These high protein meals are so flavorful and satisfying, you’d never guess they’re macro-friendly.
You know those days when you're craving something hearty – maybe cheesy, saucy, or even a little indulgent? But you still want to stay on track with your macros? That’s exactly where these high protein recipes come in.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, trying to get more protein into family dinners, or just need healthy recipes that don’t taste healthy, I’ve got you covered.
These recipes are proof that you can eat well, feel full, and still love every bite.
Breakfast
1. Breakfast Biscuits
These Breakfast Biscuits are a lifesaver in my house. I make a big batch on Sunday, and we have grab-and-go breakfasts ready for the whole week. They’re loaded with sausage, eggs, and cheese – everything you’d want in a satisfying breakfast! And they freeze and reheat like a dream. My kids love them, my husband asks for them weekly, and I love knowing they’re starting the day with something homemade and protein-packed.
2. Chocolate Overnight Oats
These Chocolate Overnight Oats are a breakfast I look forward to. They’re rich, creamy, and full of protein, and they keep me satisfied all morning. I prep a few jars at a time so they’re ready to go. It’s like having dessert for breakfast! But way more nourishing. Also, try our Instant Oatmeal and Strawberry Overnight Oats.
3. Cottage Cheese Pancakes
Cottage Cheese Pancakes were a surprise hit in our house. I was skeptical at first, but they’re light, fluffy, and packed with protein. They’re easy to make and reheat well, and I love them with a little jam or fresh fruit. My kids had no idea they were healthy!
4. Protein Waffles
These Protein Waffles are a freezer staple for us. Make a big batch, freeze them, and pop them in the toaster for a quick breakfast that feels like a treat. They’re fluffy, delicious, and keep us full all morning. My kids like them with homemade syrup. I love them with berries and yogurt.
5. Pitaya Bowls
Pitaya Bowls are a bright, refreshing breakfast or snack that the whole family will love. They’re colorful, packed with nutrients, and surprisingly filling thanks to the added protein. I load them up with fruit, granola, and a drizzle of nut butter.
6. Huevos Rancheros
Huevos Rancheros are my favorite when I’m craving something savory and a little spicy in the morning. The eggs, beans, salsa, and tortilla come together into such a satisfying, protein-rich breakfast. I make it on weekends or when I need a serious pick-me-up, and it never disappoints.
7. Breakfast Skillet
This Breakfast Skillet is one of my weekend go-to's. I love loading it up with eggs, potatoes, veggies, and whatever protein we have on hand. It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and makes the best leftovers, and it’s the kind of meal that keeps everyone full and happy. Also, try our super popular Breakfast Casserole.
Lunch/Dinner
8. Protein Pizza
Protein Pizza is how we do pizza night without the post-dinner slump. It’s cheesy, satisfying, and packed with protein, so I don’t feel like I’m missing out on anything. I love adding veggies and lean meat, and everyone builds their own. It’s fun, fast, and a little more balanced than delivery.
9. BBQ Chicken Bowl
This BBQ Chicken Bowl is everything I want in a weeknight dinner – easy, packed with flavor, and high in protein. I layer the chicken over black beans and rice or greens, add the cooked and fresh veggies, and a drizzle of my homemade Ranch BBQ sauce. It’s customizable and always hits the spot! Check out all of our hearty bowl recipes.
10. Salmon Tacos
These Salmon Tacos are my favorite way to add more fish to our weekly meals. They’re quick, flavorful, and feel like something special, even though they’re really easy to make. The salmon cooks up perfectly every time, and I love pairing it with a crunchy slaw and simple cilantro lime sauce. It’s one of those meals that feels light but is still totally satisfying, and my family always cleans their plates.
11. Lentil Soup
I make this Lentil Soup all the time during the colder months. It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with plant-based protein. It freezes beautifully, and I love having a batch ready for easy lunches. Even my meat-loving husband goes back for seconds. Also, try my Spanish Lentil Stew.
12. Mediterranean Meatball Bowl
This Mediterranean Meatball Bowl is a total weeknight win. The meatballs are juicy and flavorful, and I love piling everything into a bowl with rice, veggies, and a quick homemade tzatziki sauce. It’s high in protein and feels like something you'd get at a restaurant. My whole family loves this one.
13. Apple Pecan Salad
I love everything about this Apple Pecan Salad, it’s crunchy, sweet, and has enough protein to make it satisfying. It’s perfect for lunch or as a lighter dinner, especially in the fall. The combination of apples, toasted pecans, and homemade light balsamic dressing is one I come back to again and again. It feels fancy, yet it comes together in minutes.
14. Quinoa Salad
This Quinoa Salad is one of my favorite things to meal prep for lunch. It’s light but super filling thanks to the protein in the quinoa, and it’s full of bright, fresh flavors. I toss in whatever veggies I have on hand and drizzle them with my favorite dressing. It’s one of those recipes that always hits the spot. We have a Thai Quinoa Salad too. Need even more protein? Try adding 12oz grilled chicken breast, shrimp, tofu, or steak.
Snacks/Dessert
15. Protein Banana Bread
This Protein Banana Bread brings all the nostalgic flavor I love, but with a boost of protein that keeps me full longer. It’s soft, just sweet enough, and perfect for breakfast or a snack. I like to slice and freeze it so I can grab a piece whenever I need something quick. Even my picky eaters ask for seconds.
16. Protein Ice Cream
This Protein Ice Cream has become a family favorite! It’s sweet, creamy, and tastes like a treat, but with a lot less sugar and a big protein boost. I love that I can whip it up in minutes and feel good about serving it to my kids. It’s our healthy answer to ice cream night.
17. Chia Seed Pudding
I make this Chia Seed Pudding at least once a week because it’s such a perfect make-ahead breakfast or snack. It’s creamy, lightly sweet, and packed with plant-based protein. I love topping it with berries, bananas, or whatever’s in the fridge. It’s my go-to when I want something easy but nourishing.
18. Protein Bars
These Homemade Protein Bars are a total game-changer. I used to spend so much on store-bought ones, but these taste way better and I know exactly what’s in them. I keep a batch in the fridge and grab one when I’m headed to soccer practice, errands, or just need a quick snack. They’re chewy, satisfying, and feel like a treat.
19. Instant Pot Yogurt
I never thought I’d make Homemade Yogurt until I tried this Instant Pot version, and now I don’t go a week without it. It’s incredibly creamy, full of protein, and way more affordable than store-bought. I love adding it to smoothies, topping it with fruit and granola, or even using it in place of sour cream. Plus, it feels so good knowing exactly what’s in it.
20. Vanilla Protein Shake
This Vanilla Protein Shake is a go-to in my house, especially after a workout or when I need something quick mid-morning. It’s smooth, creamy, and feels like a treat, but it gives me lasting energy without weighing me down. I love how easy it is to customize with different add-ins like my favorite brand of vanilla protein powder. It’s one of those recipes I always have the ingredients for, and my kids even ask for it as an after-school snack. Also, try our Chocolate Protein Shake – be sure to make it with my favorite chocolate protein powder.
21. Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs aren’t just tasty, they’re a little protein-packed powerhouse in every bite! Made with lean ground chicken, they deliver the kind of high-quality protein that keeps you full, fueled, and feeling strong, without weighing you down. It has a delicious Blue Cheese Yogurt Dip that is creamy and tasty while adding even more protein. This snack is as nourishing as it is crave-worthy!
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