29 Under 500 Calories Recipes For When You Want To Eat More

ByMandy

Some days, one plate just isn’t enough, and cutting back isn’t an option. That’s where these 29 lighter recipes come in. No need to stare at a tiny meal and pretend it’s enough—these dishes keep the fork moving without second-guessing every bite. Eating more without overloading? It’s possible, and it actually tastes good.

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible.
Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Focaccia Bread

Slices of focaccia bread topped with rosemary and flaky salt, arranged on brown parchment paper.
Focaccia Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’ve been wanting to dip your toes into homemade bread, start here. Focaccia Bread is not only simple, it’s versatile enough for any topping you love. Whether it’s for a light dinner or a hearty snack, it fits perfectly. And keeping it under 500 calories? Easier than you think.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket

A close-up of several pigs in a blanket, consisting of sausages wrapped in baked dough, topped with a light sprinkling of salt.
Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Everyone’s favorite party snack just got a healthier twist. With an air fryer, Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket turn out just as delicious with less oil. They’re quick to make, perfect for a crowd, and yes, they come in under 500 calories. A win for everyone involved.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket

Sheet Pan Chicken Quesadillas

Close-up of stacked quesadilla slices filled with cheese, beans, and chicken, topped with sliced jalapeños and cilantro, on a white plate.
Sheet Pan Chicken Quesadillas. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Craving something that’s both easy to make and fulfilling? Sheet Pan Chicken Quesadillas has got your back. This dish packs all the flavor without the fuss, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Plus, managing your calorie intake is a breeze with this recipe.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Quesadillas

Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

A plate of bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers filled with cheese, secured with toothpicks, next to a small dish of dipping sauce.
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a spicy kick that’s also a crowd-pleaser, look no further. Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers are the perfect blend of heat and smoke. They’re easy to whip up for any occasion and keeping tabs on your calories is straightforward. Who knew snacking could be so guilt-free?
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Air Fryer Homemade Fries

A serving of golden-brown french fries with a side of ketchup.
Air Fryer Homemade Fries. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Who doesn’t love fries? Now imagine them healthier. Air Fryer Homemade Fries achieve that golden, crispy perfection without the deep-fried guilt. These are great as a side or just by themselves, and yes, they’re easily under 500 calories. A dream come true for fry lovers.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Homemade Fries

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Baked rice casserole with melted cheese on top, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Looking for comfort food without the calorie overload? Chicken and Rice Casserole is your answer. This dish is hearty and fulfilling, with just the right balance of flavors. Plus, keeping it under 500 calories isn’t as hard as you might think. Comfort food, reinvented.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Casserole

Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich

Tuna burger with lettuce, tomato, and onion on a bun, served on a white plate.
Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Turn your lunchtime routine on its head with an Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich. It’s a classic made better with the air fryer, giving you that crispy exterior without all the oil. Delicious, simple, and yes, it fits into a calorie-conscious diet. Lunch just got an upgrade.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich

Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Grilled ribs garnished with herbs and served with a side of sauce and onions.
Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re in the mood for tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs, Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe is where it’s at. They’re slow-cooked to perfection, and best of all, they can be enjoyed without overdoing your calories. A surefire hit for any meat lover.
Get the Recipe: Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers.
Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those days when you want something light yet fulfilling, Antipasto Salad is a go-to. It’s packed with flavors, textures, and yes, it’s incredibly easy to keep it under 500 calories. It’s the kind of salad that proves salads don’t have to be boring.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Best Zucchini Bread

Sliced zucchini bread on a white surface, showing a moist interior with visible green flecks of zucchini.
Best Zucchini Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sneak some veggies into your dessert with Best Zucchini Bread. It’s moist, flavorful, and you guessed it, doesn’t pack a ton of calories. Whether for breakfast or a snack, it’s a guilt-free way to satisfy those sweet cravings. And it’s super easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Best Zucchini Bread

Caprese Pesto Tarts

Fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs served in crispy puff pastry cups on a wooden surface.
Caprese Pesto Tarts. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you need a dish that’s as impressive looking as it is delicious, Caprese Pesto Tarts are your best bet. They’re bursting with flavor, easy to assemble, and fit neatly into a calorie-conscious diet. Perfect for entertaining or just treating yourself.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes

Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes topped with blue cheese, drizzled with ranch dressing, and garnished with green onions.
Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Give your baked potatoes a spicy makeover with Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes. They’re hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly, they don’t break the calorie bank. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a filling meal without the worry. A true comfort dish with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes

Chick-fil-A Sauce

A bowl of smooth, creamy peanut butter with a hint of Chick-fil-A sauce and a spoon inside.
Chick-fil-A Sauce. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Upgrade your chicken game with homemade Chick-fil-A Sauce. It’s surprisingly simple to make and can turn a simple dish into something extraordinary. Best of all, you control the portions, keeping it under 500 calories is totally doable. Get ready for some serious dipping.
Get the Recipe: Chick-fil-A Sauce

Beef Wellington

Beef Wellington sliced on a wooden board with a side salad in the background.
Beef Wellington. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fancy a challenge that’s sure to impress? Beef Wellington might be the project you’re looking for. This classic is rich, flavorful, and with careful portion control, won’t tip the scales on your calorie count. An indulgence that’s still within bounds.
Get the Recipe: Beef Wellington

