High protein is all the rage, but if you’re reaching for another chicken breast, we need to talk. There’s a whole world of protein-packed meals out there that don’t involve choking down another bland, rubbery cut of poultry. This list has everything you need to shake things up at dinner without sacrificing the protein punch. From beef and lamb to salmon and shrimp, these recipes will bring some much-needed variety to your plate.
Beef Kafta
Beef kafta is a go-to for anyone looking to break out of the chicken rut. These Middle Eastern-inspired kabobs are loaded with flavor, pair perfectly with rice, and keep dinner exciting.
Get the Recipe: Beef Kafta
Burger Bowls
Think burger night, but in a bowl. All the best toppings, a homemade special sauce, and plenty of protein make this dish a quick and fun spin on a classic without the bun.
Get the Recipe: Burger Bowls
Mexican Ground Beef Casserole
This cheesy casserole brings big flavor with tomatoes, peppers, and black beans. A simple dish that takes 40 minutes, keeping everyone happy and full with a hearty protein boost.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Ground Beef Casserole
Lamb Korma
Lamb korma is here to shake up your dinner game with spices and a creamy cashew-based sauce. The marinated lamb practically melts in your mouth, and it’s perfect with a side of rice.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Korma
Flank Steak Pinwheels
Flank steak pinwheels bring pesto, Parmesan, prosciutto, and spinach into the mix. Great for a special dinner or just to make a regular weeknight feel fancy without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Flank Steak Pinwheels
Bison Stuffed Peppers
Bison stuffed peppers come packed with lean protein, rice, and veggies, then topped with a bit of cheese. A hearty, healthier swap from ground beef and just as easy to whip up.
Get the Recipe: Bison Stuffed Peppers
Pesto Salmon
With just five ingredients and 25 minutes, this pesto salmon hits the mark for a quick, high-protein dinner that’s also perfect for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Salmon
Cod Piccata
This seafood piccata brings a fresh spin with tender cod, capers, and lemon. Dredged and pan-fried, it’s a bright, flavorful dish that doesn’t require much effort.
Get the Recipe: Cod Piccata
Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet
This skillet meal combines ground beef, cabbage, and a few aromatic spices, making for an easy 30-minute dinner that brings variety to the weeknight rotation.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet
Mexican Ground Beef Skillet
Taco-seasoned ground beef and veggies come together in one pan for a no-fuss, 30-minute dinner that’s anything but bland.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Ground Beef Skillet
Ground Beef Stir Fry
A fast stir fry with ground beef and fresh veggies tossed in a garlic-ginger sauce. Quick, tasty, and ready to give your weeknight dinners a much-needed boost of protein.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Stir Fry
Healthier Sloppy Joes
These sloppy joes use lean ground beef and a lower-sugar sauce to bring a lighter touch to the classic comfort food without skimping on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Healthier Sloppy Joes
Greek Shrimp Skillet
Shrimp, tomatoes, spinach, olives, and feta bring a fresh Greek vibe to dinner. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a great pick for something lighter that’s still packed with protein.
Get the Recipe: Greek Shrimp Skillet
Bacon Wrapped Salmon
Bacon-wrapped salmon is here when you’re craving something that feels like restaurant quality. A quick and tasty protein-packed dinner that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon
Air Fryer Salmon Bites
Marinated in a garlic-ginger sauce, these salmon bites get crispy in the air fryer. Perfect for weeknights when you want something that’s quick, high-protein, and packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Salmon Bites