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Meal Plan For Gaining Weight

Looking to gain weight in a healthy way? Discover our 7-day meal plan for weight gain, designed to help you increase your calorie intake with nutritious foods. We'll also show you how to efficiently turn these meal plans into a shopping list. Time to embark on your journey to a healthier you!

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Meal plan grocery list

Pancake mix

Maple syrup

Eggs

Bread

Cheese

Avocado

Tomato soup

Pasta

Chicken

Olive oil dressing

Waffle mix

Sausage

Greek yogurt

Mushrooms

Spinach

Bagels

Cream cheese

Smoked salmon

Banana

Berries

Milk

Beef

Ribeye steak

Asparagus

Oatmeal

Whole milk

Peanut butter

Tortillas

Rice

Beans

Sour cream

Creamy dill sauce

Potatoes

Broccoli

Bacon

Alfredo sauce

Tuna

Sweet potatoes

Parmesan

Spaghetti

Greens

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Meal plan overview

Looking to gain weight healthily? Our 7-day meal plan for weight gain is focused on increasing calorie intake with nutritious foods.

It's designed to help you reach your weight goals in a healthy, balanced way. Enjoy meals that are both calorie-dense and nutrient-rich.

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Foods to eat

  • Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, black beans, and other beans for plant-based protein.
  • Tofu and Tempeh: Versatile soy-based products for protein and texture.
  • Whole Grains: Quinoa, brown rice, oats, barley, and whole wheat products for fiber and nutrients.
  • Fruits: Berries, apples, bananas, citrus fruits, and a variety of fresh fruits.
  • Vegetables: Leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, and colorful vegetables.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, and nut butters.
  • Plant-Based Milk: Almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or other plant-based alternatives.
  • Healthy Fats: Avocados, olive oil, and coconut oil for essential fatty acids.
  • Herbs and Spices: Use a variety of herbs and spices for flavor without added calories.

✅ Tip

Ensure adequate protein intake by including sources like lentils, chickpeas, and tofu in your meals.

Foods not to eat

  • Animal Products: Exclude meat, poultry, fish, dairy, and eggs from the diet.
  • Dairy Alternatives with Additives: Be cautious with highly processed dairy alternatives high in additives.
  • Highly Processed Foods: Minimize intake of processed snacks, desserts, and convenience foods.
  • Refined Grains: Choose whole grains over refined options for better nutritional value.
  • Sweets with Animal Products: Check labels to avoid sweets containing animal-derived ingredients.
  • Excessive Fried Foods: Choose healthier cooking methods over deep-frying.
  • Unhealthy Cooking Oils: Opt for healthier cooking oils like olive oil and avoid excessive use.
  • Processed Sauces and Dressings: Check labels for added sugars and unhealthy fats.
  • Processed Meat Substitutes: Be mindful of highly processed vegan meat substitutes high in sodium and additives.

Main benefits

The Meal Plan For Vegans embraces a plant-based lifestyle, offering numerous health advantages. Rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and plant-based proteins, this meal plan is abundant in fiber and essential nutrients. A vegan diet may contribute to a lower risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain cancers. Additionally, the focus on plant foods can support weight management and improve blood sugar control. The inclusion of various plant-based proteins ensures adequate amino acid intake. With a commitment to ethical and environmentally friendly choices, this meal plan promotes a well-balanced, compassionate, and sustainable approach to nutrition.

🎓 Recommended nutrient breakdown

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fiber

Other

Food alternatives

Gaining weight healthily requires consuming calorie-dense, nutritious foods. Here are some beneficial alternatives:

  • Replace pancake mix with whole grain pancake mix for added fiber and nutrients.
  • Instead of bread, try bagels for a more calorie-dense option.
  • Switch milk with whole milk for a higher calorie, nutrient-rich beverage.
  • Use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt for a higher protein content.
  • Substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes for a more nutrient-dense, high-calorie side.

