These Healthy Instant Pot Game Day Recipes and Air Fryer Game Day Recipes are perfect for feeding a crowd for any big game! Great for the 21 Day Fix and WW! This post contains affiliate links for products I am obsessed with.
Score Big with Healthy Game Day Recipes: Instant Pot & Air Fryer Favorites for 21 Day Fix & WW
The excitement of game day is unmatched – the cheers, the camaraderie, and of course, the delicious food! But often, game day spreads are packed with heavy, unhealthy options that can derail your wellness goals. What if you could enjoy all the flavor and fun without the guilt? You absolutely can! Get ready to transform your game day experience with a collection of incredible, healthy recipes made easy with your Instant Pot and Air Fryer.
Whether you’re following the 21 Day Fix, Weight Watchers (WW), or simply looking for lighter, more wholesome options, these recipes are designed to be both delicious and diet-friendly. From hearty chilis and flavorful dips to crispy snacks and savory main dishes, we’ve got everything you need to host an unforgettable game day party that everyone will love – and feel good about!
**This post was originally published on 1/29/19 and has been fully updated with new photos, fresh recipes, and a dedicated section for fantastic Air Fryer options to make your healthy game day even better! Enjoy!**
Why the Instant Pot and Air Fryer are Your Game Day MVPs
I absolutely adore using my Instant Pot for game day gatherings because it’s a game-changer for feeding a crowd. You can whip up a huge batch of something incredibly delicious and then serve it directly from the pot, keeping it warm and ready for hungry fans. This means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the game!
And let’s not forget the Air Fryer! It’s the secret weapon for achieving that coveted crispy, crunchy texture in your favorite snacks and appetizers, all without needing a ton of added oil. Think healthier versions of classic “fried” foods that taste just as good, if not better!
These kitchen powerhouses make hosting a breeze. I’ve been cooking these healthy game day favorites all season long, and they’ve been massive hits with my family and friends. I’m thrilled to share them with you so you can elevate your own game day experience, making it much more delicious and worry-free!
Instant Pot Game Day Recipes: Hearty & Hands-Off
The Instant Pot is perfect for preparing large quantities of comforting, flavorful dishes that are ideal for a game day feast. From chili to mac and cheese, these recipes are designed to impress your guests while keeping things healthy and convenient.
Healthy Instant Pot Chili Mac [21 Day Fix | Gluten-Free | StoveTop Option] – Imagine the ultimate comfort food fusion: a hearty bowl of chili meeting creamy mac and cheese! This recipe delivers exactly that, but with a nutritious twist. Packed with extra veggies to boost its health factor and make it incredibly satisfying, this one-pot wonder is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any game day gathering. Its rich, savory flavors make it irresistible, and the Instant Pot makes preparation a breeze, allowing you to spend less time cooking and more time cheering on your team.
Instant Pot Beanless Beef Chili {Paleo/Whole 30 Friendly} – I am not kidding when I say this is the best chili I’ve ever had! This robust, flavorful chili is perfect for those following Paleo or Whole30, or simply anyone who prefers their chili without beans. If you love beans, feel free to add them in – it’s incredibly versatile. This recipe is a consistent crowd-pleaser and my readers (and my family!) make it over and over again. Plus, it doubles and freezes exceptionally well, making it ideal for prepping ahead of your big game day party!
Chipotle Pumpkin Turkey Chili | The Foodie and The Fix – This unique twist on a cold-weather classic introduces pumpkin for an added layer of nutrition, a subtly sweet and smoky flavor, and the perfect rich thickness we all crave in a chili. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal that’s both comforting and surprisingly light, making it a healthy game day chili option that stands out.
Instant Pot Turkey Chili | Carrie Elle – This easy Turkey Chili is nice and mild, making it a fantastic family favorite for game day, especially for the kiddos! It’s a straightforward, healthy recipe that’s quick to prepare in your Instant Pot. While the original recipe doesn’t include WW points, it clocks in at a super reasonable 1 Blue Plan point per serving (when using 99% fat-free turkey), making it a smart choice for Weight Watchers members.
Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Chili – If you love the zesty, spicy kick of buffalo chicken, you’ll adore this healthy, low-carb, and veggie-filled chili! It’s one of my husband’s absolute favorite recipes and delivers all the iconic buffalo flavor in a comforting, warm bowl. This is the perfect Instant Pot Game Day chili for those who crave a little heat without compromising on health.
