I Lean On These 29 High Protein Dishes When I Need Something That Lasts

Some meals disappear fast and leave you staring into the fridge an hour later. These 29 high-protein picks stick around longer, which helps when everything else in life feels like it’s rushing by. There’s no secret to them—they’re just reliable. And sometimes, that’s the only thing you really need.

Grilled lamb chops garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs.
Lamb Chops. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Best Tuna Casserole

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

If you’re looking for a hearty meal that fills you up and keeps you going, look no further. Best Tuna Casserole is a classic for good reason. It combines simplicity with a comforting texture that makes you feel right at home. It’s perfect for those days when you need a reliable staple that won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Best Tuna Casserole

Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Close-up of loaded Buffalo chicken nachos piled high with shredded chicken, jalapeños, cheese, green onions, hot sauce, and a dollop of sour cream.
Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sometimes, you just need something spicy and worthwhile. Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos offer a spicy kick with a crunchy twist. Perfect for game day or a casual get-together, this dish is all about bold flavors and fun. Every bite offers a burst of flavor that’s sure to keep things interesting.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Tonkotsu Ramen

Close-up of a bowl of ramen with noodles, a halved boiled egg, sliced meat, green leafy vegetables, and mushrooms in broth.
Tonkotsu Ramen. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you crave something deeply flavorful, Tonkotsu Ramen delivers. This dish is a slow-simmered wonder, rich in taste and soothing in texture. Ideal for chilly evenings or when you need some comfort food, it’s a warming bowl that’s both filling and immensely rewarding.
Get the Recipe: Tonkotsu Ramen

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.

Shrimp and Grits is a southern delight that mixes creamy and tasty like no other. It’s the kind of dish that brings a hint of southern charm to your table. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it offers versatility and rich flavors that keep you full and happy. It’s real comfort food with a touch of elegance.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits

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.

For those who love a little heat, Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas are the way to go. They are spicy, cheesy, and absolutely mouthwatering. You can whip these up for a quick meal that’s sure to be a hit. Plus, they’re just as good when you’re on the go.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas

Massaman Curry

A creamy shrimp curry with peppers, chopped nuts, sliced green onions, red chili slices, and lime wedges. Metal spoon submerged in the dish.
Massaman Curry. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If exotic flavors call your name, Massaman Curry might just be what you need. This dish is rich with a history as vibrant as its flavors. It’s a hearty option on any day and it’s packed with enough protein to see you through the busiest of schedules. A perfect blend of culture and taste in every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry

Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Thai chicken skewers topped with a creamy sauce and garnished with chopped herbs and peanuts, served over a bed of white rice.
Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Light yet fulfilling, Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers are perfect for when you want a protein-packed meal that doesn’t weigh you down. With flavors that pop, they are great for a family BBQ or a quiet dinner at home. They are easy to make and even easier to love.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Three baked sweet potatoes topped with minced meat, melted cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions on a white plate.
Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

You’ll find no ordinary sandwich here – this is the mega meal for those who love a twist on the classic. Amp up your lunch or dinner with Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes, combining protein power with a sweet and tasty bend. This dish isn’t just about filling you up; it’s about enjoying every bite with a sense of nostalgia and innovation.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

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 sounds like your kind of treat, then this dish is ready to rise and shine any time of day. Huevos Rancheros is your protein-packed passport to a fiesta of flavors without leaving the comfort of your home. It’s robust, it’s hearty, and it’s there to kick-start your morning or cap off your night.
Get the Recipe: Huevos Rancheros

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.

White Chicken Chili stands out with its creamy texture and comforting warmth. Perfect for a protein-rich dinner that fills you up, this chili is subtle yet impactful. It’s the go-to choice when you need something soothing that packs a nutritional punch.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Chili

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.

Give your meal a refreshing side with Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies. This light, vibrant dish is full of freshness and taste. It’s the perfect accompaniment to any protein or great on its own for a quick, nutritious option. Ideal for sunny days or a light meal.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Veggie Pizza

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

Who says pizza can’t be healthy? Veggie Pizza is a vibrant, colorful choice that’s loaded with flavors and textures. Ideal for vegetarians or anyone who loves a good slice, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious. This dish proves that you can eat well and still indulge.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pizza

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.

Spice up your meal routine with Firecracker Meatballs. They bring a fiery touch to your plate, making every meal more exciting. Whether served over rice or on their own, they offer a bold flavor that’s hard to resist. They’re perfect for those who like a little adventure in their meals.
Get the Recipe: Firecracker Meatballs

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.

