Top 25 Protein Shakes and Smoothies Recipes
Whether you are looking for a high-energy snack, are refueling after a long workout, or are eating to build more lean muscle, eating more protein can help.
Drinking one of these high-protein smoothies each day can provide you with the energy and the enzymes you need to build muscle and be healthy.
We have the tastiest and healthiest recipes to help you create smoothie masterpieces in your own kitchen, and each one provides you with a significant boost of protein for your diet.
One thing is for sure, though, and that is that each one is delicious!
Protein Smoothie Precautions
You may notice that some recipes call for protein powder.
Be sure to select organic whey protein or a vegan protein powder that does not use added sugars, pesticides, or other additives.
Unless indicated, all of the following recipes are executed by placing the ingredients in a blender and blending until smooth.
While frozen fruit is preferred, you can use fresh fruit in any recipe.
Just add ice to your final smoothie to get the smooth creaminess you desire.
Many recipes call for almond milk.
You can substitute any liquid you prefer, whether it’s cow’s milk, plant milk, coconut water, or plain water.
Choose what works best for you, and what you have available.
Adjust liquid amounts to create the consistency you want.
Depending on the size and speed of your blender, you may want to add ingredients a few at a time, blend, and then add more.
Adding ice last is generally better for lower-powered blenders.
Protein Shake Recipes
Chia-Almond Raspberry Smoothie
Loaded with flavor and calcium, this smoothie looks and tastes delicious!
Greek yogurt adds lots of natural protein plus probiotics and calcium, and the chia seeds offer healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
This smoothie provides ten grams of protein, and you also get plenty of fiber and nutrients from the raspberries.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 1 1/3 cups plain Greek yogurt;
- 1 1/3 cups plain, unsweetened almond milk;
- 1 1/3 cups frozen raspberries;
- 1/2 cup almonds, divided;
- 1 tablespoon raw honey;
- 2 teaspoons chia seeds.
Blend all ingredients except for a few reserved almonds.
Chop these and garnish your finished smoothies with them.
Vibrant Green Protein Smoothie
Packed with protein and other nutrients, you’ll love the vibrant green color, too.
Start your day with green goodness with this easily modifiable recipe.
Use flax or spirulina in place of the hemp and wheat grass, or choose your own favorites.
While this calls for dates, use any natural sweetener you prefer, including raw honey, maple syrup, or more fruit.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 1 1/2 cups plain, unsweetened almond milk;
- 1 cup filtered water or six ice cubes;
- 2 Medjool dates;
- 1 teaspoon wheatgrass powder;
- 2 tablespoons almond butter;
- 2 scoops of your favorite protein powder;
- Four handfuls of greens, such as kale or spinach;
- 2 teaspoons hemp hearts.
Blend all ingredients except for the hemp hearts, which should be sprinkled on the top of each glass.
Matcha Avocado Smoothie
This pick-me-up smoothie is a great addition to your morning routine, and the creamy avocado will not disappoint.
Modify this simple recipe by adding fruit of your choice, chia or flaxseed, or other creative options.
Adjust the sweetness by adding maple syrup or dates. Matcha contains caffeine, so adjust according to your needs.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 2 teaspoons matcha powder, or to your taste;
- 2 cups plain, unsweetened almond milk;
- 1 small avocado;
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder;
- 4 ice cubes.
Creamy Kale Green Smoothie
Packed with flavor, you’ll forget all about how healthy this smoothie is.
The fruit helps disguise the healthy kale goodness, making it perfect for kids!
You get several servings of fruits and veggies from this tasty beverage, and the addition of protein powder means you’ll have enough nutrients to grow those strong muscles.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 5 cups kale;
- 2 cups unsweetened vanilla almond milk;
- 1 cup frozen mango;
- 2 cups fresh pineapple;
- 2 small frozen bananas;
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder.
Banana Split Protein Smoothie
With all the flavors of your favorite dessert without the guilt, you’ll love this protein-packed smoothie.
This simple recipe has just five ingredients, but the addition of pineapple makes all the difference.
You will feel like you are in enjoying a delicious indulgence, but instead, you’ll be getting vitamins, nutrients, and plenty of protein from this family favorite.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 2 cups plain, unsweetened almond milk;
- 4 scoops chocolate protein powder;
- 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks;
- 2 cups frozen sliced strawberries;
- 2 frozen sliced bananas.
