29 Meal Prep Recipes That Prove Weeknights Can Be Easy

Ever feel like weeknights are just packed with too much to do and too little time to cook? Well, got a list of 29 meal prep recipes that’ll change that game. These dishes are all about making evenings a breeze, without skimping on the flavor or fun. Imagine whipping up tasty meals, stress-free, giving more time to wind down and enjoy.

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil.
Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crunchwrap Supreme

Three folded tortillas filled with seasoned ground meat, diced tomatoes, and melted cheese.
Crunchwrap Supreme. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Turning taco night on its head is easy with prepared Crunchwrap Supremes. Each one is a handheld meal perfect for busy evenings. Just grab, reheat, and everything’s ready in a snap. They store well, so you can always have a quick meal on standby.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

Hot and Sour Soup

Bowl of hot and sour soup with mushrooms, tofu, and sliced green onions, with a spoon on the side.
Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you’re seeking something with a bit of a kick, Hot and Sour Soup is ready to heat and serve. Its robust flavors rejuvenate after a long day. Having it prepped in advance means you can enjoy it any evening you choose. It’s an effortless way to add some spice to your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

Easy Bibimbap

A bowl of bibimbap with sliced beef, egg yolk, carrots, cucumber, greens, and bean sprouts, topped with sesame seeds and red sauce.
Easy Bibimbap. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Keeping Easy Bibimbap on your meal prep list means you always have something healthy and quick. Just scoop a portion, reheat, and it’s like you made it fresh. The variety in every bite keeps dinner from getting boring. It’s all about smart cooking for simpler weekdays.
Get the Recipe: Easy Bibimbap

Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

A plate with honey chicken tenders, broccoli florets, and mashed potatoes.
Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders are a dream for prepped meal fans. They’re just as delicious warmed up, with that sweet and tangy kick remaining stellar. It’s a fun way to shake up dinner routines. Kids and adults alike can’t get enough, proving weeknight meals needn’t be boring.
Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

Egg Drop Soup

A comforting bowl of egg drop soup elegantly garnished with fresh cilantro, vibrant chives, and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Egg Drop Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

You’ll enjoy how quickly Egg Drop Soup comes together on a busy night. Just heat it up, give it a good stir, and it’s like you’ve spent the whole day cooking. It’s perfect for those nights when you need a warming meal fast. Convenience at its best, making your weeknight routine smoother.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup

Hamburger Casserole

A close-up of a spoon lifting a portion of hamburger casserole, showcasing baked macaroni and cheese layered with ground meat and topped with lettuce and creamy sauce.
Hamburger Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Hamburger Casserole is the hearty meal that makes weeknight dinners a breeze. Prepare it ahead, then just reheat for a meal that feels indulgent. It’s as comforting as it is convenient. Perfect for those evenings when time is tight but you still want a home-cooked meal.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole

Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Roasted chicken thigh with herbs, served on a bed of roasted vegetables.
Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re after minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, the Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe is your go-to. Everything cooks together, infusing sweet and tasty notes into every bite. It’s a full meal with virtually no prep work required on busy nights. Have it ready, pop it in the oven, and dinner is served.
Get the Recipe: Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

French Onion Soup

A savory dish of French Onion Soup, topped with melted cheese and garnished with sprigs of fresh thyme.
French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Imagine coming home to French Onion Soup that’s ready to reheat. Each spoonful is packed with deep flavors that melt away the day’s worries. It stores beautifully, making your evening routine a breeze. Just serve and enjoy; it’s that easy.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup

Easy Meatloaf Recipe

A close-up of a savory meatloaf slice topped with a glossy sauce. The hearty meatloaf reveals visible chunks of vegetables like carrots and celery.
Easy Meatloaf Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

With Easy Meatloaf Recipe, you have a hearty centerpiece ready to go. It slices perfectly every time, even when reheated. Pair it with your favorite sides, and dinner is served. It’s about making comfort food easy any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Leek and Potato Soup

A bowl of creamy soup garnished with sautéed green onions and herbs.
Leek and Potato Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Nothing beats coming home to Leek and Potato Soup that’s ready to warm you up. It’s creamy, it’s comforting, and best of all, it’s hassle-free with advance prep. Whether served as a starter or a main, it keeps your weeknight meals light on work but heavy on flavor. A true classic that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

Easy Cornbread Casserole

A portion of a cheesy, golden-brown savory cornbread casserole is being lifted from the dish, showing its flaky crust and gooey cheese filling.
Easy Cornbread Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

You’ll appreciate having Easy Cornbread Casserole in your meal prep rotation. It’s versatile enough to serve with various mains, but also stands strong on its own. Heat it up while you get the rest of dinner ready. Those busy nights just became more manageable.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole

Korean Corn Dogs

Several breaded and fried corn dogs on sticks, drizzled with mustard and ketchup, placed on white crumpled paper.
Korean Corn Dogs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Korean Corn Dogs bring a fun twist to your typical weeknight meal. Whip up a batch over the weekend, and you’ve got a quick snack or light dinner ready to go. They’re crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and just plain fun to eat. Everyone will look forward to dinner time, no fuss needed.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Dogs

Kimchi Stew

Close-up of a wooden spoon in a vibrant kimchi stew with tofu and pork, garnished with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes.
Kimchi Stew. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

