29 Recipes To Make High Protein Meals Your New Secret Weapon

These turn everyday meals into protein-packed powerhouses. 29 recipes that boost your plate with all the muscle-building goodness you need, without turning dinner into a chore. They’re easy, they’re filling, and they make sure you’re ready to take on whatever comes next. Strong meals, no extra effort.

A slice of cheesy lasagna being lifted from a baking dish, topped with melted cheese and parsley.
Cattle Drive Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

White Chicken Chili

A bowl of creamy White Chicken Chili with chunks of chicken, sliced avocado, green jalapeño peppers, white beans, and fresh cilantro.
White Chicken Chili. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you’re craving something warm and comforting yet want to keep it on the lighter side, this is the go-to dish. It’s packed with protein without feeling heavy, perfect for those nights when you want to feel full but not stuffed. They say it’s all about the balance, and White Chicken Chili nails it.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Chili

Korean Burgers

Close-up of a hamburger with a sesame seed bun, beef patty, green onions, and rich brown sauce.
Korean Burgers. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Ever thought burgers could use a bit of a twist? Enter this recipe, blending classic comfort with unexpected flavors that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Korean Burgers are where it’s at if you’re up for a mix of familiar and new. It’s the kind of meal that brings the wow factor without leaving you slaving in the kitchen all day.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

Firecracker Meatballs

A plate of meatballs topped with sauce, sesame seeds, and chopped green onions on a bed of white rice.
Firecracker Meatballs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For those nights when you want a bit of spice without going overboard, this dish has your back. It’s about bringing a kick to your dinner table without the fuss, perfect for spicing up your meal prep routine. Firecracker Meatballs prove that you can have flavor-packed dishes that are simple to make.
Get the Recipe: Firecracker Meatballs

Beef Jerky

A plate of beef jerky slices next to a small bowl of dipping sauce.
Beef Jerky. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Looking for a snack that’s as nutritious as it is delicious? This one’s a game changer for snack lovers looking to up their protein intake without compromising on taste. Beef Jerky is not just a snack, it’s the ultimate convenience food that’s homemade.
Get the Recipe: Beef Jerky

Salmon Caesar Salad

Close-up of a Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, shredded chicken, grated cheese, and a creamy dressing.
Salmon Caesar Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Salad doesn’t have to be boring, and this recipe is here to prove just that. It’s a fresh take on a classic, combining ease with a touch of elegance. Salmon Caesar Salad is your go-to when you want something light yet fulfilling. It’s all about making healthy choices without sacrificing flavor, and this dish is a testament to that philosophy.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Caesar Salad

Chili Relleno Casserole

A slice of lasagna with beef, mushrooms, cheese, and vegetables being lifted from a baking dish.
Chili Relleno Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ever been in the mood for something hearty yet not in the mood to deal with the aftermath of a kitchen disaster? This dish offers all the comfort of a home-cooked meal with minimal cleanup. Chili Relleno Casserole brings the flavor without the fuss, ideal for those busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Chili Relleno Casserole

Three Cheese Manicotti

A plate of stuffed cannelloni topped with tomato sauce, grated cheese, and fresh basil.
Three Cheese Manicotti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If cheese is your thing, then you’re in for a treat. This dish is a cheese lover’s dream, making it hard to resist even for those trying to keep things light. Three Cheese Manicotti is all about indulgence, the perfect dish for when you want to treat yourself. It’s comfort food at its best, making any evening feel special.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

Asian Style Pork Chops

Close-up of sliced grilled pork belly garnished with sesame seeds and green chili, served on a bed of kale.
Asian Style Pork Chops. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes, all you need is a dish that brings a little excitement to the dinner table. This is where simple meets extraordinary, combining familiar ingredients in a not-so-familiar way. Asian Style Pork Chops are for those evenings when you’re looking to travel through your tastebuds.
Get the Recipe: Asian Style Pork Chops

