Protein—it’s important. You can get it from chicken, beans, eggs, spinach, Greek yogurt, and plenty of other everyday foods. And if you want a little extra, there’s always protein powder. The ingredient comes in all kinds of flavors (including unflavored) and is a staple ingredient in smoothies, which might be why you have a half-used canister or two sitting in your pantry right now.
Don’t let it go to waste. These recipes (yes, some are smoothies, but many aren’t) will help you put that protein powder to good use—and make sure every scoop and every cent you spent gets the love it deserves.
Lentil Protein Brownies
“Packed with protein, these brownies fill you up better than the real thing and taste just as good. Surprise yourself, and your friends, with a healthy alternative!” —Leanne
Berry Chocolate Protein Smoothie
TheDailyGourmet
“This berry chocolate protein smoothie is the perfect early morning breakfast or the perfect fix for when a sweet craving hits. The chocolate is rich, and the berries provide a little tart sweetness with no added sugar.” —TheDailyGourmet
Chuck’s Protein Bars
“Great tasting healthy bars for energy!” —Amy Gray-Hughes
Carrot Cake No-Bake Energy Bars
“Made with Medjool dates, pineapples, and coconut, these no-bake, carrot cake-flavored energy bars are simple to make in your food processor. Top with additional shredded coconut, dried fruit, or raisins if desired.” —giggles06
Nutella Bites
“This delicious recipe is great to make ahead of time to have on hand for a quick breakfast!” —Allrecipes Member
Banana-Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies
Tammy Lynn
“These banana-oatmeal breakfast cookies are an even more wholesome version of Banana Oatmeal Cookies II by JEMIMA. I eat 4 of these for breakfast – yum!” —ActuarialChef
Strawberry Orange Ice Pops
Almond Breeze
“Create the taste of summertime with this popsicle filled with strawberries and orange juice.” —Almond Breeze
Peanut Butter and Banana Breakfast Smoothie
“This makes for one deliciously healthy start to any day! In fact, this is a good one for anytime.” —bamanerd
Keto Chicken Fritters
France C
“These flavorful keto chicken fritters are slightly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The whole family will love this simple weeknight meal. They are great on their own, served atop a salad, or inside lettuce wraps topped with garlic aioli. Play around with the seasonings and cheese to suit your tastes!” —France Cevallos
Chocolate Protein Iced Coffee
“Made with coffee ice cubes, this smoothie is packed with protein from soy milk, spinach, and protein powder. The frozen banana adds creaminess.” —Yoly
Cottage Cheese Banana Pancakes
Allrecipes / Qi Ai
“These fluffy cottage cheese banana pancakes are super high in protein and sweet enough to eat without toppings, though I usually top them with berries and syrup. I combined a few gluten-free recipes to get the best flavor.” —sarahcuse
Snowball Truffles
“As a kid I loved those snowball cakes, the chocolate cake ones with a creamy filling covered in marshmallow and coconut! These snowball truffles are a healthier version using the flavors I especially love–the chocolate and coconut! They make a delicious holiday treat!” —Allrecipes Member
Almond Butter and Blueberry Smoothie
“My almond butter and jelly smoothie is a spin-off of ‘peanut butter and jelly’ and it is my perfect mid-afternoon snack or sometimes even my lunch!” —Cindy Anschutz Barbieri
No-Bake Quinoa Protein Bars
“These are protein and whole grain packed, with just enough sweetness. They are perfect for a quick snack that will help you power through the next part of your day! Bars can be stored in the freezer for a quick grab-n-go breakfast! See notes for other variations.” —MamaMary
Banana Mud Ice Cream
“Banana Mud Ice Cream does not taste like it is healthy! It is a good alternative to chocolate ice cream. There is no sugar added but still delicious. Must like bananas. The riper the banana, the naturally sweeter but also stronger the banana taste.” —Rootie Tootie
Vegan Protein Chocolate Overnight Oats
“Perfect for an on-the-run breakfast!” —Jules Sabourin
Maple Apple Pie Protein Squares
“Protein squares for quick snacks! Store in the refrigerator.” —Nicole
