Pumpkin Streusel Sheet Pan Pancakes (Gluten-free)

Fall mornings can be hectic, but that doesn’t mean a healthy breakfast needs to be an afterthought. Pumpkin season is in full swing, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with a cozy, nutrient-packed meal that can be prepped in advance. Enter the sheet pan pumpkin pancake—a convenient, flavorful, and protein-packed way to feed a crowd or make your mornings easier with quick breakfast meal prep. After the ease of prep and first yummy bit, this will be your favorite among pumpkin breakfast recipes.

Why Sheet Pan Pancakes?

Sheet pan pancakes are a game-changer for busy mornings. Instead of flipping pancakes one by one, you can bake everything at once in a standard “half” sized rimmed baking sheet (about 17” x 13”), saving time and effort. It’s a great option for large families, meal prep, or hosting a holiday brunch. Plus, you can freeze individual portions and pop them in the toaster or microwave on rushed days.

Power Up with Pumpkin, Cottage Cheese and Oats: First, we have to fist-pump the pumpkin! Canned pumpkin is a low-cal pantry powerhouse that is rich in vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene), which supports eye health, skin, and immunity. It also provides vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, all important for overall wellness.

Also, yay for cottage cheese! Blending cottage cheese into the pancake batter not only adds richness but also boosts the protein content. If you’re looking to start your day with a solid, satiating breakfast, this ingredient does the trick, turning them into protein pumpkin pancakes!   And, instead of traditional flour, we’re using ground oats to make gluten-free pumpkin pancakes. You can easily make your own oat flour by pulsing rolled oats in a blender. This gluten-free swap keeps the pancakes fiber-packed and light, helping to fuel you for whatever the day has in store. If you’d like it even easier, you can used packaged oat flour (the blending is already done for you).

Nutty Cinnamon Streusel Topping: Fall flavors wouldn’t be complete without a little warm spice. A cinnamon streusel topping made with walnuts or pecans adds a delicious layer of crunch to these pancakes. Coconut sugar adds light sweetness. The combination of warm spices and nutty richness of this pumpkin streusel topping creates the perfect balance to the cottage cheese sheet pan pancakes and makes every bite feel like a fall treat.

Meal Prep Friendly: One of the best parts about this sheet pan pancake recipe is that it’s meal-prep friendly. You can slice the finished sheet pan into squares (or rectangles as it may be) and then store individual servings in the freezer. When the morning rush hits, just grab a square and reheat it for a quick, wholesome breakfast. Thanks to a little coconut sugar in the batter and streusel topping, these pumpkin cottage cheese pancakes are lightly sweet enough to eat without syrup (if desired) – making them perfect for literally eating on the run.

Macros Per Serving (Serves 8): Each “square” of this pumpkin sheet pan pancake is packed with balanced nutrition: – 275 calories, 27g net carbs, 13g fat and 10g protein.

Pumpkin Streusel Sheet Pan Pancakes
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
20 mins
Total Time
30 mins
 
