Comfort Food Makeover: Healthier Versions for the Whole Family

We all love comfort food, but let’s face it, sometimes it’s not the healthiest choice. I’m going to show you how to still enjoy your favorite treats without the guilt. Here are 21 healthier versions of classic comfort foods.

1. Mac and Cheese

Instead of traditional mac and cheese, I use whole wheat pasta and add pureed butternut squash to the cheese sauce. It adds creaminess and cuts down on the fat.

2. Fried Chicken

I swapped deep frying for baking with a crunchy coating of panko breadcrumbs and spices. It’s crispy and flavorful without all the grease.

3. Pizza

I make pizza on a whole wheat crust and load it with vegetables. Using part-skim mozzarella and turkey pepperoni keeps it lighter but just as delicious.

4. Mashed Potatoes

Cauliflower mash is my go-to substitute. It’s creamy and satisfying with a fraction of the carbs and calories of traditional mashed potatoes.

5. Spaghetti and Meatballs

I use spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles instead of pasta and lean turkey for the meatballs. It’s just as hearty and flavorful, but much lighter.

6. Grilled Cheese

I use whole grain bread and add tomato slices and spinach. A thin layer of sharp cheddar cheese gives it plenty of flavor without overdoing the fat.

7. Chili

I make a hearty turkey and bean chili. It’s packed with protein and fiber, and using lean turkey cuts down on saturated fat.

8. Tacos

For a healthier taco night, I use ground turkey or black beans and serve them in lettuce wraps instead of tortillas. Fresh salsa and avocado add great flavor.

9. Shepherd’s Pie

I top the filling with mashed sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. It’s naturally sweet and adds more nutrients.

10. Burgers

I make my burgers with lean ground beef or turkey and serve them on whole grain buns. Topping them with lots of fresh veggies keeps them tasty and nutritious.

11. Pancakes

I use whole grain flour and add mashed bananas or applesauce to my pancake batter. It’s a great way to add natural sweetness and extra fiber.

12. Brownies

Black bean brownies might sound strange, but they’re rich and fudgy. Using black beans adds protein and fiber without compromising on taste.

13. Ice Cream

I blend frozen bananas with a splash of almond milk and a bit of vanilla extract. It’s creamy and sweet like ice cream but much healthier.

14. Potato Chips

I make my own chips by thinly slicing sweet potatoes and baking them. They’re crispy and satisfying without the unhealthy fats of regular chips.

15. Lasagna

Using zucchini slices instead of pasta layers and part-skim ricotta makes my lasagna lighter but still delicious. Adding spinach and mushrooms boosts the nutrients.

16. Buffalo Wings

I bake chicken tenders with a spicy breadcrumb coating and serve them with Greek yogurt-based blue cheese dip. It’s a lighter take on a game-day favorite.

17. Meatloaf

My meatloaf recipe includes lean ground turkey and lots of grated vegetables. It’s moist and flavorful without being heavy.

18. Quesadillas

I use whole grain tortillas and fill them with black beans, veggies, and a little reduced-fat cheese. They’re crispy and satisfying without the excess calories.

19. French Fries

I bake sweet potato fries with a light coating of olive oil and spices. They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, just like fried fries.

20. Cookies

Oatmeal cookies with whole grain oats and dried fruit are my go-to treat. Using less sugar and healthy add-ins makes them a better choice.

21. Clam Chowder

I make a lighter version using cauliflower instead of potatoes and almond milk instead of cream. It’s still rich and comforting but much healthier.

Ready to Indulge the Healthy Way?

With these healthier versions of your favorite comfort foods, you can enjoy all the flavors you love without the extra guilt. Which dish will you makeover first?

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Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Olga Pink.