fresh vegetables and they can be prepared in a variety of ways.

Canned Green Bean Recipes

Canned green beans are a great option for adding a serving of vegetables to your meals. They contain some fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin A and potassium as well.

What can you make with canned green beans?

  • One pot dishes
  • Green bean casserole
  • Side dishes
  • Salad

Here are some canned green bean recipes to try:

One Pot Shrimp and Orzo 3

One Pot Shrimp and Orzo

All you need is one pan and 20 minutes to make this quick and easy One Pot Shrimp and Orzo dinner recipe. Sub canned beans for frozen.

Grab the recipe!
blistered green beans

Blistered Green Beans

Quick, easy and garlicky!

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firehouse green beans

Firehouse Green Beans

Ready in under 10 minutes!

Grab the recipe!
canned green bean salad

Canned Green Bean Salad

Perfect side dish for the hot summer months!

Grab the recipe!
green beans for dinner

Easy Green Beans for Dinner

An easy way to jazz up canned green beans

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crack green beans

Crack Green Beans

Mixed with bacon and full of flavor.

Grab the recipe!

Canned Corn Recipes

Canned corn contains several vitamins and minerals. It has a mild flavor and can be added to a variety of dishes.

What can you make with canned corn?

  • Salsa
  • Dip
  • Skillet dishes
  • Street corn
  • Soups and chowders

Here are some canned corn recipes:

mexican street corn dip 2

Mexican Street Corn Dip

Spicy, flavorful and easy to make it’s perfect for dipping with chips!

You can sub canned corn for fresh!

Grab the recipe!
Cowboy Caviar The Lean Green Bean 08

Cowboy Caviar

Learn how to make the best cowboy caviar recipe – a healthy, easy dip that’s perfect for any occasion. Tastes great scooped with chips, added to tacos or served over chicken.

Grab the recipe!
honey butter skillet corn

Honey Butter Skillet Chicken

A simple, flavorful side dish.

Grab the recipe!
best canned corn

Best Canned Corn

Canned corn mixed with fresh herbs, butter and garlic.

Grab the recipe!
mexican street corn

Mexican Street Corn

Creamy and delicious!

Grab the recipe!
easy corn chowder

Easy Corn Chowder

Perfect for a cold winter night!

Grab the recipe!

Canned Sweet Potato Recipes

Canned sweet potatoes are a good source of Vitamin A&C, fiber and potassium. They can be used for dinner or dessert in canned sweet potato recipes.

What can you make with canned sweet potato:

  • Sub it for any recipe using pumpkin
  • Sub for microwaved fresh sweet potato
  • Bars, cookies and muffins
  • Soup
  • Cake
  • Rolls
Sweet Potato Protein Cookies

Healthy Sweet Potato Cookies

No protein powder required for these Healthy Sweet Potato Cookies! Sub canned sweet potato for fresh.

Grab the recipe!
sweet potato white bean bars 1

Sweet Potato White Bean Bars

These Sweet Potato White Bean Bars are perfect for breakfast or snack time. They’re kid-friendly, nut-free and full of fiber! 

Grab the recipe!
candied sweet potatoes

Candied Sweet Potatoes

Quick, simple and melts in your mouth.

Grab the recipe!
sweet potato casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole

Warm and comforting, perfect for the holidays!

Grab the recipe!
sweet potato sheet cake

Sweet Potato Sheet Cake

Layers of sweet potato goodness!

Grab the recipe!
sweet potato dinner rolls

Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls

The perfect dinner side dish!

Grab the recipe!

Canned Artichoke Recipes

Canned artichokes are a highly nutritious vegetable option. They’re loaded with fiber and also rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C & K. Their mild flavor makes them easy to add to a variety of recipes.

How to use canned artichokes:

  • Side dishes
  • Roasting
  • Fritattas
  • Pasta Dishes
  • Dips

Here are some canned artichoke recipes:

roasted artichoke hearts

Roasted Artichoke Hearts

Simple ingredients, quick to make with a simple dipping sauce.

Grab the recipe!
canned artichokes

Canned Artichokes with Breadcrumbs

A cheesy topping with breadcrumbs make these irresistable.

Grab the recipe!
spinach artichoke dip pasta

Spinach Artichoke Dip Pasta

Turn your favorite dip into an easy pasta dinner.

Grab the recipe!
Spinach artichoke pasta

Spinach Artichoke Chicken

Delicious chicken in a rich, creamy sauce.

Grab the recipe!

Canned Pumpkin Recipes

Perhaps one of the most popular canned vegetables, especially in the fall/winter, canned pumpkin is super versatile. Not only can it be used in baking, but it can be used in savory dishes as well.

How To Use Canned Pumpkin:

  • Cakes and pies
  • Muffins
  • Pancakes and waffles
  • Soups
  • Curry

Here are some canned pumpkin recipes:

easy pumpin dessert recipes

20 Easy Pumpkin Dessert Recipes {That Are Not Pumpkin Pie}

Pumpkin puree dessert recipes that are not pumpkin pie.

Grab the recipe!
healthy pumpkin recipes

30 Healthy Pumpkin Recipes

Looking for healthy pumpkin recipes? Here are 30 recipes to try!

Grab the recipe!
pumpkin bread

Easy Pumpkin Bread with Chocolate Chips

This Easy Pumpkin Bread requires just one bowl and a few simple ingredients. It will quickly become your go-to fall recipe.

Grab the recipe!
pumpkin pie bars

Pumpkin Pie Bars

These pumpkin pie bars use a box of yellow cake mix plus a few simple ingredients to make the most delicious pumpkin pie bar recipe. Perfect for Thanksgiving dessert or any other occasion.

Grab the recipe!
pumpkin quinoa bars

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bars with Quinoa

These chocolate chip pumpkin bars pack an extra nutritional punch thanks to the addition of quinoa! Kid-friendly and easy to make, they’ll quickly become a favorite Fall recipe!

Grab the recipe!

Canned Beans & Legumes Recipes

Canned beans are a great source of protein and fiber. One serving of beans can help you meet 20% or more of your daily fiber needs and adequate fiber intake can help guard against heart disease. Use them for dinners, side dishes or baked goods. Try one of these canned beans recipes this week!

What can you make with canned beans?

  • Layer dip
  • Salsa
  • Salad
  • Brownies
  • Vegetarian recipes

Here are some canned bean recipes to try:

hot taco dip 2 copy

The Ultimate Hot Taco Layer Dip

This easy Hot Taco Layer Dip is perfect for tailgating. This vegetarian appetizer is made with easy homemade refried beans, creamy hummus, corn salsa and cheese. Perfect for scooping with chips!

Grab the recipe!
Kale and White Bean Salad The Lean Green Bean 2 copy

Kale and White Bean Salad

This Kale and White Bean Salad is packed with nutrients and the flavor just gets better as it sits in the fridge. The perfect meal prep lunch recipe.

Grab the recipe!
black bean brownies 3 copy

Healthy Black Bean Brownies

These Healthy Black Bean Brownies are kid-friendly, full of fiber and perfect for a snack or dessert!

Grab the recipe!
marry me beans

Marry Me Beans

Creamy beans with tons of flavor!

Grab the recipe!
garlic parmesan white beans

Garlic Parmesan White Beans

Ready in 15 minutes and bursting with flavor!

Grab the recipe!

Canned Foods Recipes FAQs

Are canned food recipes healthy?

Like all recipes, the nutritional value comes down to the specific recipe and its ingredients. But there are plenty of healthy and nutritious canned food recipes available to help make canned foods a healthy part of your diet!

Are canned vegetables as nutritious as fresh or frozen?

Yes. Canned vegetables are picked at the peak of their ripeness when they contain the most nutrients and then flash-cooked and sealed into cans. This locks in their nutrients, making them a great choice for healthy eating.

Should you rinse canned beans before cooking?

Yes. It’s best to give your beans a quick rinse under cold running water before using.

What are the healthiest canned proteins?

Most canned proteins are heart-healthy lean protein sources. Consider that they can be packed in things besides water like oil, which can add extra fat and calories if that’s a concern of yours and they can also be high in sodium.

What canned foods are best to keep in your pantry?

It’s best to keep a wide variety of canned proteins – tuna, salmon, chicken, etc along with canned fruits – pears, peaches, fruit cocktail, oranges etc and lots of vegetables – green beans, peas, corn, tomatoes, carrots and more! You can also stock other canned goods like soup, pasta sauce and more.

cowboy caviar

Can you used canned foods for meal prep?

Yes! Canned foods are just like fresh and can be prepared in multiple ways, including in recipes that are great for meal prep like salads, casseroles, salsas and more.

Are canned foods good for budget cooking?

Yes! They are typically some of the most inexpensive foods at the grocery store and they are still packed with nutrients. They are shelf-stable and can last a while in your pantry making them great to save for after you’ve used some of your fresh food.

How do you reduce sodium in canned foods?

The easiest way to reduce sodium in canned foods is to rinse well in a strainer before using.

What are easy dinners you can make with canned foods?

Canned foods are great for pasta dishes, soups and stews, tuna melts, chicken or fish cakes, casseroles and more!

Sweet Potato White Bean Bars - stacked, on cooling rack and a bowl of beans

Can canned foods be used in kid-friendly recipes?

Yes! A great place to start is using things like canned pumpkin, sweet potatoes and beans in baked goods. Here are tons of kid-friendly baking recipes.

How long do canned foods last once opened?

Canned foods need to be refrigerated once the seal of the can has been broken. Once in the fridge they are good 3-4 days just like most leftovers.

Are canned foods good for emergency meals?

Yes! Especially if you live in an area prone to natural disasters like floods, tornados and hurricanes, it’s a great idea to have a tub full of canned food that you can use to prepare meals in the event that you find yourself without power for multiple days.

These easy canned food recipes are perfect for quick, simple meals that are budget-friendly, nutritious and full of flavor!

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

15+ Christmas Breakfast Ideas

by 33 Comments

Here are 15+ easy Christmas Breakfast Ideas that are sure to be a hit! Christmas Breakfast Casserole, cinnamon rolls, frittata and more holiday breakfasts to feed a crowd.

christmas breakfast ideas including cinnamon rolls, breakfast casseroles, french toast casserole, frittata and more

*Originally published 12/2013. Updated 12/2025*

Hi Friends!

With the holidays fast approaching, I’m sure many of you are starting to think about meals, especially if you happen to be hosting this year. While a lot of the focus is often on the main holiday dinner, I happen to think breakfast is equally important- especially if you’re hosting overnight guests!

Christmas Breakfast Ideas

There are lots of ways to feed a crowd on a holiday morning. One of the best options is something that can be prepped ahead of time so all you have to do is stick it in the oven in the morning.

You could opt for something hearty like a casserole, or something nice and sweet like cinnamon rolls. Or choose a more traditional option like French toast or pancakes and turn it into a casserole to make your life easier!

