One of the best things you can treat yourself to when you’re on a healthy eating plan is a cheat day every so often. In fact, research shows that the occasional cheat day can actually help dieters lose weight. The extra calories help boost your metabolism while the splurge can make you feel good.

The key to a successful cheat day is to not go overboard with serving sizes. There are also ways of making cheat meals that are still somewhat healthy. Here are five cheat meal ideas that will satisfy your cravings without breaking your scale.

1. Mac and Cheese

You can enjoy a healthy dish of macaroni and cheese by sticking to a recipe that doesn’t include cream or several types of fatty cheeses.

Instead, try cooking pasta of your choice in low sodium chicken broth. Drain, but don’t rinse. Add a tablespoon of cream cheese and a cup of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until completely melted.

Add cooked chicken, mushrooms, crumbled bacon, lobster, or broccoli for the healthiest, tastiest, and creamiest mac and cheese you’ve ever tasted.

2. Steak

The right cut of steak can feel indulgent but also healthy. Beef is packed with protein and iron to keep you feeling full longer and give you energy.

For a healthy steak meal, try this beef ranch steak drizzled with a cucumber sauce. Serve with a baked potato with a little bit of butter and sour cream for a delicious and nutrient-packed cheat meal.

3. Pizza

Pizza is actually quite a healthy and balanced meal with the right toppings, such as veggies and lean meats. It even makes a healthy breakfast option.

It doesn’t matter if you make your own or order from your favorite delivery place. Just keep your portion control in check to enjoy pizza topped with gooey cheese as well as a glass of wine or beer.

4. Oven Fries

Baked fries, whether made of russet or sweet potatoes, can be just as tasty as the fried stuff. Cut potatoes of your choice, brush with a little avocado oil, and bake in a 425-degree oven for 25 minutes. Serve with a little ranch dressing for dipping and a juicy burger for the ultimate favorite cheat meal.

5. Your Favorite Dessert

It really doesn’t matter whether you’re into ice cream in a waffle cone, chocolate peanut butter bars, or brownies. You should make your favorite dessert a part of your cheat day as well.

You can seek out a healthier version of your dessert to make but if you have no such luck, just take care not to overindulge too much.

What Cheat Meal Ideas Will You Try?

Having some cheat meal ideas at your disposal will help keep you on track whether you’re aspiring to lose weight or remain at your current weight. We hope these ideas have shown that it’s possible to still eat healthy while enjoying a cheat day.

If you enjoyed this post, be sure to read our latest nutrition posts to learn how to stick to a healthy, nutritious eating plan.

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