10 Underrated High-Protein Foods to Melt Fat and Build Muscle

1. Bone Broth Soup

For a warming snack option that supports both metabolism and gut health, Autumn suggests bone broth, which is rich in collagen that helps boost satiety. "Bone broth is really rich in collagen and collagen helps to boost our satiety," notes Autumn. This protein-rich liquid provides essential amino acids while being easy on digestion, making it perfect for between meals when cravings strike.

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2. Tempeh Bacon Lettuce Wraps

For plant-based eaters looking to maximize protein quality, Autumn recommends tempeh over tofu. "Tempeh is made from fermented soybeans and if you are plant-based I do recommend using tempeh over tofu because the fermentation helps to break down the anti-nutrients," she explains. Create a quick wrap using lettuce leaves filled with tempeh bacon, avocado, red onion, and tomato for a satisfying combination of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables.

3. Beef Jerky with Nuts

Need something shelf-stable that supports metabolism throughout the day? Autumn recommends beef jerky paired with pistachios and almonds. "Beef jerky is so packed with protein—one ounce has 11 grams of protein which is pretty mind-blowing—and it is so shelf stable so you can just keep it in your bag if you are in a pinch," she says. The combination of protein and healthy fats provides steady energy without blood sugar spikes.

4. Watermelon with Grilled Halloumi

This unexpected pairing makes for a metabolism-boosting snack that comes together in just minutes. "Halloumi is a grillable cheese so it's a great vegetarian alternative to meat," Autumn shares. "My mouth is literally watering thinking about it right now." Simply grill halloumi for about a minute per side, then cube and serve with watermelon pieces. For an extra flavor boost, add fresh mint. The protein from the cheese balances the natural sugars in the watermelon.

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5. Mini Caprese Salad

"This is so simple and refreshing but it also feels really fancy," says Autumn about this metabolism-friendly snack. Combine small mozzarella balls with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil, then drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil. The protein from the mozzarella makes this elegant option surprisingly filling, while the fresh ingredients provide nutrients that support your body's natural fat-burning processes.

6. Quick Protein Smoothie

When you need something fast that will keep hunger at bay for hours, Autumn's go-to is a simple protein smoothie. Her favorite combines whole milk, vanilla protein powder, peanut butter, and cacao nibs for a drink that tastes like "a banana-y chocolate chip milkshake" while delivering metabolism-boosting protein and fiber. "Cacao nibs are actually also very high in fiber too," she adds, making this a complete package for fat-burning support.

7. Sardines

Don't overlook this powerhouse option for fat loss. "You either love them or hate them," Autumn admits about sardines, "but either way it's something that you can keep in your pantry and just always have on you for a really fast and easy source of protein plus an incredible source of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats." These tiny fish provide complete protein along with fats that actually help your body burn stored fat more efficiently.

8. Chickpea and Kidney Bean Salad

This plant-based protein option combines metabolism-boosting ingredients in one delicious package. "It's one of those sleeper recipes that everybody forgets about until you make it and then you're like, wow, why don't I make this every single day?" Autumn shares. The combination of chickpeas, kidney beans, sunflower seeds, hemp seeds, and avocado with apple cider vinegar creates a fiber-rich, protein-packed option that keeps you feeling full while supporting your body's fat-burning systems.

Looking for even more ways to boost your protein intake and support your metabolism? Here are additional protein-rich snacks that Autumn recommends for stopping unhealthy binges.

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Skyr with Protein Powder and Berries

Looking for something with more protein than Greek yogurt? Try skyr, suggests Autumn. This Icelandic yogurt packs an impressive protein punch. To make it tastier without adding sugar, mix in a scoop of vanilla protein powder and top with fresh berries. You'll get that sweet hit you're craving along with the protein needed to keep blood sugar stable.

Cucumber and Carrots with Tzatziki

For a savory protein-rich option, Autumn recommends sliced vegetables with tzatziki dip. You can make a simple version with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, mint, and a pinch of salt. The protein from the Greek yogurt helps curb cravings while the fresh vegetables provide satisfying crunch and nutrients.

Roasted Spiced Chickpeas

When you need a crunchy, savory snack, Autumn suggests roasted chickpeas. While not the highest in protein compared to animal sources, they're one of the better plant-based options. Roast them with olive oil and seasonings like paprika, cayenne, and salt for a satisfying crunch that delivers both protein and fiber.

Protein Mug Cake

Craving something sweet? Autumn recommends a protein mug cake that satisfies your sweet tooth while making you feel full. Her pumpkin spice version packs 26 grams of protein per serving, which helps prevent the cycle of wanting more and more treats. It gives you the feeling of having dessert without the blood sugar crash afterward.

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Ricotta with Lemon Zest and Flax Crackers

This simple snack combines creamy protein with crunchy, fiber-rich crackers. Autumn notes that while ricotta isn't as high in protein as cottage cheese, it makes a nice occasional change. Brighten it up with lemon zest and black pepper, then serve with flax crackers for a low-glycemic option that helps keep blood sugar steady.

Egg Bites

"These have gotten so popular that you can find them pretty much at any grocery store," Autumn points out. Convenient and portable, egg bites deliver impressive protein - Starbucks' version contains 19 grams per serving. They're perfect for busy days when you need something grab-and-go that won't send your blood sugar on a rollercoaster.