Tips for a Stress-Free Christmas Morning Breakfast

To make sure your morning goes smoothly, here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Do whatever you can the night before! Holiday mornings are always crazy and anything you can prep ahead of time will be helpful.
  • Preheat the oven as soon as you get up so you don’t forget! You can stick a casserole in to bake while opening presents or put it in as soon as you’re done.
  • To keep dishes warm, cover with foil or place in a oven at a low temperature (like 180 – 200 degrees F). You can also try a warming mat (aff link)

Recipes For Christmas Breakfast Casseroles

Here are some easy Christmas breakfast casseroles that are hearty and filling. These are perfect for a holiday morning because they can be prepped the night before and all you have to do is stick them in the oven to bake while you’re opening presents!

christmas breakfast casserole

Christmas Breakfast Casserole

Just 5 ingredients required and can be prepped ahead of time.

Grab the recipe!
overnight breakfast casserole

Overnight Breakfast Casserole

Packed with bacon and cheese for an easy morning breakfast.

Grab the recipe!
crockpot breakfast casserole

Crockpot Breakfast Casserole

The perfect mix of hash browns, sausage, egg and cheese cooked in the crockpot.

Grab the recipe!
tater tot breakfast casserole

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

The perfect combination of ham, cheese, eggs and potatoes make a tasty breakfast casserole.

Grab the recipe!

Holiday Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon rolls are a classic holiday breakfast. They can be prepped the night before and stored in the fridge and once you pop them in the oven in the morning, the whole house will smell amazing! Here are a few different recieps you could try!

overnight cinnamon rolls

Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

Extra fluffy and prepped the night before, served with a cream cheese icing.

Grab the recipe!
cranberry orange breakfast buns

Cranberry Orange Breakfast Buns

An easy way to change up the flavor of traditional cinnamon rolls!

Grab the recipe!
best cinnamon rolls ever

Best Cinnamon Rolls You’ll Ever Eat

Made with bread flour to keep them fluffy, these can be made overnight or ahead of time with an easy vanilla ceam cheese glaze.

Grab the recipe!
gingerbread cinnamon rolls

Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

A twist on traditional cinnamon rolls with a ginger molasses filling!

Grab the recipe!

Sweet Christmas Breakfast Recipes

If you’re craving something sweet for your next holiday breakfast, there are lots of options! Everything from French toast to Dutch pancakes to coffee cake can easily be made to feed a crowd. Here are a few ideas:

overnight french toast casserole

Overnight French Toast Casserole

The perfect way to use up those leftover dinner rolls!

Grab the recipe!
german dutch baby pancake

How To Make German Pancakes (Dutch Baby Pancakes)

Only six ingredients and it puffs up in the oven making it a showstopper for sure!

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coffee cake

Coffee Cake

A moist and tender cake with a cinnamon swirl and a butter crumb topping.

Grab the recipe!
sweet croissant breakfast casserole

Sweet Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Juicy berries, sweet cream cheese and a delicious vanilla glaze mean this casserole is sure to be a hit!

Grab the recipe!

Easy Christmas Breakfast Dishes with Eggs

Eggs are a breakfast staple for good reason. They’re full of protein and healthy fats and they’re SO versatile. Here are a few ways you could use them!

breakfast enchilada casserole

Breakfast Enchilada Casserole

A delicious mix of sausage, egg and potato with a creamy enchilada sauce.

Grab the recipe!
perfect frittata with tomatoes on top

How To Make the Perfect Frittata

Customize it with your favorite vegetables and serve in slices with toast!

Grab the recipe!
traditional shakshuka

Shakshuka

Easy poached eggs in a simmering tomato sauce. Serve with crusty bread for scooping!

easy quiche recipe

Best Easy Quiche Recipe

This quiche comes together quickly thanks to some baking shortcuts but doesn’t sacrifice flavor!

Grab the recipe!
homemade gingerbread latte

The Best Drinks To Serve on Christmas Morning

Don’t forget about drinks in all the holiday excitement! Here are some fun ideas:

Christmas Breakfast FAQs

What should I make for Christmas breakfast?

If you’re hosting Christmas breakfast for overnight guests, I would have a quick chat to determine their preferences. Keep it simple with fruit and muffins if they’re not big breakfast eaters. If they have a sweet tooth, try cinnamon rolls. If they wake up ready to eat, try something heartier like a christmas breakfast casserole.

What is the most popular Christmas morning breakfast?

Anything that can be served buffet-style is typically popular. Casseroles that can easily be cut into pieces, individual items like French toast or pancakes, or things like scrambled eggs and bacon that can be spooned onto plates typically go well. In addition, coffee cake, muffins, scones, croissants and other breakfast pastries are popular.

What is a good make-ahead Christmas breakfast?

There are a lot of casserole and egg-based dishes that can be prepped ahead of time. Breakfast casseroles with bread along with eggs and sausage or French toast casseroles often benefit from an overnight soak. Similarly, things with yeast like cinnamon rolls are great for making the night before so they can rise in the fridge overnight.

What’s a quick Christmas breakast I can make last minute?

You can’t go wrong with scrambled eggs, bacon or sausage and some fresh fruit! Or grab some fresh bagels and put out toppings like cream cheese, smoked salmon, peanut butter and nutella.

What is a good high-protein Christmas breakfast?

Egg-based dishes like quiche or frittatas can be a good high-protein option. Or try savory cottage cheese bowls, protein pancakes or yogurt parfaits.

gluten-free pancakes

What are good gluten-free Christmas breakfast options?

You can choose something that’s naturally gluten-free like an egg and veggie bake with sausage and potatoes instead of bread. Or you can use gluten-free mixes to make things like gluten-free pancakes or muffins. Baked oatmeal is another good gluten-free option.

What can kids eat for Christmas breakfast?

Often kids are so excited for presents that it can be hard to get them to eat anything on Christmas morning. Try a smoothie, or a muffin and a glass of milk that they can eat quickly and get back to their presents. Or choose a make-ahead casserole that can bake while you’re opening presents so it’ll be ready when they come down from the excitement of opening presents.

What can I prep the night before for Christmas morning?

Many breakfast dishes reheat well if you choose to make them ahead of time. Many more can be prepped the night before and baked in the morning with minimal effort. Look into Christmas breakfast casseroles, French toast bakes, baked oatmeal and egg bakes.

What are fun Christmas breakfast ideas for toddlers or young kids?

Something as simple as making green pancakes and calling them Grinch pancakes can be fun at that age! Or try donut snowman or Santa pancakes! Here are 17 Kid-Friendly Christmas Morning Breakfast Ideas.

smoked salmon bagel bar

What’s an easy Christmas brunch idea?

A themed breakfast bar is always a hit! Try a breakfast pastry bar with all your favorite muffins, scones and sweet treats, a yogurt parfait bar, a smoked salmon bagel bar or here are 10 Easy Brunch Bar Ideas.

What’s a festive Christmas breakfast idea using holiday flavors?

There are lots of seasonal flavors to choose from! Try Eggnog French Toast, Gingerbread Waffles, or this Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Breakfast Cake.

What’s an affordable Christmas breakfast that stil feels special?

I love the idea of using Christmas Eve leftovers in breakfast the next day. If you’re having a Christmas ham, it can be repurposed into a ham and cheese egg casserole. You could also add leftover potatoes or throw leftover potatoes on the waffle iron to make potato waffles! If you have leftover dinner rolls, use them to make a french toast bake! Here are 20 Budget Friendly Make Ahead Christmas Brunch recipes.

What breakfast dishes travel well if I’m bringing food to a holiday gathering?

Any breakfast casserole that can be baked in a casserole dish should be fairly easy to transport! You could also prep individual breakfast burritos and wrap them in foil or even cook a batch of pancakes or waffles ahead of time, transport them in tupperware and reheat when you get there.

 Whatever you choose to feed your guests, I hope your holiday morning is full of contentment and love!

Here are 15+ easy Christmas Breakfast Ideas that are sure to be a hit! Christmas Breakfast Casserole, cinnamon rolls, frittata and more holiday breakfasts to feed a crowd.

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

 

 

Chicken Pesto Pasta

by 6 Comments

This Chicken Pesto Pasta is an easy and delicious family-friendly dinner recipe that everyone will love! It comes together quickly and is full of flavor!

pesto chicken pasta

*Originally published 6/2017. Updated 11/2025*

Hi friends!

I’m excited to share this updated recipe for Chicken Pesto Pasta with you today! It is so easy and flavorful. Truly a dish the whole family can enjoy and I’ve been making it on repeat lately.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pesto Pasta

Just a few things to love about this recipe:

  • It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but can also be fancy enough for date night.
  • It’s easy to customize – you could easily add more veggies! Try dropping some chopped broccoli or green beans in with the pasta for the last few minutes of cooking.
  • You can add a seasonal spin – Try adding some fresh sweet corn in the summer or some roasted squash in the Fall.
  • High protein – You’ll get protein from the chicken and you can add even more protein by choosing a higher protein pasta. My kids love Barilla Plus!

Chicken Pesto Pasta Ingredients

For this recipe you’ll need:

  • Chicken – I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Marinade ingredients – oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, paprika and salt
  • Tomatoes – I use grape or cherry tomatoes cut in half
  • Garlic and butter – for flavor
  • Heavy cream – to thicken the sauce slightly
  • Pesto – feel free to use homemade or store-bought
  • Parmesan – freshly grated!
  • Pasta – pick your favorite shape!

How To Make Chicken Pesto Pasta

Making this recipe requires just a few simple steps:

  • Marinate the chicken.
  • Pan sear the chicken until cooked through and set aside.
  • Cook the pasta according to package directions.
  • In the same pan you cooked the chicken in, saute tomatoes, butter and garlic.
  • Add the cream, pesto and parmesan.
  • Stir in the cooked pasta and add chicken before serving!
chicken pesto pasta with tomatoes and fresh basil

Pesto Pasta Protein Options

This recipe works great with any type of chicken. Feel free to skip pan-searing the chicken and just mix in some leftover baked or grilled chicken, or use shredded rotisserie chicken to make it come together even more quickly!

If you don’t want chicken, you could sub shrimp in the same marinade!

Chicken Pesto Pasta Variations

Here are some easy variations to consider:

Vegetable variations

Feel free to change up the vegetables in this recipe. You could add asparagus, broccoli, green beans, zucchini or even a couple of handfuls of baby spinach!

Gluten-Free Chicken Pesto Pasta

To make this recipe gluten-free, just sub in a gluten-free pasta of your choice. I like Jovial or Tinkayada. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free. Be sure to double-check the pasta if needed.

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

To make this recipe even creamier, try melting in a few ounces of cream cheese when you add the heavy cream and pesto!

Seasonal variations

Try adding peas or asparagus in the spring, roasted squash in the fall and fresh corn, zucchini and/or green beans in the spring.

healthy chicken pesto pasta

Healthy Chicken Pesto Pasta

This recipe is already fairly healthy. To add more nutrients, try:

  • Swapping in whole wheat pasta or a higher protein pasta option
  • Add more veggies. You can easily add several more servings of vegetables to this recipe!
  • Cut back on the pesto a little bit and add some fresh basil and cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta

To make this dish as easy as possible, grab a rotisserie chicken and skip cooking the chicken. And grab some store-bought pesto vs making your own!

