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30-Day Meal Plan for Gaining Weight: Healthy, Calorie-Dense Options

Trying to add a few pounds? A 30-Day Meal Plan for Gaining Weight can help you reach your goals. We'll show you how to enjoy tasty, calorie-dense meals that promote healthy weight gain. Let's make your weight gain journey enjoyable and effective!

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Meal plan grocery list

Chicken breast

Salmon fillet

Ground beef

Eggs

Whole milk

Greek yogurt

Cheddar cheese

Almond butter

Quinoa

Brown rice

Oatmeal

Whole wheat bread

Sweet potatoes

Spinach

Kale

Broccoli

Bell peppers

Carrots

Avocado

Bananas

Apples

Blueberries

Strawberries

Olive oil

Almonds

Walnuts

Cottage cheese

Tofu

Lentils

Black beans

Chicken thighs

Turkey breast

Tuna

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Meal plan overview

If you’re looking to put on some pounds, the 30-Day Meal Plan for Gaining Weight is your go-to guide. This plan includes calorie-dense meals that are packed with healthy fats, proteins, and carbs to help you gain weight steadily and healthily. You'll find a mix of hearty dishes and snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day.

Each day, you'll get easy-to-follow recipes that make weight gain enjoyable and delicious. This plan ensures you get the right nutrients without resorting to unhealthy options, supporting a balanced and healthy weight gain.

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Foods to eat

  • Family-Friendly Proteins: Grilled chicken, fish, turkey burgers, and plant-based patties.
  • Whole Grains: Whole wheat pasta, brown rice, and whole grain breads.
  • Fruits and Vegetables: A variety of colorful options for snacks and sides.
  • Low-Fat Dairy or Alternatives: Skim milk, low-fat yogurt, and plant-based alternatives.
  • Healthy Snacks: Homemade popcorn, rice cakes, and fruit slices.

✅ Tip

Get creative with meal prep by involving your family in planning and preparing meals together, making it a fun and educational experience for everyone.

Foods not to eat

  • Fried Foods: High in cholesterol and unhealthy fats.
  • High-Fat Meats: Sausages, bacon, and fatty cuts of beef.
  • High-Sugar Snacks: Candy, cookies, and sugary cereals.
  • High-Fat Dairy Products: Full-fat cheese and ice cream.

Main benefits

The Low Cholesterol Meal Plan for Family offers heart-healthy meals suitable for all family members. It focuses on a variety of nutritious, low-cholesterol foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, ensuring enjoyable and healthy family dining.

🎓 Recommended nutrient breakdown

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fiber

Other

Food alternatives

To support healthy weight gain while ensuring nutrient density, try these substitutions:

  • For a calorie-dense snack, trail mix with nuts and dried fruits can replace regular almonds.
  • To boost healthy fats, avocado slices can replace cheddar cheese in sandwiches and wraps.
  • For a heartier breakfast, oatmeal with almond butter can replace plain oatmeal.
  • To increase protein, tofu can replace chicken breast in stir-fries and salads.
  • For a nutrient-rich side dish, quinoa can replace brown rice in meals.

How to budget on this meal plan

To gain weight on a budget, buy calorie-dense foods like nuts, seeds, and avocados in bulk. Choose cheaper protein sources like eggs, milk, and beans. Make your own high-calorie smoothies using fruits, oats, and peanut butter instead of buying pre-made options. Incorporate whole grains like quinoa and brown rice, which are filling and affordable.

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Extra tips

Any healthy snack ideas?

These snacks can help you gain weight:

  • Peanut butter on whole grain toast
  • Trail mix with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit
  • Greek yogurt with honey and granola
  • Avocado on whole grain crackers
  • Smoothies with protein powder, fruits, and nut butter
  • Cheese and whole grain bread
  • Hummus with pita bread

What should I drink on this meal plan?

For gaining weight, drink options include high-calorie smoothies made with fruits, nut butters, and protein powder, whole milk, and fruit juices. Protein shakes can also be beneficial, and drinking water infused with fruits can help with hydration. Milkshakes made with healthy ingredients like bananas and almond butter can add calories, while herbal teas can aid digestion.

How to get even more nutrients?

To gain weight healthily, focus on nutrient-dense meals. Choose high-calorie proteins like fatty fish, chicken thighs, or tofu, seasoned with herbs and spices. Include vegetables like sweet potatoes, avocados, and squash for added calories and nutrients. Incorporate whole grains such as quinoa or brown rice for fiber and energy. Finish your meal with a serving of nuts, dried fruit, or a rich fruit smoothie to add calories and essential vitamins. This approach supports healthy weight gain while ensuring a balanced diet.

Meal plan suggestion

30-day meal plan for gaining weight

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with almond butter, banana, and blueberries
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with quinoa and steamed broccoli
  • Dinner: Salmon fillet with brown rice and roasted bell peppers
  • Snack: Greek yogurt with strawberries and walnuts

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Whole wheat toast with avocado and scrambled eggs
  • Lunch: Ground beef and black bean burrito with spinach
  • Dinner: Turkey breast with sweet potatoes and kale
  • Snack: Cottage cheese with apple slices and almonds

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with oatmeal, strawberries, and almond butter
  • Lunch: Tuna salad with mixed greens (spinach, kale) and carrots
  • Dinner: Grilled chicken thighs with quinoa and steamed broccoli
  • Snack: Whole milk smoothie with banana and blueberries

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with Greek yogurt, apples, and walnuts
  • Lunch: Lentil and vegetable stir-fry (bell peppers, carrots, spinach)
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with brown rice and roasted sweet potatoes
  • Snack: Cheddar cheese with whole wheat bread and avocado

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Whole wheat toast with almond butter and banana
  • Lunch: Turkey breast sandwich with spinach, avocado, and cheddar cheese on whole wheat bread
  • Dinner: Tofu and vegetable stir-fry (kale, bell peppers, carrots) with quinoa
  • Snack: Cottage cheese with blueberries and almonds

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with oatmeal, banana, and strawberries
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with brown rice and steamed broccoli
  • Dinner: Ground beef and black bean chili with bell peppers and carrots
  • Snack: Whole milk smoothie with apple and walnuts

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with almond butter, blueberries, and banana
  • Lunch: Tuna salad with mixed greens (spinach, kale) and quinoa
  • Dinner: Baked chicken thighs with sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli
  • Snack: Greek yogurt with strawberries and almonds

Repeat this plan 4 times.

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⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.