25 Powerful Protein Shakes for Weight Gain Now

Are you struggling to add healthy weight to your frame? I’ve been there! After years of experimenting with countless recipes and helping clients transform their bodies, I’ve compiled this ultimate collection of protein shakes for weight gain that actually work. These protein shakes for weight gain aren’t just calorie-dense—they’re packed with quality nutrition to help you build muscle and gain weight the right way.

Whether you’re a hardgainer looking to bulk up, recovering from illness, or simply trying to add some healthy mass, these protein shakes for weight gain will be your new best friends. The perfect protein shakes for weight gain are designed to deliver maximum calories, protein, and nutrients in a delicious, drinkable form that won’t leave you feeling stuffed.

Why Protein Shakes Are Perfect for Weight Gain

Before diving into these mouth-watering recipes, let’s talk about why protein shakes for weight gain are so effective:

• Liquid calories are easier to consume than solid food when you’re trying to gain weight
• They’re quick and convenient – perfect for busy lifestyles
• You can pack tons of calories and nutrients into a single glass
• They’re easily digestible and won’t leave you feeling uncomfortably full
• Versatile and customizable to match your taste preferences and nutritional needs

Ready to start gaining? Let’s dive into these incredible protein shakes for weight gain recipes that have helped thousands of my clients transform their bodies!

High-Calorie Classics: The Foundation Protein Shakes for Weight Gain

1. The Classic Mass Gainer

My go-to recommendation for beginners! This shake packs a serious caloric punch while still tasting like a treat. I make this for clients who swear they can’t gain weight—they’re believers after two weeks!

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops vanilla whey protein powder
• 1 banana
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup oats
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth
2. Enjoy immediately or store in a shaker bottle for later

Nutritional info: 750 calories, 50g protein, 75g carbs, 25g fat

This is one of my go-to protein shakes for weight gain for beginners who are just starting their muscle-building journey!

2. Chocolate Peanut Butter Bomb

After my intense weight training sessions, this is my personal favorite for rebuilding muscle. The rich chocolate and peanut butter combo never gets old, and it’s helped countless clients break through weight gain plateaus.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops chocolate whey protein
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter
• 1 banana
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender
2. Blend until smooth and creamy
3. Pour into a glass and enjoy!

Nutritional info: 700 calories, 55g protein, 65g carbs, 28g fat

Looking for more chocolate protein shake inspiration? Check out my collection of chocolate protein shake recipes for more delicious options!

3. Vanilla Almond Bulker

This shake changed everything for my client Jake, who gained 10 pounds of healthy weight in just one month. The combination of vanilla and almond creates a smooth, sophisticated flavor profile that never feels heavy.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops vanilla whey protein
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons almond butter
• 1/2 cup oats
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Dash of cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until completely smooth
2. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency

Nutritional info: 680 calories, 53g protein, 60g carbs, 26g fat

Many of my clients find this to be the most versatile of all my protein shakes for weight gain recipes!

For more amazing vanilla protein shake ideas, take a look at my vanilla protein shake recipes collection!

Fruit-Powered Protein Shakes for Weight Gain – Naturally Delicious

4. Tropical Bulk Paradise

Inspired by my vacation to Hawaii, this shake will transport you to the tropics while helping you pack on quality mass. The tropical fruits provide natural sugars that help replenish glycogen stores after tough workouts.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops vanilla protein powder
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
• 1/2 mango
• 1 banana
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth
2. Pour into a glass and enjoy!

Nutritional info: 650 calories, 45g protein, 68g carbs, 24g fat

5. Strawberry Cheesecake Gainer

This shake tastes like dessert but packs the nutritional punch you need for serious weight gain. I created this for my client Sarah who struggled with her appetite—now she looks forward to this shake every day!

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops vanilla protein powder
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 cup oats
• Graham cracker crumbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients except graham cracker crumbs
2. Pour into a glass and top with graham cracker crumbs if desired

Nutritional info: 620 calories, 50g protein, 60g carbs, 22g fat

Craving more strawberry protein shakes? Don’t miss my dedicated post on strawberry protein shake recipes for additional options!

