Looking for delicious and healthy meal ideas that follow the Whole30 rules? This collection of 21 best Whole30 recipes brings together breakfast options, main dishes, and sides that make sticking to your clean eating plan much easier.
From sheet pan breakfast hash to sweet potato chowder, these recipes prove that eating whole foods doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. You’ll find options for every meal of the day, including quick breakfasts, hearty dinners, and versatile side dishes.
With these recipes in your meal plan, you can focus on the health benefits of Whole30 without feeling deprived or bored with your food choices.
1. Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a delicious one-skillet meal that fits perfectly into your Whole30 plan. This dish combines juicy chicken with a dairy-free creamy sauce filled with flavorful vegetables.
You can prepare this meal quickly on weeknights when you’re short on time. The recipe uses Whole30-friendly ingredients while still delivering rich flavor.
Season your chicken with sea salt, pepper, garlic, and onion powder before cooking it in coconut oil. Use coconut milk instead of dairy to create the creamy sauce.
This versatile dish works for multiple dietary needs since it’s not only Whole30 compliant but also paleo, keto, and low carb.
2. Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
This quick and tasty Whole30 stir fry combines clean, simple ingredients for a meal you can prepare on busy weeknights. The dish uses coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep it compliant with Whole30 guidelines.
The basic recipe includes chicken, broccoli, sesame oil, fish sauce, and chicken broth for a flavorful sauce. Use frozen broccoli to save time—just microwave it briefly before adding to your stir fry.
The entire meal cooks quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Add chili flakes for extra spice if you like more heat.
3. Classic Whole30 Meatloaf
Classic meatloaf gets a healthy makeover with this Whole30-compliant version. This comfort food favorite is made without breadcrumbs but still maintains its moist, delicious texture.
The recipe uses ground meat combined with vegetables and Whole30-approved seasonings. Many versions are topped with a special Whole30 ketchup sweetened with dates instead of sugar.
It’s perfect for family dinners and makes great leftovers, too. Serve your Whole30 meatloaf with compliant mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
4. Creamy Chicken Potato Casserole
This comforting dish combines hearty roasted potatoes with chicken and bacon in a creamy sauce that’s completely dairy-free. It’s perfect for your Whole30 journey when you’re craving something rich and satisfying.
The casserole is simple to prepare but delivers big on flavor. Kids approve of this meal, making it ideal for family dinners.
Prepare the components ahead of time and assemble when you’re ready to bake for an efficient weeknight meal option.
5. One Skillet Greek Salmon
This Greek salmon dish is a perfect Whole30 dinner option that’s both flavorful and easy to make. The recipe combines salmon fillets with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients in just one pan.
You’ll need salmon fillets, dried oregano, cauliflower rice, and kale as your base ingredients. Season the dish with lemon zest for a bright, fresh flavor.
This meal is Paleo and Whole30 compliant and low in carbs. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something healthy without much cleanup.
The combination of protein-rich salmon and vegetables makes this a filling meal.
6. Whole30 Sesame Potato Salad
This flavorful potato salad uses Japanese sweet potatoes as its base. You’ll need about 2 pounds of potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces.
The dressing combines Whole30-compatible mayo with coconut aminos for a sesame-inspired flavor. Add toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or furikake (if compliant) as toppings.
This dish works well as a side for almost any protein. It’s especially good for meal prep since the flavors develop nicely in the refrigerator.
7. Plant-Based Whole30 7-Layer Dip
This Plant-Based Whole30 7-Layer Dip is perfect for your next gathering. Prepare it in less than 20 minutes with zero cooking required.
The dip is completely compliant with both Plant-Based Whole30 and regular Whole30 guidelines. It’s also gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free.
Serve this colorful appetizer at game day events or any party. Your guests will love the layered textures and flavors.
8. Whole30 Curried Pineapple and Pork Fried Rice
This dish combines curry-seasoned pork with colorful vegetables and sweet pineapple for a satisfying meal. Start by seasoning pork with curry powder and stir-frying it with garlic.
Add snow peas, bell peppers, and green onions for a vibrant mix of vegetables. The pineapple brings a sweet contrast to the savory curry flavors.
Use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice to keep this dish Whole30 compliant. It’s quick to prepare and packed with bold flavors.
9. Whole30 Loaded Baked Potato
Whole30 loaded baked potatoes offer all the comfort of traditional versions without dairy. Prepare these satisfying potatoes several ways to fit your Whole30 lifestyle.