Shrimp and Grits

A bowl of creamy grits topped with shrimp in a tomato-based sauce and garnished with fresh parsley.
Shrimp and Grits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Craving something southern? This dish brings the heat and the heart, a true soul food classic that’s both comforting and complex. Shrimp and Grits is about enjoying the flavors of the south from the comfort of your home. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly spectacular.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits

Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Close-up of several Bacon Jalapeno Popper Cheese Balls wrapped in bacon, stuffed with cheese, and seasoned with herbs and spices, placed on crumpled parchment paper.
Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those times when you’re in charge of appetizers and want to bring something unforgettable to the table, this recipe has you covered. It’s the perfect blend of spicy and tasty, ensuring you’ll be the hero of any gathering. Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls are a crowd-pleaser, proving that great things come in small packages.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

General Tso’s Chicken

Stir-fried chicken pieces in a spicy sauce, garnished with chopped green onions, served in a round metal dish on an orange placemat.
General Tso’s Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Got a thing for takeout but not the guilt that comes with it? This dish is a healthier twist on a classic, rewarding those cravings without leaving you with regret. General Tso’s Chicken is for those evenings when you want a bit of indulgence, guilt-free. It’s about enjoying the flavors you love in a way that feels good.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich

Tuna burger with lettuce, tomato, and onion on a bun, served on a white plate.
Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sandwiches aren’t just for lunch—they can be dinner-worthy too. This recipe enhances the humble sandwich, proving that some rules are meant to be broken. Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich is all about convenience with a side of sophistication. It’s perfect for those nights when time is of the essence but you still want something a bit special.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich

Neapolitan Pizza

A quick and easy pizza recipe on a white plate.
Neapolitan Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When the pizza cravings hit, nothing else will do. This recipe brings the heart of Italy into your kitchen, without needing a plane ticket. Neapolitan Pizza is about embracing the art of pizza making, turning your kitchen into the next best thing to a pizzeria.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Homemade Bread Pudding

A close-up of decadent bread pudding, topped with creamy vanilla sauce, is being lifted from a serving plate.
Homemade Bread Pudding. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Looking for a dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl? This is where comfort meets sweetness in a dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Homemade Bread Pudding is not just any dessert, it’s a reason to look forward to the end of any meal. It’s about finding joy in the simple things, and this dish is simplicity at its sweetest.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Bread Pudding

Egg Prosciutto Bagel

Close-up of a savory pastry topped with a sunny-side-up egg, sliced ham, yellow bell pepper, and garnished with chopped parsley, served on a sesame seed bun.
Egg Prosciutto Bagel. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Breakfast for dinner is always a good idea! This recipe takes the classic bagel to new heights, combining familiar breakfast flavors in a way that works any time of day. Egg Prosciutto Bagel is your excuse to enjoy breakfast favorites even when the sun has set.
Get the Recipe: Egg Prosciutto Bagel

Zucchini Fritters

A stack of zucchini fritters topped with sour cream, thinly sliced shallots, and a sprig of dill.
Zucchini Fritters. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you’re looking to add more veggies into your diet but in a way that doesn’t feel like a chore, this recipe comes to the rescue. It’s a gratifying way to enjoy zucchini, transforming it into something everyone will want seconds of. Zucchini Fritters are the answer to the question of how to make vegetables exciting.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Fritters

Huevos Rancheros

A plate of huevos rancheros with sunny-side-up eggs, avocado slices, refried beans, tomato sauce, crumbled cheese, and garnished with green onions and cilantro.
Huevos Rancheros. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If breakfast for dinner is your thing, then prepare to be thrilled. This dish brings the flavors of Mexico right to your plate, combining simplicity with bold tastes. Huevos Rancheros is perfect for those times when you’re seeking a meal that’s both hearty and bursting with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Huevos Rancheros

Mango Shrimp Salad

A bowl of shrimp ceviche with diced mango, avocado, red onion, red pepper, and cilantro, with a spoon inside.
Mango Shrimp Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

In the mood for something light, refreshing, yet rewarding? This dish strikes the perfect balance, offering a taste of the tropics without the need for a passport. Mango Shrimp Salad is about bringing a bit of sunshine to your table, no matter the weather outside.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

Veggie Pizza

Someone taking a slice of veggie pizza.
Veggie Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pizza can definitely be healthy and delicious at the same time. This recipe challenges that notion, topping a classic crust with loads of veggies for a guilt-free indulgence. Veggie Pizza is your ticket to enjoying pizza night without the side of regret. It’s all about embracing the power of vegetables in a fun and flavorful way.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pizza

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.