Peach Cobbler Protein Smoothie
This smoothie will remind you of summer nights and peach cobbler.
With loads of protein, you can enjoy this at any time.
While the addition of cottage cheese may seem unconventional for a smoothie, trust us that it adds creaminess, as well as protein, to this smoothie that tastes like summer in a glass.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese;
- 4 tablespoons vanilla protein powder;
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen peaches;
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon;
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg;
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract;
- 2 teaspoons sweetener of your choice (optional);
- 2 cups plain, unsweetened almond milk;
- 10-15 ice cubes.
The Green Warrior Smoothie
Filled with fresh vegetables, hemp hearts, and lots of other goodness, this feel-good smoothie is a great staple for your workout, morning, or after-school routine.
You’ll get lots of vitamins and minerals with this powerhouse.
Use any juice you prefer if you do not like grapefruit, and if you cannot use fresh-squeezed, be sure to use 100% real juice.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 1 cup freshly squeezed red grapefruit juice;
- 2 cups kale or baby spinach;
- 2 large apples, cored and chopped;
- 2 cups cucumber, chopped;
- 2 stalks celery, chopped;
- 4 tablespoons hemp hearts;
- 2/3 cup frozen chopped mango;
- 4 tablespoons fresh mint leaves;
- 3 teaspoons virgin coconut oil;
- Ice cubes or water as needed.
Creamy Kale Smoothie
This smoothie has everything – healthy fats, vegetables, fruit, and protein – all combined in one simple glass.
If you don’t like pineapple, swap your fruit out for anything you prefer.
Almond milk and protein powder supply your necessary amino acids, while avocado gives this smoothie a creamy goodness you cannot deny.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk;
- 2 handfuls kale, chopped;
- 1/3 cup frozen pineapple chunks;
- 1/2 of a ripe avocado;
- 1 scoop vanilla or plain protein powder
- 1 cup ice cubes.
Apple Pie Protein Shake
If you love the taste of apple pie, the all-American dessert, then this smoothie is for you!
Made with fresh apples and lots of protein from yogurt and protein powder, this smoothie tastes like a baked treat but gives you the nutrients you need to get through your day.
Be sure to garnish this smoothie with a sprinkling of cinnamon for authentic flavor.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 2 small apples, cored and chopped;
- 2/3 cup plain, nonfat Greek yogurt;
- 1 cup plain, unsweetened almond milk;
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder;
- 2 teaspoons stevia or other sweeteners;
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract;
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon;
- 6-10 ice cubes.
Strawberry Banana Smoothie
This classic smoothie has everything you need to get your day started right, including sweetness, fiber, protein, and vitamins.
Plus, you’ll get your daily supply of potassium.
While we used a dash of honey for sweetness, add your own natural sweetener, or rely on your fruit to provide all the sweetness you will need.
Double this recipe to make two wonderful smoothies for you and a loved one.
This recipe yields one smoothie.
- 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries;
- 3/4 cup plain, nonfat Greek yogurt;
- 1 medium banana;
- 1/4 cup plain, unsweetened almond milk;
- 1 teaspoon raw honey;
- 1/2 cup crushed ice or 3-4 ice cubes.
Tropical Papaya Smoothie
Papaya is amazing for so many reasons, including its high fiber and antioxidant content.
This natural smoothie contains tons of tropical goodness, loads of protein, and plenty of vitamins and minerals to get your day going.
This recipe calls for coconut kefir, which is also rich in probiotics.
If you can’t find coconut, regular kefir will work.
This recipe yields one smoothie.
- ½ cup frozen strawberries;
- ½ cup sliced papaya;
- ½ cup coconut kefir;
- 1 small scoop vanilla protein powder;
- ¼ cup water or coconut water;
- Several ice cubes.
Vanilla Almond Protein Smoothie
You will definitely want to make this decadent smoothie again and again.
By using vanilla almond milk, vanilla protein powder, and vanilla yogurt, you get three times the vanilla goodness, plus lots of protein.
Combine this with delicious almonds, and you’ve got yourself a winner.
Don’t buy sweetened yogurt that likely contains a lot of preservatives.
Use plain yogurt, and just add a few drops of vanilla extract.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder;
- 1 banana, frozen;
- 1/2 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt;
- 2 tablespoons almond butter;
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened vanilla almond milk;
- 4-6 ice cubes.
