45 High Protein Meals for When You Need a Filling, Sensible Option

Finding meals that actually keep you full and energized can feel like a challenge, especially after a long day. That’s why this list of 45 high-protein meals is so useful when you want something hearty on your plate. Ideal for quick lunches, dinners that need to stretch a little further, or prepping ahead for busy times.

Coconut Shrimp

Shifting toward higher protein doesn’t mean missing out on fun foods, and Coconut Shrimp makes every meal bright. Guests gather quickly, looking for seconds. I save leftovers for snacks that feel just as special. Dinners like this prove balanced meals can still be exciting.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Shrimp

Three Cheese Manicotti

Stepping up the protein game gets extra cheesy with this Three Cheese Manicotti. Friends linger a little longer, enjoying each stuffed bite and the creamy filling. I bring any extras to work for lunches that keep me going. Comforting and filling, this dish never leaves you hungry.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Big platters of Buffalo Chicken Nachos call everyone to the table whenever you want something bold and fulfilling. People grab seconds, thankful for something that truly fills them up. I put leftovers aside for quick snacks the next day. Protein-packed meals like this always win.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Bringing home-cooked flavor with solid nutrition, this Copycat Honey Baked Ham boasts a crowd-pleasing taste. Plates empty fast as people return for more slices. I pack up leftovers for awesome sandwiches throughout the week. Hearty mains never go out of style.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Chinese Steamed Chicken

Forget settling for plain when you can enjoy Chinese Steamed Chicken as a higher-protein option. Friends often comment on how light yet filling it feels. I reach for this recipe when I want easy dinners and easy cleanup. Smart meals don’t need to be boring.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Steamed Chicken

Lamb Chops

Nothing feels more special than biting into Lamb Chops when you’re hungry for something satisfying. People usually ask for another chop before the first is gone. I save leftovers for wraps that help power me through busy afternoons. Protein-forward dishes like this never disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Chops

Sloppy Joe Casserole

Easy casseroles deliver, especially with this Sloppy Joe Casserole on busy nights. Folks go back for seconds and the comfort is real. I like making a bigger batch since leftovers keep everyone full much longer. It’s an option that brings both heart and nourishment.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Rolls piled high with this Philly Cheesesteak Sliders disappear in no time at gatherings. Friends gladly grab a few extras, loving how hearty they are. I bag up extra sandwiches for future lunches that don’t leave me searching for snacks. Small bites can still be big on protein.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Banana Avocado Bread

For a smart, nourishing breakfast, nothing beats Banana Avocado Bread that’s packed and moist. Slices fly off the counter, perfect for mornings when hunger comes early. I throw some in lunchboxes to keep everyone satisfied. It’s comfort food with a useful twist.
Get the Recipe: Banana Avocado Bread

Meatloaf

Family meals get a major protein boost with this Meatloaf on the table. Each thick slice disappears quickly, hardly ever leaving leftovers behind. I grab a cold piece for a post-workout meal. Classic dishes like this make healthy eating much easier.
Get the Recipe: Meatloaf

Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

Weeknight dinners run smoothly once you plate Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken. Friends hover near the pan, loving every saucy bite. I box up leftovers to keep lunches interesting and protein-rich. Takeout favorites made at home are a total win.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

Hamburger Casserole

Main dishes like this Hamburger Casserole fill you up and stick with you. People are happy to help themselves to seconds with no worries about staying full. I wrap up extras for busy days when quick fuel is all I need. Meals with staying power always get repeated.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Pass a tray of these Ham and Cheese Sliders around and everyone’s happy. Hands grab seconds before you can even sit down. I box up the rest for packed lunches that never disappoint. Protein-rich bites like these are always a smart option.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken

A quick win shows up with this Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken—an easy route to fill up without fuss. Everybody finishes their servings with smiles. I pack up any extras for a lean lunch that powers my day. Meals like this are my secret to feeling ready.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Tuna Casserole