Embrace pumpkin season while minimizing morning stress with this easy sheet pan pancake recipe! Cottage cheese blended into the batter adds extra richness and protein while the ground up oats create a gluten-free, fiber-packed flour. Plus, that cinnamon, nutty streusel topping adds a pleasing sweetness and crunch to this convenient and yummy fall breakfast. Feed a crowd, or meal prep and store in single-portion servings in the freezer for busy mornings.
Course: Breakfast, brunch
Cuisine: gluten free
Keyword: gluten free, pancakes, pumpkin, sheetpan
Servings: 8 Servings
Ingredients
Batter:
  • 2.5 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 3/4 cup 2% cottage cheese
  • 1 ¼ cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 Tbsp. butter, melted
  • 2 Tbsp. coconut sugar
  • 2 tsp. baking powder
  • 2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • Topping:
  • ¼ cup rolled oats
  • 3 Tbsp. finely chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 3 Tbsp. coconut sugar
  • 2 Tbsp. butter, melted
  • 2 Tbsp. almond meal
  • ½ tsp. ground cinnamon
  • tsp salt
Instructions
  1. Pre-heat oven to 375F.
  2. Add rolled oats to high-speed blender or food processor and process, pulsing on and off for about 45 seconds, or until a “flour” is created.
  3. Leave oat flour in blender and add remaining dry ingredients: coconut sugar, baking powder, salt and pumpkin pie spice. Pulse quickly to combine.
  4. Add pumpkin, milk, melted butter, and eggs to dry mixture and blend for 30 seconds until incorporated, scraping down sides with spatula, as needed.
  5. Pour into approximate 13” x 18” rimmed baking sheet, that has been coated with cooking spray.
  6. In medium bowl, mix together melted butter, coconut sugar, almond flour, oats, and chopped walnuts until combined and crumbly. Sprinkle this over the top of the pancake batter.
  7. Bake for 20 minutes, or until set and top is turning golden. Remove and let cool in pan for 5 minutes.
  8. Slice into 8 rectangles and serve with syrup of choice and any extra toppings (or eat plain). Can be meal-prepped by freezing in single portions and thawed and reheating when ready.
Recipe Notes

Macros: 275 cal, 27g net carb, 13g fat, 10g protein per “square”

No Noodle Veggie Mug Lasagna for One: A Quick and Nutritious Meal

Who isn’t looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that can be whipped up in minutes? My Layered Veggie Mug Lasagna for One is the perfect, perfectly-portioned solution for those busy lunch hours or hectic evenings when you want to stick to your clean-eating goals and avoid take-out or lackluster packaged meal products.

The entire portion of this no-noodle veggie lasagna has amazing macros to fuel your day. Only 188 calories, 16g carbs, 6g fat and 21 g protein. The protein primarily comes from cottage cheese (2% milkfat) that makes an excellent cheesy, creamy swap for lasagnas signature ricotta cheese.

Also, this healthy comfort food dish replaces traditional lasagna noodles with thinly-sliced zucchini and packs in a variety of fresh veggies, offering a nutritious and satisfying meal. In addition to the zucchini, I used fresh spinach, button mushrooms and grape tomatoes – you can tweak this to suit your taste preferences (and what you might need to use up in your produce bin).

Why You’ll Love This Lasagna in a Mug Recipe:

  • Zucchini Noodles: Swap out carb-heavy pasta with thinly sliced zucchini, adding a delightful crunch and a boost of vitamins. The key for success here is to slice the zucchini very thinly (it cooks quicker) and also to pat it down to remove extra moisture before layering up you mug (this helps prevent watery lasagna).
  • Protein-Packed: As mentioned above, using cottage cheese (I recommend 2%, not 0% milkfat) instead of ricotta provides more protein and less fat, making it a healthier option.
  • Quick and Easy: Assemble your lasagna in a 16-ounce mug (wider mug a better option than tall and skinny) and microwave it in minutes. It’s perfect for a speedy lunch or dinner.
  • Portion-Controlled: This single-serving recipe ensures you have the right portion size, helping you stay on track with your dietary goals.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: You can prepare your mug lasagna ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a couple of days. Consider doubling or tripling the batch into multiple mugs. Just heat and eat when you’re ready!

This layered veggie mug lasagna is a game-changer for busy days when you need a wholesome meal without the hassle. Enjoy the convenience and taste of this delightful dish, perfect for anyone looking to eat healthily without spending hours in the kitchen.

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No-Noodle Layered Veggie Mug Lasagna for One
Prep Time
7 mins
Cook Time
3 mins
Total Time
10 mins
 

This single portion lasagna made in a mug for one is a quick, nutrition and delicious meal that is ready in minutes. A perfectly portioned, high-protein and lower carb solution for your busy lunch hour or a hectic evening. Easy to meal prep ahead and then heat and eat when ready. Gluten free and vegetarian.

