Finding meals that are both nutritious and satisfying can sometimes feel like a challenge. We all know protein is essential for muscle repair, energy, and overall well-being, but coming up with creative ways to get your protein fix can be tricky. Enter the casserole — the ultimate comfort food that’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for meal prepping.
Whether you’re trying to eat healthier or simply need some delicious recipes to fuel your busy week, high-protein casseroles can be a game changer. These recipes are packed with lean meats, legumes, eggs, and cheese, offering a hearty and balanced meal in every bite. Plus, most of them can be prepped in advance, making them ideal for meal prep enthusiasts.
1. Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
A classic comfort food with a protein punch. Chicken and broccoli come together in this dish to give you lean protein and fiber-rich veggies. The creamy sauce adds richness without being too heavy.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Steam the broccoli until tender, then mix with the shredded chicken and Greek yogurt.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
This dish is perfect for meal prepping, as it stores well in the fridge for several days!
2. Turkey Taco Casserole
Looking for a Tex-Mex twist? This turkey taco casserole is loaded with lean ground turkey, black beans, and corn, all seasoned with zesty taco spices. Top it off with melted cheese and you’ve got a meal that’s both satisfying and high in protein.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 packet taco seasoning
Directions:
- Brown the turkey in a skillet and mix with taco seasoning.
- Add black beans, corn, and a bit of water to the pan, letting it simmer for a few minutes.
- Transfer to a casserole dish, top with cheese, and bake for 15 minutes until the cheese is melted.
3. Spinach and Feta Quinoa Casserole
If you’re looking for a vegetarian-friendly option, this quinoa casserole packed with spinach, feta, and Greek yogurt is a nutrient powerhouse. It’s a great source of plant-based protein and will leave you feeling full and energized.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 eggs
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté spinach until wilted, then combine with quinoa, Greek yogurt, and eggs.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle with feta cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes, then serve warm.
4. Chicken Alfredo Casserole
For an indulgent yet protein-packed dish, this chicken Alfredo casserole is a crowd-pleaser. Creamy Alfredo sauce combined with chicken and pasta makes for a rich, comforting meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
- 1 box whole wheat pasta
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- In a separate pan, combine chicken with Alfredo sauce.
- Layer cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce in a baking dish, then top with parmesan.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
5. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Casserole
Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins, and when paired with black beans, you’ve got a high-protein, nutrient-rich casserole that’s both hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, cubed
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 tsp cumin
Directions:
- Roast sweet potatoes until tender.
- Mix sweet potatoes with black beans, cumin, and cheese.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 15 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
6. Tuna Noodle Casserole
A classic recipe that’s been around for ages, tuna noodle casserole is packed with protein from canned tuna and eggs. It’s also a great way to sneak in some veggies like peas and carrots.
Ingredients:
- 1 can tuna, drained
- 2 cups whole wheat pasta
- 1 cup peas
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup cheese
Directions:
- Cook pasta according to package directions and mix with tuna, peas, and beaten eggs.
- Add cheese and transfer to a baking dish.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
7. Beef and Vegetable Casserole
This hearty casserole combines ground beef with a variety of vegetables, including carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers. The protein from the beef and the fiber from the vegetables make this dish a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, zucchini, bell peppers)
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup beef broth
Directions:
- Brown the beef and mix with the vegetables.
- Add beef broth and let simmer for a few minutes.
- Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake for 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
8. Eggplant Parmesan Casserole
Eggplant Parmesan is a lighter twist on the traditional breaded and fried version. With layers of eggplant, marinara sauce, and mozzarella, this casserole is a great source of protein and will keep you full for hours.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Layer eggplant slices in a baking dish, then top with marinara sauce and cheeses.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
9. Chicken and Mushroom Casserole
If you’re a fan of mushrooms, this creamy chicken and mushroom casserole is just what you need. The mushrooms add a rich, earthy flavor while the chicken provides the protein boost you need.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions:
- Sauté mushrooms until tender.
- Combine chicken, mushrooms, and sour cream, then transfer to a baking dish.
- Top with cheese and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
10. Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey
A healthier alternative to the classic ziti, this version swaps out sausage for lean ground turkey, cutting down on the fat while keeping all the delicious flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 box ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
- Cook pasta and ground turkey separately.
- Mix the pasta, turkey, and marinara sauce together, then transfer to a baking dish.
- Top with cheese and bake for 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
11. Shrimp and Cauliflower Rice Casserole
For seafood lovers, this shrimp and cauliflower rice casserole is a light yet flavorful option. Cauliflower rice serves as a low-carb base, while shrimp provides a good source of protein. With a blend of spices and a creamy sauce, this casserole is a delightful twist on a traditional seafood bake.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cauliflower rice
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté shrimp in a pan with garlic powder and a bit of olive oil until pink.
