29 Meal Prep Recipes To Simplify Your Busy Schedule

ByMandy

Got a hectic week ahead and dreading meal times? Think about giving meal prepping a try with 29 different recipes. Whether it’s lunch for work, dinner after a long day, or something grab-and-go, these ideas are here to take the stress out of cooking and bring back the joy of eating well without spending hours in the kitchen.

A serving spoon lifts a portion of creamy, baked casserole with a crunchy topping, revealing melted cheese.
Million Dollar Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sushi Bake

A dish of loaded fries inspired by sushi bake, topped with avocado slices, diced cucumbers, green onions, sesame seeds, and drizzled with sauce.
Sushi Bake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Try something different with a Sushi Bake, a deconstructed version of the classic sushi roll turned into a warm, baked dish. It’s an inventive way to enjoy your favorite sushi flavors without the need for rolling. Perfect for prepping ahead, it’s a fun and easy option that’s bound to impress.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

Marry Me Chicken Soup

A creamy pasta dish with spinach, shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and shell pasta, garnished with herbs.
Marry Me Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For those chilly evenings when only a bowl of comforting soup will do, Marry Me Chicken Soup is a go-to. It combines a rich broth with tender chicken, turning meal prep into a breeze. You can make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week. It’s a surefire way to keep everyone at the table happy and warm.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup

Cattle Drive Casserole

A slice of cheesy lasagna being lifted from a baking dish, topped with melted cheese and parsley.
Cattle Drive Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cattle Drive Casserole takes the flavors of the open range and puts them into a dish that’s perfect for meal prepping. It’s hearty, filling, and reheats well, which means you can enjoy a delicious meal after a long day, with minimal effort. Make it once, and eat well for a week; it’s as easy as that.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Close-up of a serving of cheesy baked spaghetti with meat sauce, topped with fresh parsley, being lifted from a dish.
Million Dollar Spaghetti. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When you’re looking for a pasta dish that’s a step above the rest, Million Dollar Spaghetti is the answer. It’s cheesy, meaty, and utterly irresistible, perfect for meal prepping since it tastes even better the next day. The layers of flavor will make dinner something to look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Taco Soup

A bowl of red soup topped with avocado slices, sour cream, cilantro, sliced onions, corn, and shredded cheese.
Taco Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Prep Taco Soup over the weekend, and your meals will be stress-free for days. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easily customizable with your favorite toppings. Reheating it is effortless, and it tastes just as good, if not better, the next day. It’s a lifesaver on days when time and energy are short.
Get the Recipe: Taco Soup

Mississippi Mud Potatoes

A baked dish with melted cheese, diced pineapples, browned bacon, and chopped green onions on top.
Mississippi Mud Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you’re after a dish that’s both comforting and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, Mississippi Mud Potatoes are the way to go. They’re deceptively simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for batching in advance. Reheating them is a breeze, ensuring you’ve got a standout side that complements any main.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes

White Bean Soup

A bowl of hearty white bean soup topped with melted cheese and a slice of toasted bread, garnished with fresh parsley.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

White Bean Soup is a hearty and healthy option for meal prep. It’s easy to cook in large batches and freezes wonderfully. On busy days, a warm bowl of this soup is just what you need to feel satisfied and nourished. It’s a straightforward way to ensure you have a comforting meal ready to go.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Sweet and Sour Chicken

Close-up of sweet and sour chicken with bell peppers and pineapple chunks in a thick sauce.
Sweet and Sour Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For those days when only takeout favorites will do, Sweet and Sour Chicken made at home is a healthier alternative. It’s perfect for cooking in large batches, ensuring you’ve got a tasty meal ready to go during the week. The balance of sweet and tangy flavors makes it a hit.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken

Twice Baked Potatoes

Twice-baked potatoes topped with melted cheese and chopped green onions on a baking sheet.
Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Twice Baked Potatoes are a dream for meal prep enthusiasts. Bake a batch early in the week, and you have a versatile side that pairs well with almost anything. They reheat beautifully, ensuring a comforting meal is just minutes away. They’re a surefire hit for any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