Make twice-baked potatoes with compliant ingredients like coconut cream instead of dairy for a creamy texture. Another option is a loaded baked potato casserole featuring a “cheesy” sauce made from nutritional yeast and cashews.
Add bacon, chives, and other toppings for extra flavor. For soup lovers, Whole30 loaded baked potato soup is perfect for cold days.
10. Steak Bites with Sweet Potatoes and Curry Aioli
This quick and flavorful Whole30 dish combines tender steak cubes with roasted sweet potatoes. The meal gets its special touch from a homemade curry aioli.
Mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, and curry powder to make the aioli. Cook the sweet potato cubes until tender, then prepare the steak bites in the same pan for maximum flavor.
The dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
11. Salmon Cakes with Fried Egg and Avocado
Salmon cakes are a protein-packed Whole30 meal you can whip up in under 30 minutes. Use canned salmon, almond flour, egg, and dried dill for a flavorful dinner option.
These patties stay firm yet tender when cooked properly. Top your salmon cakes with a fried egg and sliced avocado for a complete meal.
This dish works great for meal prep, too. Make extra salmon cakes and enjoy them cold for lunch the next day.
12. Quick Marinara Sauce
This homemade Whole30 marinara sauce is simple to make and tastes better than store-bought versions. It uses crushed tomatoes as a base, which already provides a great consistency.
The sauce is free from added sugars, additives, and vegetable oils. Prepare it in a slow cooker for a rich, hearty flavor that develops over time.
This marinara works great with zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or as a base for other Whole30 dishes.
13. Mediterranean Octopus Salad
This Mediterranean Octopus Salad combines tender octopus with fresh vegetables for a delicious Whole30-compliant dish. The recipe features perfectly braised octopus that’s tender on the inside with a slightly crispy exterior.
Braise the octopus with dry white wine, lemon, and garlic until tender, then slice it into bite-sized pieces. The salad includes potatoes, olives, and other Mediterranean vegetables dressed with olive oil and citrus.
Some versions incorporate cucumber, rehydrated seaweed, and onion for added texture and flavor. This protein-rich seafood dish makes a satisfying meal full of Mediterranean flavors.
14. Lomo Saltado
Lomo Saltado is a flavorful Peruvian beef stir-fry that’s fully Whole30 compliant with a few simple swaps. Combine tender sirloin strips with colorful bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes.
Replace traditional soy sauce with coconut aminos to keep it Whole30 friendly. Add a bit of vinegar to the sauce mixture for an authentic touch.
Serve your Whole30 version with cauliflower rice instead of french fries. Some recipes include aji amarillo (yellow chili pepper) for extra kick.
15. Pan Seared Shrimp
Pan seared shrimp is a simple yet delicious Whole30 option that takes just minutes to make. You only need a few ingredients and a cast iron skillet to create this flavorful dish.
Cook shrimp quickly over high heat until they turn pink and slightly crispy on the outside. This preserves their tender, juicy texture.
For a Whole30 compliant meal, try the Tuscan Garlic Shrimp version using coconut milk instead of cream. Or choose Asian Chili Garlic Shrimp with compliant seasonings for a bolder flavor profile.
These shrimp recipes work great as a protein addition to zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
16. Baked Sweet Potato with Spices
Baked sweet potatoes are a Whole30 staple that’s both simple and satisfying. Prepare them in either an oven or air fryer with just a few ingredients.
A mix of cumin, paprika, and garlic powder creates a perfect seasoning blend that enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes. Add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for extra flavor.
Roast your sweet potatoes until they’re tender on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. This dish works great as a side or can be topped with compliant proteins for a complete Whole30 meal.
Everything seasoning is another great option if you want to switch up the flavor profile.
17. Breakfast Sausage Patties
Making your own breakfast sausage patties is super easy and perfect for Whole30. You’ll need ground pork and a few simple spices from your pantry.
These homemade patties contain no sugar or fillers, making them Whole30, paleo, and keto friendly. They’re much healthier than store-bought versions.
You can prep these ahead of time and freeze them for quick morning meals. Just form the patties and place parchment paper between them before freezing.
They’re versatile too. Add them to egg bakes, breakfast skillets, or enjoy them on their own with some veggies for a complete Whole30 breakfast.
18. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Zucchini noodles with pesto offer a delicious Whole30 alternative to traditional pasta dishes. This simple meal combines spiralized zucchini with creamy avocado or basil pesto for a satisfying dinner option.
You can enhance your zoodles by adding protein like Cajun-spiced shrimp or Whole30-compliant chicken. Cherry tomatoes add extra flavor and color.
