Are you looking to increase your muscle mass and strength? A well-planned diet that is rich in protein can play a crucial role in achieving this goal. When it comes to building muscle, it’s not just about lifting weights – what you put into your body matters just as much. A high-protein diet helps promote muscle growth by providing the necessary amino acids for muscle repair and recovery.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 high-protein bulking recipes that will help you fuel your fitness goals. From protein-packed pancakes to hearty stews and soups, these recipes are designed to provide a boost of protein to support muscle growth. Whether you’re a bodybuilder, athlete, or simply looking to increase your overall health and well-being, these recipes are sure to please.
Peanut Butter Banana Protein Pancakes
Kick-start your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast that combines the flavors of peanut butter, banana, and protein-packed pancakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana, mashed
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (25-30 grams)
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened almond milk
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine mashed banana, peanut butter, and protein powder. Mix until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together oats, almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Crack in the egg and mix until smooth.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on number of pancakes)
Beef and Sweet Potato Chili
A comforting and flavorful chili recipe that combines tender beef, sweet potatoes, and a blend of spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or a game-day gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add the water and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Savor a classic Italian dish with this simple recipe featuring fettuccine pasta, chicken, and a rich creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Add cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Yogurt Protein Smoothie Bowl
Start your day with a boost of protein and creamy goodness! This smoothie bowl is packed with nutrients, protein, and flavor to keep you energized and satisfied until lunchtime.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup frozen berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries)
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Toppings: sliced banana, chopped almonds, shredded coconut, or chia seeds
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine Greek yogurt, frozen berries, protein powder, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add unsweetened almond milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
5. Pour into a bowl and add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook recipe.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Greek Yogurt Protein Smoothie Bowl!
Loaded Sweet Potato with Ground Turkey
This recipe combines the comfort of mashed sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of ground turkey and a medley of toppings, making it a satisfying meal for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Mash baked sweet potatoes in a bowl. Stir in cooked turkey mixture, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer mixture to oven-safe dish. Top with shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and crumbled bacon.
7. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Quinoa and Black Bean Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the richness of black beans, all wrapped up in a sweet bell pepper package. Perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together quinoa, black beans, red onion, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
7. Serve warm, topped with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
High-Calorie Mass Gainer Shake
This indulgent mass gainer shake is designed to fuel your muscles with a concentrated dose of protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Whether you’re looking to bulk up or support muscle recovery after a workout, this recipe delivers.
Ingredients:
– 1 scoop of whey protein powder
– 2 cups of whole milk
– 1/2 cup of almond butter
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1/4 cup of rolled oats
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Combine the whey protein powder and whole milk in a blender.
2. Add the almond butter, honey, and rolled oats. Blend until smooth.
3. Add the sliced banana and blend until well combined.
4. Add ice cubes if desired to thicken the shake.
5. Blend until creamy and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (blended)
Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa
Elevate your summer meals with this refreshing combination of grilled salmon and creamy avocado salsa. This recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy dinner or as an impressive appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Grill for 4-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. In a bowl, combine avocado, lime juice, red onion, jalapeño, and garlic.
4. Serve grilled salmon with avocado salsa spooned on top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Egg and Cheese Breakfast Burrito
Start your day with a flavorful and filling breakfast burrito packed with scrambled eggs, melted cheese, and crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 6-inch flour tortilla
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl, whisk together, and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Pour in the egg mixture and scramble until cooked through (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the diced bell pepper and onion to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Warm the tortilla by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Spoon the scrambled eggs and vegetable mixture onto one half of the tortilla, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for an additional minute or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Oatmeal with Peanut Butter and Honey
Oatmeal with Peanut Butter and Honey Recipe
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A classic comfort food combination, this oatmeal recipe combines the creaminess of peanut butter with the sweetness of honey for a delicious breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1 tsp honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached your desired consistency.
3. Stir in the peanut butter until smooth and creamy.
4. Drizzle the honey over the oatmeal and sprinkle with salt.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
BBQ Pulled Chicken with Rice
This classic comfort food recipe combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked chicken and savory rice, perfect for a cozy meal or gathering. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying tender, fall-apart pulled chicken and fluffy, flavorful rice in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, combine chicken breasts, BBQ sauce, and 1/4 cup of the water.