What To Serve with Chicken Pesto Pasta

This pasta dish could be a complete meal on its own but if you’re looking for something to serve with it, try:

Chicken Pesto Pasta vs Caprese Pasta

Caprese Pasta Salad typically has a base of noodles and includes tomatoes and fresh basil as well, but it often comes with a balsamic dressing and the addition of fresh mozzarella. Here’s a recipe for Caprese Pasta Salad. Chicken pesto pasta has a pesto-based dressing/sauce. You could definitely add fresh mozzarella pearls to the chicken pesto pasta!

Meal Prep Chicken Pesto Pasta and Storage

Can chicken pesto pasta be made ahead of time? Yes! It holds up well and can be stored in the fridge. Just reheat in the microwave when ready to eat.

You can even enjoy this pasta dish warm or cold which makes it a great option to pack for lunch.

Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe

Here’s how you make it:

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Chicken Pesto Pasta

easy chicken pesto pasta
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This Chicken Pesto Pasta is an easy and delicious family-friendly dinner recipe that everyone will love! It comes together quickly and is full of flavor!

Ingredients

Scale

For the chicken:

  • 1 – 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, pounded thin
  • 2 Tbsp oil
  • 2 Tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt

For the pasta

  • 2 cups uncooked pasta (shape of your choice)
  • 2 Tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup pesto
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan, plus more for serving
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

  1. In a large Ziploc bag, combine chicken, oil, vinegar, garlic powder, paprika and salt. Shake to combine and let marinate at least 30 minutes, up to overnight.
  2. In a large pan over medium heat, add 1 Tbsp oil and pan sear chicken breasts 3-4 minutes per side until cooked through to a temperature of 165 degrees F.
  3. Remove from pan and set aside.
  4. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining.
  5. In the same pan you used for the chicken, add butter, garlic and tomatoes and saute over medium heat for 5 minutes.
  6. Turn heat to low and add cream, pesto, parmesan, red pepper and reserved pasta water and stir gently for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Add drained pasta and stir to coat.
  8. Serve with sliced chicken on top or cut up chicken and mix in with the pasta. 
  9. Top with fresh parmesan before serving.

So easy, right?!

Chicken Pesto Pasta FAQs

What is the best pasta to use for chicken pesto pasta?

You can use any kind of shape or type of pasta you want for this recipe! Just cook according to package directions! I typically make it with spirals or elbows.

Can I make creamy chicken pesto pasta without heavy cream?

You could try adding in some plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese to add some creaminess to the pasta without heavy cream.

How do I make chicken pesto pasta healthier?

To make this pasta healthier, try using a whole wheat or high protein pasta. You could also try a chickpea-based pasta like Banza. And add some extra vegetables! Green beans, broccoli, asparagus, corn and zucchini would all work well in this recipe. You could saute the corn or zucchini with the tomatoes or toss the green beans, asparagus or broccoli in to cook with the pasta.

Can I use rotisserie chicken in chicken pesto pasta?

Yes! To help this meal come together even more quickly, swap cooking the chicken breasts for just mixing in some rotiserie chicken at the end.

easy homemade chicken pesto pasta with tomatoes

What vegetables go best in chicken pesto pasta?

Lots of vegetables would work well in this recipe. Things that can cook quickly in boiling water like broccoli, cauliflower, green beans or asparagus are great. You could also roast up a tray of your favorite root vegetables like sweet potatoes and mix those in at that end! In the summer, corn and zucchiini are great choices.

Can I make chicken pesto pasta gluten-free?

Yes! To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free pasta and check to make sure your pesto is gluten-free.

How do I store and reheat chicken pesto pasta?

Store your pasta dish in a glass container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply put in the microwave!

Can I serve chicken pesto pasta cold as pasta salad?

Yes! This pasta can be eaten warm or cold. Reheat if you want or pack it in a lunchbox and enjoy it cold!

Is homemade pesto better than store-bought for chicken pesto pasta?

Either homemade or storebought pesto will work well in this recipe! If you want to make your own, try this Basil Pesto recipe.

Can I make chicken pesto pasta ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes! This pasta dish holds up well in the fridge making it perfect for meal prep. Make it ahead of time and enjoy it for lunch or dinner all week long!

This Chicken Pesto Pasta is an easy and delicious family-friendly dinner recipe that everyone will love! It comes together quickly and is full of flavor!

Want more recipes like this? Try:

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

Shrimp Cobb Salad

by 17 Comments

This Shrimp Cobb Salad comes together quickly and is perfect for a fresh, healthy lunch or dinner! Customize the toppings to your liking and top with a light vinaigrette.

shrimp cobb salad with bacon, avocado, egg, tomato and onion

*Originally published 5/2011. Updated 10/2025*

Hi friends!
Popping in to share this quick and easy Shrimp Cobb Salad for an easy lunch or dinner. Shrimp is one of my favorite quick-cooking proteins and cobb salads are perfect for packing in a ton of healthy ingredients. If you don’t like shrimp, try my Steak Cobb Salad.

If you’re on a salad kick and need more ideas, try:

Or try this Ultimate List of Salad Topping Ideas for some inspiration!

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Shrimp Cobb Salad

This shrimp cobb salad is easy to love for a lot of reasons:

  • Fully customizable. Feel free to swap out any toppings you don’t like or add your own.
  • Great for meal prep – All the components of this salad can be prepped ahead of time which makes it quick and easy to assemble at meal time.
  • Has protein and healthy fats – The shrimp is an easy quick-cooking protein and the avocado and salad dressing, especially homemade, both add healthy fats to help boost satiety.
  • It’s heart-healthy, packed with lean protein and veggies and healthy fats.

Shrimp Cobb Salad Ingredients

To make this salad, you’ll need:

  • Shrimp – Feel free to use any size you prefer
  • Bacon – I prefer to cook the bacon myself and chop it up but you could use bacon bits if you want
  • Hard boiled eggs – make your own or buy them pre-bought. Here’s how to make hard-boiled eggs in the instant pot.
  • Red onion – feel free to swap green, white, yellow onions etc for a milder flavor
  • Tomato – grape or cherry tomatoes halved or quartered work well
  • Avocado
  • Feta – I use crumbled feta. It does have a stronger flavor so feel free to swap with a different cheese if you prefer
  • Dressing – I like a lighter vinaigrette like the one I share below but you could use something creamy like ranch, etc if you want!
healthy shrimp cobb salad with avocado and hard boiled egg

How To Cook Shrimp

You can choose to prepare the shrimp for this salad whatever way you prefer. A few ideas:

  • Sauteed – This is the method I typically use. Just heat some butter or oil in a skillet, add shrimp and seasonings and cook for 4-6 minutes, until shrimp are pink.
  • Grilled – If you have the grill fired up, thread the shrimp onto a few skewers, season and grill 2-3 minutes per side.
  • Baked – You can also bake them in the oven. Here’s a recipe for Oven-Baked Shrimp.

How To Make An Easy Shrimp Cobb Salad

To make this salad:

  • Cook the bacon, eggs and shrimp via your preferred method. To save time, you can grab pre-cooked shrimp and/or hard-boiled eggs.
  • Start with a bed of lettuce. Feel free to grab a bag of packaged salad greens to save time!
  • Add toppings. In a traditional cobb salad, ingredients are grouped into sections or rows on top of the lettuce but you can skip this step and combine everything mixed together on top.
  • Top with dressing – homemade or store-bought.

Shrimp Cobb Salad Dressing Options

The dressing options for this salad are endless. I typically use a maple mustard vinaigrette to keep it light but a lemon garlic dressing would also be great. If you want something a little more robust, try ranch or blue cheese to add some creaminess to the salad.

sauteed shrimp cobb salad

Cobb Salad Protein

The great thing about the cobb salad is that it pairs well with almost any protein. If you don’t like shrimp, try:

  • Steak – I’ve used leftover flank steak before!
  • Chicken – This is a great way to transform leftover grilled chicken.
  • Tofu – My Honey Garlic Air Fryer Tofu would work well on this salad. If you want to keep it vegetarian, you could swap the bacon for some beans
  • Salmon – If you don’t want shrimp but still want seafood, try adding my Air Fryer Salmon Bites.

Shrimp Cobb Salad Meal Prep & Storage

This salad is PERFECT for meal prep! Prep all of the components ahead of time and store separately until you’re ready to serve. Shrimp can be cooked and stored in a glass container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Same with bacon and hard-boiled eggs. They can be sliced/chopped ahead of time as well.

Save the avocado to slice right before serving so it doesn’t turn brown but the tomatoes and onions could be cut ahead of time and stored as well.

To prep your lettuce ahead of time, chop, wash and spin dry and store in a bag with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture and squeeze all the air out before sealing the bag.

If you choose to make homemade dressing, that can be prepped and stored in a mason jar in the fridge. Just give it a good shake before serving.

Shrimp Cobb Salad Tips and Tricks

A few tips and tricks:

  • Don’t overcook your shrimp! When shrimp take on a pinkish color and form a “C” shape, they’re done. If they curl up tight into an “O” shape, they are overcooked.
  • To keep your lettuce crisp, chop, wash and spin dry, then store in a bag. Add a paper towel to soak up the excess moisture and squeeze the air out before sealing the bag shut.
  • Vary the veggies – Salad is a great way to utilize veggies that are in season. Try nice ripe tomatoes in the summer. In the Fall, add some roasted squash!

Shrimp Cobb Salad Recipe

Here’s the recipe I use:

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Shrimp Cobb Salad

shrimp cobb salad
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This Shrimp Cobb Salad comes together quickly and is perfect for a fresh, healthy lunch or dinner! Customize the toppings to your liking and top with a light vinaigrette. 

Ingredients

Scale

For the shrimp

  • 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled, devined and thawed
  • 2 Tbsp butter (or oil if you prefer)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt

For the salad:

  • 4–6  hard boiled eggs, sliced
  • 1 medium avocado, diced
  • 8 strips bacon, cooked and chopped
  • 1 cup diced red onion
  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1/3 cup crumbled feta
  • 8 cups mixed greens or leaf lettuce

Optional dressing:

  • 3 T oil (I use avocado oil)
  • 3 Tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp dijon mustard
  • 1 Tbsp maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Melt butter or heat oil in a large pan. Add shrimp and seasonings and saute over medium heat for 4-6 minutes until shrimp are just pink and form a C shape.
  2. Place 2 cups of lettuce in each bowl. 
  3. Divide toppings evenly among 4 salads and add toppings in rows of shrimp, hard-boiled eggs, avocado, bacon, onion and tomatoes.
  4. Top with crumbled feta.
  5. Combine oil, vinegar, mustard and maple syrup in a jar. Seal and shake to combine. Taste and add salt and/or pepper if desired. You can also double the dressing recipe if you like more dressing!

Shrimp Cobb Salad FAQs

What is the best dressing for shrimp cobb salad

If you’re looking for a lighter option, most vinaigrette dressings would be great. Try honey mustard or balsamic vinaigrette. If you want something creamier, ranch or blue cheese would add great flavor to the salad!

Can I make shrimp cobb salad ahead of time?

Yes! All the components of this salad can be prepped ahead of time, making it quick and easy to assemble when you’re ready to eat.

How do I grill shrimp for cobb salad?

The easiest way to grill shrimp is to thread them onto skewers, season and grill 2-3 minutes per side.