Top with cinnamon, slivered almonds, or flaxseed.
Coffee Lovers Smoothie
Whether you need an afternoon pick-me-up or want to combine your morning coffee and smoothie into one delicious drink, this smoothie has you covered.
You’ll get lots of energy from protein and fruit, and a shot of coffee provides you with that caffeine boost you want.
Use decaffeinated coffee, if you prefer.
We promise you’ll enjoy this smoothie just as much as any coffee shop drink.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 1 frozen or fresh banana;
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder;
- 1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk;
- 1 cup cold or room temperature brewed coffee;
- 6-8 ice cubes.
Garnish with cacao nibs.
Pumpkin Smoothie
Trade out your pumpkin spice latte for this healthier, protein-packed version.
Not only will you get lots of protein, and the quintessential fall flavors of pumpkin and spice, but you’ll also save money over high-priced coffee shop drinks.
This satisfying smoothie is so delicious that you’ll want to make it year-round to enjoy the healthy goodness.
Be sure to use pumpkin puree, which is different than pie filling.
The only ingredient on the label should be a pumpkin.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 1 cup unsweetened plain almond milk;
- 1 cup pumpkin puree;
- 2 teaspoons honey, agave, or a sweetener of your choice;
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder;
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice;
- 1 large banana;
- 6-8 ice cubes.
Garnish with a sprinkling of pie spice.
Cinnamon Roll Smoothie
Enjoy all the spicy, sweet goodness of a cinnamon roll without the guilt.
This cinnamon roll smoothie is low in fat and high in fiber, thanks to plenty of fruit and oatmeal.
It’s like sipping on a cinnamon roll with each drink, and you won’t be disappointed that there’s no icing with this treat.
This recipe yields one smoothie.
- ½ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk;
- 1/4 cup vanilla Greek yogurt, or plain Greek yogurt with a few drops of vanilla extract;
- 1/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats;
- ½ tablespoon brown sugar;
- 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon;
- 1/2 of a banana, frozen;
- Ice cubes as needed.
Garnish with a sprinkling of cinnamon, if desired.
Salted Caramel Mocha Protein Smoothie
Cold coffee beverages not only give you a great pick-me-up, but they enhance the flavors of many other ingredients, including chocolate.
This mocha smoothie gives you a little jolt of caffeine, as well as lots of protein and nutrients.
Be sure to brew strong coffee, or your final smoothie may taste a little weak.
The hardest part about this one is remembering to brew your coffee ahead of time so that it can cool down.
Try making a big batch and storing it in the refrigerator all week, so you’ll never run out.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 1 cup brewed coffee, cooled;
- ½ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk;
- ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese;
- 2 scoops chocolate protein powder;
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder;
- ½ teaspoon caramel extract;
- ¼ teaspoon salt;
- 1 packet stevia or sweetener of your choice (optional);
- 4-8 ice cubes.
You can garnish your smoothie with whipped topping and/or salted caramel syrup if you like.
Samoa Cookie Smoothie
This smoothie has everything the delicious Girl Scout cookie does, minus the guilt.
Coconut, chocolate, protein, and just the right amount of sweetness combine to create a delicious, sippable treat.
This delight is dairy-free, and you can adjust the ingredients to your taste easily.
This creamy protein smoothie will satisfy any cookie craving you might have, as well as give you energy for your day ahead.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk;
- 1 cup unsweetened plain almond milk or coconut milk;
- 2 scoops protein powder;
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened coconut flakes;
- 2 tablespoons caramel sauce;
- 4-6 ice cubes.
Garnish with 2 teaspoons toasted coconut flakes and 2 tablespoons dairy-free chocolate chips, melted, if desired.
Almond Joy Smoothie
When you are craving a candy bar but prefer to make a healthier choice, try this delicious protein smoothie.
Packed with 30 grams of protein in just 310 calories, you won’t believe how good it tastes without all the sugar and empty calories of its candy bar cousin.
Whether you enjoy this in the morning before work or after your next workout, you’ll have plenty of energy from this powerhouse smoothie.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 2 scoops chocolate protein powder;
- 4 tablespoons sliced almonds;
- 4 tablespoons shredded coconut;
- 1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk;
- 6-10 ice cubes.
Chocolate Kale Protein Smoothie
If you still aren’t sure about kale, this smoothie could be the one to change your mind.
