⭐⭐ 2-Star High-Protein Plan — Balanced Gains

October 22, 2025
⭐⭐ 2-Star High-Protein Plan — Balanced Gains
$79 / week · Elevated, nutrient-dense meals designed to fuel muscle growth and recovery with balanced, high-quality ingredients.
Target: 125g protein/day

✨ Expected Benefits After 1 Week

  • Optimized Muscle Protein Synthesis — A consistent 125g of daily protein provides the essential building blocks for efficient muscle repair and accelerated growth.
  • Enhanced Workout Performance & Recovery — Balanced macronutrients and quality carbs fuel your training and reduce muscle soreness.
  • Sustained Energy & Mental Clarity — A diverse mix of complex carbs, healthy fats, and lean proteins prevents energy crashes and supports focus.
  • Improved Body Composition — Supports fat loss while preserving and building lean muscle mass for a more defined physique.
  • Foundation for Advanced Strength — This plan bridges basic nutrition to performance-focused eating, setting the stage for significant strength gains.

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This 2-Star plan is designed to fit within an average weekly grocery cost of $79. Per-meal cost reflects ingredient usage, not grocery checkout total—some ingredients will last multiple weeks. Prices are based on average U.S. grocery store values.

Key High-Protein Ingredients

  • Salmon & Tuna: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein, supporting muscle repair and reducing inflammation.
  • Chicken Breast & Ground Turkey: Versatile, lean protein sources that are staples for building and maintaining muscle mass.
  • Egg Whites & Whole Eggs: Provide a complete protein profile with minimal fat; perfect for boosting volume and protein content.
  • Greek Yogurt & Feta: Adds a creamy, tangy protein boost to sauces, wraps, and omelets while supporting gut health.
  • Quinoa & Edamame: Plant-powered complete proteins that provide sustained energy, fiber, and essential amino acids.
  • Protein Powder & High-Protein Noodles: Convenient, concentrated sources to effortlessly meet your elevated daily protein target.

🌅 Breakfast

Savory Protein Oats with Smoked Salmon

Break free from sweet breakfasts with these creamy, savory oats. Cooked with milk and egg whites, they become a protein-packed canvas for luxurious smoked salmon and fresh dill, providing long-lasting energy and a powerful start to your day.

Prep: 5 min | Cook: 10 min | Calories: 420 kcal | Cost: $4.50

Ingredients (1 serving):

  • ½ cup rolled oats
  • ¾ cup milk
  • ½ cup liquid egg whites
  • 2 oz smoked salmon
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a small saucepan, combine oats and milk. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  2. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid.
  3. Reduce heat to low and slowly pour in the egg whites, whisking continuously to prevent clumping.
  4. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the oats are creamy and the egg whites are fully cooked.
  5. Transfer to a bowl and top with smoked salmon, fresh dill, and a crack of black pepper.

Macros (Approximate)

35g
Protein
40g
Carbs
12g
Fat
420
Calories

🥗 Lunch

Pesto Chicken Wrap

A fresh and flavorful wrap that’s perfect for a on-the-go lunch. The combination of grilled chicken and a creamy Greek yogurt pesto is both light and satisfying, delivering a hefty dose of protein to power you through the afternoon.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 0 min (with pre-cooked chicken) | Calories: 380 kcal | Cost: $4.20

Ingredients (1 serving):

  • 4 oz grilled chicken breast, sliced
  • 1 large spinach tortilla
  • 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp pesto
  • Handful of fresh spinach
  • 2-3 slices of tomato

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt and pesto until well combined.
  2. Lay the tortilla flat and spread the pesto-yogurt sauce evenly over it.
  3. Layer the fresh spinach, tomato slices, and grilled chicken in the center of the tortilla.
  4. Fold in the sides and roll the tortilla tightly away from you to enclose the filling.
  5. Slice in half diagonally and serve immediately, or wrap in foil for a portable lunch.