6. Banana Bread Bulker

This shake tastes exactly like freshly baked banana bread! When my client Tom struggled to eat enough solid food, this shake helped him gain 15 pounds of quality weight in three months. The oats provide slow-releasing carbs for sustained energy.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops vanilla whey protein
• 2 ripe bananas
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 1/3 cup oats
• 1 tablespoon walnut butter (or walnuts)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender
2. Blend until smooth and creamy
3. Serve immediately

Nutritional info: 750 calories, 52g protein, 90g carbs, 23g fat

For banana lovers, I’ve created a whole collection of banana protein shake recipes that can help with your weight gain journey!

Nut Butter Powerhouses: Calorie-Dense Protein Shakes for Weight Gain

7. Quadruple Nut Blast

This is the ultimate nut butter lover’s dream! I recommend this to my hardgainer clients who need maximum calories in every sip. The variety of nuts provides different fatty acid profiles for optimal nutrition.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops chocolate protein powder
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• 1 tablespoon cashew butter
• 1 tablespoon hazelnut butter
• 1 banana
• 1/4 cup oats
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until completely smooth
2. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency

Nutritional info: 850 calories, 58g protein, 72g carbs, 40g fat

If you’re a peanut butter enthusiast, you’ll love my collection of peanut butter protein shake recipes that can help fuel your weight gain goals!

8. Pistachio Dream Gainer

This unique shake has become a client favorite for its distinctive nutty flavor. The natural green color from the pistachios makes it visually appealing, and the nutrient profile is perfect for quality weight gain.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops vanilla protein powder
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup shelled pistachios (unsalted)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 avocado
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Soak pistachios in water for 30 minutes, then drain
2. Blend all ingredients until smooth
3. Serve immediately

Nutritional info: 700 calories, 55g protein, 50g carbs, 35g fat

9. Maple Pecan Power Shake

Inspired by my favorite pancake toppings, this shake delivers serious calories with a flavor that feels like a cheat meal. The pecans provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that support your weight gain goals.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops vanilla protein powder
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup pecans
• 2 tablespoons real maple syrup
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 banana
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth
2. Add ice if desired
3. Serve immediately

Nutritional info: 780 calories, 50g protein, 88g carbs, 30g fat

Advanced Protein Shakes for Weight Gain – For Serious Gainers

10. The 1000-Calorie Monster

This is my secret weapon for extreme hardgainers! When nothing else works, this shake delivers a massive calorie load that’s still drinkable and delicious. I only recommend this for those who truly struggle to gain weight.

Ingredients:

• 3 scoops whey protein powder
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 banana
• 1/2 cup oats
• 1/4 cup almond butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (mild flavored)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon MCT oil

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients together until completely smooth
2. Add more milk if needed for desired consistency
3. Drink immediately or divide into two servings

Nutritional info: 1050 calories, 75g protein, 85g carbs, 50g fat

According to research from Healthline, consuming an extra 500-1000 calories per day above your maintenance needs can help you gain weight at a healthy rate of 1-2 pounds per week.

11. Avocado Mass Builder

This shake is a nutritional powerhouse that leverages the healthy fats in avocados for clean weight gain. The creamy texture is unmatched, and it’s become a staple for many of my clients looking to gain quality weight.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops vanilla protein powder
• 1 whole ripe avocado
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 1 banana
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender
2. Blend until completely smooth
3. Serve immediately

Nutritional info: 750 calories, 50g protein, 65g carbs, 38g fat

12. Coconut Cream Bulker

This tropical-inspired shake delivers serious calories with a flavor that transports you to the beach. The MCTs in coconut cream are easily digested and used for energy, making this perfect for active individuals trying to gain weight.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops vanilla protein powder
• 1 cup coconut cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 banana
• 1/4 cup oats
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth
2. Add ice if desired
3. Serve immediately

Nutritional info: 820 calories, 50g protein, 70g carbs, 45g fat

Dessert-Inspired Protein Shakes for Weight Gain

13. Cookies and Cream Muscle Builder

Who says gaining weight can’t taste like dessert? This shake reminds me of my childhood favorite ice cream but packs a serious nutritional punch. It’s especially effective as a nighttime shake right before bed.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops vanilla protein powder
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 4 chocolate sandwich cookies
• 1 tablespoon vanilla pudding mix (optional)
• 1/4 cup oats
• 1 tablespoon cream cheese
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Crush 3 cookies and leave 1 for topping
2. Blend all ingredients except the reserved cookie
3. Pour into a glass and top with crushed cookie

