My clients often struggle with shopping for the right groceries that will deliver the protein they need to build muscle, boost their metabolism, or lose weight. So I put together this grocery guide, broken out into 4 categories – Meat Proteins, Non-Meat Protein, High-Protein Carbohydrates, and Healthy Fats. All the foods listed here can be purchased locally in the Denver region and can be used together to make delicious meals you’ll love.
Table of Contents
MEAT PROTEINS
1. Grass-Fed Beef
Grass-fed beef is high in omega-3 fatty acids and offers a lean, clean source of protein. Unlike conventional red meat, it’s less inflammatory and packed with nutrients that support heart health.
Buy it at: King Soopers. King Soopers is affordable, widely available, and carries the Simple Truth Organic brand, which offers 97.3% lean ground beef options.
Pro tip: Look for 97.3% ground beef for the best balance of flavor and lean protein.
2. Pasture-Raised Chicken
Pasture-raised chicken is lower in calories and free from added hormones and antibiotics, which makes it a safer, cleaner food choice, especially for families with kids.
Buy it at: King Soopers: They carry organic pasture-raised options, again under the Simple Truth brand.
3. Wild-Caught Salmon or Tuna
Packed with omega-3s and protein, wild-caught fish like salmon and tuna beat out their farm-raised counterparts for nutrition and taste. Eat it twice a week and you can skip the omega-3 supplements.
Buy it at: King Soopers or Sprouts.
NON-MEAT PROTEIN
4. Eggs
Eggs are a complete protein, with a nearly perfect protein-to-calorie ratio (6g protein for just 70 calories). Look for darker amber yolks — that’s a sign of higher nutrient content.
Recommended brands: The Happy Egg Co., Alfalfas
Buy them at: King Soopers
Pro tip: Check brand ratings at Cornucopia.org for transparency on sourcing.
5. Greek Yogurt or Cottage Cheese
Versatile, high in protein, and low in calories. Perfect for snacks, smoothies, or cooking and baking.
Recommended brands: FAGE, Chobani
Buy them at: King Soopers
6. Tofu
One of the highest-protein plant-based foods, and a great option for non-meat eaters. It’s a complete protein and super flexible in recipes.
Buy it at: King Soopers or Sprouts.
HIGH-PROTEIN CARBOHYDRATES
7. Sprouted Whole Grain Bread
Unlike traditional bread, sprouted bread (like Ezekiel 4:9) contains living nutrients, fewer preservatives, and better digestion properties.
Buy it at: Look in the freezer section of Sprouts or King Soopers.
8. Sweet Potatoes
The natural sugars in sweet potatoes are minimal and come with protein, fiber, nutrients, and serious staying power.
Buy them at: Sprouts or local farmer’s markets like Union Station Farmers Market or Cherry Creek Fresh Market.
9. Steel Cut Rolled Oats
A fiber-rich, versatile complex carb that can be enjoyed hot or cold. Best balance between processing and convenience. Steel cut oats are the least processed, that’s why I recommend them.
Buy them at: Sprouts (especially for bulk bins and premium brands).
HEALTHY FATS
10. Lentils or Beans (Black or Pinto)
Lentils and beans – either black or pinto – are loaded with fiber and healthy fat. They are also easy to prep in bulk.
Buy them at: King Soopers or any local grocer.
11. Almonds
Almonds are balanced between the three main macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, and fats) and pair very well with high-protein foods like Greek Yogurt.
Buy them at: Sprouts or any local grocer.
BONUS: For a Healthy Sweet Tooth
Nick’s Ice Cream
A low-calorie, high-protein ice cream that tastes like the real thing.
✔️ 250–380 calories per pint
✔️ ~10g protein
✔️ Tastes like premium ice cream
Buy it at: King Soopers
Looking to eat out? Check out my guide to the Best Protein-Packed Meals at the 5 Most Popular Restaurants in Denver.
Why This Matters
In a world of confusing labels and overwhelming choices, these protein-packed staples are easy to find, affordable, and support your protein intake and health goals.
And the best part? You don’t need to bounce between 5 different stores; everything on this list is available at King Soopers, Sprouts, or local farmer’s markets.
For more food guides, grocery lists, and personalized nutrition coaching in the Denver area, reach out to Relentless Spirit. You’ll get practical, realistic advice with options that fit your lifestyle, and all backed by coaching that works.
About the author : Baltazar Villanueva
Baltazar Villanueva is a NASM certified personal trainer & nutritionist that provides services to the Denver metro region. Formerly a mixed martial arts fighter and self-defense trainer, he now provides clients with customized fitness programs that address whole-body wellness. Book a consultation with him here to get started on your fitness journey.
