19 Under 500 Calorie Recipes That Helped Me Feel Like Myself Again
Some meals leave you full but also kind of ready for a nap and a life reevaluation. These 19 under 500 calorie recipes don’t do that. They’re the kind that fill you up without slowing you down or making you feel like you need stretchy pants. Honestly, they’ve been holding me together better than my third cup of coffee.
Grilled Hot Dogs
Grilled Hot Dogs are a quick and easy option when you want something filling without the hassle. You can throw them on the grill and be ready to eat in no time. It’s the kind of meal that keeps you satisfied without going overboard. Perfect for any occasion, especially when you’re looking for something simple and easy.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Dogs
Baked Croissant Breakfast Sandwich
If you’re craving something a little different for breakfast, Baked Croissant Breakfast Sandwich is a great choice. With its warm, flaky croissant and perfect filling, it hits all the right notes. It’s light but still feels like a treat, keeping you full without the heavy feeling. A quick, satisfying option when you need something easy and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Baked Croissant Breakfast Sandwich
Easy Chicken Casserole
Easy Chicken Casserole is one of those dishes that takes almost no time but still delivers. It’s hearty and simple, packed with everything you need for a quick meal. You can throw it together and let it do its thing in the oven while you relax. A great way to keep dinner low-key but still filling.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole
Focaccia Bread
There’s something about Focaccia Bread that makes it feel special without being complicated. It’s fluffy with just the right amount of crisp, perfect for pairing with pretty much anything. It’s a great side or snack that’ll add a little something extra to your meal. Ideal for when you want bread that’s more than just basic.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread
Grilled Salmon
Grilled Salmon is perfect if you want something light but still packed with protein. It’s quick to make and doesn’t require a lot of fuss, so you can enjoy a healthy meal in minutes. Plus, it pairs with just about anything, making it a versatile choice. A great way to enjoy a meal without weighing yourself down.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Salmon
Mexican Casserole
This dish offers a bold, comforting meal that won’t leave you feeling sluggish. It’s filling but still light enough to keep things easy. Mexican Casserole packs in the flavor and keeps things simple for those nights when you need something fulfilling but not heavy. Perfect for when you want a little bit of everything on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Casserole
Ham and Cheese Sliders
Looking for a quick snack or meal? Ham and Cheese Sliders are the answer. These little sandwiches are perfect for when you’re craving something savory and easy to whip up. A great choice when you want something that’s simple but hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders
Ice Cream Cake
If you’re in the mood for something sweet but light, Ice Cream Cake is an awesome option. It’s a simple way to indulge without feeling guilty, and it doesn’t take much to make. Ideal for those times when you want a sweet treat but don’t want to overdo it.
Get the Recipe: Ice Cream Cake
Easy Chicken Tenders
Easy Chicken Tenders are perfect for a meal that’s simple, tasty, and quick. These tenders are light but still pack a punch when it comes to flavor. You can dip them, pair them with something fresh, and enjoy a fulfilling meal without the heavy feeling. Great for when you want something that’s easy to make but feels like a treat.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Tenders
Mexican Rice
This dish is a great side that adds a lot of flavor without being overwhelming. It pairs well with pretty much anything and is quick to make. Mexican Rice adds a little extra to your meal, making it feel complete without being heavy. A fantastic choice when you want something flavorful and light.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice
Hot Honey Chicken Salad
For a twist on your usual salad, try Hot Honey Chicken Salad. It’s got the perfect balance of heat and sweetness, making it a satisfying option without being too heavy. The chicken adds protein, while the salad keeps things light and fresh. Great for when you want a salad that’s more than just your typical greens.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad
Asian Style Pork Chops
Looking for something that packs a punch? Asian Style Pork Chops give you all the flavors without overloading you. They’re a solid choice when you want something tasty but not heavy. This dish keeps things simple while still making you feel like you’ve had a meal that hits all the right notes.
Get the Recipe: Asian Style Pork Chops
Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!)
If you’re after something quick and easy, Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!) has got your back. You get the crunch and the fun without any of the hassle. It’s perfect when you need to make something that feels like a full meal but doesn’t weigh you down. You’ll end up coming back for more, guaranteed.
Get the Recipe: Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!)
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail
Who doesn’t love a good shrimp cocktail? Mexican Shrimp Cocktail offers a twist that’s bold but light. It’s packed with flavors and feels refreshing without being too much. Perfect for a snack or a light meal, you won’t miss the calories with this one.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Shrimp Cocktail
Vanilla Ice Cream
Sometimes, you just need that classic dessert. Vanilla Ice Cream gives you a creamy, sweet option that’s both simple and fulfilling. It’s a treat without feeling overdone, and it’s definitely a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a treat on its own or paired with something else, this will hit the spot.
Get the Recipe: Vanilla Ice Cream
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
When you need something crispy and spicy, Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers are your go-to. The bacon gives a nice crunch while the heat from the jalapenos kicks things up a notch. It’s a fun, handheld dish that feels indulgent without going overboard. These are perfect for fulfilling that snack craving.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
Waldorf Salad
Waldorf Salad is a refreshing and light option when you want something crunchy and crisp. It’s a simple dish that manages to feel substantial, without feeling heavy. You can enjoy it as a side or make it the main thing. It’s easy to throw together and works anytime you need a quick meal.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad
Beef Wellington
Want something that feels fancy but doesn’t weigh you down? Beef Wellington offers the kind of flavors you expect without going overboard. It’s the right mix of rich and fulfilling, but it’s not the kind of dish that leaves you feeling stuffed. A great option when you want something memorable yet light.
Get the Recipe: Beef Wellington
Dense Bean Salad
If you’re craving something hearty but light, Dense Bean Salad is just what you need. It’s filling and packed with goodness without any of the extra heaviness. You can enjoy this as a meal on its own or as a side to something else. No matter when you eat it, you’ll appreciate the balance of flavors.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad
