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 breakfast, a post-workout refuel, or just a delicious snack, there’s a shake here for every craving!

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:

• Whey Protein: Smooth and creamy, whey protein shakes are thick, milkshake-style shakes. I like them for post-workout recovery. Favorite brands: Simply Tera’s Organic Whey and Garden of Life Organic Whey.

• Plant-Based Protein: These are ideal for vegan or dairy-free shakes. They blend well with fruits, peanut and almond butter, and greens. Favorite brands: Sunwarrior Vegan Protein Powder and Aloha Organic Protein Powder.
• Collagen Protein: Add a boost of collagen for skin, hair, and joint health. It can be thinner than whey or plant-based powders, so you might want to add yogurt for creaminess. Favorite brands: Naked Marine Collagen and Garden of Life Grass-Fed Collagen.

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 desserts, especially 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.

FAQs

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

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Cookies
• Cottage Cheese Protein Fruit Pizza
• Protein Balls and Bars
• Protein Carrot Cake Roll
• Protein Monster Cookie Dough