Classic comfort lands on the table with this Tuna Casserole, perfect for protein seekers. Seconds are always in demand thanks to the warm, hearty flavors. I slice it up for fast meals later when the day gets too busy. Simple and filling dishes keep dinner stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Casserole

Marry Me Chicken Soup

Cold evenings find new comfort with this Marry Me Chicken Soup. People keep reaching for another bowl, grateful for the rich texture and wholesome feeling. I double up, making sure lunch tomorrow is just as nourishing. Soups like this put hunger on pause.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup

Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

Door opens, and the scent of this Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole pulls everyone in. Friends wipe the pan clean, getting both crunch and plenty of protein. I reserve portions for later since leftovers rarely last long. Fast and filling is always a win.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

White Chicken Chili

Wholesome warmth comes fast with this White Chicken Chili. Folks ladle out seconds, finding it both light and hearty. I use leftovers for lunches that stick with me until dinner. High protein never tasted so inviting.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Chili

Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Snacking changes when you reach for this Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie. People ask for the recipe, surprised at how filling a dessert can be. I sneak one into my work bag for a midday boost. Treats can definitely be both tasty and sensible.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Million Dollar Casserole

Sitting down to this Million Dollar Casserole turns regular meals into something memorable. Guests keep coming back, thankful for a meal that lasts. I dish out extra servings for fast, filling lunches. Good casseroles make high-protein eating effortless.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Casserole

Stuffed Air Fryer Sloppy Joe Peppers

Flavor and nutrition team up with these Stuffed Air Fryer Sloppy Joe Peppers on the plate. Eager hands grab them as soon as they’re ready. I stash extras for a protein-rich snack during busy afternoons. Meals packed with protein keep everybody on track.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Air Fryer Sloppy Joe Peppers

Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

Quick, hot, and packing plenty of protein, this Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla saves the day. Plates clear quickly since everyone’s happy to eat their fill. I make a double batch for quick snacks that actually fill me up. Easy cheese is still a smart choice.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Bringing the restaurant home never fails with this Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara. Forks scrape the bottoms of bowls, leaving nothing behind. I bag up any extra for a hearty lunch. Ravioli makes high-protein meals satisfying and simple.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Cheeseburger Casserole

Classic dinners get an upgrade with this Cheeseburger Casserole that combines comfort with smart choices. Folks always circle back for seconds, never worried about hunger. I make a large batch so no one misses out. Real food keeps everyone fueled.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Casserole

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Bowls of this Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings light up any table. Guests spoon up creamy bites that keep them going. I box up leftovers for dinners without the hassle. Family favorites stay on repeat because they’re both hearty and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Spaghetti Bolognese

Sticking with tradition makes easy sense with this Spaghetti Bolognese. People heap their plates, happy for a protein-rich meal that doesn’t cut corners. I freeze leftovers for a future dinner in a pinch. Pasta dinners make life a whole lot easier.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Appetizers like these Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls don’t last long at any get-together. Friends marvel at how filling one bite can be. I bring them out when big hunger strikes and every bite counts. Fun snacks can offer real fuel.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Turkey Chili

Cold days fly by with a bowl of this Turkey Chili close by. Everybody helps themselves, enjoying how well it sticks around through busy afternoons. I put away any leftovers for quick weekday meals. Big bowls like these bring you comfort and energy.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Chili

Tortilla Pizza

Rethinking pizza night leads straight to this Tortilla Pizza, which offers crunch and plenty of protein. Hands reach for more slices, loving how fulfilling it is. I pile on leftovers for filling lunches that keep me going. Weeknights just got a lot smarter.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza

Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Mashups bring excitement to dinnertime, and this Beef Enchilada Tortellini is proof. Friends always want to try something new, especially when it’s hearty. I save servings for next-day meals that feel every bit as good. Crossover recipes make every bite interesting.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Spicy Lasagna Soup