Sweet and Sour Pork

Close-up of sweet and sour pork with chunks of bell peppers, onions, and pineapple, garnished with sesame seeds and chives.
Sweet and Sour Pork. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you’re in the mood for a mix of tangy and sweet, Sweet and Sour Pork is a top pick. Prep it ahead of time, and you’ve got a delicious meal ready to go. Reheating is a breeze, making your dinner rush smoother. Perfect for those busy nights when you want something hearty.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Pork

White Chicken Chili

A bowl of creamy White Chicken Chili with chunks of chicken, sliced avocado, green jalapeño peppers, white beans, and fresh cilantro.
White Chicken Chili. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

With White Chicken Chili, you get a lighter take on traditional chili that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Make a big pot at the beginning of the week for a meal that’s easy to reheat and enjoy. It’s perfect for those days when you want something filling but not too heavy. A go-to for nutritious and quick dinners.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Chili

Miso Soup

A bowl of miso soup with tofu cubes, seaweed, and green onions.
Miso Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Starting with a simple, soothing base, Miso Soup is light yet wholesome, making it a great option for meal prep. It’s quick to prepare and can be customized with whatever you have on hand. Having a batch ready means you can enjoy a comforting cup anytime.
Get the Recipe: Miso Soup

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

A plate of creamy penne pasta garnished with chopped parsley and grated cheese, featuring pieces of sun-dried tomatoes. A black fork is resting on the plate.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re in the mood for something that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to whip up, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a must-try. It’s got that perfect blend of creamy sauce and hearty pasta to keep your meal prep interesting. Plus, it stores well, making your dinners stress-free for the week.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Beef Bourguignon

Close-up of a savory beef stew with chunks of beef, bacon, onion, and vegetables in a rich, glossy sauce, served over creamy mashed potatoes.
Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Beef Bourguignon is a classic that’s surprisingly suited for meal prep. While it takes some time to cook, making it in advance means you have a gourmet meal ready anytime. Just reheat and serve for a no-fuss dinner that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy and garnished with fresh thyme and cracked black pepper.
Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Who doesn’t love creamy, smooth Mashed Potatoes as a side dish? Prepping a large batch is a smart way to complement any main dish you’re planning for the week. They reheat beautifully, ensuring you have a delicious side ready in no time. Plus, they’re a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes

Beef Chili

Two bowls of chili with kidney beans, meat, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and cilantro. A black spoon in one bowl. Additional chili flakes in a small dish nearby.
Beef Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a hearty meal that keeps well, Beef Chili is hard to beat. Cook a large pot early in the week, and you’ve got an easy reheatable dinner that only gets better with time. It’s a robust dish that provides comfort after a long day. A staple for anyone looking for a simple, filling option.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!)

Mexican taco salad cups on a plate.
Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a fun and easy dinner option, Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!) hits the spot. These are a breeze to make in advance and customize with your favorite toppings. They’re perfect for those times when you want a meal that’s as enjoyable to assemble as it is to eat.
Get the Recipe: Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!)

Tamales

Two cooked tamales nestled in corn husks, with a bowl of fresh cilantro partially visible on the left side.
Tamales. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Making Tamales might seem daunting, but they’re actually a fantastic meal-prep option. Spend some time on them during the weekend, and enjoy the fruits of your labor throughout the week. They freeze well, so you can enjoy a homemade meal any time.
Get the Recipe: Tamales

Cheeseburger

A cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion, and ketchup on a plate. A bowl of lettuce is in the background.
Cheeseburger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Making a Cheeseburger into a meal prep option is simpler than you might think. Cook the patties ahead of time, and when you’re ready, reheat them for a quick and easy meal. Pair with pre-chopped lettuce and tomatoes for a fresh burger experience any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger

Taco Casserole

A bowl of taco casserole topped with melted cheese, black olives, tomatoes, and green onions, with a creamy dip in the background.
Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Taco Casserole brings the flavors of taco night into an easy, bake-and-serve dish. Prepare it at the start of the week, and you’ve got a no-fuss meal that’s ready to heat up. It’s as simple as it is delicious, cutting down kitchen time significantly. Ideal for those evenings when you crave something cozy but have little time to spare.
Get the Recipe: Taco Casserole

Beef Stew

A close-up of a beef stew with green peas and chopped parsley, showing a spoon partially submerged in the rich, red sauce.
Beef Stew. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing beats coming home to a Beef Stew that’s been simmering and ready to eat. It’s one of those meals that’s even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping. You can freeze it in portions for those days when cooking is the last thing on your mind. A real time-saver for sure.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew

Cheeseburger Sliders

Close-up of a partially eaten burger with cheese in a bun, showing the meat patty's texture.
Cheeseburger Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cheeseburger Sliders are the ultimate make-ahead meal for those who love a good burger but need something a little quicker and smaller. These are great for prepping on a Sunday and enjoying throughout the week. Just heat and serve for a meal that’s both convenient and pleasing. Perfect for both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Sliders

Minestrone Soup

A bowl of hearty minestrone soup packed with green beans, pasta, zucchini, tomatoes, and herbs, served with crusty bread slices.
Minestrone Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a veggie-packed meal that’s both nutritious and fulfilling, Minestrone Soup fits the bill perfectly. It’s ideal for meal prep, as it only gets more flavorful after a day or two in the fridge. Serve it up with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a complete meal. Plus, it’s a great way to get your vegetables in with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Beef Enchilada Casserole

Close-up of a cheesy dish with melted cheese, beef, beans, and scattered cilantro leaves. Red onion slices are visible in the foreground.
Beef Enchilada Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a comforting dish that easily feeds a crowd, Beef Enchilada Casserole is an excellent choice. When prepped in advance, all you need to do is bake it before serving. It’s great for those busy weeknights where you want a hearty meal without the fuss. Freezes well too, so it’s perfect for those who love to plan ahead.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada Casserole

Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

A close-up of Swedish meatballs covered in a creamy sauce, piled in a wooden bowl.
Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Craving those iconic Ikea Swedish Meatballs without the trip to the store? Making Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat) at home is easier than you might think. Serve them with some lingonberry jam and mashed potatoes for the full experience.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

Beef Wellington

Beef Wellington sliced on a wooden board with a side salad in the background.
Beef Wellington. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Beef Wellington might sound fancy, but it’s quite manageable as a meal prep option. Prepare the components ahead of time, and on the day of serving, you just need to assemble and bake. It’s a way to bring a bit of luxury to meal prep without all the last-minute hassle.
Get the Recipe: Beef Wellington

Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Close-up of several Bacon Jalapeno Popper Cheese Balls wrapped in bacon, stuffed with cheese, and seasoned with herbs and spices, placed on crumpled parchment paper.
Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls offer a flavorful snack or appetizer that’s perfect for prepping ahead. They’re easy to make in bulk and freeze for later use. When you’re ready, simply thaw and serve for a quick and tasty treat. They’re a crowd-pleaser that’s both convenient and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Cheeseburger Soup

A pot of cheesy potato and meat stew garnished with chopped parsley and crispy bacon.
Cheeseburger Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A bowl of Cheeseburger Soup is like a hug in a bowl and having it ready to go makes it even better. It freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic choice for those colder days when comfort food is a must. Just heat up a serving whenever you need a quick and easy meal. It’s a clever twist on a favorite that’s both nutritious and filling.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

Million Dollar Casserole

A serving spoon lifts a portion of creamy, baked casserole with a crunchy topping, revealing melted cheese.
Million Dollar Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For something that feels special but is incredibly practical, Million Dollar Casserole is a standout. You can assemble it in advance and freeze it before baking, ensuring you have a decadent meal ready to go. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something a bit more indulgent but still homemade.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Casserole

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