Macros (Approximate)

40g
Protein
25g
Carbs
14g
Fat
380
Calories

🍽️ Dinner

Turkey & Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

A complete, well-balanced meal packed into a vibrant bell pepper. Lean ground turkey and protein-rich quinoa simmered in tomato sauce create a hearty filling, making this a satisfying, muscle-friendly dinner that’s as delicious as it is nutritious.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 20 min | Calories: 450 kcal | Cost: $5.10

Ingredients (1 serving):

  • 1 large bell pepper, halved and deseeded
  • 5 oz lean ground turkey
  • ¼ cup cooked quinoa
  • ¼ cup tomato sauce
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp onion powder
  • 2 tbsp shredded mozzarella (upgrade)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Stir in the cooked quinoa, tomato sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Place the bell pepper halves in a baking dish. Spoon the turkey-quinoa mixture into each half, packing it down.
  5. If using the upgrade, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top.
  6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Macros (Approximate)

45g
Protein
30g
Carbs
16g
Fat
450
Calories

🌅 Breakfast

Protein French Toast Stack

Transform classic French toast into a high-protein powerhouse. The addition of whey protein to the egg batter creates a deliciously crisp exterior and a fluffy interior, making this stack a decadent yet goal-aligned breakfast.

Prep: 8 min | Cook: 8 min | Calories: 400 kcal | Cost: $3.80

Ingredients (1 serving):

  • 2 slices thick bread (brioche or whole wheat)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 scoop vanilla or cinnamon whey protein
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt
  • ½ cup mixed berries
  • 1 tsp maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg, protein powder, and milk until smooth.
  2. Soak each slice of bread in the mixture for 30-60 seconds per side, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a light coating of oil or butter.
  4. Cook the French toast for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Stack the slices on a plate, top with a dollop of Greek yogurt, fresh berries, and a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.

Macros (Approximate)

35g
Protein
40g
Carbs
10g
Fat
400
Calories

🥗 Lunch

Mediterranean Tuna Bowl

A bright, refreshing bowl that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors. This no-cook lunch comes together in minutes and is packed with protein from tuna and chickpeas, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables for a truly satisfying midday meal.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 0 min | Calories: 430 kcal | Cost: $4.50

Ingredients (1 serving):

  • 1 can tuna in olive oil, drained
  • ½ cup chickpeas, rinsed
  • ½ cup cucumber, diced
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 cup mixed greens
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

  1. In a white bowl, create a bed with the mixed greens.
  2. In a separate bowl, flake the tuna with a fork. Add chickpeas, cucumber, and parsley.
  3. Dress the tuna mixture with lemon juice and olive oil. Toss gently to combine.
  4. Spoon the tuna mixture over the bed of greens.
  5. Top with crumbled feta cheese and an extra grind of black pepper.
  6. Serve immediately.

Macros (Approximate)

40g
Protein
25g
Carbs
18g
Fat
430
Calories

🍽️ Dinner

Miso-Glazed Salmon with Edamame Rice

A restaurant-quality meal that’s deceptively simple to make. The sweet and savory miso glaze caramelizes on the salmon, while the edamame rice adds plant-based protein and vibrant color for a dinner that is both elegant and exceptionally nourishing.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 15 min | Calories: 500 kcal | Cost: $6.50

Ingredients (1 serving):

  • 5 oz salmon fillet
  • 1 tbsp white miso paste
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • ¾ cup cooked rice
  • ¼ cup shelled edamame
  • Sesame seeds and green onion for garnish (upgrade)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix the miso paste, honey, and soy sauce to form a glaze.
  3. Place the salmon fillet on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the miso glaze evenly over the top.
  4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily.
  5. While the salmon bakes, mix the cooked rice with the shelled edamame and warm through.
  6. Serve the glazed salmon over the edamame rice, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onion.

Macros (Approximate)

38g
Protein
45g
Carbs
18g
Fat
500
Calories

🌅 Breakfast

Chocolate PB Smoothie

The ultimate grab-and-go breakfast that tastes like a dessert shake but fuels your body like a champion. This thick, creamy smoothie delivers a massive 40g of protein to kickstart muscle recovery and keep you satiated for hours.

Prep: 5 min | Cook: 0 min | Calories: 380 kcal | Cost: $3.20

Ingredients (1 serving):

  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
  • 1 tbsp peanut butter
  • 1 small banana
  • Handful of ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Add all ingredients to a blender.
  2. Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
  3. If the smoothie is too thick, add a splash more milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
  4. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.

