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50 Amazing Macro-Friendly Recipes

If you’re looking for some easy, delicious ways to hit your protein goals, then you’ve landed in the right place.

This blog you are reading has a ton of high-protein recipes that I know you’ll love, but the internet is a pretty huge place.

That’s why I wanted to bring you this roundup of macro friendly recipes from around the web.

I’ve included a bunch of my own recipes in this list, but I’ve always included a ton of amazing high-protein foods from other recipe creators as well.

Whether you need macro friendly meal prep recipes, low-carb recipes, or you’re just looking for an easy recipe to help you hit your protein goals, then I’ve got you covered.

Below you will find 50 high-protein recipes, so there’s sure to be a recipe in there for your taste buds.

From high-protein meals to high protein snacks, you’ll find everything you need below.

Quick notes:

1. The macros are listed with each recipe, but since serving sizes can vary, I recommend clicking through each recipe for more context.

​2. To differentiate the healthy recipes, all of my own recipes are accompanied by a yellow “Get The Recipe” button. For all recipes from my internet friends, the same button will be black.

High-Protein Breakfast Recipes

240 Calories, 6g Fat, 28g Carbs, 15g Protein

Protein Pancake in a Mug

If you’re always in a rush in the morning, I’ve got just the thing for you: a one-minute pancake in a mug recipe! Seriously, in just one minute you can make a fluffy pancake that’s loaded with protein. It’s a total game-changer for busy mornings!

98 Calories, 5g Fat, 3g Carbs, 10g Protein

Blueberry Breakfast Sausage

Prepare to be amazed by the incredible simplicity of this Blueberry Breakfast Sausage. Combining the beloved flavors of sweet and savory pork sausage with bursts of juicy blueberries in every bite, this recipe will leave you speechless. Say goodbye to splurging on expensive store-bought frozen breakfast sausage!

430 Calories, 18g Fat, 26g Carbs, 40g Protein

Copycat McGriddles Packed With Protein

Have you tried making your own McGriddle breakfast sandwiches at home? Trust me, they’re better than the ones you get at McDonald’s. As an added bonus, they only take under 30 minutes to make and each sandwich packs a whopping 40g of protein. Your breakfast game just got leveled up!

570 Calories, 13g Fat, 55g Carbs, 53g Protein

Easy Breakfast Crunchwraps

If you’re looking for a satisfying breakfast to fuel your day, the breakfast crunchwrap is a great option. Packed with 53 grams of protein, it’s an excellent way to start your morning and make progress toward hitting your protein target for those fitness goals.

105 Calories, 1g Fat, 18g Carbs, 5.5g Protein

3-Ingredient Vegan Protein Pancakes

Discover how to prepare a stack of light and fluffy protein pancakes that are entirely vegan using only three simple ingredients. This recipe is quick and easy, making it the perfect choice for a delicious and nutritious vegan breakfast. Delicious vegan recipes can be hard to come by, but this one delivers.

150 Calories, 3g Fat, 23g Carbs, 6g Protein

Greek Yogurt Biscuits

With just six simple ingredients and a quick 10-minute prep time, you’ll have ample opportunity to whip up your favorite biscuit pairings to complement these biscuits. Get ready for a mouthwatering experience that doesn’t compromise on flavor or your health goals.

389 Calories, 10g Fat, 56g Carbs, 24g Protein

Vegan Protein Oats

Indulge in the goodness of this vegan protein oats recipe featuring delectable stewed blueberries. With its simplicity and plant-based protein powder, this recipe is a must-have for any plant-based diet.

140 Calories, 4g Fat, 16g Carbs, 10g Protein

Fluffy Protein Cinnamon Rolls

Looking to satisfy your sweet tooth without sacrificing your health goals? These cinnamon rolls are the perfect solution! Their soft, fluffy texture and classic cinnamon flavor are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them, without ever suspecting that they’re actually a healthy alternative.

65 Calories, 0.5g Fat, 12g Carbs, 8g Protein

Cold Brew Breakfast Smoothies

Are you looking for a healthy and delicious way to kickstart your mornings? Look no further than creamy cold brew smoothies! With only four simple ingredients, these smoothies are not only tasty but also low in calories and high in protein. Make them a part of your daily routine for a satisfying and nutritious breakfast.

130 Calories, 5g Fat, 17g Carbs, 6g Protein

Protein Banana Bread

This banana bread is super fluffy and moist, and it’s packed with 6g of protein per slice, which makes it a great way to start your day feeling full and satisfied. Plus, each slice is only 130 calories! Trust me, you won’t regret giving this recipe a try.

