17 dinner recipes you won’t believe are actually healthy

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Eating healthy doesn’t mean you have to give up on your favorite comfort foods. In fact, some dinner recipes are so good, you won’t believe they’re actually good for you. We’ve rounded up a list of meals that bring all the flavors you love while keeping things nutritious. From creamy pastas to hearty meatloaf, these recipes are easy to make and perfect for any night of the week.

Dairy-free venison stroganoff over pasta garnished with parsley.
Easy Dairy-Free Stroganoff. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Baked Skillet Gnocchi

Gnocchi with ground pork, tomatoes, mozzarella and spinach in a cast iron skillet.
Baked Skillet Gnocchi. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Gnocchi, though not pasta, brings the same comforting vibe to the table. This recipe features a one-skillet meal combining ground pork, crushed tomatoes, spinach, and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s an easy and wholesome dinner that feels indulgent but is actually quite healthy.
Get the Recipe: Baked Skillet Gnocchi

Bomb Meatloaf

Meatloaf on a white plate cut into slices with fresh parsley garnish.
Bomb Meatloaf. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This meatloaf recipe is incredibly easy to put together, resulting in a tender and juicy dish. Topped with a sweet and tangy glaze that thickly coats each slice, it’s perfect for a comforting dinner that doesn’t compromise on health.
Get the Recipe: Bomb Meatloaf

Cheddar Stuffed Turkey Meatballs

Cheddar stuffed turkey meatballs served with zoodles.
Cheddar Stuffed Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These turkey zucchini meatballs are stuffed with cheddar cheese and Italian seasoning. Cooked on the stovetop in marinara sauce, they make for a flavorful and easy dinner that’s surprisingly healthy.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Stuffed Turkey Meatballs

Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese with ground turkey in a pot.
Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This one-pot turkey mac and cheese is a healthier take on the classic hamburger helper. Filled with spinach, peppers, and real cheddar cheese, this dish is on the table in just 30 minutes, making it a quick and nutritious dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese

Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Eggplant

Cheesy chicken stuffed eggplant on a baking sheet.
Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Eggplant. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This stuffed eggplant recipe is filled with chicken and cheddar cheese, making it a great dinner option everyone will love. It’s easy to prepare and can be made in just 30 minutes, offering a healthy yet indulgent meal.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Eggplant

Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Poblano peppers stuffed with chicken and cheese.
Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These poblano peppers are stuffed with chicken, melted cheese, black beans, and Mexican spices. They bring major comfort food vibes while still being a healthy dinner choice.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Coconut Lime Baked Chicken

Baked chicken thighs with coconut lime sauce over white rice with mango.
Coconut Lime Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This coconut lime baked chicken is served with coconut-infused mango sticky rice, providing a deliciously crispy and tender meal. It’s a tropical dinner that feels like a treat but is actually quite healthy.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Lime Baked Chicken

Easy Creamy Stroganoff

Dairy-free venison stroganoff over pasta garnished with parsley.
Easy Creamy Stroganoff. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This traditional stroganoff recipe uses plain coconut yogurt instead of sour cream for a dairy-free version. Whether made with beef or venison, it’s a hearty and healthy dinner that doesn’t skimp on comfort.
Get the Recipe: Easy Creamy Stroganoff

Grilled Hawaiian Chicken

Grilled chicken breasts stuffed with ham, pineapple and Jarlsberg cheese garnished with green onion.
Grilled Hawaiian Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This grilled Hawaiian chicken is stuffed with ham, fresh pineapple, and melted smoked cheese, all topped with a sticky sweet teriyaki glaze. It’s an easy dinner that brings a fun, tropical twist to your table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hawaiian Chicken

Spicy Shrimp Tostadas

Spicy shrimp tostadas on a cutting board.
Spicy Shrimp Tostadas. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These tostadas feature spicy shrimp and a refreshing jalapeño avocado sauce. They are not quite tacos but close enough to provide a quick, flavorful dinner that’s both healthy and easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Shrimp Tostadas

Sweet & Spicy Pork Ramen Stir Fry

Pork ramen stir fry in a blue cast iron skillet with chop sticks.
Sweet & Spicy Pork Ramen Stir Fry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This pork ramen stir fry is ready in just 20 minutes and is packed with vegetables. It’s a quick and healthy weeknight dinner that’s even better than takeout, combining sweet and spicy flavors for a satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Spicy Pork Ramen Stir Fry

Bucatini with Garlic Shrimp

Bucatini pasta with shrimp in a white bowl.
Bucatini with Garlic Shrimp. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This easy bucatini pasta recipe is tossed with garlic shrimp and cherry tomatoes. Made in under 30 minutes, it’s a great weeknight meal that’s both quick and healthy.
Get the Recipe: Bucatini with Garlic Shrimp

Buffalo Chicken Orzo Soup

Buffalo chicken soup with orzo served in a bowl with blue cheese crumbles and green onion.
Buffalo Chicken Orzo Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

If you love buffalo wings, you’ll enjoy this cheesy, spicy buffalo chicken soup with orzo. It’s a simple and easy meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a healthy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Orzo Soup

Cheddar Chicken Bake

Chicken cheddar quinoa casserole in a pyrex dish.
Cheddar Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This cheddar chicken quinoa bake is an easy, healthy casserole that everyone will love. Using leftover rotisserie chicken, it’s a simple and affordable dinner option for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Chicken Bake

Cream Cheese Chicken

Cream cheese chicken in a white skillet.
Cream Cheese Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This cream cheese chicken is a great way to spice up your weeknight meals. Seasoned with five flavor-packed spices, it’s creamy and full of savory goodness, making for a satisfying and healthy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken

Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Mushroom risotto with peas and mushrooms in a pot with wooden spoon.
Creamy Mushroom Risotto. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This mushroom risotto with peas is creamy and rich without using any dairy. It’s a comforting dinner option packed with umami flavors, providing a healthy alternative to traditional risotto.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Honey Orange Sesame Chicken

Honey orange chicken with sesame seeds and green beans in a white bowl.
Honey Orange Sesame Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This honey orange sesame chicken dish is a healthy take on takeout that you can make in minutes at home. Sticky, sweet, and perfect for dinner, it’s a great way to enjoy a flavorful meal without the extra calories.
Get the Recipe: Honey Orange Sesame Chicken

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