Is shrimp cobb salad healthy?

Yes. This salad is packed with lean protein, vegetables and healthy fats making it a great balanced meal option for lunch or dinner.

Can I use frozen shrimp in cobb salad?

Shrimp cooks best from a thawed state. Feel free to use frozen shrimp, just thaw before cooking either under cold running water or in refrigerator overnight.

healthy shrimp cobb salad with avocado and feta

How long does shrimp cobb salad last in the fridge?

You can store the components separately for 3-4 days. Once you combine them into a salad, it’s best to eat within a day to avoid things getting brown or soggy.

What toppings go best with shrimp cobb salad?

Traditional cobb salad toppings include, bacon, hard boiled eggs, avocado, onion, tomato and crumbled cheese like blue cheese or feta. You can make it seasonal by adding things like roasted squash, corn, apples or berries depending on the season.

Can I make shrimp cobb salad without eggs?

Yes, feel free to omit the hard boiled eggs from this recipe.

What’s the difference between shrimp cobb salad and a regular cobb salad?

The biggest difference is the protein. The most traditional protein for a cobb salad is chicken breast or turkey, but this recipe uses shrimp and almost any protein source would work well on this salad.

Can I meal prep shrimp cobb salad for lunches?

Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep because all the components can be cooked and prepped ahead of time!

This Shrimp Cobb Salad comes together quickly and is perfect for a fresh, healthy lunch or dinner! Customize the toppings to your liking and top with a light vinaigrette.

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

Healthy Sweet Potato Cookies

by 122 Comments

These Healthy Sweet Potato Cookies are soft and fluffy! They’re naturally sweetened, made with real food ingredients and absolutely delicious.

Healthy Sweet Potato Cookies made with oat flour

*Originally posted 3/2016. Updated 10/2025*

Hi friends!

These Healthy Sweet Potato Cookies have now been a go-to of mine since 2016. I love them for a quick snack and they came in super handy during the newborn phase when I often needed to eat quickly and with one hand.

They’re very forgiving, and you can easily change up the mix-ins to make them more kid-friendly or to suit your tastebuds.

I find myself making these cookies year round, but they’re especially perfect for a Fall snack or dessert. If you’re looking to do some additional Fall baking or whip up a treat over Thanksgiving, here are some ideas:

Why You’ll Love These Sweet Potato Cookies

These would make a great sweet potato breakfast cookie. They’re low in added sugar and high in protein and fiber—a great way to start your day. They’d also be great for a snack, and if you throw in some chocolate chips, they could even pass as dessert to curb a sweet tooth.

Eating these for breakfast works out well for me because I can eat them quickly while I’m trying to feed three kids. Plus, I can make a batch on Sunday and eat them all week! Food prep for the win.

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Cookies

To make these cookies, you’ll just need a few simple ingredients:

  • Sweet potato – I cook mine in the microwave for 5-6 minutes and let cool a few minutes before scooping out of the skin and mashing with a fork
  • Nut or seed butter – I use peanut butter but you could use almond butter or sunflower seed butter to make them nut-free
  • Eggs
  • Cinnamon and vanilla -for flavor
  • Maple Syrup – You could sub sugar if you prefer
  • Seeds – Chia or hemp seeds work great in this recipe
  • Pepitas – An easy way to add a boost of nutrients
  • Dried fruit – works well with raisins or Craisins, or you can swap in chocolate chips
  • Flour- To make these gluten-free, use oat flour or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. You can also use AP or white whole wheat flour

How To Make Sweet Potato Cookies (Step-by-Step)

Once you see how easy it is to make these cookies, you’ll be adding them to your weekly meal prep in no time!

  • Cook your sweet potato in the microwave, remove the skin and mash.
  • Combine the mashed sweet potato, nut butter and eggs and stir until well combined.
  • Add the vanilla, cinnamon, maple syrup, seeds and pepitas and mix well.
  • Stir in the flour and baking soda until just mixed, then scoop onto cookie sheets and bake!

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep

Storage and Freezing Instructions

Store these cookies in an airtight container on the counter for 3-4 days. You can also freeze the cookies once cooled on a cookie tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag and pull them out as needed to defrost.

In addition, you can make this dough ahead of time and store in the fridge until ready to bake, or scoop into balls and freeze until ready to bake.

How To Sweeten Sweet Potato Cookies

I love this recipe because it’s very lightly sweetened compared to most cookies and uses maple syrup. If you don’t want to use maple syrup, you could swap regular sugar, brown sugar, coconut sugar or even honey.

Sweet Potato Cookie Baking Tips

My best tip for getting the perfect sweet potato cookies is to not over mix. Mix everything really well before you add the flour so you only need to stir enough to just combine it at the end.

And don’t overbake these cookies! If you want them to spread a little more you can lightly flatten with a fork before baking but these cookies are meant to be light and fluffy!

Recipe for soft Sweet Potato Cookies with chocolate chips

Sweet Potato Oatmeal Cookies

If you’d like an added boost of fiber, feel free to add some rolled oats into the mix! You could start with 1/2 cup and increase if you like the added texture they provide.

Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Cookies

If you make this recipe as written, the cookies will be naturally gluten-free as long as you’re using certified gluten-free oats. Be sure to also check your Craisins to make sure they’re gluten-free as they sometimes have additional ingredients to sweeten them

You can also use a 1:1 Gluten-free flour blend. I like King Arthur Measure for Measure.

Vegan Sweet Potato Cookies

To make these cookies vegan, swap the eggs for flax eggs. Here’s how to make flax eggs.

Sweet Potato Chocolate Chip Cookies

To make these cookies a little more dessert-like, try swapping the dried fruit for chocolate chips.

Sweet Potato Cookies vs Pumpkin Cookies

In a recipe like this, you can easily swap pumpkin puree for mashed sweet potato and there won’t be much of a difference. In general, both pumpkin and sweet potato cookies will be light and fluffy vs dense and chewy. If you’re looking for a chewy pumpkin cookie recipe try these Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Sweet Potato Cookie Flavor Variations

No added sugar sweet potato cookies

To make these cookies free of added sugar, you could try swapping mashed banana or baby food prunes (pureed) to add some sweetness naturally.

Nut-free sweet potato cookies

I use peanut butter but you can make them nut-free with sunflower seed butter. Just know that they will likely turn green when baked due to a reaction with the baking soda. Perfectly safe to eat!

Other mix-ins

For a Fall twist, try adding chopped pecans and a maple glaze. For a more tropical twist, swap raisins for dried pineapple and add some shredded coconut!

Easy Sweet Potato Cookies Recipe

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Healthy Sweet Potato Cookies Recipe

Sweet Potato Protein Cookies
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4.7 from 14 reviews

No protein powder required for these Healthy Sweet Potato Cookies! They’re gluten-free, made with real food ingredients and packed with protein and fiber. Enjoy them for breakfast or an afternoon snack!

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8–12 cookies 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3/4 cup cooked, mashed sweet potato
  • 1/2 cup nut butter (i use peanut butter but almond butter or sunflower seed butter would be great)
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 2–3 Tbsp maple syrup (depending on desired level of sweetness)
  • 2 Tbsp chia seeds
  • 1/2 cup pepitas (shelled pumpkin seeds)
  • 1/4 cup Craisins or raisins
  • 1/4 cup oat flour (white whole wheat flour also works)
  • 1 tsp baking soda

Instructions

  1. Combine sweet potato, peanut butter and eggs in a large bowl and mix well.
  2. Add vanilla, cinnamon, maple syrup, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds and Craisins and stir to combine.
  3. Add oat flour and baking soda and stir.
  4. Scoop onto cookie sheet lined with parchment paper (8-12 cookies).
  5. Bake at 375 degrees for 10-12 minutes.

These are fluffy and delicious.  I used white chia seeds, in case you noticed they’re not black in the photos.

Healthy Sweet Potato Cookies FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potato puree instead of fresh homemade in this recipe?

Yes! Canned sweet potato puree will work just fine in this recipe.

Can I replace the sweet potato for pumpkin? Can I make pumpkin cookies instead of sweet potato cookies? Can you use canned pumpkin puree?

Yes! I get this question frequently and you can definitely replace the sweet potato with pumpkin if you’d like to! I almost always have a can of pumpkin in the pantry so I do this often.

Can I freeze sweet potato cookies?

Yes, these cookies freeze well! Just let them cool completely and then wrap in plastic wrap and tranfer to a freezer-safe bag. Let them thaw on the counter when ready to eat!

Could I make these with butternut squash?

Yes, canned squash can also be substituted for the sweet potato. I’ve even tried it with homemade roasted squash that I roast and puree until smooth.

And if you’re not craving sweet potato but have bananas to use, try these Banana Lentil Muffins instead!

Can I make gluten-free sweet potato cookies?

These cookies are gluten-free since they use oat flour (be sure to use certified gluten-free if needed). However, you can also make them with regular wheat flour if you have that on hand and don’t need them to be gluten-free.

How to reheat sweet potato cookies?

These cookies are great at room temperature but you can also pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to warm them back up!

How do I make vegan sweet potato cookies without eggs?

Just replace the two eggs in this recipe with flax eggs.

Can I add oats to make sweet potato oatmeal cookies?

Yes, I would start with 1/2 cup of rolled oats and increase up to 1 cup if you like the texture.

How do I store sweet potato cookies to keep them soft?

Once cooled, store these cookies in an airtight container to help them stay soft and perfectly moist without drying out.

These Healthy Sweet Potato Cookies are perfect for breakast or snack! They're gluten-free, made with real food ingredients and packed with protein and fiber. Enjoy them for breakfast or an afternoon snack!

Other Sweet Potato Recipes That Are Delish!

Need more ideas? Try these:

Sweet Potato Waffles 2 copy

Sweet Potato Waffles

These Sweet Potato Waffles are kid-friendly and perfect for breakfast, pre-workout fuel or an afternoon snack. Add some peanut butter in the middle for a fun waffle sandwich!

Grab the recipe!
Sweet Potato White Bean Bars - stacked, on cooling rack and a bowl of beans

Sweet Potato White Bean Bars

These Sweet Potato White Bean Bars are perfect for breakfast or snack time. They’re kid-friendly, nut-free and full of fiber! 

Grab the recipe!
Gluten Free Sweet Potato Brownies 5 1

Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Brownies

These Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Brownies are flourless, sweetened with dates and full of chocolate flavor. They taste so good you’ll never believe they’re a healthy dessert!

Grab the recipe!
gluten-free sweet potato banana bites

Sweet Potato Banana Muffins

These gluten-free Sweet Potato Banana Bites have just four main ingredients and make a great snack for both kids and adults! 

Grab the recipe!
healthy baked sweet potato dessert recipes

20+ Baked Sweet Potato Dessert Recipes

If you’re in the mood to bake with sweet potatoes, you’ll definitely find something that catches your eye in this round-up!

Click for recipe ideas!
Sweet Potato Dinner Recipe Ideas

35+ Sweet Potato Dinner Recipes

Need sweet potato dinner recipes? Here are 35+ recipes by category including slow cooker, with chicken or beef, vegetarian and more!

Grab the recipe!