Course: dinner, lunch
Cuisine: Italian, low carb, vegetarian
Keyword: lasagna, mug meal, single portion
Servings: 1 serving
Calories: 188 kcal
Ingredients
  • 3 ounces zucchini sliced into very thin discs
  • ½ cup 2% cottage cheese
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 2/3 cup chopped fresh spinach
  • ¼ cup marinara sauce
  • 3 small button mushrooms sliced thin
  • 5 grape tomatoes chopped
  • 2 tbsp shredded mozzarella
  • Optional: chopped fresh basil
Instructions
  1. Take sliced zucchini and blot with paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Set aside.
  2. Mix Italian seasoning and garlic powder into cottage cheese until combined.
  3. In minimum 16-ounce mug (wider better than tall and skinny mug), layer 1/3 of zucchini slices in bottom. Top with about 3 tbsp cottage cheese mixture, spread to cover zucchini. Next add half of spinach to this layer. Then sliced mushrooms and about 2 tbsp marinara.
  4. Add another layer of zucchini (another 1/3 portion) and top with 3 tbsp cottage cheese mixture, then more mushrooms and marinara
  5. Top with zucchini one last time, using up remainder, and top with the remaining cottage cheese. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and top with tomatoes.
  6. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then let rest 15 seconds. Microwave 1 more minute (or until hot and bubbling through, then let rest for 1 minute before eating. Top with fresh basil if desired.
Recipe Notes

Best Balanced, Healthy Snacks Found on Amazon

Keeping a stash of macro-balanced, nutritious snacks in the pantry helps to keep you satisfied, fueled, energized between meals whatever the scenario, whether working from home or before a gym session.

Often individually-wrapped, single-serve snacks get a bad rap – you might instantly think of highly-process junk with tons of sugar, fat and unwanted ingredients (candy bars, mainstream chips, baked goods). BUT the good news is that there are plenty of delicious and healthy packaged snacks on Amazon (all also gluten free) that offer a blend of taste and nutrition, conveniently delivered to your doorstep. Great runner snacks, gluten-free snacks, busy life snacks that I highly recommends — kids will love too (if you want to share)!

Snack Criteria: My criteria for this list of healthy balanced snacks on Amazon were 1) featured a balanced blend of macros – so protein, healthy fats, moderate gluten-free carbohydrates; 2) Sweeteners come from better-for-you-than-sugar sources like honey, date syrup, fruit, and even the judicious use of quality natural zero-carb choices; 3) Do not need refrigeration, cooking, etc. – they are ready to eat; and 4) Taste great and something, as a fit foodie and athlete, I actually eat and would order again without hesitation (and have!)

FROOZE BALLS

Frooze Balls:  I love these energy bites, they remind me of something I’d make homemade when I have the time (but never do, lol)! Made with zero junk and plant-powered ingredients like dates, peanuts, coconut, hazelnuts, strawberries and more. These balanced energy balls come packed 5 to a bag, making it easy to portion to my hunger level. Crafted in New Zealand and available in so many creative, crave-worthy flavors – find them HERE.

PICKY BARS

Picky Bars: I learned about these real food energy bars years ago in my running community. In fact, the company was founded by past elite runners on a mission to create workout snacks made with easy-to-digest, feel-good ingredients carefully mixed in macronutrient harmony. And, all without the chemicals or fillers found in lots of sport-specific products. Yummy flavor combos, Cinnamon Roll’n is my personal favorite – find them all HERE.

WILD ZORA MEAT & VEGGIE BAR

Wild Zora Meat & Veggie Bars: If you think you don’t like jerky, this balanced protein snack will change your mind! Made with the best-quality meats (including beef, turkey, lamb, and pork options) providing 6-8g protein and nutrient-dense vegetables and/or fruit for energy and more flavor. Ingredients are clean and simple with no added sugar, gluten, hormones or artificial preservatives. I love the texture, not tough to chew like some jerky, but tender and satisfying.  Find them HERE.

