8 Best High-Protein Foods

Protein is found in many foods you are likely already enjoying. While this macronutrient can be found in smaller quantities in foods like vegetables and rice, there are other foods with high protein that are better at nourishing your body when included in an overall healthy diet.

To help narrow things down, here are eight of the best protein-containing foods for you to enjoy.

Lean Beef

Including beef in your diet gives your body essential nutrients like iron (which moves oxygen throughout your body) and zinc (which aids in immunity). It also gives your body high-quality protein. Try a hearty Slow-Cooker Beef Stew or a Skillet Steak with Mushroom Sauce for a filling beef meal.

Chicken

Chicken is a flexible supper staple that is a mainstay in many people’s diets. It is high in protein. Either a straightforward Baked Lemon-Pepper Chicken or a Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken recipe can provide a great midweek supper that incorporates this vital nutrient.

 Salmon

Although salmon is well-known for its heart-healthy lipids, it also has a substantial protein content. Including fish in your weekly protein rotation at least twice a week also adds diversity. You must try our Walnut-Rosemary Crusted Salmon and Honey-Garlic Salmon dishes.

 Eggs

One easy approach to sneak in some high-quality protein is through eating eggs. You can eat them hard-boiled or scrambled, or you can add them to recipes like egg salad and spinach omelets. For additional egg-spiration, check out our egg recipes!

Peanut Butter

Natural peanut butter is the best option if you’re looking for a popular plant-based protein source. It tastes great in a traditional peanut butter and jelly sandwich, in a peanut dressing, or when you make some Peanut Butter Energy Balls to eat on the run. Searching for something else to do or not a lover of peanuts? Similar levels of protein are also offered by other nut and seed butters.

 Pasta

Although pasta is frequently thought of as a source of carbohydrates, a 2-ounce portion of traditional semolina pasta, when left uncooked, has about as much protein as a large egg! For even more protein per bite, try some Quick Meat Sauce on top of your pasta or have some One-Pot Italian Sausage & Kale Pasta. Are you looking for pasta dishes that mix well with meatless options? You won’t be disappointed with our suggestions for plant-based protein pasta toppings.

Low-Fat Cottage Cheese

It’s simple to incorporate creamy cottage cheese, a natural source of protein, into a balanced diet. Additionally, it keeps the protein content high in dishes like Florentine Lasagna Roll-Ups and Creamy Spinach Dip without requiring the addition of meat.

Lentils

Try hearty lentils for the finest plant-based protein. They are abundant in fiber, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and this important macronutrient. Eating lentils may be a delightful way to incorporate protein into your diet, whether you’re eating a bowl of lentils with fried eggs and greens or a cozy vegan lentil soup.