Macros (Approximate)

40g
Protein
35g
Carbs
12g
Fat
380
Calories

🥗 Lunch

Crispy Chipotle Chicken Quesadilla

A flavor-packed lunch that delivers a serious protein punch. The chipotle-spiked Greek yogurt adds a smoky heat and creaminess without the guilt, while the crispy tortilla provides the perfect vehicle for the cheesy, chicken-filled interior.

Prep: 8 min | Cook: 6 min | Calories: 450 kcal | Cost: $4.40

Ingredients (1 serving):

  • 1 large tortilla
  • 4 oz cooked chicken, shredded
  • ¼ cup black beans, rinsed
  • ¼ cup shredded cheese
  • 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
  • ½ tsp chipotle powder or adobo sauce
  • 1 tsp oil for cooking

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, mix the shredded chicken with Greek yogurt and chipotle powder.
  2. Lay the tortilla flat. On one half, layer the chicken mixture, black beans, and shredded cheese.
  3. Fold the tortilla in half over the filling.
  4. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the quesadilla for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted.
  5. Remove from pan, let cool for a minute, then slice into wedges and serve.

Macros (Approximate)

42g
Protein
30g
Carbs
16g
Fat
450
Calories

🍽️ Dinner

Hibachi Shrimp Power Rice

Recreate the fun and flavor of a Japanese steakhouse at home. Succulent shrimp cooked in garlic butter and tossed with crispy-edged fried rice creates a protein-packed, satisfying dinner that’s as entertaining to make as it is to eat.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 15 min | Calories: 460 kcal | Cost: $5.80

Ingredients (1 serving):

  • 5 oz raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup cooked rice (day-old works best)
  • 1 tbsp garlic butter
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • ½ cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
  • 1 tsp cooking oil

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add garlic butter. Once melted, add the mixed vegetables and sauté for 2 minutes.
  4. Add the cooked rice, spreading it evenly in the pan. Let it cook without stirring for 2-3 minutes to develop crispy edges.
  5. Add soy sauce and return the cooked shrimp to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
  6. Serve immediately on a black plate for contrast.

Macros (Approximate)

35g
Protein
50g
Carbs
12g
Fat
460
Calories

🌅 Breakfast

Egg White Omelet with Feta & Spinach

A light, fluffy, and incredibly protein-dense breakfast that keeps calories in check. The combination of creamy feta and wilted spinach creates a classic flavor profile that’s both satisfying and nutrient-packed to start your day strong.

Prep: 5 min | Cook: 8 min | Calories: 220 kcal | Cost: $3.50

Ingredients (1 serving):

  • 1 cup liquid egg whites
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • ¼ cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add spinach and tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes until spinach is wilted.
  3. Pour egg whites into the skillet, tilting to distribute evenly.
  4. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the edges set, then sprinkle feta over one half.
  5. Carefully fold the omelet in half and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the egg whites are fully set.
  6. Slide onto a plate and season with salt and pepper.

Macros (Approximate)

35g
Protein
6g
Carbs
8g
Fat
220
Calories

🥗 Lunch

Protein Pasta Salad

A fresh, vibrant pasta salad that doesn’t skimp on protein. Chickpea pasta doubles the protein content, while the lemon vinaigrette and fresh herbs keep it light and refreshing—perfect for a make-ahead lunch that actually keeps you full.

Prep: 12 min | Cook: 8 min | Calories: 420 kcal | Cost: $4.80

Ingredients (1 serving):

  • 2 oz chickpea pasta
  • 3 oz grilled chicken, cubed
  • ¼ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook chickpea pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
  3. Add the cooled pasta, grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and parsley to the bowl.
  4. Toss everything together until well coated with the dressing.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Macros (Approximate)

38g
Protein
45g
Carbs
10g
Fat
420
Calories

🍽️ Dinner

Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Skillet

A hearty, one-pan wonder that combines lean protein with complex carbohydrates for the ultimate post-workout recovery meal. The sweet potatoes caramelize beautifully, creating a sweet and savory balance that’s deeply satisfying.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 20 min | Calories: 480 kcal | Cost: $5.20

Ingredients (1 serving):

  • 5 oz lean ground beef
  • 1 small sweet potato, diced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cooking oil
  • 1 egg (upgrade)

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced sweet potato and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
  2. Push sweet potatoes to one side and add ground beef to the empty space. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
  3. Drain any excess fat. Stir in paprika and mix everything together.
  4. Add spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
  5. If using the upgrade, fry an egg in a separate pan and place it on top of the skillet before serving.