103 Calories, 5g Fat, 4g Carbs, 10g Protein

Chicken & Spinach Egg Cups

Kickstart your day with the delectable Chicken and Spinach Egg Cups, brimming with flavorful ingredients such as onion, bell pepper, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese. These convenient grab-and-go delights not only provide a high-protein breakfast but also serve as a perfect weekly meal prep option.

255 Calories, 2g Fat, 22g Carbs, 38g Protein

High-Protein Milkshakes

These protein milkshakes are a fantastic choice for prepping a breakfast packed with protein. To make them, just mix up the milkshake base, freeze it, and then blend it with your preferred toppings to create any flavor you desire. You could drink protein shakes, or you can enjoy delicious milkshakes with just as much protein.

240 Calories, 0g Fat, 40g Carbs, 19g Protein

Protein Bagels

Do you love bagels but hate waiting forever to get them fresh? Well, now you don’t have to! We’ve got two different kinds of protein bagels here for you to choose from. One has extra protein powder for a whopping 19g of protein, and the other has a solid 12g of protein without it. You can’t go wrong either way.

448 Calories, 21g Fat, 50g Carbs, 23g Protein

Smoked Salmon Breakfast Toast

Looking to kickstart your day with a scrumptious and nutritious option? Look no further than this smoked salmon breakfast toast! Not only does it boast a delightful flavor, but it also provides a protein-packed, fiber-rich, and healthy fats-filled start to your morning, keeping you satiated and energized throughout the day.

182 Calories, 11g Fat, 4g Carbs, 14g Protein

Crustless Asparagus Quiche

Prepare to be captivated by the irresistible charm of this Crustless Asparagus Quiche recipe. Not only does it boast an aesthetically pleasing presentation, but each slice also offers a creamy, low-carb, and gluten-free delight. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make and can even be prepared in advance and frozen for convenience.

High-Protein Lunch & Dinner Recipes

265 Calories, 4g Fat, 39g Carbs, 20g Protein

High-Protein Black Bean Veggie Burgers

Veggie burger lovers, rejoice! With these burgers made from black beans, meeting your daily protein goals becomes a breeze, allowing you to enjoy a veggie burger the best way possible- with a ton of protein. Get ready to elevate your burger game to a whole new level!

400 Calories, 16g Fat, 14g Carbs, 49g Protein

Smoked Chicken Breast

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, smoking chicken breast on a Traeger pellet grill, Pit Boss, or any other electric, charcoal, or gas smoker will yield incredibly tender and juicy results, complemented by the delectable essence of smoky flavor.

300 Calories, 9g Fat, 30g Carbs, 27g Protein

Creamy Taco Pasta

Whether you choose to make it from scratch or utilize leftover taco meat, this recipe is a game-changer for your taco nights. With its rich creamy sauce and a perfect blend of flavors, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate high-protein elements into your meal, satisfying both your taste buds and your nutritional needs.

265 Calories, 22g Fat, 1g Carbs, 16g Protein

Smoked Beef Short Ribs

By smoking the short ribs slowly, we unlock the secret to achieving meat that is incredibly tender, moist, and packed with flavor. Don’t be deceived by their mouthwatering taste—the process is surprisingly easy, making this recipe a delightful addition to your rotation.

534 Calories, 8g Fat, 90g Carbs, 30g Protein

Easy Tofu Stir Fry

Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions, this recipe offers a delicious option without requiring extensive kitchen time. What’s more, it boasts an impressive 30 grams of protein, making it an excellent plant-based protein source.

265 Calories, 11g Fat, 14g Carbs, 25g Protein

Hot Honey Beef Stir Fry

With just 20 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up a mouthwatering stir fry that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy. This dish effortlessly combines tender ground beef, crisp broccoli, and an incredible hot honey sauce to make the perfect weekday meal.

630 Calories, 5g Fat, 80g Carbs, 61g Protein

Protein Pizza

This protein pizza is packed with over 60g of protein and is ready in under 20 minutes! hether you choose to savor the entire pizza as a satisfying meal or divide it into slices for portion-controlled, low-calorie meal prep, this recipe is a game-changer.

272 Calories, 9g Fat, 29g Carbs, 20g Protein

Spicy Turkey Meal Prep Bowls

If you’re in search of a straightforward and convenient meal prep option that’s high in protein and low in fat, look no further than these Spicy Turkey Meal Prep Bowls. With these bowls, you won’t have to sacrifice flavor or taste.