Nutritional info: 700 calories, 48g protein, 75g carbs, 25g fat

14. Caramel Apple Pie Gainer

This shake tastes exactly like apple pie à la mode! I created this for my client Mike who had a serious sweet tooth but needed to gain 20 pounds. He achieved his goal in just two months while enjoying this delicious shake daily.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops vanilla protein powder
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 1 apple, cored and chopped
• 2 tablespoons caramel sauce
• 1/4 cup oats
• 1/4 teaspoon apple pie spice
• 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon almond butter

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth
2. For extra indulgence, drizzle with additional caramel sauce
3. Serve immediately

Nutritional info: 680 calories, 50g protein, 80g carbs, 23g fat

15. Chocolate Brownie Bomb

The ultimate chocolate lover’s shake that tastes like a brownie in liquid form! This has been a game-changer for my teenage clients who are trying to gain weight for sports. The rich chocolate flavor masks the healthy ingredients perfectly.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops chocolate protein powder
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon chocolate hazelnut spread
• 1 banana
• 1/4 cup oats
• 2 tablespoons walnut pieces
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth
2. Top with a few walnut pieces if desired
3. Serve immediately

Nutritional info: 750 calories, 52g protein, 80g carbs, 28g fat

For more delicious chocolate protein creations, be sure to check out my whey protein brownies recipe for a solid food alternative!

Vegan Protein Shakes for Weight Gain

16. Plant Power Gainer

Don’t let being vegan stop you from gaining weight! This shake proves you can pack in the calories without any animal products. I’ve helped numerous vegan clients bulk up with this nutritional powerhouse.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops plant-based protein powder
• 1½ cups soy milk
• 1 banana
• 2 tablespoons almond butter
• 1/2 avocado
• 1/4 cup oats
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until completely smooth
2. Add more soy milk if needed for desired consistency

Nutritional info: 700 calories, 45g protein, 70g carbs, 30g fat

Research from Fit Men Cook shows that plant-based proteins can be just as effective for muscle building when consumed in sufficient quantities.

17. Coconut Cashew Calorie Bomb

This creamy, tropical shake delivers major calories with a unique flavor profile. The combination of cashews and coconut creates a rich, satisfying texture that my vegan clients love for post-workout recovery.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops vanilla plant protein
• 1 cup coconut milk (canned)
• 1/2 cup cashews (soaked for 2 hours)
• 1 banana
• 1/4 cup oats
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Drain and rinse the soaked cashews
2. Blend all ingredients until perfectly smooth
3. Serve immediately

Nutritional info: 780 calories, 40g protein, 75g carbs, 42g fat

18. Green Gainer Powerhouse

Don’t let the color fool you—this shake is a calorie monster! I created this for my client Lisa who wanted to gain weight without sacrificing nutrition. The greens are barely detectable under the sweet flavor, making this perfect for sneaking in extra nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops vanilla plant protein
• 1 cup oat milk
• 1 cup spinach
• 1/2 avocado
• 1 banana
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
• 1 tablespoon agave nectar
• 1/4 cup oats

Instructions:

1. Blend spinach and oat milk first until completely smooth
2. Add remaining ingredients and blend again
3. Serve immediately

Nutritional info: 700 calories, 42g protein, 75g carbs, 32g fat

Recovery and Night-Time Protein Shakes for Weight Gain – Maximize Your Results

19. Post-Workout Recovery King

This is my go-to recommendation for maximizing the post-workout anabolic window. The fast-digesting carbs trigger an insulin response that helps shuttle protein to your muscles for optimal growth and recovery.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops vanilla whey protein
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 banana
• 1/4 cup white rice (cooked and cooled)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon MCT oil
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until completely smooth
2. Consume within 30 minutes after workout

Nutritional info: 650 calories, 48g protein, 80g carbs, 15g fat

20. Overnight Muscle Builder

This is specifically designed to be consumed before bed to provide a steady stream of amino acids throughout the night when your body does most of its recovery and growth. I recommend this to all my clients serious about gaining quality mass.

Ingredients:

• 1 scoop casein protein powder
• 1 scoop whey protein powder
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• 1/2 banana
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth
2. Consume 30 minutes before bedtime

Nutritional info: 550 calories, 50g protein, 45g carbs, 20g fat

Want to add more protein to your breakfast routine? Check out my high protein breakfast ideas for more ways to start your day right!

