10 High-Protein Dishes That Are Perfect for Autumn
Warm, hearty, and nourishing – these protein-packed recipes are your new staples this season.
Autumn has arrived, and with it comes warm, rich meals enjoyed during cosy dinners at home. It’s the perfect season to start integrating more nourishing comfort food classics into your repertoire, but beyond vitamins and minerals, it’s important to make sure you’re ticking off the other crucial nutrients – carbs, healthy fats, and of course, protein.
Protein is essential for cell growth, repair, and function. It’s key to building muscle and maintaining a strong immune system. To boost your intake of complete sources (containing all the essential amino acids), eggs and dairy are excellent options. However, there are plenty of plant-based alternatives as well, including soy, quinoa, amaranth, and buckwheat.
Forget plain chicken breast with steamed veggies – getting the right amount of protein in your diet doesn’t have to be bland or boring. We’ve rounded up some delicious, flavourful dishes that will keep you feeling full and nourished.
Creamy Palak Paneer
Rich, spiced, perfect for cosy nights. Paneer is a protein-packed option with around 14g per 100g. Combined with spinach and cashews, this dish is a delicious vegetarian main to keep in your rotation.
Steamed Egg and Sticky Rice with Sesame Mushrooms
For when you want something filling, but not loaded with cheese and richness, this wholesome recipe is just right for cooler days. With 8 eggs, it's a protein-rich dish balanced with rice and mushrooms – ideal for when you want something nourishing but fuss-free.
Cheesy Lasagne Alla Portofino
Indulgent layers of cheesy goodness make this dish a cold-weather star. Mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta-style béchamel make this dish very cheese-heavy (hence the name), but a touch of green in the form of spinach and pesto ensure there's not only protein, but other essential macros, too.
Spinach, Halloumi and Feta Pie
A savoury pastry is a delicious autumn staple. With halloumi, feta, ricotta, and eggs, this pie is rich in protein as well as flavour. Serve it alongside hot, healthy sides like green beans or Brussels sprouts to add even more vitamins and minerals to your spread.
Brothy White Bean and Kale Soup
Cannellini beans are an excellent plant protein with around 7–8g per half cup. With two cans in the pot plus kale, this soup is hearty, filling, and perfect for vegans.
Roasted Peppers and Eggplant Pastitsio
The béchamel in this delectably rich recipe is made with milk, eggs, and kefalograviera cheese, all of which add protein. Balanced with lots of pasta, this dish definitely veers more decadent than lean, but there's no doubt it'll be a hit with guests.
Stovetop Mac and Cheese
Is there anything more comforting than carbs and cheese? This recipe will hit the spot with cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan mixed into al dente pasta. Topped off with panko bread crumbs seasoned with garlic and paprika, every morsel of this delectable dish is one you will savour.
Spaghetti Alla Puttanesca
A dish bold in flavour with salty anchovies, briny capers and zesty olives. While it's a bit more protein-light than others on this list, the anchovies add lean protein, and parmesan rounds it out. What's even better is that it's quick and easy to whip up, making it a great recipe for a mid-week meal or dinner party.
Indian Dal Tadka with Roti
Split lentils are a protein powerhouse (about 18g of protein per cup cooked) and the ghee adds richness while spices like garam masala, asafoetida, and cumin give colour, fragrance, and flavour. The ultimate comfort food, this vegetarian recipe is easy to make and sure to leave you and your loved ones full and satisfied.
Fettuccine With Cherry Tomatoes, Roasted Eggplant and Burrata
While this dish is incredibly simple to make, it tastes decadent thanks to the luxurious melted burrata cheese that's gently folded through the long strands of silky pasta. It's packed with flavour from the roasted eggplant, bright cherry tomatoes, a touch of chilli and fresh basil. And while it's completely vegetarian, it contains a fair amount of protein, too.
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