When you crave something tasty, Asian Style Pork Chops are your go-to. They bring a rich flavor that’s both unique and familiar. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, they keep things interesting while fulfilling your protein needs.
Get the Recipe: Asian Style Pork Chops

Butter Chicken

A bowl of creamy curry with chicken pieces served over white rice, garnished with cilantro, and accompanied by flatbread.
Butter Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Butter Chicken is a beloved staple that never disappoints. It’s creamy, it’s comforting, and it’s thoroughly worthwhile. This dish is perfect for those evenings when you crave something indulgent yet wholesome. It’s a true classic that has a special place in the hearts of many.
Get the Recipe: Butter Chicken

Copycat Honey Baked Ham

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

When special occasions call or you just want something festive, Copycat Honey Baked Ham fits the bill. It brings the holiday spirit any day of the year with its sweet and tasty profile. Perfect for gatherings or a family meal, it’s a centerpiece that invites everyone to dig in.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Honey Baked Ham

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.

Bring a bit of Italy to your table with Italian Pasta with Salami. This dish is simple, filling, and bursting with flavors. It’s a comforting choice that combines well-loved elements into one delicious meal. Great for a hearty dinner after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

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.

For a quick and easy yet profoundly rewarding meal, Egg Prosciutto Bagel comes to the rescue. It’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or whenever hunger strikes. Combining simple ingredients in a gratifying way, this meal is both practical and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Egg Prosciutto Bagel

Creamy Beef Stroganoff

A close-up of fettuccine pasta with creamy sauce, reminiscent of Beef Stroganoff, paired with sliced beef, mushrooms, and sprigs of rosemary.
Creamy Beef Stroganoff. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

On those days when only the heartiest of meals will do, and protein is paramount, this dish stands ready. Creamy Beef Stroganoff comforts and fills you up without being overly complex. It’s the kind of meal you’re grateful for after a hard day’s work, offering sustenance and a little pick-me-up.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beef Stroganoff

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.

Korean Burgers add an exciting twist to your typical burger night. With unique flavors that offer a change of pace, these burgers are far from ordinary. They’re perfect for a fun meal that breaks the routine without breaking a sweat. Great for a lively family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

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.

When it’s time to spice things up a bit, Kung Pao Chicken comes through with its bold and fiery flavors. This dish is all about bringing excitement to the dinner table. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for those who love a bit of heat.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Marry Me Tortellini

A bowl of creamy tortellini pasta with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and a basil garnish.
Marry Me Tortellini. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fall in love with the rich and creamy Marry Me Tortellini, a dish with a charming name that promises and delivers equally charming flavors. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner or when you need to impress. This pasta dish adds a touch of elegance without any effort.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tortellini

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.

Crisp, sweet, and tangy, Orange Chicken is a favorite for a reason. It brings a gratifying punch of flavor, making any dining experience a little brighter. This dish is a staple in many homes for its crowd-pleasing properties and its ability to pair well with various sides.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

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.

Sometimes, the simplest of meals, when packed with protein, can become the stars of your kitchen. Zucchini Fritters are an easy, go-to option that combines nutrition with subtle, yet worthwhile flavors. They’re the perfect balance for those seeking a lighter meal without skimping on sustenance.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Fritters

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.

Pork Tenderloin is a prime choice for a high-protein, rewarding meal without much fuss. It’s tender, juicy, and versatile. Perfect for a dinner party or a weekday meal, it ensures you’re well-fed and ready to go. A dependable option for any meat lover.
Get the Recipe: Pork Tenderloin

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.

If you need a quick, kid-friendly option, Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are your best friend. They’re crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and just plain fun to eat. Perfect for a simple meal that doesn’t compromise on health or flavor. Plus, they’re quick to whip up in an air fryer.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Roast Beef

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

Sometimes you just need the robust flavors of Roast Beef to make a meal complete. It’s perfect for Sunday dinners or when you need something substantial. This dish is known for its rich flavors and tender texture. It’s a classic that’s always welcomed on the dining table.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef

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.

Add a bit of excitement to your snack time with Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls. They’re spicy, they’re cheesy, and above all, they’re irresistibly addictive. Perfect for parties or as a fun appetizer, they’re sure to be a hit whenever they’re served.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Lamb Chops

Grilled lamb chops garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs.
Lamb Chops. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For a touch of luxury without the complexity, Lamb Chops are a splendid choice. They are quick to prepare, delicious, and always a treat. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or just treating yourself, these chops provide a pleasing and protein-rich meal that feels special every time.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Chops

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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