These top 5 refrigerator staples will keep you healthy and having them on hand can be a saving grace! These foods will help you save time, reduce the stress of getting a meal on the table, and help you and your family stay healthy. Stocking your fridge with nutrient-dense, high-protein options is key to staying satiated, curbing cravings, and maintaining steady energy throughout the day. Protein-rich foods like rotisserie chicken, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and lean ground meats keep you full longer and help stabilize blood sugar levels, avoiding the energy crashes that lead to poor food choices. Check out the top 5 refrigerator staples and recipe ideas below! I’m curious about yours, too. Comment below and share your ideas.

Rotisserie Chicken

Rotisserie chicken is the ultimate time-saver and a protein-packed foundation for countless meals. It’s ready to eat and works in everything from salads to soups. For a cozy option, shred it and combine with heated bone broth and frozen veggies for an instant, high-protein homemade soup. If you want to DIY, try this fast and easy crockpot Confetti Chicken recipe.

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a versatile, high-protein option that’s great for breakfast, snacks, or even as a boost for other recipes. For breakfast, pair it with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey. As a snack, try spreading it on whole-grain toast with sliced tomatoes or go hot and crunchy with this gooey cottage cheese toast recipe. Brands like Good Culture are a great choice because they made with simple, high-quality ingredients like pasture-raised milk and live, active cultures.

Cook Lean Meats

Lean ground meats like turkey (93/7), chicken, and grass-fed beef are protein powerhouses and can be prepped in 10 minutes or less for quick, healthy meals. Cook up 2-3 lbs and use them in these easy ideas:

  • Turkey or Chicken Lettuce Wraps: Toss cooked ground turkey or chicken with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, and serve in lettuce cups for a fresh, low-carb meal.
  • Beef or Chicken Grain Bowl: Add cooked lean beef or grilled chicken to a bowl of quinoa or brown rice, top with your favorite veggies, and drizzle with a simple vinaigrette or tahini dressing.
  • Turkey or Beef Taco Salad: Season cooked ground meat with taco spices, then serve over greens with salsa, avocado, and a sprinkle of cheese for a quick taco-inspired meal.
  • Chicken or Turkey Stir-Fry: Sauté cooked diced chicken or turkey with frozen stir-fry veggies and your favorite sauce (like teriyaki or sesame ginger) for a meal ready in minutes.
  • Protein-Packed Wrap: Layer cooked meat, hummus, and fresh veggies in a whole-grain wrap for a quick grab-and-go lunch or snack.

Check out this recipe for more protein bowl ideas. The Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Protein Bowl Recipe is yum!

Skyr or Greek Yogurt

Skyr or Greek yogurt is a versatile, protein-packed option loaded with probiotics to support gut health and keep you feeling full longer. Always opt for plain yogurt to get the full benefits of probiotics—flavored versions often have added sugars. To enhance the flavor and make it more gut-friendly, try adding a drizzle of Clover or Manuka honey, which also supports gut health. Top with nuts, seeds, or fresh fruit for a balanced snack, and avoid eating it “naked.” You can also use it as a base for smoothies or as a creamy substitute for sour cream in dips and sauces. This is the perfect time to focus on gut-friendly foods, and yogurt is a simple, delicious way to do it! Check out this yummy Reese’s PB Cup snack idea!

Eggs a Bunch of Ways

Did you know Costco offers ready-to-eat organic, cage-free hard-boiled eggs? They’re a grab-and-go protein option that couldn’t be easier. Slice one onto a salad, pair it with avocado toast, or sprinkle it with your favorite seasoning for a quick, healthy snack. Or try member Erin’s high-protein egg salad: mash together 2 hard-boiled eggs, ½ avocado, and ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese, then top with everything bagel seasoning- it’s a must-try!

For even more options, keep a carton of egg whites on hand for a quick scramble, or whip up my easy One-Pan High-Protein Frittata.