126 Calories, 6g Fat, 4g Carbs, 17g Protein

Winter Root Vegetable Soup

This soup is crafted with a whey-infused base, complemented by the delightful flavors of slightly roasted root vegetables, including parsnip, carrots, kohlrabi, onion, and garlic. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding turnip, celery roots, rutabaga, or any other root vegetables of your choice.

423 Calories, 15g Fat, 53g Carbs, 26g Protein

Vegan Pesto Pasta

This delightful dish features a luscious, creamy pesto sauce enriched with protein. Packed with vibrant vegetables, it’s a wholesome meal that can be whipped up in just 30 minutes.

448 Calories, 18g Fat, 40g Carbs, 32g Protein

Ground Turkey Tacos

This straightforward recipe requires minimal effort and can be prepared in 30 minutes or less, making it perfect for those taco nights when time is of the essence. With the savory combination of ground turkey and traditional taco fixings, these tacos will surely satisfy your cravings.

439 Calories, 25g Fat, 11g Carbs, 44g Protein

Slow Cooker Birria de Res

Get ready to savor the exquisite flavors of Slow Cooker Birria de Res, a sumptuous Mexican stew hailing from the state of Jalisco and now embraced by food enthusiasts across the United States. This hassle-free recipe allows you to indulge in the rich and deeply flavorful experience of Birria de Res with minimal effort.

500 Calories, 15g Fat, 47g Carbs, 46g Protein

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches

This recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your fiery cravings. We take the air fryer route to achieve a perfectly crispy chicken sandwich, and then elevate it by generously coating the chicken in our homemade Nashville-style hot sauce. Plus, with 46 grams of protein, you cannot go wrong.

485 Calories, 34g Fat, 11g Carbs, 34g Protein

Southwest Beef Protein Bowls

This protein-packed dish is not only delicious but also low in carbs, making it a friendly option for those watching their carbohydrate intake. Whether enjoyed as a filling breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it provides a healthy and satisfying meal option for anyone.

High-Protein Appetizer & Snack Recipes

175 Calories, 0g Fat, 34g Carbs, 9g Protein

Quick Yogurt Naan Bread

In just a matter of minutes, you can easily create a batch of mouthwatering Naan flatbread that will leave you craving more. The beauty lies in the simplicity of a 2-ingredient dough, meaning you can enjoy hot and soft Naan without the need for yeast.

316 Calories, 10g Fat, 36g Carbs, 25g Protein

Chicken Salad With Apples

This low-calorie and high-protein meal offers a wonderful balance of nuttiness, creaminess, and a hint of sweetness, resulting in a truly tasty experience. Not only can it make for a heart meal on its own with the lean protein from chicken, but it can complement any main dish as the perfect side.

225 Calories, 13g Fat, 6g Carbs, 22g Protein

Healthy Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Reminiscent of the renowned lettuce wraps from P.F. Chang’s, this homemade version surpasses expectations by being even healthier, macro-friendly, and incredibly delicious—perhaps even better, some may argue.

245 Calories, 12g Fat, 26g Carbs, 11g Protein

High-Protein Pasta Salad

Packed with protein, this pasta salad provides the necessary nutrients to fuel your day. Say goodbye to boring lunches and embrace the deliciousness of high protein pasta salad for a truly enjoyable and healthy meal.

195 Calories, 4.5g Fat, 23g Carbs, 16g Protein

Delicious Pulled Pork Sliders

Transform your BBQ pulled pork into delectable pulled pork slider appetizers that are guaranteed to be a hit at any party. With 16 grams of protein each, these sliders are the perfect addition to any menu.

150 Calories, 3g Fat, 21g Carbs, 9g Protein

Healthier Air Fryer Rice Balls

Air fryer arancini (rice balls) may just become your new favorite appetizer. Not just because they are delicious, but also because they are shockingly easy. They’re crispy on the outside, yet gooey and cheesy on the inside. You’d never know these were secretly healthy. You could even swap the rice for cauliflower rice for a lower-calorie option!

25 Calories, 1g Fat, 2g Carbs, 2g Protein

Low-Calorie Spicy Feta Dip

This Tirokafteri, or spicy feta dip, may just be the most delicious dip you’ve ever had! Zesty, cheesy, delicious, and only 25 calories per serving, this is the perfect dip to aid your weight loss goals. Use as a spread on a sandwich to get some extra protein, too.

696 Calories, 65g Fat, 36g Carbs, 26g Protein

Puff Pastry Sausage Rolls

If you’ve been yearning to recreate the irresistible sausage rolls reminiscent of Greggs at the comfort of your own home, your search ends here. This recipe offers a quick and straightforward approach, utilizing ready-made puff pastry for convenience and deliciousness.

