The 10 Best Protein Shake Recipes
If there’s one thing I’m always trying to sneak into my day, it’s more protein, preferably in a way that tastes like dessert. Protein shakes are one of the fastest and easiest ways to do so, and they’re endlessly customizable.
I can make one thick and milkshake-like, light and refreshing, fruity, chocolatey, or anything in between. With the right combo of ingredients, which always include a source of protein and a creamy base, you end up with a shake that’s satisfying, filling, and actually enjoyable to drink.
This roundup includes the best-tasting protein shakes I’ve come up with after years of personal research. Whether you need a quick high-protein breakfasta post-workout refuel, or just a delicious snack, there’s a shake here for every craving!
1. Peanut Butter Banana Cheesecake Protein Shake
This shake tastes like a slice of banana cheesecake in a glass thanks to ultra-creamy cottage cheese. I love this one when I want something dessert-like that still packs protein, with peanut butter adding staying power. It’s also kid-friendly if little hands want a sip.
2. Banana Protein Shake
This classic banana protein shake is smooth, creamy, and made with just a handful of real ingredients. Frozen Greek yogurt gives it a thick, milkshake-like texture. It’s an easy way to get protein without anything fussy.
3. Dark Chocolate Peppermint Protein Shake
This one tastes like a chocolate peppermint dessert but sneaks in over 20 grams of protein. Frozen banana keeps it naturally sweet while cocoa powder and peppermint extract make it rich and refreshing. I love this shake when I want something fun that still fuels my day.
4. Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Shake
This strawberry protein shake tastes just like strawberry cheesecake, thanks to frozen strawberries and plain Greek yogurt. It’s thick, creamy, and naturally sweet while packing in 19 grams of protein per serving.
5. Chocolate Protein Shake
This chocolate protein shake tastes like dessert but is made with simple, wholesome ingredients. Frozen fruit, unsweetened cocoa powder, and nut butter give it a rich, creamy texture without being heavy. It’s perfect as a post-workout shake or when a chocolate craving hits.
6. Triple Berry Protein Shake
This triple berry protein smoothie is fresh, fruity, and made with simple, clean ingredients. Mixed berries and banana give it natural sweetness, while protein powder and chia seeds make it more filling. It’s an easy, refreshing option when you want something light but still satisfying.
7. Coffee Protein Shake
A coffee protein shake is perfect when you want breakfast and caffeine in one glass. Cold brew, peanut butter, and banana blend into a creamy, dessert-like shake that’s so well-balanced. It’s my go-to when mornings feel rushed, but I still want something filling.
8. Breakfast Protein Shake
This fiber-rich, protein-packed breakfast smoothie is filling, balanced, and great for grab-and-go mornings. Made with fruit, oats, protein powder, almond milk, and a touch of peanut butter, it’s a delicious strawberry banana option that still keeps things nourishing.
9. Peanut Butter & Jelly Protein Shake
This peanut butter and jelly smoothie is a grown-up, protein-packed take on one of my favorite childhood treats. Frozen berries, peanut butter, oats, and protein powder blend into a thick, creamy shake that’s naturally sweet, super satisfying, and a little bit nostalgic.
10. Strawberry Coconut Protein Shake
This strawberry coconut protein smoothie is light, refreshing, and perfect after a tough workout. Frozen strawberries and coconut milk blend into a subtly sweet, tropical shake with over 20 grams of protein. It’s an easy way to refuel without feeling heavy.
Best Protein Powders and Flavors
Protein powder is such an easy way to get an adequate amount of protein in your shake and smoothie recipes because there are so many different options, and it’s really easy to find. I have a detailed guide to the best protein powders to help you choose, but here’s a quick list:
The flavor of the protein powder can totally change the shake. I like vanilla protein powder with fruity shakes. Chocolate protein powder is great for dessert-style shakes and protein dessertsespecially with peanut butter and banana. Plain or unflavored is best when adding greens.You can also add a natural sweetener, like honey or maple syrup, for a sweeter smoothie.
What other kinds of protein can I use in a protein shake?
While protein powder recipes make it easy to boost protein, you can also use Greek yogurt, nut butters, seeds, or high-protein fruits and veggies to make a satisfying shake:
- Nuts & Nut Butters: Almonds, peanuts, cashews, walnuts, and pecans all add protein, healthy fats, and fiber.
- Seeds: Chia, flaxseed, hemp, and pepitas are excellent vegan, paleo, and keto-friendly sources of protein.
- High-Protein Fruits: Most protein shakes begin with a base of frozen fruit because it’s easy to blend. Guava, avocado, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, and kiwi are great ways to amp up the protein while adding a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants.
- High-Protein Veggies: Spinach, kale, sweet potato, and cauliflower blend easily into shakes while contributing extra protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients.
- Dairy & Other Protein Sources: Greek yogurt is my personal favorite for a boost of probiotics. Cottage cheese and even beans are also easy, protein-packed additions. (Low-fat cottage cheese is lower in calories and cholesterol, but not as creamy as regular.)
Many dietitians and nutritionists recommend protein shakes as a convenient way to hit daily protein goals without extra processed ingredients. Mix in supplements like greens powder to boost the nutrition of your shakes even further.
What type of blender is best for smoothies?
I spent years fighting with a dull blender and wondering why my protein smoothies and shakes were always gritty. Turns out, a good blender really does make all the difference, especially when making shakes regularly or adding ice cubes and other frozen ingredients.
Here are a few blenders I’ve used at different price points:
- High: I currently have the middle-of-the-line Vitamix 5200 and LOVE it. It gets the shakes and smoothies ultra-creamy in no time. This one is definitely an investment at around $450, but if smoothies and shakes are a daily thing for you, it’s worth it.
- Medium: Before the Vitamix, I used the Ninja Kitchen System and had a great experience. It lasted almost four years! It’s not as good as the Vitamix, but it does come with smoothie-specific cups and a food processor attachment for under $150.
- Low: My very first shake and smoothie blender was the good ol’ NutriBullet. It’s compact, easy to use, and affordable at around $60. This one is perfect if you’re just getting started with a regular blending habit.
Why is protein important for weight loss and muscle gain?
Protein helps keep you full, supports muscle repair, and boosts your metabolism. When trying to lose weight, it helps prevent muscle loss while encouraging fat burn. For muscle gain, protein provides the building blocks the body needs to recover and grow stronger.
Drinking a protein drink daily is generally safe and healthy as long as it fits your overall diet and you’re not exceeding your protein needs. Adding protein to smoothies is an easy, tasty way to hit those daily goals.
More Protein-Packed Recipes to Try
