Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes — use a cup-for-cup gluten-free baking blend.

Do these freeze well?

Yes — freeze after cooling and thaw in the refrigerator.

You can reduce the brown sugar by ¼ cup without affecting texture.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes — thighs stay juicier and add richer flavor.

Can I grill the chicken?

Absolutely. Grilling adds smoky Mediterranean flavor.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes — skip feta and tzatziki or use dairy-free versions.

Can I substitute the rice?

Yes — quinoa, orzo, couscous, or mixed greens all work well.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes — store ingredients separately and assemble when serving.

Is blackened tuna spicy?

It has a mild-to-moderate heat. Reduce the cayenne pepper or jalapeño for a milder version.

Can I grill the tuna instead?

Yes. Grill over high heat for the same amount of time, making sure the grates are well-oiled.

What type of tuna should I use?

Ahi (yellowfin) or sushi-grade tuna works best for searing.

Can I make the mango salsa ahead of time?

Yes. The mango salsa can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Dirty rice has a mild-to-moderate heat. You can easily adjust the spice level by reducing the Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper.

Can I make Cajun dirty rice ahead of time?

Yes. Store dirty rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can I freeze Cajun dirty rice?

Yes. Cajun dirty rice freezes well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

What meat can I substitute for beef?

Ground turkey or ground chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to ground beef.

Is Cajun cornbread spicy?

Cajun cornbread has a mild-to-moderate heat. You can adjust the spice level by reducing the jalapeño or cayenne pepper.

Can I make Cajun cornbread ahead of time?

Yes. Cajun cornbread can be baked up to one day ahead and reheated gently before serving.

Can I freeze Cajun cornbread?

Yes. Wrap the cornbread tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Can I make Cajun cornbread without cheese?

Yes. You can omit the cheese for a dairy-light version without affecting the texture.

Gumbo is mildly spicy. You can adjust the heat by increasing or reducing the cayenne pepper or Cajun seasoning.

Can I make chicken and sausage gumbo ahead of time?

Yes. Gumbo tastes even better the next day and keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can I freeze chicken and sausage gumbo?

Yes. Gumbo freezes well for up to three months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Do I have to use okra in gumbo?

No. Okra helps thicken gumbo, but you can omit it or use filé powder if preferred.

Are Cajun roasted potatoes spicy?

They have a mild-to-moderate heat. You can adjust the spice level by using more or less Cajun seasoning.

Can I make Cajun roasted potatoes ahead of time?

They are best served fresh, but leftovers reheat well in the oven or air fryer.

Can I use red or russet potatoes?

Yes. Just cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces to ensure even roasting.

Are Cajun roasted potatoes vegan?

Yes. This recipe is naturally dairy-free and vegan as written.

Is Cajun shrimp & grits spicy?

Cajun shrimp and grits has a mild-to-moderate heat. You can reduce the Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper to make it milder.

Can I make Cajun shrimp and grits ahead of time?

The shrimp are best cooked fresh, but the grits can be made ahead and reheated gently with a splash of broth or milk.

Can I use instant grits?

Yes, but stone-ground grits provide the best flavor and creamiest texture.

Can I substitute milk for cream?

Yes, whole milk can be used, though the grits will be slightly less rich.

Vanilla Protein Breakfast Smoothie (Creamy, Filling & Easy)

Sarah Smith
Dec 20, 2025
2 min read

Updated: 1 day ago

A creamy smoothie topped with nuts in a glass, on a rustic wooden table with almonds, oats, and a green background, evoking a fresh mood.

This Vanilla Protein Breakfast Smoothie is creamy, lightly sweet, and filling, blending vanilla protein powder, banana, and simple pantry staples into a smooth breakfast smoothie that helps keep you satisfied all morning. It comes together in minutes, making it an easy, nourishing option for busy mornings when you want something quick but balanced.

With its mild vanilla flavor and comforting texture, this smoothie is perfect for anyone who prefers a protein-packed breakfast that’s smooth, subtle, and not overly sweet.

Why You’ll Love This

Smooth vanilla flavor with a creamy, satisfying texture
Protein-packed breakfast smoothie that keeps you full
Simple ingredients blended into an easy morning option
Perfect for busy mornings, post-workout fuel, or a quick snack

Recipe Card

Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 0 minutes Total Time: 5 minutes Servings: 1 smoothie

Nutritional Information

(Estimated per serving, without optional add-ins)

Calories: 320 kcal
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Protein: 22 g
Fat: 6 g
Fiber: 6 g
Sugar: 18 g

Ingredients

1 ripe banana
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
¾ cup milk or unsweetened almond milk
¼ cup rolled oats
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Add-Ins

1 tablespoon almond butter or peanut butter
1 tablespoon chia seeds or ground flaxseed
A handful of ice for a thicker smoothie

Instructions

Add all ingredients to a blender.
Blend until smooth and creamy.
Add more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Serve immediately.

Notes

Rolled oats help make this smoothie more filling and breakfast-friendly.
For a thicker texture, use a frozen banana.
Adjust the sweetness depending on how sweet your protein powder is.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this smoothie good for breakfast?

Yes. It contains protein, carbohydrates, and fiber, making it a balanced and filling breakfast option.

What type of protein powder works best?

Vanilla whey or plant-based protein powders both work well. Choose one you enjoy, as the flavor will affect the final taste.

Can I make this smoothie dairy-free?

Yes. Use almond milk, oat milk, or another plant-based milk along with a dairy-free protein powder.

Can I make this smoothie ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; just shake or stir before drinking.

How can I make it even more filling?

Add nut butter, extra oats, or chia seeds to increase satiety and staying power.

Other Healthy Smoothie Recipes to Try

If you like this smoothie, you may also enjoy:

Final Thoughts

This Vanilla Protein Breakfast Smoothie is simple, comforting, and easy to rely on when mornings get busy. It’s creamy without being heavy, lightly sweet without added sugar, and filling enough to keep you satisfied until your next meal. If you’re looking for a no-fuss, dependable breakfast smoothie, this one deserves a regular spot in your routine.