29 Meal Prep Recipes That Keep Dinner On Auto-pilot

Busy days can make cooking feel like a challenge, but planning ahead makes everything easier. Simple ingredients and easy steps help create meals that are ready in no time. Preparing food in advance saves time and takes the stress out of mealtime. Try 29 meal prep recipes that keep dinner on auto-pilot and make every evening simple and stress-free.

A chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and sauce on a bun, with fries in the background.
Homemade KFC Zinger Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Slow Cooker Rump Roast

Slices of cooked beef with sprigs of herbs, served with small potatoes and carrots on a white plate.
Slow Cooker Rump Roast. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Coming home to Slow Cooker Rump Roast after a long day is like a warm hug in bowl form. It’s the kind of meal that cooks itself while you go about your day. Perfect for those nights when you want dinner sorted without lifting a finger. Simply a cozy classic on autopilot. You’ll love having leftovers, too!
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Rump Roast

Sourdough Bagels

A plate with a bagel seasoned with seeds sits next to a baking tray holding more bagels, also topped with seeds.
Sourdough Bagels. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

There’s something magical on your counter when you’re making Sourdough Bagels. They practically make themselves while you get on with your day. Perfect to have on hand for breakfast or snacks all week long. Plus, there’s a homemade feel that can’t be beat. Enjoy every chewy bite!
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bagels

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.

Ever thought about making Tamales part of your meal prep? They’re a fantastic option that you can enjoy for multiple meals. Just set aside some time, and you’ll have a stash ready to heat and eat. Ideal for busy evenings when you don’t want to think about cooking. Easy peasy and delicious!
Get the Recipe: Tamales

Stuffed Pepper Casserole

A spoonful of stuffed pepper casserole with ground meat, red and green bell peppers, cheese, and rice, garnished with herbs.
Stuffed Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Family dinners get easier with Stuffed Pepper Casserole. It’s a wonderful dish that’s simple to prepare and great for meal prepping. Whip it up, pop it in the oven, and let it cook while you relax. The leftovers are even better the next day. Perfect for those nights when you want no-fuss cooking.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Close-up of a beef pot roast with mushrooms, carrots, and garnished with rosemary sprigs on a white plate.
Slow Cooker Pot Roast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Just imagine coming home to the smell of Slow Cooker Pot Roast. It’s the ultimate meal to have prepped and ready to go, making dinner a breeze. Toss everything in the slow cooker and forget about it until it’s time to eat. Great for those evenings when you’re too busy to cook. Dinner is served effortlessly!
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pot Roast

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.

Make life easier with a batch of Taco Casserole. It’s a meal prep star that’s perfect for quick dinners. Just layer everything up, bake, and then you’ve got meals for days. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or any other day, it’ll be ready and waiting. Less stress, more deliciousness!
Get the Recipe: Taco Casserole

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.

If you love sushi but not the fuss, then Sushi Bake is your new best friend. Think of it as your go-to meal prep for an easy dinner night. All the flavors you love, with none of the rolling. Perfect for having something tasty ready in the fridge. Give it a try and see how simple sushi can be!
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

Spicy Lasagna Soup

Close-up of a plate of pasta topped with a red tomato-based sauce, grated cheese, and garnished with chopped parsley.
Spicy Lasagna Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Warming up with some Spicy Lasagna Soup can make dinnertime a delight. It’s a meal prep gem that’s ready to eat when you are. Cook up a batch and freeze it for those nights when you want something comforting without any effort. Just heat and enjoy! So cozy and convenient.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Lasagna Soup

Spaghetti Bolognese

A plate of spaghetti topped with meat sauce and a fresh basil leaf, accompanied by a fork on the side.
Spaghetti Bolognese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing beats having Spaghetti Bolognese ready to go for dinner. It’s a meal prep classic that’s always a hit. Make a big pot, and you’ll have meals sorted for days. Perfect for those busy nights when you just want to sit down and eat without any fuss. A true time-saver!
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

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.

Few things are more convenient than having Taco Soup prepped and ready. It’s a hearty and easy meal that practically cooks itself. Just simmer a big batch, and you’ve got dinner on demand. Reheat and serve on those nights when cooking isn’t on the agenda. Simple, tasty, and fuss-free!
Get the Recipe: Taco 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.

Planning dinner for the week? Sweet and Sour Chicken is your answer. Whip up a batch and you’re set for days. Who doesn’t love a mix of flavors that just works? Trust me, your future self will thank you. Perfect for those nights when you want a meal that practically makes itself.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

A bowl containing pulled pork.
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing beats walking into the kitchen after a long day knowing Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is waiting. Just throw everything in the pot and forget about it. By the time you’re ready to eat, it’s magic. Plus, it makes enough for lunch too.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Close-up of a tater tot breakfast casserole topped with melted cheese, sliced green onions, and chopped herbs.
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Get your mornings in order with Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole. Prep it the night before, and breakfast is as easy as pop-and-go. Rich flavors and fresh textures make every bite delicious and enjoyable. Perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends. Your whole crew will be asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

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.

