It’s that time of year– when everyone is getting together with family and friends to cheer on their favorite teams. But whoever you’re cheering for, let’s be honest…it’s really all about the FOOD! And maybe the commercials, but mostly the food. I respect the traditional chips and dips and an indulgent snacky spread… BUT more than anything, I just want to be able to take part in all the noshing, like the whole time! WITHOUT feeling HORRIBLE. It can be done with this lightened-up game day food. 

Easy Corn Salsa

fresh corn salsa www.lillieeatsandtells.com

This fresh corn salsa is so easy to make! Even when it isn’t summertime,  it gives you all the fresh summery feels. It’s got bursts of sweet corn and plenty of fresh cilantro. Just oniony and limey enough. Yum. 

Just scoop this salsa up with chips while you watch the game. Or you can always use it to top off any Mexican inspired meal.

Quick Philly Sandwiches

Philly chicken sandwiches www.lillieeatsandtells.com

When you’re getting together with friends and family to watch the game, you don’t want to spend all your time cooking. These macro-friendly quick chicken Philly sandwiches are not only delicious, but they are also quick and easy. They can be built before the game starts or your guests can assemble them when they are ready for a quick bite. Either way, they’re an easy win.  

Macro-friendly Loaded Smashed Potatoes

loaded smashed potatoes www.lillieeatsandtells.com

These macro-friendly loaded smashed potatoes are the perfect addition to any game day spread. They’re quite literally loaded up with garlic, chives, onions, and more — and all neatly fit within your macros (whether you care that they do, or not. Ha. ) It’s a great alternative to traditional twice baked potatoes.

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Italian Pasta Salad

Italian pasta salad www.lillieeatsandtells.com

This Italian pasta salad makes a great side dish for your game offerings. But it totally has enough protein to be the main dish for a weeknight meal. It’s easy to see pasta salad and think carbs. Stuff it full of veggies and some good lean ham and look what happens! Still carbs, I won’t lie. But fewer carbs! And plenty of protein to create the perfect balance.

Buffalo Turkey Meatball Subs

Buffalo meatball subs www.lillieeatsandtells.com

I don’t know if it’s really game day if there isn’t Buffalo sauce. I’ve got a bunch of Buffalo recipes on the blog, but these skinny Buffalo turkey meatball subs are perfect for gathering together with friends and family to watch a big game. 

You may be thinking that the words skinny and game day don’t match. But I say, why not enjoy yourself and sneak in a few veggies. These particular turkey meatballs are made lighter than EVER by adding in some extra lean ground turkey (just enough to lean them out but not enough to make them dry and bouncy) AND steamed cauliflower for volume. The perfect sneaky addition to so many things just to give you more bang for your buck. These are so easy to make ahead and just broil or toss in a skillet or slow cooker before your guests arrive!

Lavash Nachos

lavash nachos www.lillieeatsandtells.com

I can’t think of anything that is better than nachos. Seriously nothing. Making macro-friendly nachos with baked lavash-wrap chips (made from Joseph’s Lavash wraps) totally changed everything! You can bulk them up with fresh toppings and they will fill you and your guests up. They are SO FILLING and you won’t wake up the next day regretting your game day choices. Serve them up as personal servings or a big plate that people can pick from while hanging out. 

Lightened-Up Game Day Food

Hope these lighter game-day options help! Now you just have to decide whether you’re hosting or toting. Either way, everyone will thank you for some healthier, BUT STILL DELICIOUS options. If you’re looking for other macro-friendly recipes, check out my cookbooks and make sure you’re following me on Instagram and TikTok. I’m always sharing new ways to make macro-friendly food taste delicious.

Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Read the full privacy policy here.

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About the Author

Hello. My name is Lillie. I’m not a registered dietitian, or a macro coach, or a public figure or culinary genius. I’m a mommy of four who FOUND macro-counting and fell in love with this balanced approach to food...

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