3. Cover and cook for 6-8 hours or until chicken is tender and falls apart easily.
4. Cook rice according to package instructions using remaining 2 3/4 cups of water.
5. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cooked rice and stir-fry until fluffy and slightly caramelized.
6. Serve pulled chicken over the flavored rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker) or 1 hour (Dutch oven)
Cottage Cheese and Almond Butter Toast
A simple yet satisfying breakfast or snack option that combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the nutty flavor of almond butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 slice whole grain bread (e.g., whole wheat or rye)
– 2 tablespoons cottage cheese
– 2 teaspoons almond butter
– Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread 1 tablespoon of cottage cheese on top of the toast.
3. Drizzle 1 teaspoon of almond butter over the cottage cheese.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of salt, if desired, to balance the flavors.
5. Serve and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. This beef and broccoli stir-fry is a staple for any meal or occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and broccoli. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Protein-Packed Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
These no-bake bars are the perfect treat for fitness enthusiasts and chocolate lovers alike! With a boost of protein from Greek yogurt and peanut butter, you can indulge in these sweet treats without sacrificing your fitness goals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the Greek yogurt, mixing until smooth.
3. Stir in the cocoa powder and chocolate chips.
4. Fold in the chia seeds and salt.
5. Press mixture into a lined 8×8 inch baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Cut into bars (9-12) and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake bars require no cooking, making them easy to prepare and enjoy.
Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, featuring savory turkey and melted cheese inside tender bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Stir in cooked rice, cheese, parsley, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Brown Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of protein-rich lentils, nutty brown rice, and flavorful spices. It’s an excellent option for a healthy, one-dish meal that’s easy to prepare and serves well as a main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine brown rice, lentils, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, cumin, and paprika; cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine cooked rice-lentil mixture with the skillet contents and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Tuna Salad with Whole Wheat Bread
This simple tuna salad recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of omega-3 rich tuna, paired with the nutty flavor of whole wheat bread. A satisfying and healthy snack or lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of whole wheat bread
– Lettuce leaves and tomato slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, and parsley.
2. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Slice the whole wheat bread into 1-inch thick pieces.
5. Assemble the salad by spreading a spoonful of the tuna mixture onto each slice of bread.
6. Add lettuce leaves and tomato slices if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is a no-cook affair! Simply assemble and serve.
Homemade Protein Ice Cream
Take your protein game to the next level with this simple and healthy ice cream recipe that combines the power of whey protein powder with the sweetness of natural ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 scoop of whey protein powder (25-30 grams)
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey or stevia
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the protein powder, almond milk, Greek yogurt, honey or stevia, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed for about 30 seconds, until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions (about 20-30 minutes).
4. Once churned, transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe uses an ice cream maker to churn the mixture into creamy goodness.
Enjoy your guilt-free, protein-packed ice cream treat!
Spicy Shrimp and Quinoa Bowl
This recipe combines succulent shrimp with a flavorful quinoa bowl, adding a spicy kick from the sriracha sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add ginger and shrimp; cook until pink and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in sriracha sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve quinoa in a bowl, topped with spicy shrimp mixture. Garnish with cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado and Egg Breakfast Sandwich
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast sandwich that combines the creaminess of avocado with the richness of scrambled eggs, all wrapped up in a toasted English muffin.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 English muffins
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until well-beaten.
2. Heat the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the eggs and scramble until cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and slice into thin strips.
4. Toast the English muffins by grilling or baking for 2-3 minutes.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a spoonful of scrambled eggs on each muffin, followed by a few slices of avocado.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Looking to fuel your muscle growth? This article features 20 high-protein recipes that will help you bulk up. From classic protein pancakes and omelets, to hearty chili and pasta dishes, these recipes are packed with protein-rich ingredients like chicken, turkey, beef, fish, eggs, and dairy products. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced lifter, these recipes provide a delicious and convenient way to increase your daily protein intake and support muscle growth.