19 high protein recipes that make hunger take a backseat

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Skipping a meal isn’t an option when hunger hits hard, but 19 high-protein meals are ready to handle the job. These recipes keep things simple while making sure there’s no need for extra snacks an hour later. Whether it’s a fast option or something that takes its time, every meal brings enough to the table to actually feel like a full meal. No one wants to cook just to be hungry again—these make sure that doesn’t happen.

Golden fried chicken pieces with a side of dipping sauce.
Chick-fil-A Nuggets. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

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.

If you’re looking for a filling meal that’s packed with protein, Cattle Drive Casserole could become a new favorite in your home. It’s easy to enjoy with family or alone after a long day, and it’s sure to keep you full and focused with its hearty and robust flavors. Great for a busy weekday, its filling nature means you won’t be looking for snacks an hour after dinner. It’s straightforward and every bite packs a punch of flavor and energy.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

Hot and Sour Soup

Bowl of hot and sour soup with mushrooms, tofu, and sliced green onions, with a spoon on the side.
Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Hot and Sour Soup is a classic dish that brings a powerful protein punch, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals. It warms you up from the inside, making it a great option for colder days or when you’re feeling under the weather. Each spoonful provides a good dose of protein that helps rebuild muscles and keeps hunger at bay longer. Enjoy this soup as a starter, or pair it with a protein-rich side for an impressive meal.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

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.

For those who crave something sweet and slightly spicy, General Tso’s Chicken is a top choice. This dish is not only flavorful but also packed with protein to help fuel your day. It’s a popular meal that combines convenience with taste, making it perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Whether it’s lunch or dinner, it serves up satisfaction on a plate, guaranteed to keep you full and energized.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

Creamy Banana Avocado Bread Recipe

Sliced loaf of chocolate chip banana avocado bread on a white surface. The bread has a golden-brown crust with chocolate chips on top and visible throughout the slices.
Creamy Banana Avocado Bread Recipe. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Baking up a loaf of Creamy Banana Avocado Bread is a sure way to make sure you’re getting a protein boost while enjoying something sweet. This bread is both nourishing and filling, perfect for busy mornings or as an afternoon snack. It’s easy to make in advance, ensuring you have a protein-rich option readily available throughout the week. Plus, it’s a wonderful twist to traditional bread that everyone is sure to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Banana Avocado Bread Recipe

Neapolitan Pizza

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

When you opt for Neapolitan Pizza, you’re getting a slice that’s crisp, flavorful, and a good source of protein. This classic Italian dish is perfect for any pizza night, combining traditional preparation methods with high-quality ingredients. It’s as good for a gathering as it is for a personal treat, ensuring that everyone at the table is satisfied and energized for hours. An added bonus is its ability to fit into any meal plan as a high-protein option.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Chicken Alfredo

A plate of bowtie pasta with creamy sauce topped with cooked chicken pieces and garnished with parsley, with a black fork on the side.
Chicken Alfredo. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chicken Alfredo is a creamy, comforting dish that fills you up and provides a hefty dose of protein. It’s a straightforward choice for a dinner that needs to be on the table quickly without sacrificing nutritional value. Ideal for those who love a rich, flavorful meal, it ensures you remain full and satisfied without needing extra servings. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike, making mealtime a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Alfredo

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.

For a different take on pork, try Asian Style Pork Chops which are sure to keep your protein intake up while providing a burst of savory flavor. This dish is both simple and fulfilling, offering a wonderful change of pace from the usual pork preparations. Perfect for a lively dinner with friends or a quiet meal at home, it’s versatile and guaranteed to suppress those hunger pangs for hours.
Get the Recipe: Asian Style Pork Chops

Beef Chili

Two bowls of chili with kidney beans, meat, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and cilantro. A black spoon in one bowl. Additional chili flakes in a small dish nearby.
Beef Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

On chilly days, nothing beats a bowl of hearty Beef Chili to warm you up and keep you satiated with its high-protein content. This meal is a crowd-pleaser, easy to make in large batches for family gatherings or meal prep for the week. It’s robust, full of flavor, and a great way to end a busy day. Plus, it’s customizable with toppings, so everyone can make their bowl just the way they like it.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

A colorful salad with shredded carrots, zucchini, chicken, orange slices, and sesame seeds on a brown plate, garnished with fresh herbs.
Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Brighten your meal plans with Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken, a high-protein dish that combines refreshing citrus flavors with tender chicken. This dish is an excellent option for those looking to keep their meals light yet fulfilling. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for a last-minute dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutritional value. Pair it with some veggies or rice, and you’ve got a meal that ticks all the boxes.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

Breakfast Casserole

Breakfast casserole topped with melted cheese, garnished with sliced green onions and chopped herbs.
Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Jumpstart your day with a piece of Breakfast Casserole, a smart way to include more protein in your first meal. This casserole is both hearty and delicious, ensuring you start the day feeling ready and energized. It’s convenient for feeding a crowd or preparing meals ahead of time, making your mornings smoother. Each bite is packed with flavors and textures that keep breakfast interesting and inviting.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Casserole

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.