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

Baked Pumpkin Donuts

by 8 Comments

Make these Baked Pumpkin Donuts for a weekend breakfast treat or a fun dessert. Enjoy them plain or with simple glaze. Ready in 20 minutes!

baked pumpkin donuts with simple glaze

*Originally published 9/2010. Updated 9/2025*

Hi friends!

I originally shared this recipe for baked pumpkin donuts way back in 2010 and they’re still a household favorite. I just made my first Fall batch this week!

Why You’ll Love These Baked Pumpkin Donuts

I love these donuts because they are quick, easy and they allow me to use my mini donut pan, which is totally adorable.

They have a great flavor and texture but don’t require any frying – just one bowl and an oven!

If you’re looking for more pumpkin recipes, try:

Healthy Pumpkin Donuts

While I would still consider these more of a treat than a snack, they are certainly healthier than most store-bought donut options.

How Do I Make Baked Pumpkin Donuts Healthier?

To make them even healthier you could play around with the ingredients – try reducing the sugar to 1/3 cup, using white whole wheat flour, or skipping the glaze.

You could also experiment with swapping the brown sugar for coconut sugar, replacing milk with almond milk, etc.

Can I Freeze Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

Yes! To freeze these donuts, bake and cool completely. Then freeze in a freezer-safe bag until ready to eat. Do not glaze before freezing. Glad is best added just before serving as they don’t store well once they’re glazed.

How Do You Reheat Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

It’s easy to reheat these donuts! Just pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to warm them up and they’ll taste like they’re fresh out of the oven!

Common Mistakes When Making Pumpkin Donuts

A few common mistakes to avoid:

  • Over-mixing: Mixing too much will result in dense, not fluffy, donuts. When you add the dry ingredients, use a whisk and mix until just combined. Stop mixing as soon as the flour blends into the batter.
  • Over-baking: Don’t bake the donuts too long. Mini donuts typically only require 6-8 minutes. Check them with a toothpick starting on the low end of the time range and take them out as soon as it comes out clean when inserted.
  • Glazing too soon: If you want the glaze to stay on the top of the donuts, let them cool completely before glazing. If the donuts are still warm, the glaze will be absorbed into the donuts.

Pumpkin Donut Glaze Options

I use the most basic glaze option for these donuts because it’s the easiest – just mix powdered sugar with a tiny bit of milk until the glaze reaches your desired consistency and then either drizzle on top or dip the tops of the donuts. If you want a little more flavor, try adding some cinnamon to the glaze mixture.

If you’re looking for other glaze options, you could try:

  • Maple Glaze for Donuts
  • Easy Cream Cheese Glaze
  • Cinnamon and Sugar coating – dip the top of each donut in melted butter and then dip in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar, or place the donuts in a ziploc bag with cinnamon and sugar while still warm and toss to coat

When To Serve Baked Pumpkin Donuts

While these donuts can definitely be enjoyed all year long, Fall is one of the best times to enjoy them. You could add them to a snack tray with some of these 10+ Easy Halloween Snacks.

They’d also be a great treat for tailgating at your next football game! Or try serving them at Thanksgiving brunch along with my Overnight French Toast Bake or a Breakfast Enchilada Casserole.

Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts Tips

easy baked pumpkin mini donuts with a powdered sugar glaze

Can I make gluten-free baked pumpkin donuts?

To make these gluten-free, simply swap the wheat flour for an all-purpose gluten-free baking mix. I like King Arthur Measure for Measure.

How To Make Pumpkin Donuts without A Donut Pan

If you don’t have a donut pan, you can make these as mini muffins! Or bake in mini loaf pans and cut into slices.

Are baked pumpkin donuts healthier than fried donuts?

Yes, baking the donuts is a healthier alternative. While frying gives the doughnuts a unique flavor, it can be intimidating and messy to make at home. Baking allows for a hands-off approach and still yields a donut that tastes great!

How Do I Make Vegan Pumpkin Donuts?

To make these donuts vegan, you could try replacing the melted butter with oil, using flax eggs and replacing the milk with almond or soy milk. Keep in mind that alterations to the original recipe may change the texture.

Easy Baked Pumpkin Donuts

Ready to give them a try? Here’s the recipe:

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Baked Pumpkin Donuts

baked pumpkin mini donuts
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Make these Pumpkin Mini Donuts for a weekend breakfast treat or a fun dessert Enjoy them plain or with an easy cinnamon glaze.

  • Author: Lindsay L
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 min
  • Total Time: 15 min
  • Yield: 18 –24 small donuts 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 Tbsp melted butter
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1.75 cups flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1.5 tsp cinnamon
  • Optional glaze – 1/2 cup powdered sugar + 1 Tbsp milk + cinnamon if desired

Instructions

  1. Combine the melted butter, pumpkin, brown sugar, eggs, milk and vanilla extract in a bowl and stir until well combined.
  2. Add flour, baking powder, baking soda and cinnamon and stir with a whisk until just mixed. Do not over-mix.
  3. Spoon mixture into ziploc bag, cut off the corner and pipe into greased mini donut pan.
  4. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until the exterior springs back when touched**

Notes

**Baking time will vary depending on the size of your donuts. For full-sized donuts, cook time may be longer. Mine are medium-sized and I got about 18 donuts from this recipe. If you have a true mini donut pan, you may get more like 2.5 dozen donuts.

For the glaze, mix 1/2 c powdered sugar, 1 Tbsp milk, 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)  in a small bowl. You may need additional milk or powdered sugar to get your desired consistency. Let donuts cool, then drizzle glaze over donuts or dip tops in just prior to serving.

Baked Pumpkin Donuts FAQs

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree in donuts?

I wouldn’t recommend it. Pumpkin pie filling has added sugar and spices and may make the donuts overly sweet.

What glaze goes best with baked pumpkin donuts?

This will depend on your personal preference! I like a simple powdered sugar glaze but a maple glaze or cinnamon cream cheese glaze would also pair well!

Can I make gluten-free baked pumpkin donuts?

Yes! These donuts are super easy to make gluten-free by swapping the flour with an all-purpose gluten-free baking mix.

How long do baked pumpkin donuts last?

You can store these donuts at room temperature in a sealed container for 2-3 days unglazed. Or freeze any extras and pull them out as needed.

What flour works best for pumpkin donuts? Can I make baked pumpkin donuts with whole wheat flour.

I use white whole wheat flour when making these donuts but all purpose wheat flour or a gluten-free baking mix also work great! I wouldn’t recommend regular whole wheat flour as i’ve found it makes baked goods very dense.

baked pumpkin mini donuts with cinnamon glaze

What spices are best in pumpkin donuts?

I typically use just cinnamon but you could add any of your favorite Fall spices like ginger, nutmeg, allspice or even pumpkin pie spice.

How do I make pumpkin spice donuts extra moist?

You could try replacing the butter with oil or replacing the milk with sour cream to add extra moisture!

Can I bake pumpkin donuts in an air fryer?

Yes! Most recipes for air fryer donuts will cook at about 350 degrees F. You can look specifically for a recipe with thicker dough that you can need and form into donut shapes, or you can drop the batter with a cookie scoop onto parchment paper on the bottom of the air fryer and they will turn out more like donut holes!

If you’re looking to specifically use your air fryer, here’s a recipe for Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes!

What’s the best topping for baked pumpkin donuts?

I think a simple glaze is best. You can jazz it up by adding sprinkles or change things up and toss in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar instead!

Can I double this recipe to make even more donuts for a crowd?

Yes! This recipe can easily be doubled.

Make these Baked Pumpkin Donuts for a weekend breakfast treat or a fun dessert. Enjoy them plain or with simple glaze. The perfect Fall treat!

I definitely wouldn’t skip the glaze! It’s the best part!

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

50+ Easy Homemade Snacks To Make

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Here are some ideas for easy homemade snacks to make that are healthy and kid-friendly. Many can be made ahead of time and are great for eating on the go!

easy homemade snacks to make

Hi Friends!

Today we’re talking about homemade snacks. As a busy mom of three, I’m well aware that sometimes store-bought snacks are not only easier but just plain necessary. However, I’ve also built up a fairly large repertoire of easy, healthy homemade snacks over the past 10 years.

Each week, I try to spend 1-2 hours doing food prep for the week ahead. (Check out my Food Prep Masterclass if you want to learn how to do this too!) I often focus on component meal prep and snacks so that I have things on hand to feed my kids when they’re hungry after school, sports etc.

Are homemade snacks healthier than store-bought?

As a Registered Dietitian, what I like best about homemade snacks is that you control the ingredients. You can control the amount of added sugar, sodium, etc that you put into the snacks as well as the ingredients you use to make them.

You can add extra nutrient boosts like hemp hearts, chia seeds, flax etc. (Learn about the nutritional benefits of seeds here) and you can customize the ingredients to your preferences of your family.

In addition, making homemade snacks is often cheaper than buying something similar at the store.

Tips For Homemade Snack Success

Some of my best tips for success with making homemade snacks:

  • Pick 1-2 snacks you know they like that can be made ahead of time and served several times during the week – things like a batch of muffins or bars, some energy bites, homemade trail mix etc. As you get more comfortable with food prep, you can branch out and prep even more!
  • Use them for other meals too! Often the things you prep for snack time make a great addition to breakfast or to lunch boxes. Once you see how much it helps you have healthy options on hand, you’re more likely to commit to prepping them every week.
  • Keep it simple – Don’t choose elaborate snacks that require tons of prep or assembly time.
  • Use your freezer – The freezer can be a great place to stash pre-portioned snacks like smoothies, energy balls, waffles, etc.

Easy Homemade Snacks Recipes

So without further ado, here’s a roundup of some easy homemade snacks for you to try:

no bake homemade snacks

No-Bake Homemade Snacks

No-bake snacks are quick and easy, no oven required! Here are some ideas for everything from dips to pudding to energy balls!

quick 5 minute homemade snacks

Quick 5-Minute Homemade Snacks

No need to spend forever making healthy homemade snacks! Here are some quick ideas that are ready in 5 minutes or less!

  • Buffalo Ranch Popcorn – Popcorn is super easy to make at home. Try it flavored or make plain healthy microwave popcorn. Or turn it into Roasted Chickpea Snack Mix (use store-bought roasted chickpeas to make assembly faster!)
  • Microwave Egg Sandwich – Cook the egg in the microwave and then add your favorites like cheese, avocado or other condiments. Or skip the bread and try an egg wrap.
  • Avocado Toast – My kids love plain avocado toast with salt but you can also jazz it up with smoked salmon or egg for protein, veggies and your favorite seasonings
  • Turkey Cheddar Rollups – Use your favorite deli meat like turkey, ham or roast beef and whatever cheese you like best!
  • Yogurt Bowl – Start with a base of plain yogurt or cottage cheese and top with fresh fruit, nuts and seeds, cinnamon and a handful of chocolate chips
  • Microwave Nachos – A great way to use up leftover protein for a mid-day snack that’s ready in minutes. Or skip the meat and use some canned beans or lentils!
make ahead snacks for busy weeks

Make-Ahead Snacks for Busy Weeks

Can I meal prep homemade snacks?