Mini Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Pepper Nachos – These aren’t your average nachos! Thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot, the flank steak in these Mini Cheesesteak Stuffed Pepper Nachos comes out perfectly tender and flavorful. Using bell pepper “chips” instead of traditional tortilla chips makes this a fantastic low-carb and veggie-packed appetizer that’s super satisfying. They’re a vibrant and healthy way to enjoy all the classic Philly Cheesesteak flavors!
Instant Pot Deviled Eggs with Bacon, Cheddar, and Chives | 21 Day Fix, WW, Keto – Elevate a classic party appetizer with this incredibly yummy twist! Making deviled eggs in the Instant Pot ensures perfectly cooked eggs every time, and the addition of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and fresh chives makes these irresistible. They’re the perfect bite-sized snack for a crowd and align beautifully with 21 Day Fix, WW, and Keto plans.
21 Day Fix Instant Pot Flank Steak Tacos – Tacos are always a huge hit for game day, and these Flank Steak Tacos might just be my all-time favorite taco recipe! The Instant Pot works wonders to make the flank steak incredibly tender and flavorful. Set up a DIY taco bar with all the fixings – fresh salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, and a squeeze of lime – and let your guests customize their perfect game day meal. It’s an easy and interactive way to entertain!
21 Day Fix Enchilada Beef Dip – This creamy and zesty 21 Day Fix Enchilada Beef Dip is the ultimate Super Bowl appetizer! It’s incredibly easy to whip up either on your stove top or in your Instant Pot. Serve it warm with homemade tortilla chips, crunchy mini bell peppers, or even in a corn tortilla for a delightful, healthy dip that everyone will flock to.
Instant Pot Asian Steak Lettuce Wraps – Looking to try something a little different for game day? These delicious Asian-inspired Steak Wraps are bursting with flavor and offer a lighter, fresher alternative. The Instant Pot ensures the steak is perfectly cooked and tender, making it ideal for spooning into crisp lettuce wraps. They’re also fantastic served alongside a bowl of rice for a more substantial meal.
Instant Pot Low Carb Stuffed Pepper Soup – Don’t let the “low carb” aspect fool you – this Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup is a total crowd-pleaser, especially with the guys! It captures all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in a warm, satisfying bowl of soup. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make in the Instant Pot, making it a perfect healthy game day meal.
Instant Pot Bacon and Beer Cheese Cauliflower Soup | The Foodie and The Fix – Forget that this soup has cauliflower in it – the rich, savory bacon and the decadent beer cheese are the true stars here! This creamy, flavorful soup is an absolute triumph and the perfect game day combo for a chilly afternoon. It’s a surprisingly healthy way to indulge in big, bold flavors, designed with the 21 Day Fix in mind.
21 Day Fix Loaded Potato and Cauliflower Soup (Stove-top/Instant Pot) – On game day, anything “loaded” instantly sounds amazing, and this soup lives up to the hype while still being incredibly healthy! This Loaded Potato and Cauliflower Soup offers all the creamy, comforting flavors of a classic loaded baked potato soup, but lightened up with cauliflower. It’s a hearty and satisfying option that can be made easily on the stove-top or in your Instant Pot.
Healthy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup | 21 Day Fix Lasagna Soup [Gluten-free | Slow Cooker Option] – For a delightful twist on a traditional tray of lasagna, try this Instant Pot Lasagna Soup! It delivers all the beloved flavors of classic lasagna in a comforting, easy-to-serve soup format. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even with the kids, and offers gluten-free and slow cooker options for ultimate flexibility. Perfect for a cozy game day gathering!
Instant Pot Philly Cheesesteak | Carrie Elle – Who doesn’t love a classic Philly Cheesesteak on game day? This healthier Instant Pot version is so much better for you than takeout, while still tasting absolutely amazing! The Instant Pot makes the beef incredibly tender and flavorful. While the recipe doesn’t include WW points, it’s a hearty 16 Blue Plan points per sandwich – but trust me, it’s worth every single delicious bite for a game day indulgence!
21 Day Fix Pork Carnitas {Crock Pot|Instant Pot} – This Instant Pot Pork Carnitas recipe is another perfect option for feeding a crowd, making it the ideal flavorful meat for your game day taco party! The pork becomes incredibly tender and flavorful. Simply line up all your favorite fixings for tacos, burritos, and bowls, and entertaining will be an absolute breeze. It’s healthy, versatile, and incredibly delicious.