Creamy Beef Stroganoff serves up comfort in every spoonful, combined with a good helping of protein to meet your dietary needs. This dish is perfect for a comforting meal on any day of the week, ready to satisfy hunger in a delicious way. It’s creamy, flavorful, and quick to put together, making it a favorite for last-minute dinner plans. Serve it over a bed of pasta or rice for a complete meal that’s bound to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beef Stroganoff

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Transform your usual Mac and Cheese into a protein-rich meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. This dish is creamy, comforting, and always a favorite, especially when you need a little extra protein in your diet. It’s simple to whip up, making it ideal for both busy nights and relaxed weekend meals. Everyone finds a bowl of mac and cheese irresistible, and this version is no exception.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Roast Beef

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

Roast Beef is a classic dish known for its rich flavor and high protein content, making it a staple for a fulfilling meal. This dish is perfect for Sunday dinners, special occasions, or whenever you need a fulfilling meal that feels a bit special. It’s hearty, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that no one leaves the table feeling hungry. Plus, leftovers make for fantastic sandwiches the next day.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef

Buffalo Chicken Salad

A croissant sandwich filled with buffalo chicken and blue cheese, served on a white plate with celery sticks in the background.
Buffalo Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Adding a kick to your meal is easy with Buffalo Chicken Salad, a protein-filled dish that’s both tasty and fulfilling. This salad combines spicy flavors with cooling ingredients, perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking to keep their meals light without sacrificing protein or flavor. Plus, it’s ready in minutes, ideal for a busy lifestyle.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Salad

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.

Savor a slice of Homemade Bread Pudding when you need a protein boost while indulging in something sweet. This dish is hearty and fulfilling, providing the perfect end to any meal or a decadent treat with your afternoon coffee. It’s easy to make ahead of time, ensuring you always have a go-to dessert that’s loved by everyone. Each serving offers a comforting taste that makes it hard to resist a second helping.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Bread Pudding

Chicken Tikka Masala

A close-up of chicken tikka masala served on rice, garnished with fresh cilantro, with lime wedges and naan on the side.
Chicken Tikka Masala. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Spice up your dinner routine with Chicken Tikka Masala, a flavorful dish that’s brimming with protein. This globally beloved dish brings vibrant flavors to your dining table, making it a wonderful meal for entertaining or a family night. It’s filling, rich, and full of the bold spices and aromas that make Indian cuisine so cherished. Make it a part of your weekly menu to add variety and kick to your meals.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Masala

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.

Kick off your morning with an Egg Prosciutto Bagel, a high-protein breakfast that sets you up for a productive day. This combination is not just delicious but also provides a balanced meal to get you going. It’s quick to assemble, making it perfect for those hectic mornings when time is short. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed for a leisurely brunch or on-the-go.
Get the Recipe: Egg Prosciutto Bagel

Cheeseburger Soup

A pot of cheesy potato and meat stew garnished with chopped parsley and crispy bacon.
Cheeseburger Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Imagine a dish that’s as comforting as it is protein-rich – Cheeseburger Soup fits the bill perfectly. This soup offers all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger but in a comforting, spoonable format. It’s ideal for anyone looking for a warming meal that’s also fulfilling and hearty. Serve it during family dinners or keep it all to yourself on a relaxing night in; it’s always a fulfilling choice.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

Chick-fil-A Nuggets

Golden fried chicken pieces with a side of dipping sauce.
Chick-fil-A Nuggets. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Home-made Chick-fil-A Nuggets are a delight for those who prefer their protein in bite-sized pieces. These nuggets are a wonderful alternative to dining out, offering a homemade twist on a popular favorite. They’re easy to make and perfect for gatherings or as a fun meal for the kids. Plus, they’re healthier than their fast-food counterparts, letting you indulge without the guilt.
Get the Recipe: Chick-fil-A Nuggets

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