Are you looking for a way to boost your energy levels? A diet rich in complex carbohydrates can be just what you need. In this article, we’ll share 20 delicious high carb recipes that will provide you with the energy and satisfaction you crave.
From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and baked ziti, to sweet treats like banana bread and cinnamon raisin bagels, we’ve got a recipe for everyone. And the best part? These recipes are all easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast on-the-go or a satisfying dinner after a long day, these high carb recipes have got you covered. So go ahead, indulge in your cravings and give your body the energy boost it needs.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
A rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines the savory flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. This comforting recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic-parmesan sauce, and chopped parsley (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these light and airy buttermilk pancakes, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of pure maple syrup. A classic breakfast combination that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with pure maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Classic Homemade Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic that never goes out of style, this homemade macaroni and cheese recipe is a staple in many households. With its creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burritos
Get ready to wrap up a flavorful meal with these sweet potato and black bean burritos! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the savory taste of black beans, all wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Once sweet potatoes are cooked, let them cool slightly before mashing.
5. Assemble burritos by spreading mashed sweet potato on a tortilla, followed by black bean mixture and shredded cheese (if using). Roll up tightly and serve.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this rich and aromatic recipe that combines the simplicity of boiled potatoes with the decadence of garlic butter. Perfect for accompanying roasted meats, vegetables, or as a standalone side dish.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese for an extra burst of flavor
Instructions:
1. Boil the chopped potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot with the softened butter, minced garlic, and heavy cream or half-and-half.
3. Mash the mixture until smooth and creamy, adding salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Glazed Dinner Rolls
Elevate your dinner table with these soft, fluffy rolls slathered in a sticky honey glaze. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy family meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Sesame seeds or chopped herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Add melted butter and mix until smooth.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until elastic.
6. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled.
7. Punch down the dough and shape into 8-10 rolls.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. While still warm, drizzle with honey glaze (mix equal parts honey and water).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Carbonara with Pancetta
This classic Italian recipe combines tender spaghetti, rich eggs, and savory pancetta for a satisfying meal that’s ready in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of pancetta, diced
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and Parmesan cheese.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Add cooked pancetta to the pasta mixture and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Banana Nut Bread with Walnuts
This classic banana bread recipe gets a boost from the richness of walnuts, creating a deliciously moist and flavorful treat perfect for snacking or sharing. With its warm spices and hint of sweetness, this banana nut bread is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in chopped walnuts.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Cheesy Baked Ziti with Ricotta
Classic comfort food at its finest! This Cheesy Baked Ziti with Ricotta recipe combines tender pasta, rich ricotta cheese, and melted mozzarella for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add marinara sauce to the ricotta mixture and stir until combined.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of pasta, followed by a layer of ricotta-marinara sauce, and finally a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat for two more layers.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels
Start your day off right with the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon raisin bagels. These chewy treats are packed with sweet and spicy flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Add warm water, milk, melted butter, and beaten egg. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Divide dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a bagel shape.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
This comforting soup is a twist on the classic baked potato, with the added richness of sour cream and cheddar cheese. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Sour cream (optional)
– Chopped bacon or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
3. Add diced potatoes, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped bacon or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Blueberry Oatmeal Muffins
Start your day off right with these moist and flavorful blueberry oatmeal muffins, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go. Made with rolled oats, fresh blueberries, and a hint of vanilla, these muffins are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup milk
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Fried Rice with Egg
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with nutritious vegetables and protein-rich egg. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday morning.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent (about 3 minutes).
3. Add the mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they’re tender-crisp.
4. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the vegetables. Add the cooked rice and stir-fry everything together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Soft Pretzel Bites with Cheese Dip
These bite-sized pretzels are perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer, and the accompanying cheese dip takes them to the next level. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these tasty treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pretzel dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (for dipping)
– Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or coarse salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the pretzel dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into small squares, about 1 inch per side.
3. Place the pretzel bites onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space for expansion.
4. Brush tops with warm water and sprinkle with sugar, salt, and any desired toppings.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with grated cheddar cheese for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Energy Balls
These bite-sized energy balls are a delicious treat that combines the best of chocolate chip cookie dough and nutritious ingredients. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a post-workout snack, these no-bake bites are easy to make and packed with protein-rich peanut butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine peanut butter and honey until smooth.
2. Add rolled oats, chocolate chips, and walnuts (if using) to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Use your hands or a spoon to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake)
Garlic Herb Focaccia Bread
This classic Italian flatbread is infused with the savory flavors of garlic and herbs, perfect for accompanying your favorite soups or salads. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this delicious and aromatic bread in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the bowl; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add flour, kneading the dough for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Punch down the dough, shape into a rectangle, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peanut Butter and Jelly French Toast
Start your day with a twist on a classic breakfast favorite – Peanut Butter and Jelly French Toast! This sweet and satisfying treat combines the creamy richness of peanut butter and grape jelly with the crispy goodness of freshly baked French toast.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably Challah or Brioche)
– 2 tablespoons of peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons of grape jelly
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Butter or non-stick cooking spray for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Spread peanut butter and jelly on top of the French toast slices while still warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 minutes total
Three-Cheese Spinach Lasagna
This recipe combines the best of both worlds – rich spinach and creamy cheese – to create a lasagna that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
5. Layer cooked lasagna noodles, spinach-ricotta mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese in the prepared baking dish.
6. Repeat steps 5 for two more layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Waffles with Whipped Cream
Capture the essence of fall with these fluffy and flavorful pumpkin spice waffles topped with a dollop of whipped cream. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Pumpkin spice (optional)
– Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Add pumpkin puree, milk, egg, and melted butter; whisk until smooth.
4. Cook waffles in batches for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Risotto
Elevate your risotto game with this rich and flavorful dish that combines sweet caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Cook onions for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
2. Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. In a separate pot, heat broth and wine (if using). Keep warm.
4. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add warmed broth mixture to the rice, stirring constantly, until absorbed. Repeat process for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
6. Stir in caramelized onions and mushrooms. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Looking for a boost of energy? These high-carb recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings! From creamy pasta dishes like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta and Classic Homemade Mac and Cheese, to sweet treats like Banana Nut Bread with Walnuts and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Energy Balls. You’ll also find savory options like Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes and Vegetable Fried Rice with Egg. Plus, indulge in comforting classics like Spaghetti Carbonara with Pancetta and Three-Cheese Spinach Lasagna. Treat yourself to a delicious energy boost today!
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