- In a separate pan, cook cauliflower rice until tender, then combine with cream cheese and half of the parmesan cheese.
- Mix in the shrimp and transfer to a baking dish. Top with remaining parmesan and bake for 15 minutes until bubbly.
12. Lentil and Chicken Casserole
Lentils are a great plant-based protein source, and when paired with chicken, they create a filling and hearty casserole. This dish combines the earthy flavors of lentils with tender chicken, making for a protein-packed meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup dry lentils
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Directions:
- Cook the lentils in vegetable broth until tender.
- Combine the lentils, shredded chicken, and diced tomatoes in a large bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
13. Cottage Pie with Ground Beef
Cottage pie is traditionally made with ground beef and topped with mashed potatoes, but this high-protein version includes an extra boost of protein with lean ground beef and peas. It’s a delicious and hearty meal that feels like comfort food but is a much healthier version.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup peas
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and mix with peas and beef broth.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with mashed potatoes.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
14. Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole
For a sweet and savory combo, this chicken and sweet potato casserole is an excellent choice. The sweetness of the potatoes balances out the savory chicken and vegetables, making for a nutrient-packed meal that’s perfect for meal prepping.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, cubed
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/2 cup feta cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
Directions:
- Roast the cubed sweet potatoes until tender.
- Combine the roasted potatoes, chicken, spinach, and paprika in a baking dish.
- Top with feta cheese and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
15. Sausage and Pepper Casserole
This sausage and pepper casserole is a flavorful dish with a punch of protein from the sausage, as well as a satisfying kick from the peppers. It’s perfect for when you want something simple, filling, and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb turkey sausage
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
Directions:
- Brown the turkey sausage in a pan.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and onion, cooking until tender.
- Mix in marinara sauce, then transfer to a baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
16. Pesto Chicken Casserole
Pesto adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor to this chicken casserole, making it a unique and tasty meal. With chicken, quinoa, and plenty of veggies, this dish is a great way to sneak in some greens and still enjoy a protein-packed dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Combine chicken, quinoa, pesto, and spinach in a large bowl.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
17. Chicken and Potato Casserole
Simple, hearty, and satisfying, this chicken and potato casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner. With crispy potatoes and juicy chicken baked to perfection, this meal will keep you full and energized.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
- 3 medium potatoes, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine chicken, potatoes, and garlic powder in a large bowl.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with sour cream and shredded cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is melted.
18. Zucchini and Turkey Meatball Casserole
This zucchini and turkey meatball casserole is a great option for anyone looking for a lean, protein-rich meal. Zucchini keeps the dish light while turkey meatballs provide a satisfying source of protein. It’s a great way to enjoy a low-carb casserole without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Form turkey into meatballs and bake them in the oven for 15 minutes.
- Layer the zucchini slices, turkey meatballs, and marinara sauce in a baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
19. Chicken and Black Bean Enchilada Casserole
Craving Mexican flavors? This chicken and black bean enchilada casserole is your go-to recipe. With lean chicken, black beans, and a zesty enchilada sauce, this casserole is packed with protein and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 corn tortillas, cut into strips
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Layer tortillas, chicken, black beans, enchilada sauce, and cheese in a baking dish.
- Repeat layers and top with cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
20. Veggie and Tofu Casserole
For a vegan or vegetarian-friendly option, this veggie and tofu casserole is packed with plant-based protein and delicious veggies. The tofu takes on the flavors of the seasonings, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 block firm tofu, cubed
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, etc.)
- 1 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté tofu until crispy and golden.
- Mix tofu with vegetables and vegetable broth.
- Transfer to a baking dish, top with nutritional yeast, and bake for 20 minutes.
21. Chicken and Green Bean Casserole
This chicken and green bean casserole is a nutritious and filling option, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. With tender chicken and crisp green beans, this dish is full of protein and fiber, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a balanced meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
- 2 cups green beans
- 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Steam green beans until tender.
- Combine chicken, green beans, and cream of mushroom soup in a baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar and bake for 20 minutes.
22. Baked Egg Casserole with Bacon
This baked egg casserole with bacon is an easy, protein-packed breakfast option. Eggs, bacon, and a mix of vegetables come together in a baked casserole that’s perfect for starting your day off right or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Ingredients:
- 6 eggs
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Whisk eggs and pour into a greased baking dish.
- Add cooked bacon, spinach, and shredded cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes until eggs are set.
Conclusion
Whether you’re prepping for the week ahead, looking for a comforting family meal, or craving something new and exciting, high-protein casseroles are the way to go. These 22 recipes offer a wide variety of flavors and ingredients, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Plus, they’re simple to make, perfect for meal prepping, and full of protein to keep you energized and satisfied throughout the day.
So, get cooking and enjoy these delicious, protein-packed casseroles that will keep you full, nourished, and ready to take on the week!