29 High Protein Recipes Helped Me Stop Snacking Every Hour

Snacking every hour feels like a part-time job nobody signed up for. With 29 protein-packed choices on hand, that clock-watching habit fades fast. They keep things balanced, leave room for actual meals, and stop the endless grazing loop. Less mindless munching, more freedom to think about things that aren’t crumbs stuck in the keyboard.

A close-up of a Cobb salad featuring sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, boiled eggs, red onion, bacon bits, and blue cheese crumbles on a bed of lettuce.
Cobb Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Shrimp Tempura

A bowl of crispy fried shrimp with slices of green onions and jalapeños.
Shrimp Tempura. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crispy coating paired with a tender inside makes this option both hearty and quick to enjoy. Shrimp Tempura works perfectly as a light meal or snack that keeps you full longer than you’d expect. Its balance of crunch and protein makes it stand out without feeling too heavy. A reliable go-to when you need something clean and filling without overcomplicating it.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura

French Onion Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with a golden-brown breadcrumb crust and garnished with fresh herbs.
French Onion Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Rich layers with a creamy, tasty base combine to create a sturdy and filling dish. French Onion Casserole is packed with robust flavors that stretch well beyond its simple preparation. Its baked consistency ensures every piece holds together making it easy to enjoy without extra work. A solid favorite for dinners when hunger needs to be kept in check.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Casserole

Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Close-up of seasoned and roasted meat with crispy edges.
Copycat Honey Baked Ham. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Juicy inside with a caramelized coating hits the right mix of sweet and savory in every bite. Copycat Honey Baked Ham stays moist while delivering bold flavors that make it perfect for big meals or leftovers. Its balance of texture and richness works well for keeping hunger at bay. A solid centerpiece for meals designed to last throughout the day.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Blackened Chicken Clubs

A grilled chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, bacon, and mayonnaise on toasted bread, served with potato chips on a white plate.
Blackened Chicken Clubs. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Packed with bold flavors and plenty of protein, these sandwiches are simple and fulfilling. Blackened Chicken Clubs bring a perfect combination of crisp textures and rich filling in every bite. Their straightforward assembly makes them ready-to-eat without creating a mess.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Chicken Clubs

Roast Beef

Sliced roast beef served on a bed of mashed potatoes, garnished with fresh rosemary.
Roast Beef. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Thick slices of tender meat with a rich finish make this a classic choice for hearty meals. Roast Beef delivers filling portions that are easy to pair with other sides or enjoy solo. Its deep flavors make every bite feel like a full experience, ensuring no snack cravings sneak up later. An easy option for when hunger needs something strong and dependable.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef

Grilled Pork Chops

A grilled pork chop garnished with chopped parsley is served on a plate.
Grilled Pork Chops. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Juicy on the inside with a bit of char on the outside, these chops bring everything you need in one bite. Grilled Pork Chops are simple enough to make yet deliver a filling protein that holds its own at any meal. The balanced flavors complement their hearty consistency making extra snacks less likely.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chops

Breakfast Burritos

Close-up of a burrito cut in half, showing fillings of scrambled eggs, avocado, tomatoes, cheese, and herbs wrapped in a tortilla.
Breakfast Burritos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Wrapped with a sturdy layer, each bite gives a mix of hearty and flavorful ingredients that stick with you. Breakfast Burritos are portable, protein-packed options that work well for any time of day, not just mornings. Their combination of easy assembly and delicious filling makes snacking in between meals unnecessary.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Burritos

Chicken Cordon Bleu

Sliced breaded chicken rolls filled with ham and cheese, topped with creamy sauce and garnished with chopped parsley on a plate.
Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Crispy outside, paired with flavorful layers of protein, makes this a filling choice for any occasion. Chicken Cordon Bleu combines classic ingredients and turns them into a savory experience that keeps cravings away. Easy to slice and portion, it works for both individual meals or family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu

Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

A close-up of Swedish meatballs covered in a creamy sauce, piled in a wooden bowl.
Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Tender bites coated in a smooth sauce create a dish that’s rich and delicious without being heavy. Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat) offer hearty portions loaded with protein to keep you full longer. Their slight sweetness complements the savory notes making each bite better than the last.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil.
Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Layered with rich fillings, this dish combines hearty portions and comforting flavors in every bite. Homemade Lasagna stacks protein-packed layers together ensuring you feel full and energized after just one slice. Its baked consistency ties everything into an easy-to-serve meal that stays together. Perfect for feeding a crowd or making plenty of leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Baked rice casserole with melted cheese on top, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy bites mixed with hearty grains make this dish the ultimate combination for filling meals. Chicken and Rice Casserole brings together protein and carbs in a way that feels clean and balanced every time. Its baked consistency keeps it from falling apart, making it easy to serve and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Casserole

Beef Bourguignon

Close-up of a savory beef stew with chunks of beef, bacon, onion, and vegetables in a rich, glossy sauce, served over creamy mashed potatoes.
Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Tender slow-cooked bites combine with a rich broth to create a dish that feels both luxurious and filling. Beef Bourguignon brings deep flavors into every bite, making it the perfect option to keep you satisfied for hours. The balance between protein and flavor prevents any craving later on.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon

Taco Meatloaf

Close-up of a slice of cheesy taco casserole topped with chopped tomatoes, green onions, and jalapeño slices on a white plate, reminiscent of the comforting flavors found in slow cooker taco meatloaf.
Taco Meatloaf. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spiced layers with a hearty center bring a new twist to a classic favorite in this recipe. Taco Meatloaf adds bold flavors while keeping things simple and packed with protein for any meal. Its shape and consistency hold well ensuring leftovers stay just as good. Perfect for meal prep or feeding a group that needs energy-packed options.
Get the Recipe: Taco Meatloaf

Orange Chicken

A bowl of crispy tofu coated in sesame sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a bed of lettuce.
Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crispy bites with a hint of citrus balance sweet and savory in a way that feels complete every time. Orange Chicken keeps protein levels high while bringing a slight zing that wakes up your taste without being overwhelming. Its texture and coating make it a tidy option for quick meals. A smart pick for pleasing hunger without the need for unnecessary sides.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Baked Ziti

A spoon scoops baked ziti pasta covered in melted cheese and tomato sauce from a casserole dish.
Baked Ziti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Rich layers of pasta combined with hearty ingredients make this option both comforting and filling. Baked Ziti serves up big slices loaded with protein, ensuring you stay full longer without constant snacking. Its baked texture means each serving stays clean and easy to handle. Perfect for family meals or gatherings when simplicity is key.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ziti

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

A plate of crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders next to a dipping bowl filled with creamy sauce.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crispy outside paired with tender inside makes these an easy and pleasing choice for any meal. Air Fryer Chicken Tenders deliver high protein in a format that’s simple to eat without mess. Their light coating ensures they stay crunchy while keeping hunger at bay. Great for quick lunches or dinners needing less prep and cleanup time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Cheeseburger Pasta

A skillet filled with penne pasta topped with shredded cheese, ground beef, diced tomatoes, lettuce, and pickles—a delicious take on cheeseburger pasta.
Cheeseburger Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Smooth layers paired with savory bites create a meal packed with protein and flavor. Cheeseburger Pasta brings classic elements together in an easy-to-serve dish that’s hearty and filling. Its combination of textures ensures every forkful hits the mark, making snacking unnecessary. Ideal for family meals or casual dinners needing to keep everyone full.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Pasta

Hot and Sour Soup

Bowl of hot and sour soup with mushrooms, tofu, and sliced green onions, with a spoon on the side.
Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Rich broth with hearty pieces offers a combination of flavors that keep you satisfied longer. Hot and Sour Soup balances spice and protein in a simple-to-serve format that’s perfect for moments needing quick, filling meals. Easy to enjoy with minimal cleanup, this soup works well for big groups or solo dining when you need something strong and effective.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken breast slices served over a bed of greens with lemon wedges on the side.
Chipotle Grilled Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Smoky with a bit of heat this protein-packed option brings flavor without the fuss. Chipotle Grilled Chicken uses balanced spices to deliver a robust taste that stays delicious for hours. Its straightforward preparation and hearty slices ensure meals are easy to handle and enjoy. Perfect for fast, filling options without the mess of complicated dishes.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Close-up of a Beef Enchilada Tortellini dish topped with ground meat, corn, black beans, and chopped green onions.
Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bold bites combine with a creamy center to create a dish that’s both exciting and filling. Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini packs high protein in an easy-to-eat pasta format making snacking less appealing afterward. The layers stay intact ensuring every forkful remains mess-free and fulfilling. Great for those needing something quick, hearty and fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Ham and Potato Casserole

