We’ve all been there. Some days, cooking just doesn’t seem like an option, but neither does takeout. No matter the reason why you aren’t in the mood for cooking or don’t have the time, these high-protein recipes are great to use. These recipes are your shortcut to staying nourished without the hassle.
Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers
If you’re craving the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak but want to keep things on the light side and skip the bread, these stuffed peppers are your answer. Start by roasting halved bell peppers in a 400°F oven until slightly softened. Meanwhile, sauté thinly sliced onions and mushrooms in olive oil until caramelized, then add seasoned steak slices (ribeye or flank work best) and garlic, cooking just until the meat loses its pink. Layer provolone cheese in the pepper halves, pile high with the savory steak mixture, and top with more cheese. Bake until the peppers are tender, and the cheese is golden and bubbly about 15 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve hot!
Just because you’re in a rush doesn’t mean your diet must be sacrificed. This is one of the best high-protein recipes that is close to the classic and extremely versatile.
Steak Fajitas
When you’re tight on time or not in the mood for cooking, this is a great recipe for a meal that will tingle your tastebuds. Marinate thinly sliced flank steak in lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt for 20–30 minutes. Sear the steak in a hot skillet until charred and tender, then set aside.
In the same pan, sauté sliced bell peppers and onions until caramelized and crisp-tender. Toss the steak back in to combine, warming everything together. Serve sizzling with warm tortillas, fresh cilantro, and a dollop of cool Greek yogurt or guacamole.
Chicken & Chorizo Jambalaya
For a hearty, one-pot meal that’s bursting with bold flavors and protein, Chicken & Chorizo Jambalaya is a weeknight winner. Sauté smoky chorizo slices until crispy, then add diced chicken thighs, cooking until golden. Toss in onions, bell peppers, celery, seasoning with Cajun spices, thyme, and a bay leaf. Stir in long-grain rice, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth, bringing everything to a simmer. Cover and cook until the rice is tender and has soaked up the rich, spicy broth, about 20–25 minutes.
Serve hot with a sprinkle of green onions and a dash of hot sauce with a spicy twist! This dish takes the prize for the best high protein recipes that can be thrown into one pot and have every bite be as good as the last.
Sausage Egg Casserole
If you want to change what you have for breakfast, this would be a pretty good dish. Whisk together eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper, then mix in browned breakfast sausage, shredded cheddar, and cubed day-old bread. For extra flavor, stir in sautéed veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or onions, then pour into a greased baking dish. Let it soak for 30 minutes (or overnight), then bake at 375°F until golden and set, about 45 minutes.
Add toppings of your choice and pop it in the microwave to reheat when you’re in the mood for a round two. It’s simple the no-fuss answer to “what’s for breakfast.”
Black Bean Burger
If you prefer a vegetarian meal, there’s no need to lose out, as these high protein recipes are perfect for any diet. Mash drained black beans with breadcrumbs, diced onions, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and an egg until chunky but cohesive. Shape into patties and pan-fry in olive oil until crisp and golden on both sides. Serve on toasted buns with avocado, crisp lettuce, and a zesty lime-cilantro mayo.
Whether you grill, bake, or pan-sear them, these burgers are beautifully shaped and can be customized with your favorite toppings, from crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes to spicy mayo or tangy pickled onions.
High Protein Banana Bread
There’s no better excuse to make banana bread than having it for a meal or snack AND it’s packed with protein. Mash ripe bananas with eggs, vanilla, and a touch of honey, then fold in protein powder, oat flour, and baking powder until combined. For texture, stir in dark chocolate chips or walnuts, then pour into a loaf pan. Bake at 350°F for 45–50 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
No matter when you decide to snack on this yummy dish, it’s great for storing away and taking out when you’re feeling like something different.
Grilled Tuna with Raita Salad
This is the perfect meal if you’re in the mood for something light or fresh. Season fresh tuna steaks with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill over high heat for 2–3 minutes per side for a seared crust and rare center. Mix Greek yogurt with grated cucumber (squeezed dry), fresh mint, cumin, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt for the raita. Serve the tuna sliced over a bed of crisp greens or quinoa, topped with the cooling raita and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
This dish shines with minimal prep, making it ideal for busy days when you need a wholesome, low-carb option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Mexican Chicken Stew with Quinoa & Beans
There’s nothing quite like a Mexican dish with a twist and some protein to back it up. Sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers in olive oil until soft, then add diced chicken thighs, cumin, smoked paprika, and a dash of chili powder. Stir in diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and chicken broth, then simmer until the chicken is tender. Meanwhile, cook quinoa separately according to package instructions. Stir the cooked quinoa into the stew, letting it soak up the smoky, spiced broth. Finish with fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, and avocado slices.
This dish is great for meal prep and doesn’t take too long to put together, making it perfect for busy people who require a quick, nutritious meal.
Italian Meatballs
Meatballs are always a winner no matter how you decide to prepare them, and this recipe sure does take the prize. Combine ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs soaked in milk, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, parsley, and eggs, then season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Roll into golf ball-sized spheres and sear in olive oil until golden. Simmer in marinara sauce for 15–20 minutes until tender and infused with tomatoey richness. Serve over spaghetti, stuffed into subs, or as appetizers with toothpicks.
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