21. ZMA Sleep & Grow Shake

This specially formulated shake contains nutrients that support sleep quality and overnight recovery. Many of my competitive athlete clients swear by this shake for maximizing their growth during rest periods.

Ingredients:

• 1 scoop casein protein powder
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup cottage cheese
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• 1/2 teaspoon magnesium powder (or crushed tablet)
• 1/2 banana
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth
2. Consume 30-45 minutes before bedtime

Nutritional info: 450 calories, 45g protein, 40g carbs, 15g fat

Quick & Easy Protein Shakes for Weight Gain

22. Five-Minute Mass Builder

When you’re in a hurry but still need your calories, this quick shake comes to the rescue! I created this for my busy executive clients who struggle to find time to eat enough for weight gain.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops protein powder
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter
• 1 banana
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

1. Throw all ingredients in a blender
2. Blend for 30 seconds
3. Pour and go!

Nutritional info: 600 calories, 48g protein, 60g carbs, 22g fat

Expert nutritionists at The Big Man’s World recommend consuming protein shakes between meals rather than as meal replacements when trying to gain weight.

23. No-Blend Emergency Gainer

No blender? No problem! This shake can be mixed in a shaker bottle for those times when you don’t have access to kitchen equipment. I recommend this to my traveling clients who still need to hit their calorie goals on the road.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops protein powder
• 2 cups whole milk
• 3 tablespoons chocolate milk powder
• 1 tablespoon powdered peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon instant oats (finely ground)

Instructions:

1. Add all dry ingredients to a shaker bottle
2. Pour in milk and shake vigorously
3. Let sit for 2 minutes, then shake again

Nutritional info: 580 calories, 50g protein, 55g carbs, 18g fat

24. Ready-To-Drink Booster

This is how you transform a store-bought protein shake into a serious weight gainer. Perfect for those who rely on pre-made shakes but need more calories than they typically provide.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle (11 oz) ready-to-drink protein shake
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon MCT oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon nut butter

Instructions:

1. Pour shake into a shaker bottle
2. Add remaining ingredients
3. Shake vigorously until combined

Nutritional info: 500 calories, 35g protein, 40g carbs, 25g fat

For more smoothie ideas that can help with weight gain, check out my collection of protein powder smoothie recipes for weight gain.

25. The Perfect Double-Scoop Base

This is the foundation recipe I teach all my clients. Once you master this base, you can customize it endlessly to suit your taste preferences while still getting the calories and protein you need.

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops protein powder (any flavor)
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 1 banana
• 1 tablespoon healthy oil (MCT, olive, etc.)
• 1 tablespoon nut butter
• 1 tablespoon sweetener (honey, maple syrup, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth
2. Customize with additional ingredients as desired

Nutritional info: 550 calories, 45g protein, 50g carbs, 20g fat

If you’re looking for more versatile protein powder recipes, don’t miss my guide to whey protein recipes with dozens of creative ideas!

How to Make Your Protein Shakes for Weight Gain Even More Effective

To maximize the benefits of these protein shakes for weight gain, follow these expert tips I’ve developed after years of helping clients successfully gain weight:

• Drink your shake between meals, not as a meal replacement
• Consume a shake immediately after your workout to maximize muscle recovery
• Have a shake before bed to provide nutrients during overnight recovery
• Be consistent – aim for at least one shake per day
• Pair your shakes with a proper training program for optimal muscle gain
• Track your progress by weighing yourself weekly and adjusting your intake as needed

FAQ About Protein Shakes for Weight Gain: Your Questions Answered

Conclusion: Your Weight Gain Journey Starts Here With These Protein Shakes for Weight Gain

Armed with these 25 powerful protein shakes for weight gain, you’re now equipped to start your transformation journey. Remember that consistency is key—make these protein shakes for weight gain a regular part of your routine, combine them with proper strength training, and you’ll start seeing results.

Whether you’re a hardgainer struggling to add pounds, an athlete looking to increase performance weight, or someone recovering from illness, these protein shakes for weight gain provide a delicious, convenient solution to help you reach your goals. I’ve seen firsthand how effective these protein shakes for weight gain can be when used correctly!

What’s your favorite protein shake for weight gain? Have you tried any of these recipes? Leave a comment below with your experience or any questions you might have about optimizing your weight gain journey with protein shakes for weight gain!

Still craving more protein recipes? Explore my whey protein smoothie recipes for additional inspiration!