When it comes to gaining weight, it can be just as challenging as losing it. A common misconception is that eating a lot of food will automatically lead to weight gain, but it’s not that simple. You need to focus on consuming foods that are high in calories and nutrients. The good news is that you don’t have to sacrifice taste for quantity – there are plenty of delicious recipes out there that can help you achieve your goals. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering high-calorie recipes that will satisfy your cravings and support weight gain.
From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese to decadent desserts like cheesecake bars, these recipes pack a punch when it comes to calories. We’ll also throw in some surprises, like crispy fried chicken and pulled pork grilled cheese sandwiches, to keep things interesting. Whether you’re trying to bulk up for muscle gain or simply want to add some extra padding, these high-calorie recipes are the perfect solution.
Loaded Mac and Cheese with Bacon and Breadcrumbs
This comforting casserole combines creamy macaroni and cheese with crispy bacon, crunchy breadcrumbs, and a golden brown crust.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and crumbled bacon. Mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this indulgent yet effortless recipe that combines succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter sauce, and al dente noodles. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked pasta in garlic butter sauce, then add cooked shrimp.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Triple Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies
Satisfy your cravings with these indulgent brownies that combine the best of both worlds: rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. These fudgy treats are perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups (250g) sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup (120g) semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Add flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir until combined.
5. Pour in 1/2 cup chocolate chips and peanut butter. Stir until smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until an toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Deep-Fried Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the creaminess of mozzarella cheese with the crunch of a deep-fried coating, served with a side of tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk mozzarella cheese, sliced into sticks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Dip each mozzarella stick into the beaten egg, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
4. Fry mozzarella sticks in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain excess oil on paper towels. Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on the number of mozzarella sticks you fry at once.
Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread
This recipe yields a mouthwatering garlic bread that’s perfect for snacking, dinner parties, or game day gatherings. The combination of melted mozzarella cheese, savory garlic butter, and crispy crust will have everyone begging for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.1 oz) loaf French bread
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the French bread into 12-16 pieces.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Place the sliced bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each piece.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly onto each piece of bread.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the garlic butter.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Buttery Lobster Risotto
Savor the rich flavors of succulent lobster and creamy risotto, perfectly balanced with a hint of buttery goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 pound cooked lobster meat, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. If using wine, add it to the skillet and cook until absorbed.
4. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the skillet and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process until all broth is used, stirring frequently.
5. Stir in remaining butter and cooked lobster meat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender beef with melted cheese and sweet bell peppers for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with beef mixture, then sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and paprika over the peppers.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie with Heavy Cream
Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie with Heavy Cream Recipe
Get ready to blend together the perfect creamy treat with this indulgent peanut butter banana smoothie, featuring the richness of heavy cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the banana, peanut butter, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the heavy cream and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or creaminess as desired.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. You can add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie with Heavy Cream!
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Transform classic lasagna into a new favorite with these creamy chicken-filled shells. A delightful twist on the Italian-American staple, this recipe combines tender chicken, rich alfredo sauce, and pasta in a single delicious serving.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the chicken mixture, placing them in a single layer in a baking dish.
5. Dot the top of each shell with butter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until shells are heated through and cheese is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramel Pecan Cheesecake Bars
These bars combine the creaminess of cheesecake with the crunch of pecans and the sweetness of caramel, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9×9-inch baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar and beat until combined.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
6. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top.
7. Drizzle caramel sauce over pecans.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
9. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Crispy Fried Chicken with Gravy
Get ready to savor the flavors of classic Southern-style fried chicken, paired with a rich and savory gravy.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Gravy ingredients (see below)
Gravy Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry chicken in hot oil (350°F) for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
6. To make gravy, whisk together flour and 1 tablespoon of broth to create a paste.
7. Bring remaining broth to a boil, then add the paste and heavy cream/half-and-half. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Nachos with Ground Beef and Queso
Loaded Nachos with Ground Beef and Queso Recipe
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this loaded nacho recipe, packed with flavorful ground beef and melted queso.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in taco seasoning and cook according to package instructions.
5. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet. Spoon refried beans over the chips, followed by half of the shredded cheese and the ground beef mixture.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and queso-like.
8. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Add desired toppings and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Ice Cream Sundae with Hot Fudge
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy ice cream sundae, smothered in a velvety hot fudge sauce. This indulgent treat is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet surprise any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint of your favorite ice cream
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, granulated sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches a simmer.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Add butter pieces to the warm cream mixture and stir until melted.
4. Stir in chocolate chips until smooth and well combined.
5. Allow the hot fudge sauce to cool to room temperature before serving.
6. Scoop your favorite ice cream into a sundae dish or glass.
7. Pour the cooled hot fudge sauce over the ice cream.
8. Top with whipped cream and chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, cheesy, and spicy treats! This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from game day gatherings to cozy movie nights.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jalapeños
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the stems of the jalapeños and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and cilantro.
4. Stuff each jalapeño pepper with the cheese mixture, filling them as full as possible.
5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
6. Place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this sweet and savory combination of tender pulled pork and melted cheddar.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of butter, softened
– 1 cup of pulled pork (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with pulled pork, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the pork.
6. Place another bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Chocolate Hazelnut Stuffed French Toast
Start your day with a rich and indulgent treat that combines the classic breakfast favorite with the luxurious flavors of chocolate and hazelnuts.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably Challah or Brioche)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup of Nutella
– 1/2 cup of chopped hazelnuts
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs and vanilla extract.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of Nutella on each cooked bread slice, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts over the Nutella layer.
7. Fold the bread in half to enclose the filling and cook for an additional minute.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Cheddar Pot Pie
This comforting pot pie is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for a chilly evening. A flaky pastry crust surrounds tender beef and cheddar filling, making it a satisfying meal for the whole family.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb beef stew meat
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Creamy Potato Soup with Sausage
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting creamy potato soup, infused with the savory flavor of sausage.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove the cooked sausage from the pot and set aside.
3. Add the butter to the pot and melt over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and cooked sausage back into the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
6. Stir in heavy cream; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Peanut Butter and Jelly Stuffed Pancakes
Start your day with a delightful surprise – peanut butter and jelly stuffed pancakes that will make your taste buds dance! This easy-to-make recipe combines the comfort of a warm pancake with the sweetness of PB&J.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons grape jelly
– Butter or cooking spray for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and peanut butter until smooth.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or cooking spray.
5. Using 1/4 cup measuring cups, scoop batter onto the pan.
6. Place 1-2 teaspoons of grape jelly in the center of each pancake.
7. Fold the pancake in half to enclose the filling and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side.
8. Serve warm with your favorite toppings or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes per batch (depending on pan size)
Garlic Butter Steak with Mashed Potatoes
Savor the rich flavors of garlic butter and tender steak paired with creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak or ribeye, at room temperature
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter.
3. Season steak with salt and pepper. Spread garlic butter evenly over the steak.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness. Transfer to oven and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, boil potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with heavy cream or whole milk, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve steak with mashed potatoes and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Steak: 10-12 minutes; Mashed Potatoes: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Looking to gain weight? These delicious high-calorie recipes are just what you need! From comforting classics like loaded mac and cheese with bacon and breadcrumbs, to indulgent treats like triple chocolate peanut butter brownies and homemade ice cream sundaes, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include creamy garlic butter shrimp pasta, cheesy pull-apart garlic bread, and pulled pork grilled cheese sandwiches. Whether you’re a meat-lover or a sweet-tooth, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while helping you gain the weight you need. Treat yourself to a taste bud adventure!
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