Yes! Food prep is the best way to set yourself up for success. Spending just a little time prepping on the weekends allows you to have healthy snacks to quickly grab as needed. Here are some make-ahead snack ideas that you can prep for busy weeks and grab to quickly feed yourself and the kids.

kid-friendly snacks

Kid-Favorite Snacks

Not every healthy snack is kid-friendly but here are a few recipes my kids love to eat when they get home from school after a long day.

  • Pizza Muffins – A fun change from traditional pizza!
  • Cream Cheese Fruit Dip – Made with Greek yogurt for extra protein, it’s perfect with their favorite fruits!
  • Yogurt Parfaits – If your kids don’t like granola, use their favorite cereal! Or if they prefer frozen treats, try yogurt popsicles or frozen yogurt bark.
  • Apple Nachos – Drizzle sliced apples with yogurt, peanut butter or even melted chocolate, then add toppings!
  • Mini pancakes – Easy to make some for breakfast and double the batch so you have some for snack time!
  • Breakfast cookies – Not just for breakfast! Healthy cookies stuffed with wholesome ingredients make a great snack!
homemade snacks for parties and holidays

Homemade Snacks for Special Occasions (Parties & Holidays)

Here are some easy snack recipes that are great for feeding a crowd at your next party or holiday gathering!

healthy homemade road trip snacks

Homemade Snacks for Road Trips

Here are some more snacks that would be great for road trips in addition to some of the ones mentioned above like popcorn, energy balls, protein bars, hard-boiled eggs and more!

  • Roasted Chickpeas – Crunchy snacks are always great for road trips. Easy to grab a handful while driving. If you don’t want them plain, add them to a trail mix or mix with some roasted nuts.
  • Mini Muffins – Mini muffins are perfect for road trips because they’re bite-sized! Easy to eat without getting crumbs everywhere.
  • Fruit Leather – Better than store-bought fruit rollups and a great fruit option for the car because it’s low mess!
  • Zesty Italian Wrap – Wraps can be great for road trips because they’re easy to hold in one hand and tend to have less crumbs than a traditional sandwich. Or try homemade uncrustables for the kids- you can make a bunch to freeze and let them thaw on the drive.
  • Baked Sweet Potato Chips – Skip the chip aisle at the store and make some homemade chips! You can do a mix of root veggies or just sweet potato. Pack your favorite dip for scooping.
  • Homemade yogurt tubes – No spoons required! Just blend plain yogurt and fruit and pour into tubes. Freeze and pack in the cooler!
gluten-free homemade snacks

Gluten-free Homemade Snacks

Many of the snacks already mentioned can be made gluten-free as is or with just a few simple ingredient swaps! Here are some more ideas:

  • Pumpkin Peanut Butter No Bake Bars – Use certified gluten-free oats if needed and you can easily make almost any no-bake bars, energy balls and/or protein bars gluten-free at home!
  • Cottage Cheese Bowl – All these components can be prepped ahead of time and thrown together quickly for a savory mid-day snack. Or use cottage cheese as a base and add berries and granola.
  • Baked Oatmeal Cups – All the goodness of oatmeal in a baked snack that’s quick and easy to eat!
  • Chicken Salad – You can use canned chicken or tuna or even rotisserie chicken. I’ve found kids tend to prefer chicken salad over tuna salad. Make it creamy with mayo, Greek yogurt or even hummus and keep it basic with just spices or add mix-ins like celery, grapes, chopped apples etc. Serve with gluten-free crackers!
easy protein snacks

Protein Homemade Snacks

What homemade snacks are high in protein?

If you’re looking to eat more protein, the good news is there are tons of great snack options that are high in protein. And many of them can easily be made at home. Here are 30+ Easy Protein Snacks.

FAQs About Making Snacks At Home

What are the easiest homemade snacks to make?

Most people think that simple snacks that don’t require more than a few ingredients or ones that can be made without an oven are the easiest. However, there are many other snacks, including baked goods, that can easily be made in one bowl with just a few ingredients and require only 5-10 minutes of active prep time before baking.

How long do homemade snacks last?

This depends on the snack but most should be good for about a week. Muffins and bars can be stored in fridge to prevent them from spoiling quickly or you can freeze half and pull them out later in the week. Things like energy balls can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months and snack mix/trail mix can be stored in the pantry in a sealed bag or container for 1-2 weeks.

What homemade snacks are good for kids’ lunch boxes?

Almost all of these snacks would be great additions to a child’s lunch box. Muffins, bars, trail mix, crackers, wraps, popcorn etc can easily be added to lunch box containers with multiple compartments. You can also add things like yogurt, pudding and dips to pair with fruits and veggies!

What are quick, homemade snacks for busy parents?

Easy grab and go protein-based snacks like hard-boiled eggs, tuna salad with crackers, smoothies and homemade trailmix can be great options for busy parents.

How can I make homemade snacks more appealing to picky eaters?

One of the easiest ways to make homemade snacks more appealing is to make them look like their store-bought favorites. Buy some fun goldfish cutters if you’re making homemade cheddar crackers, or use mini chocolate chips and try a copycat granola bar recipe. Even putting a homemade mix of plain yogurt and fruit into reusable yogurt tubes or pouches can be more appealing than just serving it in a bowl.

What are budget-friendly homemade snacks?

Many snacks can be budget-friendly, especially if you’re trying to replicate store-bought snacks. You’re often able to make a larger amount and portion yourself instead of having to buy snacks pre-portioned. Oat-based energy balls, homemade chips, pancakes and crackers can also be inexpensive.

How do I store different types of homemade snacks?

This depends on the type of snack. Many can be frozen and pulled out as needed or store in airtight containers in the pantry!

Here are some ideas for easy homemade snacks to make that are healthy and kid-friendly. Many can be made ahead of time and are great for eating on the go!

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

30+ Easy Protein Snacks

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This list of easy protein snacks is full of lots of 5-minute options for busy families! Everything from make-ahead protein options to quick protein snacks for busy parents!

easy protein snacks for busy families

Hi friends!

As an RD, I frequently get asked for high-protein snack ideas since getting enough protein is curently all the rage! I recently shared some Cottage Cheese Protein Snacks and now I’m back today to share more high-protein ideas! You can also check out my post on High Protein Vegan Snacks.

Easy Healthy Snacks To Make

So if you’re looking for some high-protein snacks to make that taste good and require minimal time and effort, scroll down! I’ve got lots of ideas for you.

All of these snacks are quick and easy, selected with busy families in mind and many can be prepped ahead of time so they’re easy to grab during a busy week!

5 minute protein snacks - turkey rollups, smoothie, tuna salad, energy bites, yogurt parfait

5 Minute Protein Snacks (No Cooking Required)

If you have big protein goals, there are lots of quick and easy 5-minute protein snacks out there that don’t require any cooking! Here are a few ideas

  • Tuna Salad – Easy to whip up and can easily be customized to include more veggies, your favorite seasonings, etc. If you don’t like mayo, try using hummus or plain yogurt to make it creamy. Enjoy with crackers, put it in a wrap or sandwich, or serve with veggies like mini bell peppers for scooping!
  • Protein Energy Bites – Can easily be whipped up with a food processor and just a few ingredients like oats, protein powder and nut butter. Add more nuts and seeds like pepitas, hemp hearts, etc for extra protein!
  • Yogurt Parfait – Start with Greek yogurt and add your favorite toppings like fruit, chopped nuts and seeds, protein granola, etc to boost the protein content
  • Turkey and Cheese Rollups – Grab some thinly sliced turkey or ham and add to a wrap with sliced veggies and cheese, plus cream cheese, hummus and/or guacamole. Or skip the wrap and wrap the deli meat around the cheese and veggies.
  • Protein Smoothie – Endless flavor combination are possible. Use Greek yogurt or milk to add protein, plus a scoop or two of protein powder to increase the protein even more, plus your favorite frozen fruit and some hemp or seeds!
easy protein snacks for kids

Easy Protein Snack Ideas Kids Will Love

It can be tricky to get enough protein into your kids when all they seem to want are carbs and fruit, but here are a simple, kid-friendly ideas:

  • Chocolate milk – Pair a glass of chocolate milk with a high fiber muffin for a quick snack! If they’re not a fan of chocolate milk, swap for a container of lower sugar yogurt like Chobani or Siggis.
  • String cheese – String cheese typically has 7g protein per stick. Pair it with a handful of crackers or trail mix!
  • Protein pasta – Several different brand options out there- Barilla, Banza, etc and many taste just like regular pasta! Just add sauce if desired and serve!
  • Cereal and milk – Choose a low sugar cereal and top with milk. Add some fresh blueberries for sweetness! Here are some Low Sugar Cereals for Kids.
  • Frozen waffles – Look for a brand low in added sugar and sodium and high in protein. Top with nut butter! Here are some of the Best Healthy Frozen Waffles. Or make your own and freeze them.

Other ideas include energy bites, Lentil Banana Muffins, ham and cheese pinwheels, and even chicken nuggets! Here’s a great post from my friend and fellow RD Sally on Protein Snacks for Kids.

simple make ahead protein options

Simple Make-Ahead Protein Options

The easiest way to make sure you’re eating enough protein during the week is to prep it ahead of time. Lean protein like chicken and steak can be prepped ahead of time in large batches along with pancakes and patties that can be reheated during the week. And things like chia pudding and overnight oats are best made ahead of time as well!

  • Chia pudding – Make it with milk, add yogurt for more protein, sweeten with fruit and add fun mix-ins! If you’re not a fan of chia, try overnight oats instead!
  • Egg wraps – Eat these warm or cold, by themselves, or filled with your favorites like turkey, avocado and cheese. If you don’t want wraps, you could also make egg muffins or egg waffles.
  • Protein Pancakes – Lots of different options out there using oats, almond flour, protein powder, etc so you can find one that fits your needs!
  • Air fryer steak bites – quick and easy to cook and have on hand for meals and snacks. Or try meatballs if you don’t like steak.
  • Tuna Patties – An easy way to transform canned tuna into a portable snack.
  • Greek yogurt bark – Start with Greek yogurt and add whatever mix-ins you like – pepitas, hemp seeds, chopped nuts, fruit, granola, etc. You can also mix in some peanut butter! Spread it on parchment paper to freeze and then break into pieces. If you prefer, you can also spoon the mixture into popsicle molds so kids can eat it that way!
3 ingredient easy protein snacks

Easy Protein Snacks with 3 Ingredients or Less

Sometimes you just don’t have time for a complicated snack and you need something super simple with minimal ingredients. These ideas can be boiled down to 3 simple ingredients but can also easily be jazzed up with a few simple tweaks!

  • Cottage Cheese Bowl – Make them sweet or savory, Keep it simple with something like cottage cheese, fruit, pumpkin seeds or add extra ingredients if you want!
  • Homemade Lunchable – Keep it simple with turkey, cheese and crackers or add extra protein with hard boiled eggs and some fruit or veggies! Don’t like turkey? Use thinly sliced chicken breast! Here are some Healthy Crackers for Kids and Adults.
  • Avocado toast– Add smoked salmon or egg (or both!) for extra protein and seasonings of your choice!
  • Ground turkey taco – All you really need is a tortilla or taco shell, turkey taco meat and cheese. But you can easily take it up a level with a spoonful of guacamole or salsa!
  • Roasted chickpea trail mix – Popcorn, roasted chickpeas and peanuts make a great simple combo. Jazz it up a little more by adding plantain chips or dried fruit like raisins!
quick protein snacks for busy parents

Quick Protein Snacks for Busy Parents

If you’re a parent, you know how tough it is to find time to eat healthy snacks on a busy day. Here are some quick ideas that will still pack a protein punch!

