Add flavored protein powder to a french toast egg wash for a delicious post-workout snack. Image Credit: bhofack2/iStock/GettyImages

There are plenty of reasons to prioritize protein. It helps both repair and create new cells and helps you feel satiated after eating, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram (2.2 pounds) of body weight. In other words, if you weigh 160 pounds, you'll need to take in 58 grams of protein a day. But, it may be best to think of this RDA as the minimum amount of protein you require, according to Harvard Health Publishing.

Several factors can lead to a person needing more protein than the RDA, such as age, pregnancy and activity level. For instance, athletes may benefit from getting at least 1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, notes the American Council on Exercise (ACE).

Protein powder is an easy way to add protein to your diet. But if the thought of a protein shake just isn't appealing, take heart: There are plenty of ways to incorporate protein powder into your diet that don't require you to whip out the blender. These recipes include options for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as both sweet and savory alternatives.

Related Reading 8 Things to Consider When Choosing a Protein Powder and Our 5 Top Picks

1. Tiramisu Protein Pancakes

The dessert-inspired flavors in these pancakes include coffee, cinnamon and bananas. Image Credit: kissmybroccoliblog.com

Unlike the pancakes you'd get at a diner, these ones won't leave you feeling sluggish. You'll get a wake-up jolt from the cold brew coffee incorporated in the pancake batter, which also has vanilla protein powder and rolled oats.

Go ahead and skip the maple syrup — instead, dollop a luscious scoop of "cream" filing made from bananas and cottage cheese on top (or between) these pancakes for natural sweetness.

Get the Tiramisu Protein Pancakes recipe and nutrition info here.

2. Oh Yeah! Protein Oatmeal

Bump up the protein content in your morning bowl of oatmeal. Image Credit: iStock

Calling all oatmeal lovers: This weekday breakfast is a breeze to make. Microwave oats and milk (you can use regular milk or a dairy-free alternative if you'd prefer). Then, mix in your preferred protein powder. Feel free to experiments with combos that delight your taste buds such as chocolate protein powder and raspberries.

Get the Oh Yeah! Protein Oatmeal recipe and nutrition info here.

3. Coconut Silver Dollar Protein Pancakes

These mini pancakes have a tropical flavor. Image Credit: Nutrition Styles

Coconut flour along with coconut milk help give these gluten-free silver dollar pancakes a tropical taste. The recipe also calls for vanilla-flavored pea protein, which results in the same gains in muscle thickness as whey protein, according to a January 2015 article in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.

That's good news for people who follow a plant-based diet — or avoid whey due to allergies.

Get the Gluten-Free Coconut Silver Dollar Protein Pancakes recipe and nutrition info here.

4. Protein-Packed Recovery Rice and Oat Crispy Treats

Feeling nostalgic for rice crispy treats? Try this adult-friendly version. Image Credit: Paula Banks/Moment Open/Getty Images

The first step in making rice and oat bars more grown-up is to nix the stickiness — and the sugar — from marshmallows. This version gains flavor from honey, vanilla-flavored whey protein powder and almond butter. As well as the crunch courtesy of cereal, these treats also include fiber-rich oatmeal.

Get the Protein-Packed Recovery Rice and Oat Crispy Treats recipe and nutrition info here.

5. Muscle Mashed Potatoes With Protein Powder

Yes, potatoes can be a good option for your post-workout meal. Image Credit: Howard Shooter/Dorling Kindersley RF/Getty Images

Potatoes — particularly the creamy, rich, mashed variety — may not be the first thing to come to mind when you're determining what to eat after a workout. But done right, mashed potatoes can deliver both carbs and protein to help you refuel and repair your muscles.

This spud side dish has 10 grams of protein thanks to the inclusion of dairy as well as a flavorless protein powder.

Get the Muscle Mashed Potatoes With Protein Powder recipe and nutrition info here.

6. Gluten-Free Protein-Packed Cinnamon Roll Waffles

You'll want to double your batch of waffles, and freeze the extras for later. Image Credit: Nutrition Styles

Do you find it hard to satisfy your sweet tooth? These waffles just may be the answer. They combine both oat and almond flour, as well as protein powder and a hefty amount of cinnamon, for a satisfying breakfast with 23 grams of protein (and just 365 calories) per serving.

Get the Gluten-Free Protein-Packed Cinnamon Roll Waffles recipe and nutrition info here.

7. No-Bake Vanilla Protein Cake

This yummy no-bake cake is full of protein-rich ingredients that will keep you satisfied. Image Credit: peredniankina/iStock/Getty Images

This cake recipe starts with a classic formula — combine the wet ingredients and then add in the dry ones. But instead of using a stand mixer, the ingredients are combined in a blender. And you can skip preheating the oven, too, since this cake is cooked in the microwave.

You could even make mini-treats in mugs. Making this dessert is a piece of, well, cake!

Get the No-Bake Vanilla Protein Cake recipe and nutrition info here.

8. The World's Easiest Protein Pancake

This easy-to-make pancake is packed with protein, while also being low in carbs. Image Credit: roytc/iStock/Getty Images

Need a recovery breakfast after your morning workout? This is the easiest pancake recipe in the world. It has just two ingredients: water and protein powder. The only trick to breakfast perfection is to add the water slowly — since various powders have different absorbencies, you'll want to be careful not to add too much water.

Get the World's Easiest Protein Pancake recipe and nutrition info here.

9. Protein Waffle Ice Cream Sandwiches

Try this decadent, protein-packed dessert to cool down during the summertime. Image Credit: Vega

It's probably the addition of chocolate-flavored protein powder that makes these gluten-free waffles such a delightful, crowd-pleasing option.

After you whip up the waffles, combine frozen bananas and vanilla extract to make the "ice cream." Then, layer it between two waffles. The waffle sandwiches can be frozen to eat later, or you can enjoy them right away.

Get the Protein Waffle Ice Cream Sandwiches recipe and nutrition info here.

10. Whole-Wheat Blueberry Protein Muffins

Typically, baked goods aren't a great nutritional option at breakfast time. Not so for these whole-grain muffins, which are chock-full of protein. Image Credit: EllaPhotography/iStock/Getty Images

These filling muffins are made from whole-wheat flour and incorporate applesauce and brown sugar as well as vanilla-flavored whey protein powder for sweetness and flavor. Each bite of these satisfying muffins is bursting with blueberries.

Tip Before baking, check to see if your protein powder is sweetened. If it is, decrease the amount of brown sugar you include.

Get the Whole-Wheat Blueberry Protein Muffins recipe and nutrition info here.

11. Easy Vanilla Protein Cheesecake

Indulge all of your cheesecake fantasies with this no-bake, high-protein, low-fat dessert recipe. Image Credit: Azurita/iStock/Getty Images

What's not to love about this cheesecake: It's high in protein — each serving has 31 grams — and it's low in fat, with just 2 grams of fat per serving. Plus, you don't even have to turn on the oven: just add the ingredients to a bowl, then mix and refrigerate briefly before digging in. Opt for non-dairy cream cheese and dairy-free milk if you're looking for a vegan dessert option.

Get the Easy Vanilla Protein Cheesecake recipe and nutrition info here.

12. Passion Fruit Protein Mousse

This dairy-free, protein-rich recipe can be made with any fresh fruit you have on hand. Image Credit: RealHealthyRecipes.com

Try this mouthwatering mousse for breakfast, a snack or dessert. To make it, you'll use your food processor to mix together all the ingredients. And while coconut milk and passion fruit are a delightful flavor combination, you can opt to make this mousse with any fresh fruit that's in season (try peaches, plums or even berries).

Bonus: There's no added sugar in the ingredients.

Get the Passion Fruit Protein Mousse recipe and nutrition info here.

13. Protein-Packed Cereal Killer

Up your breakfast game with this easy, super-charged recipe that is perfect after a workout. Image Credit: Mybona/iStock/GettyImages

Instead of pouring milk over your cold cereal, combine protein powder with water. This is one time when you'll want to keep texture in mind — whey, finely ground rice protein powder or casein powder are all good options that won't lead to a grainy mixture. Drown your flakes — or the cereal of your choice — with this liquid for an effortless breakfast or snack.

Get the Protein-Packed Cereal Killer recipe and nutrition info here.

14. Vanilla Almond Butter Protein Granola

Have this granola with yogurt for breakfast, or as a crunchy, satisfying snack. Image Credit: RunningWithSpoons.com

Granola lovers, gather round. This granola version incorporates almond butter, protein powder and ground flax as well as high-fiber oats for a filling snack. You can pair it with milk or yogurt, or crunch it on its own. Just be mindful of the serving size, which is about a palm-full.

Get the Vanilla Almond Butter Protein Granola recipe and nutrition info here.

15. All-American Protein French Toast

The prep for this breakfast is so simple, you won't need to save it for the weekends. Image Credit: JB325/iStock/Getty Images

This French toast recipe starts with Ezekiel bread, then adds protein powder to the egg and milk mixture for an extra blast of protein. Top this appetizing breakfast with sliced up bananas and syrup for a scrumptious start to your morning.

Get the All-American Protein French Toast recipe and nutrition info here.

16. Blueberry Protein Parfait

For peak protein, start with Greek yogurt, then mix in protein powder. Image Credit: iStock

The protein content of yogurt varies by brand. A one-cup serving of one popular brand of yogurt contains 10 grams of protein, according to the USDA. For an even more protein-packed snack, opt for Greek yogurt and mix in a scoop of protein powder. For more flavor, and some natural sweetness, add in fresh or frozen berries.

Get the Blueberry Protein Parfait recipe and nutrition info here.

17. Gluten-Free Margherita Protein Pizza

Satisfy your pizza cravings with this creative recipe that combines several nutritious, protein-rich ingredients. And it’s even gluten-free! Image Credit: Hidehiro Kigawa/Moment/GettyImages

Looking to cut down on carbs? Try this recipe for a gluten-free pizza, which has 29 grams of protein and just 5 grams of carbs in each serving. The crust is made from protein powder, cauliflower and Quest Protein Chips, along with almond meal and egg whites. Once the crust is baked, top it with a simple sauce and cheese, bake again and then dig in!

Get the Gluten-Free Margherita Protein Pizza recipe and nutrition info here.

18. Cinnamon Protein Apples

This protein-filled snack tastes a lot like the filling of an apple pie. Image Credit: iStock

The only equipment you'll need to make this snack is a knife to cut up the apples and a plastic bag for mixing. No need to peel the apples beforehand. The recipe calls for three apples, but it's easy to scale it down to just one. No matter what quantity you make, the result will be full of protein and have a taste reminiscent of apple pie filling.

Get the Cinnamon Protein Apples recipe and nutrition info here.

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