5 Healthy Comfort Food Recipes for Seniors

Ahhh comfort food…the sweetest, cheesiest, flakiest, heartwarming, and all-around heavenliest food in the world. There’s nothing wrong with indulging in a bit of TLC-infused comfort foods like garlic mashed potatoes or a hefty piece of Cheesecake Factory’s best cheesecake -especially around the holidays.

But often times, seniors and older adults don’t realize that many of these “once in a while” foods are very difficult for them to digest,which contributes to weight gain and high cholesterol, which leads to discomfort and other health issues down the road. You only live once- that is so true, however, try incorporating these healthy comfort food recipes into your loved one’s diet that will let them continue eating what they love in a much more wholesome way.

Check out these step-by-step recipes and websites to get some comfort food inspiration, and if you love them – share this blog with your friends and family and get cookin’!

Parsnip Purée

If you’re a fan of mashed potatoes, let us introduce you to a much healthier alternative.

Mashed potatoes are a wonderful side dish, but should be enjoyed in moderation given the fats in potatoes, butter and milk used to make it. So to avoid the guilt, try this the next time you’re craving this world-famous comfort food.

Click here to grab the ultimate comfort food recipe!

Chocolate Chip Cookies 

Cookies are addicting, we know. Especially chocolate chip, right? Thanks to this recipe, you’ll feel much better about munching on these melt-in-your-mouth chocolate chip cookies made with almond flour, maple syrup (a great alternative to sugar) and coconut! When it comes to cooking light, this comfort food recipe tops our list of favorites.

Find the recipe on Goop.com!

Broccoli Macaroni & Cheese Casserole 

Ever heard of a guilt-free macaroni and cheese that goes beyond the boxed alternative? This “adult” mac n’ cheese casserole comfort food recipe features fresh parmesan, reduced-fat cheddar cheese and even broccoli as a healthy bonus.

Check out the Skinny Taste blog for a step-by-step guide and some helpful photos to make this dish.

Ricotta Cheesecake

If you eat, breathe – even dream about cheesecake, you’re in for a much healthier alternative. Try this comfort food recipe that you, your parents and any senior in your life will fall in love with.

Learn how to make this light and fluffy ricotta cheesecake that will satisfy your craving on CookingLight.com!

Zucchini “Meatballs”

Meatballs are the ultimate Italian comfort food, and are very fun to make. But instead of making them with beef, try it with zucchini instead! This fun recipe will be a hit with your loved one’s grandchildren or senior group friends! And don’t worry, you can still enjoy them with some marinara sauce over a bowl of multigrain pasta!

Find this healthy comfort food recipe on Delish.com!

And watch their step-by-step video below!

Healthy Zucchini “Meatballs” Recipe

If you have any suggestions on the best healthy comfort food recipes, leave us a like or a comment below. Happy cooking!