Need a dinner that practically makes itself, Check out Sweet and Sour Pork for a tasty, low-effort meal. A perfect balance of flavors that’ll have you looking forward to mealtime. Plus, it keeps well in the fridge. Ideal for those busier days when time is not on your side.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Pork

The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Fork lifting a serving of cheesy cheeseburger casserole garnished with parsley.
The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Let’s be real, any dish with “cheeseburger” in its name is bound to be a hit. The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole is a hearty meal that kids and adults will devour. Easy to make ahead and store in the fridge. Pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. A win for family dinners.
Get the Recipe: The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Three Cheese Manicotti

A plate of stuffed cannelloni topped with tomato sauce, grated cheese, and fresh basil.
Three Cheese Manicotti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Who can resist a cheesy pasta dish, Three Cheese Manicotti is perfect for a comforting, make-ahead meal. You’ll have dinner ready to go without any fuss. It’s all about that gooey, cheesy goodness. Ah, that’s the stuff.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Baked sweet potato topped with black beans, corn, avocado, sliced jalapeños, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and cilantro, with lime slices on the side.
Southwest Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spice up your meal prep with Southwest Sweet Potatoes. They’re a tasty twist that keeps things interesting. Make a big batch and enjoy flavorful dinners for days. It’s healthy and delicious, what’s not to love? You’ll be looking forward to every bite.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Tiramisu

A slice of tiramisu is being lifted from the dish, showcasing layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone, topped with cocoa powder.
Tiramisu. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

End your meal on a high note with some Tiramisu. This classic dessert can be prepped in advance, making your evenings a little sweeter. It’s great for sharing, or enjoying solo with a good book. Just let it chill and do its thing. Totally worth it.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu

Stuffed Peppers

Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers in a white bowl.
Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Looking for a colorful, easy-prep dinner, Stuffed Peppers are your go-to. With everything tucked inside, it’s a meal in itself. Just make a batch and reheat when ready. Simple, delicious, and packed with flavor. A little taste of home ready whenever you are.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

Tom Yum Soup

Close-up of a spicy tom yum soup with shrimp, mushrooms, tomato chunks, lime wedge, and chopped herbs in a rich, red broth.
Tom Yum Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Keep things cozy with some Tom Yum Soup. It’s a delicious option that’s perfect for meal prep. Just make a pot and you’ve got dinners sorted for the week. Rich in flavor and super delicious. Perfect for those chilly nights.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

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.

Sliding into dinner time has never been easier with a delicious batch of Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat). They’re like tiny hugs on a plate, giving you that cozy all-is-right-with-the-world feeling. Your kitchen will love you, and guess what? Most of the magic happens while you’re doing something else.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

Tortellini Soup

A close-up of creamy tortellini with spinach and fresh basil leaves.
Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Feeling like something cozy but oh-so-simple, Tortellini Soup fits the bill, wrapping you up in a bowl of warmth and ease. As dinner takes care of itself, you’ll have time to kick back and relax a little. It’s got that comforting vibe going on, while giving you more “you time” at the end of a long day. Perfectly prepped for all of life’s little adventures ahead.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

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.

Nothing says comfort like digging into some Twice Baked Potatoes for dinner. With their creamy, dreamy inside and a hint of cozy warmth, they’re perfect for when the day calls for something a little comforting without the fuss. Prep them ahead of time, slide them in the oven, and voila, dinner’s ready before you know it!
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked 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.

For those nights when simplicity calls, White Bean Soup makes the perfect meal companion. It’s one of those dinners that promises comfort with minimal effort—just the way we like it. Cook it once, enjoy it throughout the week, and let the soup work its magic while you’re catching up on your favorite things.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Tuna Noodle Casserole

A baking dish filled with golden-brown baked tuna noodle casserole, topped with breadcrumbs and garnished with chopped parsley.
Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When it’s time to bring a classic to the table, Tuna Noodle Casserole is your best friend. It’s quick, it’s easy, and you can trust it to have dinner sorted while you go about your day. Prepped and popped into the oven with minimal fuss, it’s a loyal friend at dinner-time.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole

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.

If you’re craving something with a touch of heartiness, White Chicken Chili might just become your new favorite. It invites warmth and fuss-free enjoyment, practically making dinner all by itself. With its flavorful embrace, it’s ready to meet you after a day of doing life. Trust it to handle meal-prepping like a pro.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Chili

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.

When you’re in the mood for something fun and cheesy, Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls can add a touch of flair to your evening. They’re ready to shake up dinner time with minimal effort on your part, and trust me, they know how to get the job done with style. Make them ahead and let them keep dinner exciting while entertaining all your senses.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Wild Rice Casserole

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Wild Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Need a meal to tick off dinner without stress? Wild Rice Casserole has your back with its wholesome vibe and cozy demeanor. Prepped in advance, it’s ready to serve you up a hearty helping when you need it most. You can count on it to have your meal ready as you manage other important things in life.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

A chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and sauce on a bun, with fries in the background.
Homemade KFC Zinger Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Craving a takeout classic? Homemade KFC Zinger Burger brings fast food fun into your home with a cozy twist, needing just a bit of prep and a lot of love. Turn dinner into an easy, yummy occasion, with everything coming together smoothly while you relax a bit. Perfect for those times when it’s all about enjoying the crispy goodness without the takeout stress.
Get the Recipe: Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *