25 Quick High Calorie Low Protein Foods Ideas

High Calorie Low Protein Foods Ideas : High-calorie, low-protein foods play an essential role in specific dietary needs and health goals. While protein is crucial for muscle repair and overall body function, there are times when reducing protein intake while increasing calories is necessary. These foods are particularly valuable for individuals who need to gain weight without putting additional strain on their kidneys or those with conditions that require limited protein consumption, such as kidney disease or certain metabolic disorders.

Such foods are also beneficial for people who require an energy boost without the muscle-building effects of higher-protein foods. Athletes in training, individuals recovering from surgery or illness, or people facing increased energy demands (e.g., highly active people) may also find these foods supportive for maintaining their energy levels throughout the day. Additionally, for individuals undergoing treatments like chemotherapy or experiencing a reduced appetite, high-calorie, low-protein foods can help meet daily calorie requirements without overwhelming the digestive system.

High Calorie Low Protein Foods Ideas

1. Avocado Toast with Olive Oil

Avocado toast with olive oil is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a high-calorie, low-protein snack or meal. It’s perfect for anyone looking to add healthy fats and carbs to their diet without much protein. The creamy texture of the avocado pairs wonderfully with the crispiness of the toasted whole grain bread, while the drizzle of olive oil adds richness and flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 slice whole grain bread
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Start by toasting the whole grain bread until it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
2. While the bread is toasting, cut the ripe avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl.
3. Mash the avocado with a fork until it reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. You can add a squeeze of lemon juice or seasonings if desired, but it’s not necessary for a simple version.
4. Once the toast is ready, spread the mashed avocado generously onto the toasted bread.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the avocado spread for an extra touch of flavor and healthy fats.
6. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Enjoy your avocado toast immediately!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 30g
• Fats: 20g

This recipe is a great way to fuel your body with healthy fats and a moderate amount of carbs while keeping protein levels low. It’s also an excellent source of fiber and antioxidants, making it a satisfying and nutrient-rich option for breakfast, lunch, or a snack.

2. Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

A Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a quick, high-calorie, low-protein treat. Combining the natural sweetness of banana with the creamy richness of peanut butter, this smoothie is both satisfying and full of healthy fats. It’s a great option for a snack, breakfast, or post-workout refuel.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons peanut butter
• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup whole milk or almond milk (your choice)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)

Instructions:

1. Place the peanut butter, banana, milk, and honey (if using) into a blender.
2. Blend the ingredients on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste the smoothie, and if you’d like it sweeter, add more honey and blend again.
4. Pour the smoothie into a glass and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 6g
• Carbs: 45g
• Fats: 20g

This smoothie provides a nice balance of healthy fats, carbohydrates, and a modest amount of protein, making it a great choice for anyone looking to boost their calorie intake without going overboard on protein. The combination of peanut butter and banana ensures that each sip is both creamy and naturally sweet.

3. Coconut Yogurt with Granola

Coconut Yogurt with Granola is a simple yet satisfying dish that combines the creamy, dairy-free goodness of coconut yogurt with the crunchy texture of granola. Drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon, it makes for a delicious and nutritious breakfast, snack, or dessert. This high-calorie, low-protein option is packed with healthy fats and natural sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup coconut yogurt
• 1/4 cup granola
• 1 tablespoon honey
• A pinch of cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Spoon the coconut yogurt into a bowl.
2. Top the yogurt with granola, spreading it evenly.
3. Drizzle honey over the top for added sweetness.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon over the granola and yogurt for extra flavor.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 40g
• Fats: 15g

This dish offers a great balance of healthy fats and carbs while keeping the protein content relatively low. It’s a versatile and delicious choice for anyone looking to maintain a higher-calorie diet without overloading on protein. The coconut yogurt gives a creamy texture, while the granola adds a satisfying crunch.

4. Olive Oil and Nut Mix

Olive Oil and Nut Mix is a flavorful and nutritious snack that’s perfect for anyone seeking a high-calorie, low-protein option. The mix of almonds, cashews, and walnuts is tossed in olive oil and seasoned with sea salt, then baked to perfection. This snack is rich in healthy fats, making it an excellent choice for those looking to boost their calorie intake while keeping protein relatively low.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the mixed nuts in olive oil until well coated.
3. Sprinkle the sea salt over the nuts and toss again to ensure even seasoning.
4. Spread the nuts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the nuts are golden brown and fragrant.
6. Remove from the oven and let them cool before serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 500
• Protein: 8g
• Carbs: 20g
• Fats: 40g

This nut mix provides a perfect balance of energy-boosting fats and a moderate amount of protein. The olive oil enhances the flavor while adding healthy fats, and the sea salt gives it a savory edge. It’s a simple yet satisfying snack, great for munching between meals or as a topping for salads or oatmeal.

5. Cheese Quesadilla

A Cheese Quesadilla is a quick and satisfying meal that combines the deliciously gooey cheese with the crispy, golden-brown flour tortilla. This dish is perfect for anyone craving a warm, cheesy snack or meal. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it a go-to option for a high-calorie, low-protein dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 flour tortilla
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

1. Heat a pan over medium heat and melt the butter in it.
2. Place the flour tortilla in the pan and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over half of the tortilla.
3. Fold the tortilla in half, covering the cheese with the other half.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, flipping carefully, until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
5. Remove from the pan and cut into wedges. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 12g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fats: 25g

This cheese quesadilla offers a comforting mix of crispy and cheesy textures, making it a delicious option for a quick snack or meal. While the protein content is moderate, the healthy fats from butter and cheese, along with the carbohydrates from the tortilla, make it a great choice for a high-calorie, satisfying dish.

6. Energy Bars (Homemade)

Homemade energy bars are a great snack to keep you fueled throughout the day. Packed with oats, peanut butter, honey, chocolate chips, and dried fruit, these bars are a delicious and nutritious option that combines healthy fats, carbs, and a bit of protein. They are easy to make and can be enjoyed anytime you need an energy boost.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup oats
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the oats, peanut butter, honey, chocolate chips, and dried fruit until well combined.
2. Line a pan (about 8×8 inches) with parchment paper and press the mixture into the pan, spreading it evenly.
3. Place the pan in the fridge for about 2-3 hours to allow the bars to set and firm up.
4. Once chilled, remove the mixture from the pan and cut it into bars.
5. Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature or keep them in the fridge for longer shelf life.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 6g
• Carbs: 45g
• Fats: 18g

These homemade energy bars are the perfect grab-and-go snack, providing a good mix of carbs for energy, healthy fats for satiety, and a bit of protein to help you stay fueled between meals. They’re easy to customize with your favorite dried fruits or nuts, making them versatile for any taste preference.

7. Chocolate-Dipped Dates

Chocolate-Dipped Dates are a sweet, indulgent treat that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the richness of dark chocolate and the tropical flavor of coconut flakes. This snack is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping protein intake low. The combination of flavors and textures makes these treats an irresistible high-calorie, low-protein option.

Ingredients:

• 6 dates (pitted)
• 2 ounces dark chocolate
• 1/4 cup coconut flakes

Instructions:

1. Melt the dark chocolate in a microwave or using a double boiler until smooth and creamy.
2. Dip each date into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Roll the chocolate-covered dates in coconut flakes to coat them evenly.
4. Place the dipped dates on a parchment-lined tray.
5. Refrigerate the dates for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate has set.
6. Serve and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 2g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fats: 8g

These Chocolate-Dipped Dates are an excellent option for a sweet snack, offering a rich chocolate flavor complemented by the chewy sweetness of dates and the crunch of coconut. They’re easy to make and perfect for a quick energy boost.

8. Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Butter

Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Butter are the ultimate comfort food, with a rich, velvety texture that’s perfect as a side dish or a hearty snack. The combination of butter, heavy cream, and soft, boiled potatoes results in a luscious mash that’s full of flavor. It’s an indulgent, high-calorie, low-protein option that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Begin by boiling the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they are tender (about 15-20 minutes).
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot or a large bowl.
3. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or a fork until smooth and lump-free.
4. Add butter and heavy cream to the mashed potatoes, and continue mashing until they are creamy and well combined.
5. Season with salt to taste, and stir until the seasoning is evenly distributed.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 45g
• Fats: 15g

These mashed potatoes are a great way to enjoy the creamy richness of butter and cream, while keeping the protein content low. They are the perfect side dish to accompany a variety of meals, offering a satisfying and comforting balance of flavors.

9. Coconut Milk Pudding

Coconut Milk Pudding is a creamy, indulgent dessert that combines the tropical richness of coconut milk with a smooth, velvety texture. This simple yet delicious pudding is lightly sweetened and flavored with vanilla extract, making it a satisfying, high-calorie, low-protein treat. Perfect for anyone looking for a comforting, dairy-free dessert.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar, and cornstarch.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
3. Once the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Pour the pudding into serving dishes and let it cool to room temperature.
5. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 2g
• Carbs: 30g
• Fats: 20g

This coconut milk pudding is the perfect dessert for those looking for a dairy-free, creamy treat that’s rich in flavor and texture. It’s simple to make, and the coconut milk provides a delightful tropical twist on traditional puddings.

10. Granola with Whole Milk

Granola with Whole Milk is a simple, wholesome dish that brings together the crunchy goodness of granola and the rich, creamy texture of whole milk. It’s an easy, high-calorie, low-protein option, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a light meal. The combination of ingredients provides a satisfying crunch and smoothness in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup granola
• 1 cup whole milk

Instructions:

1. Pour the granola into a bowl.
2. Pour the whole milk over the granola.
3. Stir gently, and enjoy immediately.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 8g
• Carbs: 45g
• Fats: 18g

This dish provides a perfect balance of textures and flavors, with the crispness of the granola complementing the richness of the milk. It’s quick, satisfying, and great for fueling up without a heavy protein load.

FAQ

1. What are high-calorie, low-protein foods?

High-calorie, low-protein foods are those that provide a significant amount of calories primarily from fats and carbohydrates, with little to no protein content. These foods are ideal for those who need to increase their calorie intake without significantly increasing their protein consumption.

2. Why would someone want to eat high-calorie, low-protein foods?

People may seek high-calorie, low-protein foods for a variety of reasons, such as needing to gain weight or maintain a higher calorie intake without overloading on protein. These foods are also useful for individuals with specific dietary restrictions, such as kidney disease, where protein intake may need to be controlled.

3. Are these foods suitable for weight gain?

Yes, these foods can be beneficial for weight gain as they provide a higher number of calories per serving without increasing protein intake. They are particularly helpful for those who struggle to consume enough calories due to a reduced appetite or fast metabolism.

4. Can high-calorie, low-protein foods be part of a balanced diet?

Absolutely. High-calorie, low-protein foods can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and combined with other food groups that meet your nutritional needs, including vegetables, fruits, and proteins when necessary.

5. Are these foods recommended for athletes or those who work out regularly?

For athletes or individuals with high protein needs (such as bodybuilders), these foods might not be ideal, as they are designed for those looking to limit their protein intake. However, for those focusing on gaining healthy fats or calories without additional protein, they can be useful.