If there’s one thing every bodybuilder is guaranteed to have lying around, it’s protein powder. You probably even have a couple different flavors for different moods and uses. The good news is, there is much more you can make with all that protein powder than just protein shakes. So next time you feel like you just can’t drink another shake, try one of these protein-packed alternatives:
Pizza Crust: you really can make your own low-carb, gluten-free, protein packed pizza from the comfort of your own kitchen. In addition to the protein powder, this recipe calls for salt, baking powder, almond or coconut flour, Psyllium husk powder, eggs, parmesan cheese, spices, coconut oil and any toppings you want. Load it up with veggies for and extra nutritional punch.
Post-workout Protein Cookies: each of these bad boys has as much protein as an egg, so they make a perfect snack to grab when you’re on the go. It also only takes about 15 minutes to make an entire batch, start to finish. So it won’t take much time out of your meal-prep schedule to make a week’s worth of health, tasty pre and post-gym snacks. This recipe makes 22 cookies and you can drizzle a little chocolate or honey on top of them if you need to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Chocolate-Banana Protein Pancakes: this recipe boasts 21 grams of protein, six grams of fiber and less than 300 calories per two-pancake serving and has no dairy or artificial sweeteners. You can use any kind of protein powder. This recipe also comes together quickly, so it’s great even if you don’t have a lot of time in the mornings. Pair it with a cup of black coffee, some fresh fruit and your regular multi-vitamins and you have the breakfast of champions.
Spinach Frozen Yogurt: if you’re wondering how a protein-rich, spinach-laden frozen yogurt can possibly exist, you’re not alone. But we assure you that it does. And it works. The true beauty of this recipe is that it gets you protein, from Greek yogurt and protein powder, as well as vitamins A, B6, C, E and K, folate and iron, from the spinach, but actually tastes like a dessert. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, there’s a footnote at the bottom of the recipe for two alternative ways you can make it.
Muscle Building Mashed Potatoes: nothing says comfort food like mashed potatoes. Now, you can make gains while you enjoy this simple, 4-ingredient side dish that has more protein and less fat than traditional mashed potatoes without sacrificing the flavor. Pair it with some fresh steamed veggies and some grilled chicken breasts and you have a meal worth Instagramming. Put your favorite healthy potato toppings on top and say hello to your new favorite side dish.
Protein-Packed Soups: this recipe for coconut curry pumpkin soup has so much flavor that you can put in a much or as little protein powder as you want without ruining the taste. It’s also low-calorie and comes together in under 20 minutes. The other great thing about soups is that they freeze and reheat very well, so you can make large batches quickly when you meal prep, and then bring them to work and reheat them for a quick, easy lunch.
Homemade Protein Granola: you probably already know that lots of the loose granola or granola bars you see at the grocery store actually aren’t that good for you. Most of them are loaded with artificial sweeteners and preservatives, so you’re much better off making your own. This granola recipe is quick and easy to make and uses ingredients most healthy eaters already have around the house, like almond butter and ground flax seeds. Eat it plain as a snack, throw it in yogurt or oatmeal or make into bar form to carry around with you for when your stomach starts growling.