How to budget on this meal plan

To budget the weight gain meal plan, consider buying staple items like rice, beans, pasta, and oatmeal in bulk. Choose generic brands for products like pancake and waffle mix, as well as dairy items like milk and cheese. Plan to use versatile ingredients like eggs, chicken, and beef in multiple meals. Buying frozen vegetables and berries can be more cost-effective than fresh, without sacrificing nutrition. Preparing homemade sauces and dressings instead of buying pre-made can also save money. Lastly, look for sales and discounts on meat and seafood to include high-quality proteins at a lower cost.

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Extra tips

Any healthy snack ideas?

High-calorie, nutritious snacks for weight gain:

  • Peanut butter sandwich on whole grain bread
  • Trail mix with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit
  • Granola bars with nuts and honey
  • Full-fat Greek yogurt with granola
  • Avocado toast with olive oil and egg
  • Protein shake with milk and banana
  • Cheese and whole grain crackers

What should I drink on this meal plan?

For weight gain, smoothies with full-fat milk, bananas, and nut butters offer a calorie-rich option. Whole milk provides calcium and extra calories. Fresh fruit juices supply vitamins and natural sugars. Sports drinks can be used occasionally for extra calories and energy. Herbal teas can be included for hydration and health benefits.

How to get even more nutrients?

For gaining weight healthily, prioritize nutrient- and calorie-dense foods without resorting to junk food. Smoothies enriched with nut butters, seeds, and protein powders can boost calorie intake while providing healthy fats and proteins. Whole grains and starchy vegetables offer a healthy source of carbohydrates that also contribute essential nutrients. Include more frequent meals and snacks to increase overall calorie intake while focusing on balanced nutrition to ensure health remains a priority.

Meal plan suggestion

7-Day Meal Plan for Weight Gain

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Whole grain pancakes with maple syrup and a side of scrambled eggs
  • Lunch: Grilled cheese sandwich with avocado and tomato soup
  • Dinner: Creamy pasta with chicken, mushrooms, and spinach

Calories: 2600  Fat: 110g  Carbs: 250g  Protein: 90g

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Bagel with cream cheese and smoked salmon, and a fruit smoothie
  • Lunch: Beef burrito with rice, beans, cheese, and sour cream
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with creamy dill sauce, mashed potatoes, and steamed broccoli

Calories: 2700  Fat: 105g  Carbs: 265g  Protein: 95g

Day 3

  • Breakfast: French toast with butter and syrup, and a side of bacon
  • Lunch: Chicken alfredo pasta with garlic bread
  • Dinner: Ribeye steak with baked potato and sour cream, and grilled asparagus

Calories: 2800  Fat: 120g  Carbs: 255g  Protein: 105g

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with whole milk, banana, and peanut butter
  • Lunch: Tuna melt sandwich with cheese and a side of sweet potato fries
  • Dinner: Chicken parmesan with spaghetti and a side salad with olive oil dressing

Calories: 2700  Fat: 110g  Carbs: 260g  Protein: 95g

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Belgian waffles with strawberries, whipped cream, and a side of sausage
  • Lunch: BBQ pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw and baked beans
  • Dinner: Beef stroganoff with egg noodles and a side of glazed carrots

Calories: 2800  Fat: 115g  Carbs: 265g  Protein: 100g

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Eggs Benedict with hollandaise sauce and a side of hash browns
  • Lunch: Meatball sub with provolone cheese and a side of Caesar salad
  • Dinner: Roast chicken with stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, and green beans

Calories: 2750  Fat: 115g  Carbs: 250g  Protein: 105g

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Blueberry muffins with butter and a Greek yogurt parfait
  • Lunch: Philly cheesesteak sandwich with a side of onion rings
  • Dinner: Lamb chops with mint sauce, roasted potatoes, and sautéed spinach

Calories: 2650  Fat: 110g  Carbs: 240g  Protein: 100g

These values are approximate and can vary slightly based on specific portion sizes and preparation methods.

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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.