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

A bowl of golden-brown, crispy fried arancini served in a white dish on a plain background.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a snack with a kick, Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites are where it’s at. They’re spicy, cheesy, and addictive, yet surprisingly light on calories. Whip these up for a game day or a fun night in. Spice lovers, this one’s for you.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Sourdough Bagels

A plate with a bagel seasoned with seeds sits next to a baking tray holding more bagels, also topped with seeds.
Sourdough Bagels. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

There’s nothing like homemade Sourdough Bagels to start your day right. They’re chewy, fulfilling, and making them yourself means you’re in control of the calories. Pair with your favorite low-cal topping for a breakfast that doesn’t feel like a compromise.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bagels

Air Fryer Chocolate Brownies

Close-up of chocolate brownies topped with sea salt flakes on a baking tray.
Air Fryer Chocolate Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Satisfy your chocolate craving with Air Fryer Chocolate Brownies. Yes, your air fryer can do desserts too, and these brownies are proof. They’re rich, fudgy, and you guessed it, come in under 500 calories. A sweet treat that’s actually guilt-free.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chocolate Brownies

Chicken Noodle Soup

A bowl of chicken noodle soup with vegetables.
Chicken Noodle Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing says comfort quite like a bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup. It’s warming, nourishing, and can easily fit your calorie goals. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a comforting meal, this soup has got your back.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Noodle Soup

Asian Style Pork Chops

Close-up of sliced grilled pork belly garnished with sesame seeds and green chili, served on a bed of kale.
Asian Style Pork Chops. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Add some flair to your dinner lineup with Asian Style Pork Chops. They’re packed with flavor, easy to cook, and yes, they’re light on calories. Perfect for when you want to spice up your meal routine without going overboard.
Get the Recipe: Asian Style Pork Chops

Easy Chicken Tenders

Breaded chicken tenders served on a plate with dipping sauce.
Easy Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Who doesn’t love Easy Chicken Tenders? They’re a hit with all ages, simple to make, and you guessed it, they don’t have to be calorie bombs. Serve them up for a meal everyone will enjoy, and keep your calorie count in check. It’s a win-win.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Tenders

Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings

Close-up of grilled chicken wings with a crispy texture, next to a red bowl of creamy dipping sauce.
Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spice up your wing game with Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings. They’re as flavorful as they are memorable, and surprisingly, not too hard on your calorie intake. Perfect for game day or any day you’re craving something with a little heat.
Get the Recipe: Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings

Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

Close-up view of cooked bacon strips and fried eggs on a white plate, garnished with parsley.
Crispy Air Fryer Bacon. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Want to enjoy bacon without all the grease? Crispy Air Fryer Bacon has got you covered. It turns out perfectly crispy, it’s less messy, and keeping to your calorie budget is totally doable. Breakfast just got a little better.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

Wingstop Louisiana Rub

A wooden spoon rests in a bowl filled with a colorful spice mixture, including herbs like cilantro or parsley, with visible red and green flakes.
Wingstop Louisiana Rub. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Here’s another way to enjoy your wings without the guilt. Wingstop Louisiana Rub offers a uniquely spicy flavor that’s hard to resist. And the best part? It’s easy to make them fit within a 500-calorie diet. A must-try for spice lovers.
Get the Recipe: Wingstop Louisiana Rub

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Glazed barbecued chicken drumsticks on a white plate.
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Craving BBQ but not the calories that usually come with it? Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are your answer. They’re juicy, smoky, and yes, they’re lighter than you’d expect. Perfect for when you want that BBQ flavor without the guilt.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Air Fryer Broccoli

A bowl of air fried broccoli garnished with grated cheese and lemon wedges.
Air Fryer Broccoli. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Even veggies can be fun with Air Fryer Broccoli. It turns out crispy, flavorful, and it’s a side dish that can complement any meal. Plus, it’s a breeze to keep it under 500 calories. Who knew healthy eating could be this enjoyable?
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Broccoli

Hot Honey Chicken Salad

A honey hot chicken salad with succulent fried chicken pieces, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese crumbles, cucumber slices, and mixed greens, all topped with a creamy dressing.
Hot Honey Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Turn up the heat on your salad game with Hot Honey Chicken Salad. It’s sweet, it’s spicy, and it’s incredibly fulfilling. Yet, keeping it light on calories is easy. It’s the perfect blend for a meal that’s both refreshing and filling.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Lemon Pound Cake

Sliced lemon cake with glaze on parchment paper, next to lemon slices.
Lemon Pound Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Indulge in a slice of Lemon Pound Cake for a treat that’s both tart and sweet. It’s surprisingly light, perfect for a dessert or a snack. And yes, you can have your cake and eat it too, without going over your calorie limit. A wonderful way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pound Cake

Air Fryer Corn on the Cob

A close-up image of three seasoned and grilled ears of corn arranged on a plate.
Air Fryer Corn on the Cob. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Get ready for Air Fryer Corn on the Cob that’s perfectly cooked every time. It’s a side dish that’s both simple and delicious. Plus, keeping it healthy and under 500 calories is no problem at all. An all year staple that you can enjoy all year round.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Corn on the Cob

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible.
Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ham and Cheese Sliders are an excellent choice for a quick and satisfying meal. These tasty snacks are simple to assemble, making them a breeze for anyone in the kitchen. They are not only delicious but also fit well into a calorie-conscious diet, allowing you to enjoy comfort food without guilt.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *