Are you looking for delicious and nutritious meal ideas that will keep you full and satisfied? Look no further! Sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, but they can also be a great way to boost your protein intake. In this article, we’ll explore 20 high protein sweet potato recipes that are perfect for anyone looking for a healthy and tasty meal option.
From breakfast dishes to dinner ideas, and even snacks in between, these recipes use sweet potatoes as the base ingredient and combine them with other high protein foods like beans, eggs, quinoa, and more. Whether you’re an athlete, a busy professional, or just someone who wants to eat healthy, these recipes are sure to please.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into our list of 20 delicious high protein sweet potato recipes!
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Protein Bowl
A nutritious and filling bowl that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a protein-packed package.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Divide roasted sweet potatoes among bowls. Top with black bean mixture, Greek yogurt, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
High Protein Sweet Potato Breakfast Hash
Kickstart your day with this protein-packed breakfast hash, combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with savory sausage and eggs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 pound chicken sausage, sliced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss sweet potatoes with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook chicken sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
4. In the same skillet, crack in eggs and scramble until cooked to your liking. Add diced chicken breast and stir to combine.
5. Combine roasted sweet potatoes, scrambled eggs, and cooked sausage in a bowl. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato and Chickpea Protein Patties
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional protein patties, these Sweet Potato and Chickpea Protein Patties are perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup protein powder of your choice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, chickpeas, oats, protein powder, olive oil, onion, and garlic. Mix well until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 portions, depending on desired patty size.
4. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a patty shape.
5. Cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Protein-Packed Sweet Potato Pancakes
These sweet potato pancakes are a game-changer for those looking to boost their protein intake. With the addition of Greek yogurt and eggs, these fluffy and flavorful pancakes are a great way to start your day or fuel up between meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– Optional: chopped nuts or fruit for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, oats, almond flour, Greek yogurt, eggs, honey, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until bubbles appear on surface.
5. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes per batch
Sweet Potato and Quinoa Protein Salad
This hearty salad combines roasted sweet potatoes with protein-rich quinoa and a boost of vitamins from fresh spinach, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potato cubes with 1/2 teaspoon salt and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine roasted sweet potatoes, cooked quinoa, spinach leaves, and feta cheese (if using).
4. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Mix in vanilla protein powder and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
High Protein Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe combines the comfort of shepherd’s pie with the nutritional benefits of sweet potatoes and protein-rich chicken. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner that’s packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Boil sweet potatoes until tender, then mash with chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and chicken in olive oil until cooked through.
4. Stir in peas and carrots.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mashed sweet potatoes and shredded cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sweet Potato and Lentil Protein Curry
This protein-packed curry combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the nutty flavor of lentils, making it a perfect meal for any time of day. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup red or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the sweet potatoes for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add lentils, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in broth, diced tomatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, and salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Protein-Rich Sweet Potato and Egg Skillet
Start your day with a nutritious and filling breakfast that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the protein-richness of eggs. This quick and easy skillet recipe is perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
3. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together. Pour the egg mixture over the sweet potatoes in the skillet.
4. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the eggs are almost set.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the eggs over the sweet potatoes, breaking up any large pieces of potato.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato and Tofu Protein Stir-Fry
Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s packed with protein! This sweet potato and tofu stir-fry is a perfect blend of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the vegetable oil and cook the sweet potato cubes until they’re tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the tofu, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the tofu is golden brown and the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and honey. Pour the mixture over the sweet potato and tofu mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
High Protein Sweet Potato and Chicken Casserole
This satisfying casserole combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of chicken, perfect for a post-workout meal or a family dinner. With over 35 grams of protein per serving, this recipe is a great way to fuel your body without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken and onion over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. In a separate bowl, mix sweet potatoes, Greek yogurt, and olive oil.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the sweet potato mixture, followed by the chicken mixture, and finally the remaining sweet potatoes.
6. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sweet Potato and Greek Yogurt Protein Dip
Sweet Potato and Greek Yogurt Protein Dip: A creamy and nutritious snack that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the tanginess of Greek yogurt, perfect for post-workout or as a healthy treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup plain cottage cheese
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
3. Serve chilled with your favorite vegetables, crackers, or fruit.
Cooking Time: None (uses pre-cooked sweet potatoes)
Tips:
– Adjust the level of sweetness to your taste by adding more honey or using a different sweetener.
– Experiment with different spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, for added depth of flavor.
Sweet Potato and Salmon Protein Cakes
These protein-packed cakes are a delicious way to fuel your body with the perfect blend of sweet potato, salmon, and lean turkey. Perfect for a post-workout snack or a healthy breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, cooked and mashed
– 1 can of salmon (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine mashed sweet potato, salmon, oats, almond flour, cheese, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
3. Shape mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Place patties on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
High Protein Sweet Potato and Turkey Chili
Looking for a hearty and nutritious meal that’s packed with protein? Look no further! This sweet potato and turkey chili recipe is a game-changer, perfect for post-workout recovery or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 lb ground turkey breast
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potato for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are softened.
5. Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Mash cooked sweet potato into the mixture; simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, topped with Greek yogurt if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Sweet Potato and Cottage Cheese Protein Bake
A delicious and nutritious twist on traditional protein bars, this sweet potato and cottage cheese bake is a perfect snack or post-workout treat. With the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and the creaminess of cottage cheese, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake the sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, oats, almond butter, and honey. Blend until smooth.
4. Once the sweet potatoes are cool, mash them in a bowl.
5. Add the cottage cheese mixture to the mashed sweet potatoes and mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Sweet Potato and Edamame Protein Salad
This protein-packed salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the nutty flavor of edamame, perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal or snack. With a boost of plant-based protein, this recipe is great for fitness enthusiasts or anyone looking to increase their protein intake.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup edamame, shelled and cooked
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potatoes with a pinch of salt and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked edamame, roasted sweet potatoes, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
4. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
High Protein Sweet Potato and Beef Stew
This hearty stew combines tender beef, sweet potatoes, and a medley of vegetables, all packed with protein to fuel your active lifestyle. Perfect for a post-workout meal or a comforting dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat (90% lean)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup rolled oats for thickening
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the beef over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender.
4. Add sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Cook for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Sweet Potato and Tempeh Protein Tacos
Sweet Potato and Tempeh Protein Tacos: A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional tacos!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup tempeh, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 tacos shells (corn or whole wheat)
– Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook tempeh over medium heat until golden brown and crispy. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by placing roasted sweet potatoes and tempeh mixture into shells. Add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
High Protein Sweet Potato and Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful and nutritious skewers that combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory taste of succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite marinade or sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss sweet potato cubes with 1 tbsp olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Thread 2-3 sweet potato cubes onto each skewer, followed by 2 shrimp.
4. Brush the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil on the skewers to prevent sticking.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until sweet potatoes are tender and shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite marinade or sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Sweet Potato and Almond Butter Protein Bars
These no-bake bars combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creamy richness of almond butter, making them a deliciously healthy snack option. Perfect for post-workout fuel or a quick energy boost.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (or to taste)
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, oats, and almond butter. Mix until smooth.
2. Add honey and protein powder; mix until well combined.
3. Fold in chopped almonds and salt.
4. Press mixture into a lined or greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Cut into bars and store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake)
Summary
Get ready to revolutionize your meals with these 20 delicious high protein sweet potato recipes! From breakfast to dinner, and even snacks in between, these nutritious dishes are packed with protein-rich ingredients like black beans, chickpeas, quinoa, lentils, tofu, chicken, turkey, beef, shrimp, salmon, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and more. Discover mouth-watering options like sweet potato pancakes, shepherd’s pie, curry, and stir-fry, as well as innovative uses for protein powder, almond butter, and tempeh. Treat yourself to a flavorful and satisfying meal with these high-protein sweet potato recipes.