A wooden spoon lifts a serving of cheesy casserole with chunks of ham and potatoes from a baking dish.
Ham and Potato Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Dense slices filled with rich flavors ensure you stay full and energized after every bite. Ham and Potato Casserole combines hearty ingredients in a baked format that’s easy to serve and enjoy. Its combination of protein and carbs means constant snacking isn’t necessary. Ideal for family meals or hosting without worrying about extra hunger.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Potato Casserole

Easy Chow Mein

A close-up view of a plate of chow mein stir-fried noodles with vegetables and black sesame seeds, with chopsticks visibly picking up a portion.
Easy Chow Mein. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Stir-fried noodles paired with protein-packed bites provide a filling meal without any fuss. Easy Chow Mein offers a balanced mix that keeps snacking between meals at bay. Soft yet firm textures ensure clean servings ideal for both quick lunches and easy dinners.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!)

Air fryer chicken wings served with fresh tomatoes and herbs on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crispy coating with tender pieces inside makes these wings a perfect choice for mess-free eating. Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!) ensure high protein in a handheld format that’s easy to enjoy. Their crunchy outside keeps things simple and clean without extra tools for eating. Great for gatherings or solo meals that need to be hearty and convenient.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!)

Sausage Balls

Plate of crispy fried dumplings with chopped herbs, served with a bowl of brown dipping sauce.
Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bite-sized nuggets pack high protein into a portable format perfect for snacks or meals. Sausage Balls offer a unique balance of flavor and filling in a way that’s easy to handle. Their firmness makes them ideal for quick grabs without needing utensils. Reliable for keeping hunger at bay, whether enjoyed as a snack or part of a meal.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Fork lifting a serving of cheesy cheeseburger casserole garnished with parsley.
The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Layers of hearty ingredients with a smooth finish make this casserole filling and easy to serve. The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole combines protein in a simple format, ensuring snacking isn’t needed later. Each baked piece holds together well, making it ideal for clean and quick meals.
Get the Recipe: The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

A bowl of white rice topped with glazed chicken and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweet glaze paired with tender protein keeps this dish rewarding and easy to enjoy. Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe offers a balanced combination that’s delicious without requiring constant snacks afterward. Its firmness ensures every bite stays mess-free and enjoyable. Perfect for dinners needing a boost of flavor in a simple format.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

A bowl of vibrant pasta salad with penne, cherry tomatoes, black olives, diced cucumbers, red onions, and a drizzle of dressing.
Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cold mix with grilled additions creates a hearty yet refreshing dish packed with protein. Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies offers clean servings ideal for keeping hunger at bay. Its balance of textures and flavors means it’s filling without feeling heavy. Great for meals needing something light, refreshing and energizing.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Best Tuna Casserole

Tuna casserole in a white baking dish.
Best Tuna Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Baked layers offer a rich finish paired with firm components that bring high protein to every bite. Best Tuna Casserole stays simple yet effective in delivering filling portions ideal for meals needing strength. Each scoop holds its shape, ensuring easy handling without mess. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep that keeps snacking away.
Get the Recipe: Best Tuna Casserole

Cobb Salad

A close-up of a Cobb salad featuring sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, boiled eggs, red onion, bacon bits, and blue cheese crumbles on a bed of lettuce.
Cobb Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fresh bites with hearty portions create a balanced meal in a simple format that’s easy to enjoy. Cobb Salad combines high protein pieces with crisp elements, ensuring it’s filling without being overwhelming. Its straightforward assembly keeps things clean and hassle-free. Perfect when you need a refreshing yet strong option for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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