Instant Pot Chicken Carnitas with Avocado Peach Salsa [21 Day Fix | Weight Watchers] – If you love a good carnita, prepare to be amazed by this version using succulent chicken thighs! The Instant Pot works its magic, making the chicken incredibly tender and juicy. Paired with a vibrant, fresh avocado peach salsa, this dish is out of this world. It’s a delightful, healthy, and flavorful option that’s perfectly suited for both 21 Day Fix and Weight Watchers plans.
Healthy Instant Pot Pulled Pork with Mustard BBQ Sauce | The Foodie and The Fix – This mustard BBQ sauce has developed a cult following, and if you haven’t tried it yet, you absolutely must! Paired with tender, juicy pulled pork made effortlessly in the Instant Pot, this dish is a game day winner. The sauce would also be incredibly delicious with pulled chicken, offering a versatile and healthy option for your spread.
Instant Pot Southwest Pulled Pork Tenderloin | The Foodie and The Fix – This simple yet incredibly flavorful 21 Day Fix Southwestern Pulled Pork Tenderloin creates a delicious, healthy base for a myriad of game day dishes. Think loaded tacos, hearty BBQ sandwiches, topping for soups, or served as a flavorful main dish. The Instant Pot makes the tenderloin perfectly succulent, infusing it with vibrant Southwestern spices for a truly memorable meal.
Pulled Pork with Maple BBQ Sauce – This pulled pork recipe is an excellent choice for serving a large crowd, as it yields a generous amount of incredibly tender and flavorful pork. The homemade Maple BBQ sauce might just be my all-time favorite – it’s perfectly sweet, tangy, and smoky. Made effortlessly in the Instant Pot, this dish ensures your guests will be coming back for seconds (and thirds!).
21 Day Fix Instant Pot Maple BBQ Chicken – Featuring the exact same irresistible Maple BBQ sauce as our beloved pulled pork, this Instant Pot BBQ chicken is absolutely on point! It’s juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, making it a fantastic healthier alternative to traditional BBQ chicken. Perfect for sandwiches, salads, or simply enjoyed on its own as a hearty game day main.
Instant Pot Enchilada Pasta [21 Day Fix | WW | Gluten Free] – Experience all the vibrant flavors of your favorite Beef Enchiladas transformed into a comforting pasta dish! This Instant Pot Enchilada Pasta is a perfect choice for feeding the whole crowd, delivering a delicious and hearty meal with minimal effort. It’s a fantastic gluten-free option that aligns with both 21 Day Fix and WW plans, making it a healthy and satisfying game day main.
Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese | The Foodie and The Fix – What could be better than the creamy, cheesy goodness of Mac and Cheese? How about adding the zesty kick of Buffalo Chicken! This Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is an absolute flavor explosion, combining two beloved comfort foods into one irresistible dish. It’s the ultimate game day indulgence that still adheres to healthy eating principles, making it a must-try!
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese {Gluten-free}| 21 Day Fix Instant Pot Mac and Cheese {Weight Watchers Freestyle} – If you’re not a fan of buffalo spice, or just prefer a classic, creamy mac and cheese, this version is for you! Made in the Instant Pot for ultimate ease, this recipe features a secret ingredient: hidden veggies, adding a boost of nutrition without sacrificing any of the cheesy goodness. It’s gluten-free and tailored for both 21 Day Fix and Weight Watchers Freestyle, ensuring a healthy, satisfying, and delicious side for your game day spread.
Instant Pot Turkey Meatballs | Carrie Elle – These Instant Pot Turkey Meatballs are a total crowd-pleaser, especially with picky eaters! They’re tender, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, making them a fantastic addition to your game day spread. Serve them in a savory sauce as appetizers, or alongside some healthy pasta for a more substantial meal. They’re a versatile and healthy option that everyone will enjoy.
Air Fryer Game Day Recipes: Crispy, Crunchy & Convenient
The Air Fryer is your best friend for making healthier versions of crispy snacks and appetizers. Get that satisfying crunch without the deep-frying, perfect for quick bites that keep you focused on the game!
Healthy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos [Instant Pot | Air Fryer] – Taquitos are the ultimate grab-and-go game day food, allowing you to quickly grab a bite and get back to the TV before the next big play! These Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are incredibly flavorful, offering that signature spicy kick. Using the Air Fryer, they get wonderfully crispy without excess oil, making them a healthier and irresistible snack. You can even prep the chicken in your Instant Pot for extra ease!