For the pesto, blend garlic, lemon, basil, and olive oil to create a flavorful sauce. This dish tastes great even as cold leftovers.
It’s both gluten-free and dairy-free when you use compliant ingredients.
19. Cauliflower Fried Rice
Cauliflower fried rice offers a Whole30 alternative to traditional rice dishes. This low-carb option uses riced cauliflower instead of grains, keeping it compliant with your Whole30 plan.
Customize this dish with proteins like chicken or pork. Add colorful vegetables such as carrots, peas, and bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
You can make this dish quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknight meals. Most recipes take less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
It’s packed with healthy fats and protein while staying low in carbohydrates.
20. Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce
Spaghetti squash with meat sauce offers a Whole30 alternative to traditional pasta dishes. It delivers the comfort food experience without the carbs and grains.
Roast spaghetti squash to create spaghetti-like strands. Top with a hearty meat sauce made from compliant ingredients.
Many recipes include vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for added nutrition. Prepare this versatile meal in different ways—oven-roast the squash or use a slow cooker for convenience.
The sauce typically features ground beef or turkey with Whole30-approved seasonings.
21. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a Whole30 meal that’s both simple and flavorful. The marinade combines fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs to create a bright taste profile.
This dish is easy to prepare yet impressive enough for guests. Grilling keeps the chicken moist inside with a golden, flavorful exterior.
Use different cuts of chicken, from breasts to drumsticks. The marinade keeps the meat tender while adding a zesty kick.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling. Pair it with grilled vegetables for a complete Whole30 meal.
Key Principles of Whole30
Whole30 is a 30-day reset program designed to change your eating habits by eliminating potentially inflammatory foods. The goal is to help you identify how different foods affect your body and mind.
Approved Foods and Ingredients
Whole30 focuses on eating whole, unprocessed foods. You can eat:
- Meat, seafood, and eggs
- Vegetables and fruits
- Natural fats (olive oil, coconut oil, avocado)
- Herbs, spices, and seasonings (without added sugar or MSG)
Not allowed during your 30 days:
- Added sugar (real or artificial)
- Alcohol (even for cooking)
- Grains (wheat, corn, rice, oats)
- Legumes (beans, peanuts, soy)
- Dairy products
Shop the perimeter of grocery stores where fresh foods are located. Read all labels carefully—many “natural” products contain hidden sugar or preservatives not allowed on Whole30.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The most frequent mistake is not planning enough. Meal prep is essential for Whole30 success.
Without prepared compliant meals, you might reach for non-compliant options when hungry. Another pitfall is recreating junk foods with approved ingredients.
The program calls these “Sex With Your Pants On” (SWYPO) foods. Examples include pancakes made with approved ingredients or cauliflower pizza crust.
Don’t obsess over the scale. Whole30 isn’t about weight loss but about how foods affect your body and mind.
Undereating is also common. Since many filling foods (grains, beans) are eliminated, you need to increase portion sizes of approved foods.
Essential Tips for Whole30 Meal Prep
Success on the Whole30 diet depends greatly on planning ahead. Good meal prep saves time and helps you stay compliant when hunger strikes or schedules get busy.
Batch Cooking Strategies
Dedicate 2-3 hours each weekend to prepare multiple meals. Cook proteins in bulk—roast two chickens instead of one or brown 3 pounds of ground beef at once.
Store prepped ingredients separately to create different meals throughout the week. For example, cooked chicken can become salad topping one day and soup the next.
Invest in quality storage containers that are glass or BPA-free plastic. Proper storage extends freshness and makes grab-and-go meals possible.
Try the “cook once, eat twice” method. When making dinner, double the recipe and set half aside for tomorrow’s lunch.
Prep veggie sides in advance by washing, chopping, and storing in water-filled containers. This simple step saves crucial minutes on busy weeknights.
How to Stock a Whole30 Pantry
Start with compliant cooking fats like olive oil, coconut oil, and ghee. These fats form the foundation of most Whole30 recipes.
Keep canned proteins on hand—tuna, salmon, and chicken provide quick protein when you’re short on time.
Stock frozen vegetables for emergencies. They’re already washed and chopped.
Use frozen vegetables for last-minute meals.
Invest in compliant condiments including mayo, ketchup, and mustard. These condiments add flavor without compromising your Whole30 goals.
Build a collection of approved spices and herbs. Spices and herbs transform simple dishes into flavorful meals without adding sugar or dairy.
Stock pantry staples like coconut milk, chicken broth, and canned tomatoes. These ingredients appear in many Whole30 recipes.