Soup with a bold twist comes alive with Spicy Lasagna Soup at the table. Bowls are empty before you know it, and each bite delivers big comfort. I keep leftovers for quick dinners that feel extra great. Hearty soups like this go beyond ordinary meals.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Lasagna Soup

Seasoned Beef Tacos

All eyes light up when you bring out Seasoned Beef Tacos. Everyone’s happy to pile their shells and fill up without worry. I make a platter so nobody misses out between big bites. Tacos pull double duty as comfort and fuel.
Get the Recipe: Seasoned Beef Tacos

Chow Mein

Getting protein from dinner means recipes like Chow Mein step up. People slurp their noodles with real happiness. I pack extras for lunches that don’t leave me hungry by noon. Stir-fried noodles hold their own any day.
Get the Recipe: Chow Mein

Spicy Chicken Tamale Pie

Filling and a little fiery, this Spicy Chicken Tamale Pie is built for big appetites. Guests help themselves to seconds and ask for the name of the recipe. I plan for leftovers since it’s too good to only have once. Hearty pies keep things fun and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Chicken Tamale Pie

Savory Egg Prosciutto Bagel

Breakfast moves to the next level with this Savory Egg Prosciutto Bagel. Plates clear quickly, proof that protein can be delicious any time of day. I pop extras in the fridge for an easy snack. Balanced breakfasts help mornings start right.
Get the Recipe: Savory Egg Prosciutto Bagel

Neapolitan Pizza

Comfort goes hand in hand with a classic like Neapolitan Pizza, especially when it packs plenty of protein. People claim an extra slice before you can blink. I rely on extra slices for filling snacks whenever I need energy. Pizza will always have a spot at my table.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Dinner gets a lively kick from this Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. Friends always want seconds, drawn by the big flavor and rich texture. I set aside a portion because leftovers only get better. Spicy pasta bowls are made for hungry days.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Golden Zucchini Fritters

Smart snacks show up with these Golden Zucchini Fritters piled high. Crispy on the outside and warm inside, people never guess they’re good for you. I grab one out of the fridge when hunger sneaks up on me. Fritters bring something golden to the table.
Get the Recipe: Golden Zucchini Fritters

Easy Air Fryer Lasagna

Cheesy warmth comes through every bite of this Easy Air Fryer Lasagna. Friends cheer when you tell them there’s another batch ready. I pack up slices for meal prepping without the stress. Air fryer dinners finally get their time to shine.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Lasagna

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Lunchtime wins happen as soon as you serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders on a busy afternoon. Plates usually empty before anyone stops talking. I toss a few in the freezer for last-minute meals. Protein-packed finger food is always a winner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Marry Me Tortellini

Cozy cravings meet their match with this Marry Me Tortellini. Bowls fill everyone up fast, leaving nobody searching for more food. I scoop out extras for the next day. A high-protein pasta bowl answers all sorts of hunger.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tortellini

Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

Fast-food cravings find a high-protein answer with this Homemade KFC Zinger Burger. Guests always want another bite, loving the crispy flavors. I wrap one for a grab-and-go lunch. Homemade burgers can truly surprise you.
Get the Recipe: Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

Garden Veggie Pizza

Bright and balanced, this Garden Veggie Pizza proves meatless still means protein-packed. Colorful toppings keep everyone interested until the last slice is gone. I keep a few pieces handy for quick meals throughout the week. Pizza night never feels boring here.
Get the Recipe: Garden Veggie Pizza

Penne Alla Vodka

Pasta night feels exciting again with this Penne Alla Vodka heavy on both flavor and protein. Friends call dibs on leftovers before you do. I save portions for fast dinners loaded with energy. Creamy sauces make this meal stand out.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Roasted Leg of Lamb

Nothing says special like Roasted Leg of Lamb when you need a protein boost. People request seconds, not willing to let a single piece go uneaten. I save extras for sandwiches and bowls later on. Making special cuts part of regular meals brings comfort and variety.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Leg of Lamb