FRIENDLY GRAINS CRUNCHY ROLLERS

Crunchy Rollers by Friendly Grains: Like a rice cake from years ago, but yummier and much more fun! Free from the top-9 allergens, this healthy whole grain snack is packaged in pouches of two, perfect for work lunchboxes and taking on the go to fuel sports. Yummy flavors like Cinnamon Churro Caramel Sea Salt that are subtly sweet, but not sugar-loaded. Made with puffed whole grain, organic brown rice that fill you up smartly and a bit of protein (but not loads), these are great to eat for energy before a workout – you can also dip into a nut butter for a bit more protein. Find them HERE.

ONCE AGAIN PEANUT BUTTER GRAHAM CRACKER SANDWICHES

Once Again Peanut Butter Graham Cracker Sandwiches: The only sandwich cracker on the market that is both organic & gluten free. Munching on peanut butter crackers was a big part of my childhood, and as an adult, I appreciate the quality of taste of this hand-crafted snack. Here’s a personal race-day secret: I always eat a pack of peanut butter crackers in the start line chute. Whole grain carbs, healthy fats, and 5g protein per serving — winning! Find HERE.

NATURE’S GARDEN HEALTHY TRAIL MIX

Nature’s Garden Healthy Trail Mix Snack Packs: Individually portioned bags of trail mix filled with heart-healthy, omega-3 rich nuts, beneficial seeds and dried fruit like cranberries and raisins.  This is a yummier and more varied version of the GORP (“Good Ole Raisins and Peanuts”) I grew up with as a kid to keep us going all afternoon until dinner! Check it out HERE.

Note: As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.


Best Low Carb Side Dishes in Air Fryer

Although I prioritize fitness and healthy eating, I still find myself susceptible to cravings for delicious, crispy “fried” treats. Thankfully, my air-fryer has emerged as my guilt-free solution, transforming indulgent side dishes into wholesome alternatives – these are some of the best vegetables in the air fryer! Explore these low carb air fryer side dish recipes to elevate tonight’s dinner to a new level of satisfaction – even when time is tight!

A low-carb, gluten-free and keto-friendly way to snack and get more vegetables in your day! These easy air fryer zucchini chips use just a few simple ingredients and are done in minutes – perfect for game day entertaining or a delicious side dish and alternative to fries.

Cheddar Zucchini Chips in the Air Fryer stay low carb, thanks to a coating made from crushed cheddar crisps and almond meal, instead of breadcrumbs and flour. Dunk in your favorite dipping sauce, so addictive!

 Honey Ginger Broccoli for Two in Air Fryer is my delicious spin on “crack” broccoli – my kids beg for it and will eat up the whole batch!

Crispy, crunchy and quick, these baked onion rings are lower in carbs thanks to a coating that includes keto-friendly ingredients like crushed pork rinds, Parmesan cheese and coconut flour. A delicious appetizer, game day snack or side dish for steak, burgers and more!

Crispy Low Carb Onion Rings in Air Fryer are a clever way to avoid eating carbs or staying gluten-free. The onions are coated in topping made with crushed pork rinds – a smart and flavorful way to use this old-school snack!

Hatch green chile fries are a quick and easy air fryer recipe suitable for paleo, whole30, gluten free and low carb diets.

Hatch Green Chili Fried in Air Fryer make mage with this popular, milder New Mexico pepper. Of course, you can use any type pepper (even hot ones, if you dare) and even bell pepper strips!

Let cool a couple minutes. Sprinkle with salt and drizzle with honey, toss gently. Sprinkle with granola!

Granola Honey Sweet Potato Fries hit the spot – crunch on the outside, soft on the interior and drizzled with honey, sprinkled with sea salt and upgraded with a lightly spicy granola. Upgraded comfort food to pair up with almost any main dish protein.

TIPS FOR CRISPY AIR FRYER SIDE DISHES

Type of Air Fryer: You can use whatever air fryer you prefer – a smaller “drawer” style one may require you to make some of these recipes in two batches. I prefer a larger oven-style air fryer with a door that pulls downward. That makes it easy for me to check on food, flip it, see what’s going on through the door winder, and also typically cook up the whole batch at once to serve my hungry family.