157 Calories, 6g Fat, 17g Carbs, 10g Protein

Healthy Italian Sliders

These mini sandwiches are bursting with delightful Italian flavors, incredibly easy to make, and perfect for those on-the-go moments. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or dinner option, a satisfying game day snack, or a post-soccer practice meal, these sliders have got you covered.

229 Calories, 7g Fat, 2g Carbs, 36g Protein

Keto Nachos With Homemade Protein Chips

These nachos are a game-changer, with only 2g net carbs and being completely grain-free. They are a perfect choice for those following a low-carb diet or grain-free lifestyle.

High-Protein Dessert Recipes

190 Calories, 11g Fat, 12g Carbs, 13g Protein

High-Protein Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet

The protein cookie skillet is incredibly indulgent and has a delightful softness just like any regular cookie. However, each slice is secretly loaded with a generous 13 grams of protein, making it a perfect dessert for anyone looking for extra protein.

191 Calories, 15g Fat, 6g Carbs, 10g Protein

No-Bake Protein Cheesecake

This cheesecake not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides a substantial protein boost. What’s more, it is low in carbs, making it a perfect choice for those following a low-carb lifestyle. This blueberry cheesecake is super easy to make and is sure to become a hit with the whole family.

300 Calories, 0g Fat, 36g Carbs, 24g Protein

Soft Serve Ice Cream

Being a fan of soft-serve ice cream, I had little hope that this healthier rendition could match up to the authentic experience. However, I can confidently attest that this is just as satisfying as any soft-serve ice cream you’ve ever tasted! Year after year, this continues to be one of my most popular recipes, and you’ll see why once you get this a try.

200 Calories, 16g Fat, 6g Carbs, 11g Protein

Protein Peanut Butter Cups


Prepare to be amazed by the incredible revelation that you can actually create your own homemade Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups with a whopping 11g of protein. Believe it or not, these delectable treats taste remarkably similar to the original Reese’s.

230 Calories, 10g Fat, 33g Carbs, 13g Protein

Healthy Chickpea Cookie Dough

This recipe is not only incredibly easy to make but also finger-licking good, using just a handful of staple foods. Packed with protein, it serves as a nutritious and kid-friendly portable treat. This is the perfect recipe to enjoy some delicious protein cookie dough at the end of a busy day.

230 Calories, 8g Fat, 19g Carbs, 28g Protein

High-Protein Edible Brownie Batter

Everybody loves a deliciously fudgy brownie. However, there are times when you don’t feel like baking a big batch of brownies from scratch. That’s where this edible brownie batter recipe comes to the rescue! Packed with a whopping 28g of protein, this recipe satisfies your cravings while providing a protein boost for your day.

95 Calories, 2.5g Fat, 12g Carbs, 6g Protein

Apple Cider Donuts

Here’s a recipe that captures the same irresistible taste of donuts straight from the cider mill, but with a protein-packed twist and without the need for deep frying. Get ready to enjoy the comforting flavors of Fall with these homemade donuts that offer an extra protein boost.

75 Calories, 4g Fat, 6g Carbs, 4g Protein

Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Not only are these cinnamon roll cookies extremely fun, but they’re only 75 calories each, low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with protein!

55 Calories, 3g Fat, 3g Carbs, 3.5g Protein

Snowball Cookies

Soft, buttery snowball cookies are ideal during the holiday season, but they are perfect at absolutely any time of the year. These healthier snowball cookies will completely melt in your mouth, and nobody would ever know these were a lower-calorie version than the regular ones.

55 Calories, 3g Fat, 4g Carbs, 4g Protein

High-Protein Oreos

Making Oreos at home is easier than you might think, and we can make them just as delicious with a healthier spin. With just 135 calories, only 9g net carbs, and 9g of quality protein, these Oreo cookies are incredible.

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About Matt Rosenman

With over 15 years of experience in health and fitness, Matt Rosenman is the expert voice behind Cheatdaydesign.com. Matt’s philosophy is simple: no foods are off-limits, and a healthy lifestyle shouldn't be complicated or restrictive. As a former certified personal trainer with a bachelor’s degree in Health Behavioral Sciences, Matt brings well-rounded expertise to his blog. From revamping classic recipes with a nutritious twist to breaking down fast food menus, his goal is make healthy living less confusing for everyone. Featured in major publications and with a strong following on social media, Matt is committed to making “healthy” uncomplicated—no matter where you are in your health journey. Join Matt on his mission to simplify health without sacrificing flavor. Learn More