Peaches and Cottage Cheese

When peaches are in season, Autumn loves pairing them with protein-rich cottage cheese. The sweetness of ripe peaches complements the savory cottage cheese perfectly, creating a balanced snack that provides protein along with vitamins and minerals. This combination helps satisfy cravings while keeping you full longer.

Brie Cheese with Apples

"This is one of my all-time favorites," says Autumn about this classic pairing. Simply spread brie on thinly sliced apple, or for a special treat, bake the brie until melty and use apple slices for dipping. The protein and fat from the cheese combined with the fiber in apples creates a satisfying snack that helps manage blood sugar.

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Salami with Manchego Cheese

For a zero-prep protein option, Autumn suggests combining salami with manchego cheese. This pairing provides both protein and high-quality fats that boost satiety and help keep cravings at bay. The savory, rich flavors make this simple snack feel indulgent without any added sugars.

Chia Pudding with Protein Powder

Plain chia pudding lacks complete protein, which is why Autumn recommends adding protein powder to make it more filling. For faster prep, she suggests warming your milk or plant milk before adding the chia seeds, which helps them plump up quicker. "The warmed up milk helps the chia seeds to puff up a lot faster," she explains. This makes a great make-ahead option for busy days.

Jalapeño Cheddar Pork Rinds

Pork rinds have made a comeback, and Autumn calls the jalapeño cheddar variety her "all-time favorite." Despite their bad reputation, pork rinds are rich in the amino acid glycine, which is important for skin health. They provide protein with zero carbs, making them a good option when you're trying to avoid sugar cravings.

Tuna Salad with Cucumber

Keep canned tuna in your pantry for quick protein in a pinch, suggests Autumn. Mix with avocado oil mayo for a healthier fat profile, then serve with cucumber slices for crunch. This simple combination provides complete protein that helps keep blood sugar stable between meals, preventing the dips that lead to sugar cravings.

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Hummus and Carrots

For an easy option you can find almost anywhere, Autumn recommends hummus with carrots. While chickpea-based hummus isn't the highest protein source, it's one of the better plant-based options and pairs well with portable, no-prep vegetables. This makes it ideal for road trips or busy days when options are limited.

Cheesy Cauliflower Flatbread

Autumn loves cauliflower-based flatbreads like those from Outer Aisle that contain about 10 grams of complete protein per serving. Top with melted mozzarella for additional protein, or add tomato sauce for a quick pizza experience that satisfies cravings while keeping blood sugar stable.

Avocado and Hard-Boiled Egg Salad

Combining cubed avocado with hard-boiled eggs creates a protein-rich snack with healthy fats. Autumn suggests customizing with add-ins like red onion, paprika, Dijon mustard, or a bit of mayo, but notes it's delicious even in its simplest form. This combination provides lasting energy and helps prevent hunger-driven cravings.

Cottage Cheese with Black Pepper

Sometimes the simplest options are the best. Autumn shares that her mom's all-time favorite lunch is simply cottage cheese with freshly ground black pepper. This savory take on cottage cheese delivers complete protein without added sugars, making it perfect for stabilizing blood sugar and preventing cravings.

Bell Pepper with Ricotta and Pumpkin Seeds

For a snack with varied textures, Autumn suggests dipping bell pepper slices in ricotta cheese topped with toasted pumpkin seeds. This combination provides protein along with magnesium from the pumpkin seeds, creating a satisfying crunch-and-creaminess that helps keep hunger and cravings at bay.

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Salmon Wrap

For a substantial protein hit, Autumn recommends using cauliflower-based wraps filled with canned salmon, cucumber, red onion, and lettuce. This quick assembly delivers omega-3 fats along with protein, creating a satisfying mini-meal that can help break the cycle of sugar cravings by keeping you full longer.

Wasabi Deviled Eggs

Add a spicy twist to traditional deviled eggs with wasabi, suggests Autumn. This protein-packed snack delivers complete protein with healthy fats, helping to keep you satisfied between meals. The spicy kick adds interest to this classic protein option, making it more satisfying as a snack.

Kefir with Berries

Fermented milk product kefir provides about 8 grams of protein per cup, Autumn explains, plus beneficial probiotics. Choose unsweetened varieties and pair with low-sugar berries like raspberries for a blood-sugar-friendly option that supports gut health while helping to prevent sugar cravings.

Protein Waffles

Autumn recommends batch-making protein waffles and freezing them for quick access. "I love pre-making a ton of protein waffles and then you can just keep them in the freezer and pop one in the toaster whenever you want one," she says. This approach makes healthy choices convenient when cravings strike.

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String Cheese with Marinara

For a simple snack that feels like a treat, Autumn shares her teenage discovery: dipping string cheese in marinara sauce. Use leftover pizza or pasta sauce for a quick protein option that satisfies savory cravings while providing enough protein to help stabilize blood sugar levels.

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Greek Yogurt with Cacao and Blueberries

For a chocolate fix without the sugar crash, Autumn suggests stirring cacao powder into Greek yogurt and topping with blueberries. The cacao adds chocolate flavor plus fiber, while the Greek yogurt provides protein. This makes a satisfying breakfast or snack that helps prevent the blood sugar dips that lead to cravings.

Cottage Cheese with Raspberry Compote

For an elegant-looking but simple high-protein option, Autumn recommends heating frozen raspberries on the stovetop until soft, then pouring over cottage cheese. "It looks so fancy but it's so simple and delicious," she says. The protein from the cottage cheese helps balance the natural sugars in the fruit for better blood sugar stability.