Can I Use an Oven? Yes, but it will take a little longer. Preheat the oven temperature to the same temperature and increase cooking time by about 33% longer, flipping halfway through. So if an air-fryer recipe says 10 minutes, bake in oven for 15 minutes. Also, it is preferable to use a mesh rack or over the baking sheet or a crisping tray sheet to help promote crispiness.

How do I Reheat Leftovers? It’s best to reheat leftovers in a pre-heated air-fryer (375F) for just a few minutes until crisped up and warmed. Reheating in a microwave is not recommended, as it will made the food soggy.

This post contains Amazon affiliate links.

Banana Bread Protein Muffins with Chocolate Chips – Smartly Sweet & Delicious

Imagine this: the warm aroma of freshly baked banana bread (in the form of big, tender muffins) wafting through your kitchen, only this time with a powerful protein punch that’s as guilt-free as it is delicious.

Make the drool-worthy dream a reality! These Protein Banana Bread Muffins with Chocolate Chips boast a mere 163 calories and a substantial 12 grams of protein. The secret? A clever combination of wholesome ingredients, including cottage cheese, protein powder, and a gluten-free peanut flour baking blend that replaces traditional flour in a 1:1 replacement ratio without compromising flavor or texture.

Actually, I’ve become a big fan of this peanut baking flour that can be used interchangeably with regular flour, yet keeps recipes gluten free.  PBfit Peanut Flour Baking Blend* has 80% less fat than almond flour, and 10g of protein per serving. It’s very versatile for a wide-range of baking needs (except yeast breads), and simply replace white AP flour with a 1:1 swap. The light (not at all overpowering) peanut flavor is ideal for brownies, cookies, muffins, pancakes, and quick breads. *Note, this is NOT their popular PBfit powdered peanut butter product, it’s a flour blend designed for baking!

I also use cottage cheese, one of my favorite protein-boosting ingredients – and it also keeps the muffins so moist and delicious.

And, a bit of protein powder in this gluten-free banana bread muffin recipe, too – Clean Lean Protein, a plant-based protein powder from Nuzest. Save 15% with my Nuzest discount code: FITFORK )

Watch the 20-second protein banana bread muffin tutorial!

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases.

5 from 4 votes
As a healthy breakfast or snack, this high protein banana muffin recipe (also gluten-free) boasts a mere 163 calories and a substantial 12 grams of protein per big muffin thanks to smart baking swaps.
Banana Bread Protein Muffins with Chocolate Chips (gluten-free)
Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
20 mins
Total Time
25 mins
 

As a healthy breakfast or snack, this high protein banana muffin recipe (also gluten-free) boasts a mere 163 calories and a substantial 12 grams of protein per big muffin thanks to smart baking swaps.

Course: Breakfast, brunch, Snack
Keyword: banana, banana bread, gluten free, muffin, peanut flour
Servings: 6 jumbo muffins
Calories: 163 kcal
Ingredients
  • 1 cup mashed overripe bananas
  • 1/2 cup 0% cottage cheese slightly blended
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 cup peanut flour baking blend
  • 1/3 cup vanilla protein powder
  • ¼ cup stevia granulated baking blend.
  • 3/4 tsp. baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp. baking soda
  • 1/8 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350F and prepare a 6-count jumbo muffin tin with liners or spray. Set aside.
  2. In bowl, mash up bananas well and stir in cottage cheese and egg. Next stir in remaining dry ingredients (except chocolate) until incorporated.
  3. Mix in 3 tbs of the chocolate chips to batter. Reserve remainder for tops of muffins.
  4. Divide batter among muffin tins, top with that reserved chocolate.
  5. Bake for approx. 20 minutes, or until lightly golden on top and toothpick pulls clean from center.
Recipe Notes

Makes 6 muffins: Each with 163 cal, 22g carb, 3.6g fat and 12g protein.