Macros (Approximate)

40g
Protein
35g
Carbs
20g
Fat
480
Calories

🌅 Breakfast

Cinnamon-Apple Protein Oats

A warm, comforting bowl of oats that tastes like apple pie but fuels your muscles like a powerhouse. The addition of protein powder ensures you start your day with sustained energy and ample protein for recovery and growth.

Prep: 5 min | Cook: 12 min | Calories: 390 kcal | Cost: $3.30

Ingredients (1 serving):

  • ½ cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
  • ½ apple, diced
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a small saucepan, combine oats, milk, diced apple, and cinnamon.
  2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are creamy and the apple is tender.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla protein powder until fully incorporated.
  4. Add a splash more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
  5. Drizzle with maple syrup if desired and serve warm.

Macros (Approximate)

32g
Protein
50g
Carbs
7g
Fat
390
Calories

🥗 Lunch

High-Protein Ramen Bowl

Transform instant ramen from a college staple into a protein-packed, restaurant-worthy meal. With double protein from both the noodles and chicken, plus a perfectly soft-boiled egg, this bowl is as nourishing as it is delicious.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 10 min | Calories: 450 kcal | Cost: $5.00

Ingredients (1 serving):

  • 1 pack high-protein ramen noodles
  • 3 oz cooked chicken slices
  • 1 soft-boiled egg
  • 1 scallion, sliced
  • 1 sheet nori (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the high-protein ramen noodles according to package directions.
  2. While noodles cook, soft-boil an egg (cook for 6-7 minutes in boiling water, then transfer to ice water).
  3. Pour the cooked noodles and broth into a deep bowl.
  4. Top with sliced chicken, halved soft-boiled egg, and sliced scallions.
  5. Add a sheet of nori on the side if using.
  6. Serve immediately.

Macros (Approximate)

45g
Protein
40g
Carbs
12g
Fat
450
Calories

🍽️ Dinner

Greek Chicken Bowl

A vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired bowl that’s bursting with fresh flavors and textures. The lemon-herb marinated chicken pairs perfectly with creamy tzatziki and briny olives, creating a satisfying and protein-rich end to your week.

Prep: 15 min (plus marinating) | Cook: 15 min | Calories: 490 kcal | Cost: $5.60

Ingredients (1 serving):

  • 5 oz chicken breast, cubed
  • ¾ cup cooked rice or quinoa
  • 2 tbsp tzatziki sauce
  • ¼ cup Kalamata olives
  • ¼ cup diced cucumber
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice + herbs for marinade
  • 2-3 cherry tomatoes, charred (upgrade)

Instructions:

  1. Marinate chicken in lemon juice and herbs for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Cook the marinated chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. If using the upgrade, char cherry tomatoes in the same skillet for 2-3 minutes until blistered.
  4. Assemble the bowl with rice as the base, then top with cooked chicken, olives, cucumber, and charred tomatoes.
  5. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce and serve.

Macros (Approximate)

45g
Protein
40g
Carbs
16g
Fat
490
Calories

Daily Macro Summary

Based on the meals in this 2-Star High-Protein Plan, here’s your approximate daily nutritional intake:

~125g
Protein
~140g
Carbs
~35g
Fat
~1350
Calories

Note: These are estimates. Adjust portion sizes based on your individual calorie needs and activity level. Add snacks or increase portions to meet your energy requirements.

Budget & Cost Breakdown

This 2-Star plan is designed to fit within an average weekly grocery cost of $79. Per-meal cost reflects ingredient usage, not grocery checkout total—some ingredients will last multiple weeks. Prices are based on average U.S. grocery store values.

Meal Est. Cost per Serving Weekly Total
Breakfasts (5 meals) ~$4.06 ~$20.30
Lunches (5 meals) ~$4.40 ~$22.00
Dinners (5 meals) ~$5.34 ~$26.70
Estimated Total ~$69.00
*Note: This total represents full ingredient costs. In practice, pantry staples like oils, spices, and sauces last multiple weeks, bringing your actual weekly cost comfortably within the $79 target.

Costs are estimates and may vary depending on local prices, sales, and use of pantry staples.

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