Creating Homemade Healthy Versions of Favorite Fast Foods
Enjoy crafting healthier fast food at home! Ditch the guilt of indulging in your favorite chain restaurant treats by whipping up these scrumptious, homemade versions.
Fast food fanatics, don't despair! While giving up fast food might seem like an impossible task for some, succumbing to cravings doesn't have to mean total calorie bomb explosions. Satisfy your hunger without going overboard by trying out these copycat recipes that cater to your taste buds while prioritizing your health.
Most of these recipes switch out animal-derived ingredients for vegetables and meat alternatives, along with altering flours, fats, and cooking methods. Tweaking recipes this way is a simple yet effective way to make your favorite junk food treats healthier without completely denying yourself the pleasure.
Making your meals at home ensures that you know exactly what's on your plate and how it's been handled, enabling you to choose ethically sourced ingredients if you wish. Plus, you won't have to worry about your sandwich falling on the floor before reaching your plate (unless, of course, you decide to do that yourself, in which case, go ahead, it's five seconds!).
Healthier vs Health*ier
The benefits of reworked junk food may seem questionable, but it’s a fact that we all crave something unhealthy on occasion. Instead of depriving yourself, why not indulge without going overboard? Even if you're not swinging toward a specific diet like paleo, gluten-free, vegan (or whatever), making multiple minor changes to your culinary habits can lead to feeling better in the long run.
Treat yourself to healthier fast food with these tantalizing recipes...
Homemade Healthy Fast Food Delights
Taco Bell's Crunchwrap Supreme: Homemade, Vegan Version
Veganize the Crunchwrap by replacing beef with taco-spiced lentils, using vegan cashew sour cream and cheese, and swapping in vegan nacho cheese for the perfect melted ooze. But fear not, meat lovers! Simply use real beef or chicken if that's more your style (but you still can't officially call it healthy food, no matter what you do). Get the Homemade Vegan Crunchwrap Supreme recipe.
Outback Steakhouse's Blooming Onion: Baked Paleo Style
Rather than deep-frying, baking works wonders and requires far less oil. This recipe also boasts the paleo-friendly almond flour, although you can use any flour you'd like. If you can get your hands on sweet Vidalia onions or other large onions, you might need to increase the seasoned flour to ensure every petal is perfectly coated. Get our Baked Paleo Blooming Onion recipe.
Panda Express' Orange Cauliflower: Baked and Delicious
Cauliflower takes center stage in this recipe, standing in for chicken in a healthy, orange-sesame sauce. If you're comfortable with deep-frying, feel free to double-dip the cauliflower in hot oil before coating it with the sauce, but this baked version offers a healthier take on a classic favorite. Get the Baked Orange Cauliflower recipe.
Chipotle's Burrito Bowl: DIY Chipotle Style
Assemble your Chipotle-style bowl at home, allowing you to replicate their flavorful chicken while controlling portion sizes and ingredient ratios. Add extra vegetables, brown rice, or quinoa, and don't forget a generous squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro (unless, of course, cilantro sends you running for the hills!). Get the DIY Chipotle Burrito Bowl recipe.
McDonald's Big Mac: Vegan Version
While McDonald's isn't typically known for its vegan offerings, you can whip up a vegan Big Mac at home using ingredients like jackfruit, vegan cheese, and tofu. If you prefer the real cheese, feel free to make it your way. This recipe is also a great canvas for vegetarian Impossible or Beyond Burger patties! Get the Vegan Big Mac recipe.
Chick-fil-A Tofu Nuggets: Vegan and Delicious
Craving Chick-fil-A's nuggets but don't eat meat or support their politics? This vegan copycat recipe is for you! Coated in a pickle juice brine and a bit of powdered sugar, these delicious nuggets will tantalize your taste buds without compromising your ethics. If you eat meat, you can try this copied Chick-fil-A nuggets recipe. Get the Chick-fil-A Tofu Nuggets with Vegan "Honey" Mustard Sauce recipe.
Red Lobster's Cheddar Bay Biscuits: Gluten Free Version
These biscuits are gluten-free and still retain the same delightful, cheesy flavor. They might not be healthy due to the use of cheese, buttarck, and butter, but if you have a wheat allergy or sensitivity, this homemade version provides a delicious alternative to the restaurant's offerings. Plus, you can whip up some healthy salmon to pair with your biscuits instead of loading up on deep-fried seafood. Get the Gluten Free Cheddar Bay Biscuits recipe.
Olive Garden's Fettuccine Alfredo: Healthy Cauliflower Variation
Ditch the calorie-laden pasta alfredo and opt for a healthier version made with cauliflower. While it won't taste exactly like the original, you'll enjoy its creamy texture without the excessive butter and cream. Consider adding vegetable noodles, vegetable spaghetti, or even zucchini ribbons for an extra veggie boost. Get the Healthy Cauliflower Fettuccine Alfredo recipe.
Wendy's Frosty: Paleo, Vegan and Dairy-Free Versions
For a healthier, dairy-free alternative to your favorite Frosty, try a recipe featuring coconut milk ice cream or one made with ice and ripe bananas for a thick, frosty texture. Either way, you can enjoy it alongside some crispy, oven-baked fries for dipping. Get the Wendy's Copycat Paleo Frosty recipe.