Craving Chinese takeout but not all the calories that often come with it? This dish offers all the sweet and tangy goodness you love, made right in your kitchen. Orange Chicken is a healthier take on a favorite, promising all the flavor without the extra grease. It’s a recipe that lets you indulge in your takeout cravings the homemade way.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

Close-up of a shrimp curry dish with rice, topped with black sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Adding a bit of adventure to your meal plans is easy with this dish. Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry is a one-way ticket to flavor town, offering a coconutty, spicy kick that’s hard to resist. It’s about embracing bold flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish brings the excitement of travel to your dining table.
Get the Recipe: Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

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.

When you’re in the mood for something deeply comforting and impressively tasty, this recipe has you covered. It’s a classic dish that combines tenderness with a rich sauce, a true labor of love. Beef Bourguignon is perfect for those chilly evenings when only a stew will do. It’s all about taking your time to create something truly special.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pasta nights just got a lot more interesting. This recipe brings a touch of Italy to your dinner table, combining simple ingredients for an utterly rewarding meal. Italian Pasta with Salami is all about those flavors that make you feel like you’re dining in a quaint Italian bistro.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, grated cheese, and dressing.
Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sometimes, you just need a classic that’s stood the test of time. This salad is all about crisp greens and a creamy dressing, a combination that never goes out of style. Caesar Salad is the ultimate side dish that often steals the show. It’s perfect for cleansing the palate or serving alongside your favorite main course.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas

Close-up of folded tortillas filled with chicken, cheese, and herbs, garnished with cilantro.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re in the mood for a meal that’s as fun to eat as it is to say, look no further. Combining the heat of jalapeños with the comfort of chicken and cheese, this dish is a party on a plate. Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas are perfect for those who love a bit of spice with their comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas

Roast Beef

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

There are times when only a classic roast will do, and this recipe is here for those moments. It’s about enjoying the simpler things, letting the roast take center stage. Roast Beef is perfect for Sunday dinners or any occasion that calls for something a bit more traditional. It’s a reminder of the timeless appeal of well-cooked meat.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef

Kung Pao Chicken

A close-up of a stir-fry dish featuring pieces of chicken, snap peas, red bell peppers, scallions, and black sesame seeds.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Craving something with a bit of heat? This dish delivers the perfect amount of spice, paired with the pleasing crunch of veggies. Kung Pao Chicken is a gratifying stir-fry that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. It’s a go-to for those weeknight dinners when you’re craving something spicy and worthwhile.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Pork Tenderloin

Close-up of roasted pork tenderloin on a white plate, topped with a drizzle of dark sauce. The meat is seasoned with visible spices and has a textured, caramelized surface.
Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When you’re looking for a dish that’s both elegant and easy, this is the one to reach for. It combines the simplicity of preparation with a result that feels gourmet. Pork Tenderloin is perfect for those times when you’re looking to impress without the stress. It showcases how minimal ingredients can lead to a show-stopping meal.
Get the Recipe: Pork Tenderloin

Cattle Drive Casserole

A slice of cheesy lasagna being lifted from a baking dish, topped with melted cheese and parsley.
Cattle Drive Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Feeling the need for some down-home comfort? This dish takes you on a trip to the heartland, where comfort food reigns supreme. Cattle Drive Casserole is all about hearty ingredients coming together to warm you from the inside out. It’s a tribute to rustic, feel-good dishes that fill you up and bring a smile to your face.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

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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