Are you a busy mom looking for delicious and nutritious meal ideas that won’t take up too much of your precious time? Look no further! As a Trim Healthy Mama (THM) enthusiast, I’m excited to share my favorite 20 recipes that are perfect for busy moms on-the-go. From comforting casseroles to quick and easy snacks, these recipes are designed to nourish both body and soul.
In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most popular THM recipes that are not only tasty but also healthy and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned THM veteran or just starting out on your health journey, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in no time.
So, grab a cup of coffee (or tea), pull up a chair, and get ready to be inspired by these 20 delicious Trim Healthy Mama recipes for busy moms!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this rich and savory recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 8-10 pieces
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine the minced garlic and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Arrange the cooked chicken in a baking dish and pour the creamy sauce over the top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Rice Casserole
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional casseroles, this recipe combines the creaminess of cheese with the nutritional benefits of broccoli and cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, steamed and chopped
– 1 head of cauliflower, steamed and chopped
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine steamed broccoli and cauliflower, cooked rice, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peanut Butter Cup Smoothie
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this creamy and indulgent smoothie, featuring the classic flavors of peanut butter cups.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1-2 Peanut Butter Cups, chopped (depending on your desired level of chocolatey goodness)
Instructions:
1. Add the banana, peanut butter, yogurt, milk, and honey to a blender.
2. Blend on high until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add the salt and chopped Peanut Butter Cups; blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or peanut butter level to your liking.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (blending time)
Cabbage Roll Soup
Transform traditional cabbage rolls into a hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground meat over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Waffles with Whipped Cream
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these rich and indulgent chocolate waffles, topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Perfect for a special treat or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, milk, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter onto the preheated waffle iron.
6. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the waffles are crispy and golden brown.
7. Repeat with remaining batter, greasing the waffle iron between uses if necessary.
8. Top warm waffles with whipped cream and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Shake
Brighten up your day with this refreshing Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Shake, combining the tanginess of lemon and blueberries with the creaminess of cheesecake.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vanilla ice cream
– 1/2 cup frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Crushed graham crackers or whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine ice cream, blueberries, lemon juice, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add vanilla extract and blend until well combined.
4. Pour into glasses and top with crushed graham crackers or whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook recipe perfect for hot summer days or whenever you need a pick-me-up.
Beef and Bacon Skillet
A hearty and flavorful skillet dish that combines the richness of beef with the smokiness of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the beef strips to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the bacon.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the frozen peas and carrots to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Return the cooked beef and bacon to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Shrimp
A refreshing summer dish that combines the flavors of Italy and the coast. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodle-like strands.
3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the pesto sauce and stir to combine with any remaining oil and bits of garlic.
5. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss to coat with the pesto sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until slightly tender.
6. Combine the cooked shrimp with the zucchini noodles and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Bites
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these bite-sized treats that combine the richness of peanut butter and cookie dough.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together peanut butter and butter until smooth. Add sugars and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll the dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each bite.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these crispy baked chicken tenders, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. In a separate dish, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken strip into the wet mixture, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Cauliflower Mash
Elevate your side dish game with this creamy, cheesy, and indulgent Loaded Cauliflower Mash!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, cheddar cheese, bacon, and heavy cream. Blend until smooth.
4. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal
Start your day off right with this rich and creamy oatmeal recipe that combines the best of both worlds – chocolate and peanut butter!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or milk (your choice)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add in the oats and reduce heat to low; cook, stirring occasionally, until the oatmeal reaches your desired consistency (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Stir in the melted butter, peanut butter, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined.
4. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, topped with chopped peanuts or chocolate chips if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Taco Salad with Creamy Cilantro Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful and refreshing taco-inspired creation, featuring crispy tortilla chips, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy cilantro dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cooked ground beef or beans (optional)
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup crushed tortilla chips
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced black olives
– 2 tablespoons Creamy Cilantro Dressing (recipe below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, cooked ground beef or beans (if using), diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, crushed tortilla chips, red bell pepper, and black olives.
2. Drizzle Creamy Cilantro Dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Creamy Cilantro Dressing:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Time: None, as this is a salad recipe!
Berry Chia Pudding
A simple and healthy dessert recipe that combines the natural sweetness of berries with the nutritional benefits of chia seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. In a separate bowl, combine mixed berries and unsweetened almond milk.
3. Add the chia seed mixture to the berry mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and form a gel-like texture.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional fresh berries if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Garlic Butter Salmon with Asparagus
Savor the rich flavors of garlic butter paired with tender salmon and crispy asparagus for a delightful dinner.
Ingredients:
• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread half of the garlic butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Arrange asparagus spears around the salmon, leaving some space for even cooking.
7. Drizzle remaining garlic butter over the asparagus.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through and asparagus is tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheeseburger Pie
A twist on a classic cheeseburger, this pie combines the flavors of beef, cheese, and condiments into one satisfying dessert-turned-snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add milk, cheddar cheese, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. Pour mixture into pie crust.
5. Top with breadcrumbs and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until filling is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Strawberry Cheesecake pancakes
Get ready to start your day with a sweet and indulgent treat that combines the flavors of strawberry cheesecake with fluffy pancakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup strawberry jam or preserves
– 1/4 cup cream cheese softened
– Fresh strawberries, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in strawberry jam and cream cheese until well incorporated.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve warm with sliced strawberries, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff
A classic Russian dish gets a modern twist with this easy-to-make Instant Pot recipe, serving up tender beef and creamy sauce in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz sour cream
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot. Add oil, onion, and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Add beef strips; cook until browned (5-6 minutes).
3. Add mushrooms, tomato paste, broth, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close lid, set valve to “Sealing”, and cook on “Manual” mode at 10 minutes of high pressure.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
6. Stir in sour cream; adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Fat Bombs
Satisfy your sweet tooth and curb those cravings with these bite-sized treats that combine the best of cookie dough and chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy coconut cream (full-fat)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup powdered sweetener (confectioner’s sugar or erythritol)
– 2 cups chocolate chips (dairy-free, such as Enjoy Life)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the coconut cream and softened butter. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the powdered sweetener and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the chocolate chips and vanilla extract.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
5. Once firm, scoop out small portions (about 1-inch balls) onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Place the fat bombs in the freezer for at least 2 hours or until frozen solid.
Cooking Time: None! These treats are best served chilled and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Spicy Sausage and Kale Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of spicy sausage, tender kale, and aromatic spices for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy sausage (such as Andouille or chorizo), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Add the chopped kale, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
8. Return the sausage to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Discover delicious and easy Trim Healthy Mama recipes perfect for busy moms! This collection features 20 mouth-watering dishes, from comfort foods to healthy meals. Indulge in Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken, Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Rice Casserole, and Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders. Treat your sweet tooth with Peanut Butter Cup Smoothie, Chocolate Waffles with Whipped Cream, or Strawberry Cheesecake pancakes. Or try a healthy twist on classics like Beef and Bacon Skillet, Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Shrimp, or Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff. With these recipes, you’ll never have to sacrifice flavor for convenience again!
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