Protein Smoothie
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Learn how to make a healthy protein smoothie using simple ingredients. Packed with nutrients and over 40 grams of protein, it’s easy to make and super thick and creamy.
If you always thought you hated protein shakes, my protein smoothie recipe will be a game-changer. It’s easy to make, and it actually tastes like a smoothie. No gritty, fake-sugary aftertaste here!
I’ve been making high-protein smoothies for years and have refined this formula across dozens of test batches to balance texture, flavor, and most importantly, macros. These are an easy way to pack nutritious ingredients into something you’ll actually want for breakfast or after training.
Table of Contents
Why I love this high protein smoothie
- Endlessly customizable. I’m starting with the classic strawberry smoothie, but of course, I tested plenty of different flavors for you to try as well (see my variations section).
- Made in seconds. Just add everything together and blend until smooth. That’s all she wrote!
- 40+ grams of protein. Making it the perfect post-workout drink or grab-and-go breakfast.
- Perfect taste and texture. Smooth and creamy, with a bright, fruity flavor, like all good smoothies should be.
What readers are saying
★★★★★ – “This is my daily breakfast now and such an easy way to get in protein first thing in the morning.” – Justin (Facebook comment)
★★★★★ – “It’s so thick and creamy. I like to add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for something fun.” – Ellie
Key Ingredients
See recipe card for exact amounts. Nutrition is calculated using 1/3 cup (35 grams) of protein powder and one tablespoon of almonds.
- Milk. I typically use unsweetened almond milk, but any type of milk can be used.
- Greek yogurt. For texture and added protein. I prefer using plain and unsweetened yogurt because the other ingredients will naturally add sweetness.
- Frozen banana. I highly recommend using frozen bananas instead of fresh ones, as this helps the smoothie stay cold and creamy. If you’re freezing your bananas, don’t forget to peel them first!
- Frozen strawberries. Again, use frozen if possible.
- Protein powder. I used bourbon vanilla whey protein powder (Simply Tera’s brand), but you can use any protein powder you prefer. The only one I don’t recommend is casein powder, which will make your smoothie too thick.
- Almonds. For texture, fiber, and healthy fats.
Flavor variations
I’m a sucker for a strawberry smoothie, but of course, I experimented with a few flavor swaps, so you can switch things up! Simply omit the strawberries in place of additional ingredients. These are the ones pictured below:
- Orange. Add one peeled orange and swap the milk for orange juice.
- Mango. Add one cup of frozen mango.
- Spinach. Add one cup of fresh baby spinach.
- Blueberry. Add one cup of frozen blueberries.
- Chocolate banana. Use chocolate protein powder and omit the extra frozen fruit.
- Cherry. Add one cup of frozen cherries.
Of course, you can transform my chocolate protein shake, peanut butter protein shake, or coffee protein shake into a protein powder smoothie by adding some fruit.
How to make a protein smoothie
Step 1- Blend. Add the liquid ingredients, then the protein, then the banana, and almonds, and blend until smooth.
Step 2- Serve. Pour into your glass and decorate with toppings of your choosing.
Arman’s recipe tips
- Make it vegan. Use plant-based protein powder (I prefer pea protein) and fermented coconut yogurt.
- Don’t have frozen fruit? Add one cup of ice cubes.
- Sneak in more protein. Add a scoop of collagen powder or a few tablespoons of oats. Don’t worry, you won’t be able to taste it!
- Play around with different mix-ins, like peanut butter, chia seeds, flaxseeds, hemp seeds, or honey.
- Make a fruit smoothie bowl. Reduce the milk and blend until combined (I’ve also found a food processor does a good job of this). Don’t forget the protein granola!
Frequently asked questions
Yes, if you want to make two smoothies, double the ingredients. If you notice the smoothie being too thick, add water or milk and blend again.
For a thicker smoothie, I find adding a little more frozen fruit or ice sufficient. If your smoothie is too thick, add a little extra water or milk to thin in out.
✅ Nutrition reviewed
Since this smoothie is designed to be high protein and as this recipe post discusses nutritional tips, the nutrition information has been reviewed by registered dietitian Felicia Newell, MScAHN, RD, CPT.
Protein Smoothie
Video
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup protein powder 35 grams * See notes
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 small banana frozen
- 1 tablespoon almonds
- 1/2 cup strawberries frozen
Instructions
- Add the almond milk, protein powder, Greek yogurt, frozen banana, almonds, and frozen strawberries into a blender.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. Transfer to a glass and enjoy.
Notes
- Nutritional note: The calories and macros are calculated using Tera Vanilla Bourbon Whey protein powder. Different brands will change the macros and protein content.
- Protein powder: 1/3 cup is around 35 grams of protein.
- TO STORE: Smoothies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Be sure to mix it thoroughly before drinking.
- TO FREEZE: Pour the smoothie into either an ice cube tray or a shallow container and freeze for up to 6 months. To re-mix, place the frozen cubes into a blender with a splash of milk and blend until smooth.
Which other fruits can I add here?
Can I also make this protein shake with some veggie? Such as beetroot?
This is my favorite protein smoothie recipe. It’s so creamy and thick!
Thanks, Alegria!
Love this protein smoothie- I’ve tried the chocolate banana and the strawberry one. It keeps me full until lunch!
That is what I like to hear!
Strawberries and banana go really well together.
They sure do!
This is my favorite protein smoothie because it tastes like an actual smoothie. I love the chocolate banana one.
Thanks, Elina!
I love all your protein smoothies, they are SO tasty!