On those chilly evenings, Kimchi Stew is like a warm hug in a bowl. Ready in a snap when prepped ahead, it’s both comforting and rich in flavors. It’s the kind of meal that makes the whole house smell amazing. Easy to make and even easier to reheat, it simplifies your dinner plans.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Easy Chicken Casserole

A fork lifting a cheesy bite from a bowl of chicken casserole topped with bacon and breadcrumbs.
Easy Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Having Easy Chicken Casserole in the fridge means that a comforting meal is just minutes away. It reheats nicely, ensuring a hassle-free dinner that feels like it took hours to make. It’s about getting that homemade dinner on the table fast. Weeknights are smoother when you’re well-prepared.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

Kung Pao Chicken

A close-up of a stir-fry dish featuring pieces of chicken, snap peas, red bell peppers, scallions, and black sesame seeds.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When cravings for something spicy and sweet hit, Kung Pao Chicken answers the call. It’s a blast of flavor that’s surprisingly easy to prepare in advance. Just reheat for a dish that’s as good as any restaurant’s. Who knew replicating your takeout favorites at home could be this simple?
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

A close-up of a bowl of broccoli cheddar soup garnished with croutons, a sprig of mint, and grated cheese.
Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When evenings get hectic, having Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup ready to go can be a real game changer. You heat it up while winding down from the day, and it’s just like freshly made. It keeps well in the fridge, and you can have a homemade meal in minutes. Weeknights just got easier and more enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

Easy Tater Tot Casserole

A serving of tater tot casserole on a spoon.
Easy Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

You can make any evening more fun with Easy Tater Tot Casserole waiting in the freezer. It comes back to life in the oven, crispy and hot. Gather everyone around the table, dish it up, and see it disappear fast. It’s all about minimal effort for maximum enjoyment.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot Casserole

Easy Chicken Tenders

Breaded chicken tenders served on a plate with dipping sauce.
Easy Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Kids and adults alike look forward to Easy Chicken Tenders that are lined up for the week. They crisp up nicely in the oven, even after freezing. It’s easy to serve them with whatever sides or dipping sauces you like. No fuss, just tasty food ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Tenders

Dinner Rolls

Close-up of freshly baked golden-brown dinner rolls, with one roll partially torn to show its soft, fluffy interior.
Dinner Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

With prepped Dinner Rolls, dinner feels more put together without extra work. Bake a batch in advance, and warm them up for instant homemade bread any night. They go with anything you’re serving up, from soups to salads. It’s simplicity at its finest for a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

A plate with a slice of Egg & Potato Breakfast Casserole and a fork.
Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Mornings are smoother with Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole as your go-to. It’s just as good for dinner, especially on those nights when time slips away. You pop it in the microwave, and it’s ready to eat. It’s about starting or ending the day with ease.
Get the Recipe: Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

Lentil Soup

A hearty bowl of savory lentil soup, beautifully garnished with fresh cilantro, a swirl of cream, and an aromatic blend of spices.
Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Lentil Soup is the superhero of make-ahead meals. It’s nutritious, filled with protein, and flavors meld better with time. Perfect for those days you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Just heat it up for a meal that’s ready whenever you are.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy, cheesy, and always a favorite, mac and cheese is the kind of meal that never gets old. The smooth, rich sauce coats every bite, making it hard to stop eating. Whether it’s a side dish or the main event, it always hits the spot. Great for busy nights or when you just want something familiar and filling.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Hashbrown Casserole saves the morning and can double as a dinner hero. Make it ahead, reheat, and you’ve got a versatile dish ready to go. It’s a crowd-pleaser that simplifies your meal prep significantly. Who knew weeknights could be this straightforward and tasty?
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

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.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is so good, it practically guarantees a proposal. It’s creamy, it’s dreamy, and you can have it on the table in no time with some simple prep. This dish turns any regular evening into a special occasion. Just reheat and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Pasta

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.

For those who crave a little excitement, Homemade KFC Zinger Burger brings the zingwithout the fuss. Prep a bunch, and they reheat wonderfully, ensuring a quick, crowd-pleasing dinner. It’s about enjoying fast food favorites from the comfort of home. Prep once, and eat stress-free all week.
Get the Recipe: Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

Eggplant Casserole

A slice of cheesy eggplant lasagna with tomato sauce is being lifted from a pan, showing stretchy melted cheese. A bowl is blurred in the background.
Eggplant Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

With Eggplant Casserole prepped in advance, you have an effortless veggie-rich dish to look forward to. Reheat it, and it tastes as good as when you first made it. It’s a smart choice for feeding everyone without stress. Make your weekday meals easier and packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Garlic Knots

Close-up view of freshly baked garlic knots with parsley and seasoning, resting on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Garlic Knots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Garlic Knots are a real treat to have on hand during the week. Bake them ahead, and a few minutes in the oven is all they need to be perfect. They’re great for pairing with pasta or salads. It’s about adding a little homemade touch to your meals without extra weekday hassle.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

A bowl of stew with bread and carrots.
Jamaican Red Beans and Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Enjoy the laid-back flavors of Jamaican Red Beans and Rice without the hassle. They cook in one pot and are just as good reheated. It’s your shortcut to a meal that’s both filling and flavorful. Prep it once, enjoy it multiple times; it’s that easy and efficient.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil.
Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Homemade Lasagna could very well be the king of make-ahead comfort food. Layer it up, bake, then reheat for a meal that feels like a labor of love without the labor. Each slice is packed with flavors that only get better with time. It’s the gift that keeps on giving throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

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 *