Healthy Instant Pot Airfryer Chicken Taquitos (Slow Cooker | Oven Friendly | Gluten-free) – For another fantastic taquito option, these Healthy Chicken Taquitos are incredibly versatile and can be made in your Instant Pot, Air Fryer, slow cooker, or oven! They’re also gluten-free, making them accessible for more guests. Take these taquitos to the next level by topping them with some 21 Day Fix Homemade Salsa | Copy Cat Chipotle Pico de Gallo and creamy 21 Day Fix Guacamole (Copy Cat Chipotle Recipe) for an explosion of fresh flavor.
Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip Stuffed Peppers [Instant Pot | Air Fryer | Oven] – All the irresistible flavor of your favorite Buffalo Chicken Dip, but perfectly portion-controlled and low-carb! These stuffed peppers are absolutely delicious and incredibly clever. You can prepare the chicken in your Instant Pot and then bake them in the Air Fryer or oven for that perfect melty, bubbly finish. They’re a fantastic healthy alternative to traditional dip and chips, offering a satisfying and flavorful bite.
Asian Chicken Meatballs [21 Day Fix | Gluten-free | Dairy-free] – Meatballs cooked in the Air Fryer achieve a wonderfully nice and crispy exterior while remaining juicy inside. These Asian Chicken Meatballs are bursting with savory, umami flavor, and the homemade sauce is truly amazing! They’re a great healthy, gluten-free, and dairy-free appetizer option that’s perfect for game day, ensuring everyone can enjoy a flavorful bite.
Air Fryer French Fries | Grandnanny’s House – Who doesn’t love crispy, golden French fries? These Air Fryer French Fries are the perfect healthy game day snack! They achieve that satisfying crunch without the deep-fried guilt. For an ultimate indulgence, make a batch of chili (like one of the Instant Pot chilis above!) and boom – instant healthy chili cheese fries that are absolutely irresistible!
Healthy Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce | Gluten-free | Air Fryer | Oven – Coconut shrimp are an elegant yet approachable finger food, perfect for adding a touch of something special to your game day spread. These get incredibly crispy and golden in the Air Fryer (or oven), offering all the delicious flavor and texture without being deep-fried. Served with a tangy sweet chili dipping sauce, they’re a delightful and healthy gluten-free option that will impress your guests.
Healthy Chicken Parmesan – Imagine a generous tray of Healthy Chicken Parmesan ready for everyone to enjoy together at halftime! This recipe delivers all the savory, cheesy goodness of classic chicken parm but prepared in a much healthier way using your Air Fryer or oven. It’s a hearty, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing main dish that’s perfect for a substantial game day meal, offering comfort without the guilt.
Krispie Airfryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets | 21 Day Fix Buffalo Chicken Nuggets (Oven Friendly) – You know you need these irresistible Buffalo nuggets for everyone to enjoy as they cheer their team on (or perhaps just watch the commercials!). Made in the Air Fryer, they come out perfectly krispie and are bursting with that iconic buffalo flavor. These 21 Day Fix Buffalo Chicken Nuggets are an amazing, healthy alternative to traditional fried nuggets, and they’re oven-friendly too!
The Best Gluten Free Mini Crab Cakes [Air Fryer | Stove top] – These mini crab cakes are truly the best, offering perfect little bites to serve for the big game! Made wonderfully crispy and golden in the Air Fryer, they provide all the delicate flavor of crab cakes without being greasy. They’re a fantastic gluten-free appetizer that feels gourmet yet is surprisingly easy to make, sure to be a hit with all your guests.
Elevate Your Game Day: More Healthy Hosting Tips
Beyond these delicious recipes, making your game day healthy and enjoyable for everyone involves a few extra considerations. Encourage portion control by using smaller serving dishes or offering individual servings. Balance heavier dishes with fresh, vibrant options like a colorful veggie platter with a healthy dip. Remember to stay hydrated with water or unsweetened beverages. By incorporating these healthy Instant Pot and Air Fryer recipes into your lineup, you’re not just serving food; you’re serving up a winning game day experience that’s both satisfying and smart!
Looking for Even More Healthy Instant Pot Game Day Recipes?
Dive deeper into game day deliciousness with additional inspiration!
Check out this post from Carrie Elle for more fantastic Instant Pot Super Bowl Recipes!
Looking for More Everyday Instant Pot Recipes?
If you love the convenience of your Instant Pot for game day, you’ll love it for everyday meals too!
Explore 31 Days of Healthy Instant Pot Recipes [21 Day Fix | Weight Watchers Freestyle] for daily inspiration.