17 Comfort Food Dishes That Won’t Make You Feel Guilty

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17 Comfort Food Dishes That Won’t Make You Feel Guilty

Looking for food that feels like a hug but doesn’t pile on the calories? We’ve got you covered. Our recipes are all about mixing tasty treats with smart choices. All are simple to follow, giving everyone, expert or novice, a fun, food-filled time. All-day, every day, these dishes will keep you saying “Yum!”

A person holding a bowl of chicken and zucchini soup.
Chicken Zoodle Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Ham Salad with dill pickle on a plate.
Old Fashioned Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Here’s a classic that gets a wholesome makeover without losing its charm. The Old Fashioned Ham Salad offers a protein-loaded and satisfying meal that comes with taste and nostalgia. It’s perfect for a simple, yet guilt-free meal that’ll hit the spot any day.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Mediterranean Cod

Mediterranean cod on a rectangular platter.
Mediterranean Cod. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The Mediterranean Cod is nothing short of a flavor adventure that stays respectful of your health goals. Light, healthy and utterly delicious, this dish is a testament to guilt-free comfort food that doesn’t skimp on distinctiveness. A perfect choice for those days when you crave something different – and good for you.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Shirazi Salad

Shirazi Salad in a white serving bowl.
Shirazi Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Shirazi Salad is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients that’ll leave you craving more. This bright, crunchy, and light salad packs a flavor punch while keeping things guilt-free. Enjoy it as a side dish or light meal that truly brings out the comforts of the Mediterranean.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Get the best of both worlds, satisfying and lean, with the Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. This favorite is ooey-gooey and mouthwateringly good, but prepared in an air fryer, making it less sinful and more delightful. A perfect blend of taste and feel-good vibes that won’t leave you with remorse.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Sauerkraut in a serving dish with a spoon.
Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Get ready to share the comfort in a dish that’s perfect for get-togethers or family dinners. Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon is a flavorful melange of tang, sweet, and savory. You’ll be surprised by how such simple ingredients create an irresistible and guilt-free delight.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs in a bowl.
Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Imagine a plate of tasty, tender meatballs without the guilt. Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are light on calories but big on flavor. These bite-sized morsels are perfect for entertaining or a comforting weeknight meal that satisfies without weighing you down.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts is a game-changer. The magic mix of savory, sweet, and crunchy delights your taste buds while keeping it healthy and hearty. A versatile plate you can enjoy as a sandwich, a wrap, or on its own – guilt-free.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Mexican Cauliflower Rice

A closeup of Vegan Mexican Rice with tomatoes in the background.
Mexican Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Your taco Tuesdays will never be the same with Mexican Cauliflower Rice. A smart, lip-smacking alternative to traditional rice, this dish is packed with flavor, perfect for taco bowls or as a side. It’s a delightful escape to Mexico’s best without the guilt.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Cauliflower Rice

Chicken Tinga

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Tinga is a comfort food masterpiece that combines smoky, spicy, and utterly delicious flavors, but remains guilt-free. This chicken dish will have your taste buds jumping for joy while keeping your health in check!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Chicken Zoodle Soup

A person holding a bowl of chicken and zucchini soup.
Chicken Zoodle Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Cozy up to Chicken Zoodle Soup, your new go-to when you crave a warm bowl of goodness that doesn’t betray your health commitments. This soothing soup provides the comfort you need with the nutrients your body wants. Win-win!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Zoodle Soup

Chicken Paprikash

Chicken Paprikash on a platter with gravy.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Paprikash is what happens when rich, smoky flavors dance with tender chicken without the guilt. This Hungarian comfort food will have you coming back for more without second thoughts – or guilt.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo

Grilled Steak skewers on a white plate with chilis nearby.
Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bring a fiesta to your taste buds with Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo. Savory, juicy, and downright irresistible; it’s a guilt-free main course that reminds you how good eating right can feel.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo

Dutch oven Carnitas

Carnitas in a round black dish.
Dutch oven Carnitas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Dutch Oven Carnitas let you savor tender, flavorful pork accompanied by a satisfying crunch that keeps things guilt-free. This comfort food dish offers everything you crave while allowing you to stay true to healthy choices.
Get the Recipe: Dutch oven Carnitas

Pot Roast with Bacon

A plate of pot roast with bacon and mashed potatoes with gravy.
Pot Roast with Bacon. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Pot Roast with Bacon gives you a hearty, homestyle meal that nestles nicely into your dietary preferences. Relish in the flavors of home cooking without feeling guilty – a perfect blend of comfort, taste, and peace of mind.
Get the Recipe: Pot Roast with Bacon

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup in two white bowls with garnishes nearby.
Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup is here to cozy you up with its blend of comforting flavors but without the heavy calories. This dish puts a guilt-free spin on a southwest favorite that you’ll be sure to love.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup

German Pork Loin

German Pork Loin on a platter with a gravy boat nearby.
German Pork Loin. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Transport yourself back to the heart of Germany with a dish that perfectly pairs deliciousness with wholesome ingredients. German Pork Loin is a comforting meal that delivers guilt-free satisfaction straight to your plate.
Get the Recipe: German Pork Loin

Chicken Marsala Meatballs

Chicken Marsala Meatballs in a black dish.
Chicken Marsala Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The Chicken Marsala Meatballs take a classic and add an irresistible spin that keeps it light and guilt-free. Experience the delicious harmony of rich Marsala sauce and tender chicken meatballs that’ll make you feel warm on the inside without the guilt.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marsala Meatballs

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