Not only do you get the protein and vitamin benefits of kale, but the chocolate protein powder in this smoothie makes you forget all about the healthy compounds in this superfood.
When selecting a peanut butter for this smoothie, be sure to opt for natural versions with no added ingredients.
You can use any nut butter you prefer.
This recipe yields one smoothie.
- 2 cups fresh chopped kale;
- ¾ cup plain unsweetened almond milk;
- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder;
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter;
- ½ frozen or fresh banana;
- 4-6 ice cubes.
This recipe works best when the kale and milk are first blended, then the other ingredients are added.
Cocoa Almond Protein Smoothie
You will get lots of natural protein in this smoothie without the use of protein powder.
Instead, your protein comes from natural sources like flax, almond butter, Greek yogurt, and plant milk.
You’ll get added flavor from cocoa powder without any added sugars, and this one tastes so great, even your kids will be asking for more.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 3/4 cup plain unsweetened almond milk;
- 4 tablespoons almond butter;
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder;
- 1 1/2 cups plain Greek yogurt;
- 2 medium bananas, fresh or frozen;
- 4 teaspoons ground flaxseed (optional);
- 4-8 ice cubes.
Cookie Dough Protein Smoothie
This protein smoothie will satisfy just about any cookie craving, as well as provide you with tons of protein.
Like drinking your favorite baked dessert, this smoothie is great for a post-workout treat or any time you are craving a guilty pleasure.
Use any natural sweetener of your choice, and this smoothie will be sure to fill you up for hours to come.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 2 cups plain unsweetened almond milk;
- ¼ teaspoon salt;
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda;
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder;
- Sweeteners of choice, such as stevia, agave, or maple syrup;
- 6 drops of maple extract;
- 3-6 ice cubes.
Garnish with rolled oats or chocolate chips, if desired.
Berry Chocolate Protein Smoothie
This chocolatey good smoothie comes with no guilt and plenty of flavors.
It’s simple to make, with just five ingredients, and it makes a great addition to your post-workout routine or as a late-night snack.
Substitute any berries you like, and you’ll still enjoy all the protein and vitamin goodness from this simple but delectable treat.
If you only have vanilla protein powder, add one-half tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder per scoop of protein powder.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 2 cups unsweetened vanilla almond milk;
- 1 cup frozen organic strawberries;
- 1 cup frozen organic raspberries;
- 2 scoops chocolate protein powder;
- 2 teaspoons chia seeds.
Garnish this smoothie with fruit, coconut whipped topping or a chocolate drizzle.
Mint Chocolate Green Smoothie
If the Samoa smoothie wasn’t enough to satisfy your Girl Scout cookie cravings, this one is sure to do the trick.
You’ll get plenty of green goodness with spinach, plus chocolate and mint flavors to enhance the protein power.
Great for after the gym or to get your day going, this beauty will even make kids want to drink their greens each day.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 2 scoops chocolate protein powder;
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed;
- 1 large banana, frozen;
- 1 cup fresh spinach;
- ½ teaspoon pure peppermint extract;
- 6-8 ice cubes;
- 1/2 cup plain unsweetened almond milk.
Garnish with 2 tablespoons pure dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs, if desired.
Whole-Grain Quinoa Smoothie
Not only is quinoa high in protein, it’s a great source of other vitamins and minerals.
Combined with fruit, yogurt, and natural sweeteners, you get creamy goodness packed with protein and nutrients.
Be sure to blend this smoothie well with a smooth treat.
Quinoa is a great option when you don’t have protein powder for a smoothie recipe.
This recipe yields one smoothie.
- ½ cup plain unsweetened almond milk;
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt;
- ½ of a banana, fresh or frozen;
- ½ cup mixed frozen berries;
- ¼ cup cooked quinoa;
- ¼ teaspoon raw honey or sweetener of your choice.
Oatmeal Cookie Protein Smoothie
This sweet indulgence has everything you want without the sugar crash.
With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a drinkable treat that will remind you of your grandmother’s homemade oatmeal raisin cookies.
This protein powerhouse will keep you feeling full for hours, and the taste will keep you coming back for more.
This recipe yields two smoothies.
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder;
- 2 cups unsweetened vanilla almond milk;
- 6 tablespoons old-fashioned rolled oats;
- 4 small pitted dates, or 4 tablespoons raisins;
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract;
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon;
- 6-8 ice cubes.
Garnish with a sprinkling of cinnamon.
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