Cheesecake Factory's Snickers Cheesecake: Raw Vegan Version
Savor Cheesecake Factory's Snickers cheesecake without the guilt by making a raw, vegan version. The recipe uses cashews for creaminess, dates and dark chocolate for sweetness, and offers a healthier dessert option that's still satisfying. Get the Raw Vegan Snickers Cheesecake recipe.
Looking for more healthy fast food recipes inspired by popular chain restaurants? Fire up your air fryer or oven, and let's get cooking!
Sources:[1] "How Many Calories Are in a McDonald's Oreo McFlurry?" https://www.self.com/story/oreo-mcdonalds-mcflurry-calories-nutrition[2] "Nutritional Information Chart." https://ckcookware.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Nutritional-Information-Chart-HELD-021119.pdf[3] "Instagram: Top 10 Food Accounts for Meal Prep and Healthy Recipes in 2021." https://foodimentary.com/instagram/top-10-food-accounts-meal-prep-healthy-recipes-2021/[4] "Panda Express Chow Mein Nutrition." https://nutritionix.com/food/panda-express-chow-mein[5] "Healthier Restaurant Food: How to Order - and Eat - Smart." https://www.MayoClinic.org/shopping-Eating-Out/articles/20058716
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Finding healthy fast food recipes that mimic popular chain restaurant treats at home can be a great way to enjoy your favorite flavors while maintaining a healthier diet. Here are some ideas for healthier fast food recipes:
- Air Fried Chicken SandwichInspired by Chick-fil-A, this healthier version features the following ingredients:
- Chicken breast,
- Egg,
- Cornflake crumbs,
- Whole wheat bun,
- American cheese,
- Pickles.
Instructions: - Dip chicken in egg and then coat with cornflake crumbs. - Air fry at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. - Serve on a toasted whole wheat bun with cheese and pickles.
Nutrition Facts (Per serving): - Calories: 409, - Protein: 39g, - Carbohydrates: 35g, - Fat: 8g, - Fiber: 4g.
- Smashburger TacosThis recipe is inspired by Smashburger and calls for the following ingredients:
- 96% lean ground beef,
- Low-carb tortillas,
- American cheese,
- Pickles,
- Ketchup,
- Mustard,
- Tomato.
Instructions: - Form thin beef patties and cook in a skillet. - Serve in low-carb tortillas with toppings.
Nutrition Facts (Per serving, for 2 tacos): - Calories: 332, - Protein: 35g, - Carbohydrates: 12g, - Fat: 14g, - Fiber: 2g.
- Stuffed Crust Pepperoni PizzaInspired by Pizza Hut, this recipe includes the following ingredients:
- Whole wheat pita,
- Pizza sauce,
- Turkey pepperoni,
- Reduced-fat mozzarella cheese.
Instructions: - Fill pita with pepperoni and cheese, - Top with more sauce and cheese, - Air fry for 5 minutes.
Nutrition Facts (Per serving): - Calories: 444, - Protein: 37g, - Carbohydrates: 48g, - Fat: 15g, - Fiber: 5g.
- Healthier Chow Mein (Inspired by Panda Express)
- Yaki-soba noodles,
- Cabbage,
- Carrots,
- Celery,
- Homemade sauce.
Instructions: - Cook noodles and mix with a homemade sauce made from low-sodium soy sauce, olive oil, and other spices. - Add vegetables for fiber and nutrients.
Nutrition Facts (Per serving): - Approx. 140 calories, - Compared to the original version at 490 calories.
- McDonald's Oreo McFlurry Alternative
- High-protein meal replacement shake (cookies and cream flavor),
- Oreo wafers.
Instructions: - Whip the shake in a mixer and top with crushed Oreos.
Nutrition Facts: - Calories: 365, - Protein: 32g, - Sugar: 11g (compared to the original 560 calories).
Tips to Find More Recipes:
- Online Platforms: Websites like Good Morning America, ABC News, and food blogs often share healthier fast food recipes.
- Meal Prep Communities: Social media platforms like Instagram are great for discovering new recipes and getting inspiration from meal prep enthusiasts.
- Cookbooks and Apps: Look for cookbooks or apps focused on healthier versions of popular restaurant meals.
- Fast food fanatics, don't despair! Satisfy your hunger without going overboard by trying out these copycat recipes, such as the homemade vegan Crunchwrap Supreme or the baked Paleo Blooming Onion, which cater to taste buds while prioritizing health.
- Making your meals at home ensures that you know exactly what's on your plate and how it's been handled, enabling you to choose ethically sourced ingredients and make healthier adjustments to recipes, like the gluten-free Cheddar Bay Biscuits or the healthy Cauliflower Fettuccine Alfredo.
- If you have a specific diet, such as vegan or gluten-free, you can still indulge in copycat recipes, like the vegan Big Mac or the Chick-fil-A Tofu Nuggets with Vegan "Honey" Mustard Sauce. These dishes offer delicious alternatives while catering to your dietary preferences.
- When it comes to finding healthy fast food recipes, online platforms, meal prep communities, cookbooks, and apps are great resources for inspiration. For instance, you can find healthier versions of chain restaurant favorites like the Air Fried Chicken Sandwich (inspired by Chick-fil-A), Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza (inspired by Pizza Hut), or Healthier Chow Mein (inspired by Panda Express) by exploring these sources.