  • Steamed edamame with salt – Cook in a skillet or look for the steamable bag to cook in the microwave!
  • Greek yogurt bagel with peanut butter – or skip the peanut butter and add a fried egg with a slice of cheese!
  • High protein dip with veggies – Use cottage cheese as the base and pick your favorite flavor combination!
  • No-Bake Protein Bars – If you’re not a fan of store-bought protein bars, try making your own!

Grab and Go Easy Protein Ideas

Need more ideas? Here are some Healthy High protein Snack Ideas I recommend. Some of my favorite grab and go options include:

  • Greek yogurt cups
  • Cottage cheese cups
  • Beef Stick
  • Protein Bar
  • Roasted Edamame or broad beans
Banana muffins made with lentils

FAQs About Easy Protein Snacks

What are the easiest protein snacks to make?

The easiest protein snacks to make require minimal ingredients and can be prepped in large batches. Simply cooking a big batch of chicken that you can throw in a wrap or taco, mixing up a dip made with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese that you can scoop with some high-protein crackers, or blending a smoothie with milk or yogurt, protein powder and fruit are great options.

What easy protein snacks require no cooking? I need quick 5-minute protein snacks?

You can still get your protein in even if you don’t have time to cook. Try simple, high protein snacks like tuna salad, protein energy bites, yogurt parfaits, turkey and cheese rollups or a simple protein smoothie.

What easy protein snacks to do kids actually eat?

There are lots of easy protein options out there that kids will eat! Try things like string cheese with crackers, a glass of chocolate milk and a high fiber muffin, a bowl of cereal and milk, frozen waffles or protein pasta with sauce!

What are simple 3-ingredient protein snacks?

Many snacks can be pared down to just 3 simple ingredients as a starting point if you’re really in a rush, but then can easily be expanded on or jazzed up if you have a couple extra minutes! Try a cottage cheese or yogurt bowl with fruit and nuts, homemade lunchables, avocado toast with smoked salmon or a fried egg, tacos or trail mix with popcorn, chickpeas and nuts.

How do you make protein snacks ahead of time?

Investing even just an hour of your time doing food prep can make a huge difference in your ability to eat well during the week ahead. Take my Food Prep Masterclass to learn everything you need to know to get started!

What easy protein snacks travel well for work?

Grab and go options like protein bars, beef sticks, trail mix and roasted edamame can be great options to throw in a bag for work and don’t need to be refrigerated.

What are the easiest protein snacks for meal prep?

Some of my favorite high-protein meal prep ideas include egg wraps or egg muffins, smoothies to keep in the freezer, energy bites or protein bars, tuna salad and lean protein in the air fryer like chicken and steak.

What easy protein snacks help with hunger during meals?

While protein is great, if you really want to stay full between meals, try to make sure you snacks include protein, fiber and/or healthy fats. Both fiber and fat will help with satiety. Things like whole grain avocado toast with a fried egg, a smoothie with high fiber muffin and anything made with beans, lentils and other legumes will help increase the fiber content of your snacks. I have lots of healthy muffins and bars made with beans and lentils.

What are budget-friendly easy protein snacks?

Beans and lentils are budget-friendly and can be a good source of both protein and fiber. Also canned tuna and chicken, edamame and plain Greek yogurt can be good options!

This list of easy protein snacks is full of lots of 5-minute options for busy families! Everything from make-ahead protein options to quick protein snacks for busy parents!

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

Cottage Cheese Protein Snacks

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These cottage cheese protein snacks are easy to make and taste delicious! Try them for an afternoon snack or add them to your lunchbox or breakfast plate!

cottage cheese protein snacks

Hi friends!

Let’s talk cottage cheese. As I’m sure you’ve seen, cottage cheese is having a moment right now. It’s being used in everything from pudding to smoothies to pancakes!

One of the most frequent questions I get asked is for new and exciting snack ideas because people are tired of eating the same thing over and over. So I rounded up 20+ snack ideas using cottage cheese in a variety of ways so there’s something for everyone!

If you’re looking for more snack ideas, be sure to check out all of my snack roundups here. Some of my favorites include:

And here are some easy snack ideas using cottage cheese:

Sweet Cottage Cheese Protein Snacks

These sweet cottage cheese protein snacks are perfect for snack time but they also work well for breakfast or dessert!

chocolate cottage cheese pudding

Chocolate Cottage Cheese Pudding

With just six ingredients and packed with protein, you can make this pudding ahead of time for breakfast or dessert!

Grab the recipe!
cottage cheese cookie dough

Cottage Cheese Cookie Dough

No oven required for this cookie dough snack!
Grab a spoon an dig in!

Grab the recipe!
cottage cheese breakfast bowl

Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bowl

A quick and easy breakfast that can be customized for a sweet or savory spin!
Here are 6 ideas.

Grab the recipe!
cottage cheese banana bread

Cottage Cheese Banana Bread

An easy banana bread recipe that’s gluten-free and packed with protein!
Made with almond flour and it’s freezer-friendly.

Grab the recipe!

Savory Cottage Cheese Protein Snacks

If sweet cottage cheese recipes are not your favorite, there are plenty of savory options out there. Everything from dips to bowls to chips can be made with cottage cheese!

cottage cheese ranch dip

Cottage Cheese Ranch Dip

Easy to whip up and perfect for dipping your favorite veggies, this recipe is a great alternative to storebought ranch dressing.

Grab the recipe!
cottage cheese avocado toast

Cottage Cheese Avocado Toast

Quick, easy and packed with protein, this nutritionally balanced combo is great for breakfast or a snack with some staying power!

Grab the recipe!
savory cottage cheese bowl

Savory Cottage Cheese Bowl

The perfect combination of savory ingredienst like egg, salmon, veggies and seasoning, artfully arranged over cottage cheese.

Grab the recipe!
high protein cottage cheese chips

High Protein Cottage Cheese Chips

I’ll bet you didn’t know you could bake cottage cheese into some deliciously crispy chips that are perfect on their own or for scooping your favorite dip!

Grab the recipe!

Cottage Cheese Protein Recipes (Baked)

Cottage cheese isn’t just for snacking on straight out of the fridge. It can be mixed and baked into delicious snack options like cookies, egg bakes and pizza dough!

cottage cheese cookies

Cottage Cheese Cookies

Made with just 7 ingredients, these cookies are soft and chewy and make the perfect snack. They pack in 8g of protein per cookie!

Grab the recipe!
baked cottage cheese

Baked Cottage Cheese

This recipe is perfect for meal prep and can be heated up quickly at any point during the day for a quick snack. You’ll the love the custard-like texture!

Grab the recipe!
cottage cheese egg bake

Cottage Cheese Egg Bake

These egg bake is creamy and hearty, packed with veggies and higher in protein than your normal egg bake!

Grab the recipe!
no rise protein pizza dough with cottage cheese

No Rise Protein Pizza Dough

With each slice containing 20g of protein, this pizza dough is a must-try for your next pizza night! Mix it up, add your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Grab the recipe!

Make-Ahead Cottage Cheese Snacks

We still need snacks even on the busiest of days. These recipes can be made ahead of time for quick, easy snacks when you’re on the run!

cottage cheese overnight oats

Cottage Cheese Overnight Oats

Overnight oats are creamy and delicious with endless flavor possibilities. Adding cottage cheese for a boost of protein makes them even more satisfying.

Grab the recipe!
cottage cheese waffles

Cottage Cheese Waffles

Make a big batch of these cottage cheese waffles over the weekend and pop them in the toaster for a quick meal or snack during the week!

Grab the recipe!
blueberry frozen cottage cheese bark

Blueberry Frozen Cottage Cheese Bark

Cottage cheese mixed with blueberry jam, fresh berries and granola and then frozen and broken into pieces makes the perfect snack on a hot afternoon!

Grab the recipe!
cottage cheese cookie dough bites

Cottage Cheese Cookie Dough Bites

A simple mix of cottage cheese, almond and oat flour and some maple syrup make these a quick, kid-friendly afternoon snack!

Grab the recipe!

Cottage Cheese Protein Smoothies & Shakes

Adding cottage cheese to your smoothie or shake is an easy way to add some extra protein and make it extra creamy and delicious!

cottage cheese smoothie

Cottage Cheese Smoothie

No need for protein powder – this smoothie is the perfect blend of cottage cheese, berries, bananas, milk and honey!

Grab the recipe!
tropical cottage cheese smoothie

Tropical Cottage Cheese Smoothie

All your favorite tropical flavors like mango and pineapple in a protein-packed shake that makes a great snack!

Grab the recipe!
peanut butter avocado chocolate smoothie with cottage cheese

Peanut Butter Avocado Chocolate Smoothie

Packed with protein and healthy fats, this creamy chocolate smoothie is healthy enough for a snack and sweet enough for dessert!

Grab the recipe!
cheesecake cottage cheese smoothie

Cheesecake Cottage Cheese Smoothie

Your favorite dessert in smoothie form? Yes please! Protein packed with no need for protein powder, this shake will definitely hit the spot!

Grab the recipe!

FAQs About Cottage Cheese High Protein Snacks

How much protein is in cottage cheese snacks?

Cottage cheese on its own typically has 11-12g of protein per half cup but the exact amount of protein will vary based on the specific snack recipe. Many snacks that use cottage cheese will also contain other ingredients with protein so the total amount of protein per serving will be higher than cottage cheese alone.

What are the best cottage cheese protein snack combinations?

If you’re looking to increase your protein intake, the best snack combinations are the ones that you will actually eat. Cottage cheese is a fairly versatile ingredient and can be used in sweet, savory, baked goods and no bake recipes as shown above!

Can you meal prep cottage cheese protein snacks?

Yes! Many snacks that contain cottage cheese can be made during meal prep. With the exception of toasts and some bowls, most of the recipes shared above could be prepped ahead of time and enjoyed all week long!

What cottage cheese protein recipes are easiest to make?

Sometimes it’s having the right tools to make recipces easier that’s most important. With many cottage cheese recipes, it’s important to have a high-powered blender to blend the cottage cheese smooth and enhance the texture. We love our Nutribullet (aff link). Most of the snacks shared above are ready in 15 minutes or less.

How do you make cottage cheese protein snacks taste better?

If you dont’ like the taste of cottage cheese, I would skip the bowls and toast where cottage cheese stays in its original state and try recipes like smoothies, puddings, pizza crust etc where the cottage cheese is transformed into something totally different where you likely won’t notice it.

Are cottage cheese protein snacks good for weight management?

Snacks that are high in both protein and fiber can be a great tool for weight management. If you’re looking for an easy protein source to balance out a snack that is higher in carbs, adding cottage cheese can help boost the protein content and make the snack more satisfying to help you stay fuller longer.

What can you mix with cottage cheese for a high protein snack?

On it’s own, cottage cheese doesn’t have a very strong flavor, which makes it a great vehicle for mixing with flavors you do enjoy! Mix with fruit for a smoothie, top with salmon and veggies for a savory bowl or mix into cookie or pizza dough for a high protein snack option.

How long do homemade cottage cheese protein snacks last?

This will depend on the snack. Snacks that need to be refrigerated will typically last 3-4 days. In the freezer, most snacks will keep for 2-3 months.

What cottage cheese snacks are kid-friendly?

Some kid-friendly snack ideas using cottage cheese include:

Can you use protein powder in cottage cheese snacks?

Many snacks that use cottage cheese to boost the protein content will also use protein powder. Combining the two adds a larger amount of protein and can also add flavor if you’re using a flavored protein powder.

These cottage cheese protein snacks are easy to make and taste delicious! Try them for an afternoon snack or add them to your lunchbox or breakfast plate!

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

Best Mac and Cheese (Boxed)

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Looking for the best boxed mac and cheese? Here are some picks for healthy store bought mac and cheese from a Registered Dietitian. Plus a kids taste test!

best mac and cheese boxed

*Originally published August 2022. Updated September 2025*

These are some options for the best boxed mac and cheese options that can be found in most grocery stores. They are budget-friendly and busy moms can pair with fruits and vegetables for a quick meal.

Hi friends!

We are continuing our “Best of” series by talking about macaroni and cheese. So far, we’ve covered snacks from certain stores like:

We’ve also talked about specific types of snacks like:

So be sure to catch up on those posts if you missed them!

Best mac and cheese in a box

When it comes to boxed mac and cheese, my biggest concern is sodium. Some brands, especially the deluxe versions, have 1,000+ mg of sodium per serving, which is way more than necessary. While I don’t recommend packaged mac and cheese as an everyday food, it’s certainly something my kids have for dinner occasionally.

When I’m picking out which brand to buy, I look for the lowest sodium per serving that I can find, and I’d also love for there to be a decent amount of both protein and fiber.

The problem is that some of the brands that are higher in both protein and fiber are not always a hit with my kids.

Why You’ll Love This List of the Best Mac & Cheese

  • I compare the nutritional value of several brands
  • All of these choices are affordable and available
  • Kid-tested – I let my kids taste all of these and provide their honest review
  • I’m a Registered Dietitian and I’m telling you it’s ok to serve boxed mac and cheese as a busy mom

Mac and Cheese Kids’ Review

So after looking at a lot of mac and cheese boxes, I decided to do a taste test with my kids (Their ages at the time of the taste test: 7, 5 & 3) to see which ones they would actually eat.

I chose two classics: Kraft and Annie’s Original. I also chose two that were higher in fiber & protein: Banza and Goodle. Then I threw in an Annie’s Vegan option and Annie’s 25% reduced-sodium. Here’s the video of their taste test:

Best Healthy Boxed Mac and Cheese

Let’s look at these six options I chose for the taste test in a little more detail. Note- I’m sure there are other great options. I tried to stick to brands that were widely available in the two grocery stores by my house, not specialty stores like Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s etc.

boxed macaroni and cheese

Kraft Macaroni & Cheese

  • 9 grams of protein
  • 2 grams of fiber
  • 560 mg sodium
  • Kids liked it
high protein gliuten free macaroni and cheese

Banza Mac & Cheese (Made w/ chickpea pasta)

  • 15 grams protein
  • 5 grams fiber
  • 640 mg sodium
  • Kids didn’t like it
high fiber macaroni and cheese

Goodles (found at Target)

  • 14 grams protein
  • 6 grams fiber
  • 590 mg sodium
  • Kids didn’t like it
vegan macaroni and cheese

Annie’s Vegan Mac (Red Lentil Spirals)

  • 11 grams protein
  • 3 grams fiber
  • 240 mg sodium
  • Kids didn’t like it
lower sodium macaroni and cheese

Annie’s 25% Less Sodium

  • 10 grams protein
  • 2 grams fiber
  • 400 mg sodium
  • Kids liked it
healthiest macaroni and cheese

Annie’s Original Macaroni & Classic Cheddar

  • 9 grams protein
  • 3 grams fiber
  • 430 mg sodium
  • Kids liked it

Mom tip – Don’t be fooled by the marketing like I was! I thought the Annie’s 25% less sodium meant 25% less than their original but it actually says 25% less than the leading brand and it only has 30mg less than the original Annies!

What is the best boxed mac and cheese brand?

Of course this will vary based on personal preference. To choose which is best for your family, pick a few things that are most important to you and focus on those – protein? fiber? sodium level? taste?

Which boxed mac and cheese is best for kids?

As a Registered Dietitian, these are my top picks to serve to my kids:

  • Annie’s
  • Banza
  • Goodles

I found Annie’s to be the lowest in sodium and my kids like it. Both Banza and Goodles are higher in protein and fiber, but also higher in sodium…and my kids didn’t like them.

best boxed macaroni and cheese for kids

Mom tip – I love that Banza and Goodle are higher in both protein and fiber. Despite them also being higher in sodium, I still think they’re good options if your kids will eat them! I have heard from lot of people who really like Goodles specifically so I would try that one first.

annie's super mac

Since this original post, they have also launched Annie’s Super! Mac, which is higher and protein and fiber. It’s also a bit higher in sodium but my kids love it.

Does boxed mac and cheese go bad?

Since it’s a shelf-stable food, it will generally last for several years. Remember that the expiration date is speaking to the quality, not the safety so in general it’s fine to eat it 1-2 years past the expiration date. It’s likely the packets of cheese that will go bad before the noodles.

How to make boxed mac and cheese better?

What’s the healthiest boxed mac and cheese option?

  • Choose one with 500mg sodium or less per serving
  • Try not using the whole packet of cheese
  • Mix in Greek yogurt instead of butter for extra protein
  • Look for whole wheat, whole grain or alternative noodle options for more fiber

Boxed mac and cheese food prep ideas:

Mac and cheese reheats well so it can be a great option for food prep. Try prepping a batch and using during the week:

  • Reheat and mix in some leftover taco meat or chicken
  • Stir in a bag of steamed vegetables and serve as a side dish with a lean protein. Broccoli and peas are often a great choice!
  • Turn into Macaroni and Cheese Mufffins
  • Food prep some pulled pork as well and pair with a salad for a quick and easy dinner!

Boxed Mac and Cheese Hacks

  • To make it creamier, try using Greek yogurt. You can either add it right along with the milk instead of butter, or you can skip the milk and try just adding Greek yogurt. Adding less milk also makes it thicker and creamier.
  • To turn it into a full meal, try adding leftover cooked chicken or some chicken sausage. You can also add cooked vegetables. One easy hack is to add some frozen peas to the water for the last few minutes of cooking the noodles.
  • For a different cheese flavor, try using half the packet of cheese and mixing in some shredded cheese of your own.
  • Try putting your own spin on it! Want pizza mac? Grab some white cheddar boxed mac, put it in a pan, top with a little pizza sauce, pepperoni and shredded mozzarella and broil for a couple minutes.
  • Add some spices. Try mixing in a little garlic powder or paprika when you add the cheese.

Boxed Mac & Cheese Baked

Mom tip – Want to fool a crowd? Make boxed mac and cheese as directed, add any mix-ins you want, then put it in a baking pan, top with some extra shredded cheese and breadcrumbs and bake at 350 degrees Faherenheit for 10-15 minutes until the cheese on top is melted.

How To Make Mac & Cheese From A Box

If you’ve never made boxed mac and cheese, you can follow the directions on the box, which involves boiling water, adding the noodles and then draining them before adding cheese milk and sometimes butter.

Recently I’ve started making it a different way that involves adding the cheese, butter and noodles right at the very beginning before you even boil the water and I think it turns out much better. You can find directions for the TikTok Mac and Cheese Recipe here.

Boxed Mac and Cheese in the Microwave

While I haven’t tried this myself beyond eating the Kraft microwavable cups in college, here are directions for how to make boxed mac and cheese in the microwave. The microwave gets the water hot enough to boil so it can cook the noodles, you just have to remember to stir frequently and there won’t be water to drain out at the end.

boxed mac and cheese in the instant pot

Instant Pot Box Mac and Cheese

If you have an instant pot, you can also use that to cook a box of mac and cheese. Add one cup water to the instant pot with butter and pasta. Cook 4 minutes, quick release and stir in cheese and milk. Here’s a whole post about how to cook instant pot box mac and cheese.

Can you make boxed mac and cheese without milk?

If you don’t have or don’t want to use milk, try saving 1/4 cup of the water you cooked the pasta in. You can also mix in cream, plain Greek yogurt or even cream cheese or sour cream instead of milk.

How to make box mac and cheese with ground beef?

This is a great way to use up leftover ground beef or turkey, taco meat, etc. Just cook the beef and stir it into the macaroni once you’ve mixed in the milk and cheese. Try adding a little taco seasoning for taco mac or just salt and pepper for some cheesy hamburger mac.

Boxed Mac and Cheese FAQs

Are there gluten-free mac and cheese brands?

Yes! Over the past few years, more and more brands have come out with gluten-free noodle options, made from things like brown rice, chickpeas and lentils and this has also increased the number of gluten-free mac and cheese options. Check out this post for some of the best gluten-free mac and cheese.

Which boxed mac and cheese has the most protein?

There are several brands out there with a decent amount of protein. Muscle Mac has 20g per serving. Banza has 16g per serving. Goodles has 14g per serving. And Annie’s SuperMac has 16g per serving.

What’s the best vegan boxed mac and cheese?

I’ve only tried one of the vegan options but there are plenty out there. Here are some of the Best Boxed Vegan Mac and Cheese options.

Can I add vegetables or protein to boxed mac and cheese?

Absolutely – it’s a great vehicle for transforming leftover chicken, steak or other protein into a new meal and an easy way to add vegetables would be to mix in some steamed or roasted vegetables at the end, or drop some frozen vegetables into the water for the last few minutes of cooking the noodles.

You can also mix in pureed vegetables like pumpkin or stir in some Greek yogurt or cottage cheese.

Can you make boxed mac and cheese with non-dairy milk?

Yes. You can replace cow’s milk with a milk alternative like soy milk, almond milk, etc.

How do I make boxed mac and cheese taste better?

A few ways to amp up the taste of boxed mac and cheese include adding additional seasonings – paprika, cayenne pepper, etc. You can also mix in some freshly grated cheese. Many people say not to skip the butter because it really helps with the flavor and also not to add too much milk.

Are there low-sodium boxed mac and cheese options?

Annie’s has a lower-sodium variety. It comes in a red box.

Which boxed mac and cheese option reheats best?

Most boxed mac and cheese varieties will become less creamy once they have been cooled and are then reheated. Often adding a splash of milk after reheating can help restore some of the creaminess.

Best Mac and Cheese From A Box

Looking for the best store-bought macaroni and cheese? Here are some picks for healthy mac and cheese from a Registered Dietitian. Plus I had my kids do a taste test!

These are some of the best choices for boxed mac and cheese. They’re widely available, affordable and great for a quick, easy dinner.

Enjoy!
–Lindsay—