47 Winter Meal Prep Recipe Ideas That Make December Cooking Feel Easier

Planning dinner around 47 winter meal prep recipes can help keep your evenings smooth while December fills up with events. Freeing up time after work or school becomes easier when meals are sorted ahead. Cook once and enjoy the benefits all week, whether you’re feeding one or a few people.

Matcha Tiramisu

Vivid green layers help this Matcha Tiramisu stand out on the meal prep tray for winter treats. Each bite combines gentle sweetness with a hint of earthy flavor, making cozy nights a little more interesting. I choose this dessert when I want something lighter but still satisfying after a busy day. Guests often ask about what gives it its special color.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Tiramisu

Creamy Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi

Fluffy dumplings mixed with velvety chicken sauce give this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi its comforting reputation. Chilly evenings seem brighter when this warm, filling dish sets the tone for dinner. I rely on this meal for quick, prepped lunches or cozy weekend plans. The leftovers rarely last longer than a day.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi

Detroit Style Pizza

Deep dish and crispy corners turn this Detroit Style Pizza into a meal that covers every craving. Each slice offers bold flavor while staying easy to portion for meal prep in winter. I package extra for fast, no-fuss dinners when schedules are packed. The crunchy edge is often the first part to disappear.
Get the Recipe: Detroit Style Pizza

Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

Layers of creamy filling and soft fruit make this Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake a sweet reward for cold afternoons. The richness feels decadent without being too heavy, so the treat fits perfectly into December meal plans. I portion it small for grab-and-go desserts. Friends call dibs as soon as it hits the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

White Chicken Enchiladas

Golden sauce and tender chicken fill these White Chicken Enchiladas, a crowd-pleaser for winter prep routines. Flavor remains bright and layered even after reheating for busy nights. I find these enchiladas easy to split up for lunches throughout the week. Other main dishes start to feel dull by comparison.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Enchiladas

Biscuits and Gravy

Warm comfort waits inside this Biscuits and Gravy, perfect for breakfast meal prep or last-minute winter snacks. The flaky biscuit and savory gravy combo feels familiar and reassuring on cold mornings. I whip up extra so there’s always something ready after a snowy day. Smiles appear as soon as the plate gets passed around.
Get the Recipe: Biscuits and Gravy

Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Sweet, chewy squares greet you in these Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies, making afternoon snacking feel special all December. Every piece melts in your mouth with gentle notes of spice. I stack them high in the meal prep box, but they tend to vanish fast. Anyone who tastes them immediately asks for more.
Get the Recipe: Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese

Golden comfort slides onto your plate with this Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese after just a quick reheat. The creamy texture and crowd-pleasing flavor perfectly suit chillier meal plans. I make a big batch for easy servings all week. Cheese pulls keep people coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese

Epic Hearty Bean Chili

Piping-hot and loaded, this Epic Hearty Bean Chili sets the bar for pleasing winter meal prep. Each spoonful brings warmth and a boost of protein, ideal for busy nights and long workdays. I portion extra for power lunches everyone looks forward to. Requests for the recipe start before the first bowl is finished.
Get the Recipe: Epic Hearty Bean Chili

Rich Oreo Cheesecake

Bold chocolate layers and silky filling give this Rich Oreo Cheesecake its special place in dessert rotations for December. The contrast between crunchy and creamy makes people linger a little longer at snack time. I split it into small slices for quick, sweet pick-me-ups. Reactions nearly always include wide eyes and grins.
Get the Recipe: Rich Oreo Cheesecake

Cheesy Eggplant Casserole

Layered richness makes this Cheesy Eggplant Casserole a smart addition to meal prep during colder months. Warm, gooey texture and mild flavor keep dinner interesting throughout the week. I prep extra casserole for hurried evenings since it travels so well. Empty Tupperware never find their way back to the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Eggplant Casserole

Classic Southern Cornbread

Dense, moist slices appear with every batch of this Classic Southern Cornbread, making soups and stews feel like winter royalty. Each piece pairs up easily for easy serving when meal prepping. I tuck slices into containers so there’s always a hearty side on hand. Friends often request extras for breakfast.
Get the Recipe: Classic Southern Cornbread

Copycat Chipotle Sofritas

Rich aroma and bold bite make this Copycat Chipotle Sofritas stand out when planning for plant-based winter meals. Quick prep and easy storage mean healthy lunches arrive with little effort. I keep several servings close for days needing both comfort and energy. Leftover bowls rarely sit untouched.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Sofritas

Hearty Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

Warm layers of potato and egg fill out this Hearty Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole for mornings on the go. Its mild flavor and sturdy texture deliver reliable comfort through busy winter schedules. I parcel out squares for speedier mornings. Guests comment on how it keeps them full all day long.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells

Creamy filling tucked inside pasta shells makes this Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells a dreamy option for December dinner prep. Each portion stays moist and flavorful even after reheating. I box up extra for quick lunches and easy entertaining. Compliments usually appear before the first bite is finished.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells

Butterscotch Rice Treats

Sweet and chewy bites of these Butterscotch Rice Treats fit snack needs all season. The golden color and comforting taste make them a favorite addition to winter meal prep. I prepare portions for work breaks and late-night dessert cravings. Everyone ends up reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Butterscotch Rice Treats

Sweet French Toast Casserole

Warm, spiced aroma floats through the kitchen each time this Sweet French Toast Casserole gets sliced for breakfast meal prep. Soft inside with a golden crust brings excitement to morning routines. I make extra for chilly holiday weekends. Someone always comments on how good the kitchen smells.
Get the Recipe: Sweet French Toast Casserole

Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

Festive flavors and a lively kick turn this Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip into the star of snack time for December prepping. Rich, tangy spread fits perfectly for holiday gatherings or day-after leftovers. I keep this dip handy for late-night snacking. Gone before you know it, every time.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

Sourdough Pop Tarts

Homemade pastry meets gentle tang with this Sourdough Pop Tarts, designed for grab-and-go winter breakfasts. Flaky crust and a touch of sweetness make mornings a little brighter. I stock up on these for workday meal plans. Extra tarts disappear quickly from the morning batch.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Pop Tarts

Hearty Turkey Chili

Bold flavor and plenty of protein power up this Hearty Turkey Chili that’s perfect for prepping ahead. Each bite brings energy with a comforting warmth for long winter evenings. I portion this into containers for speedy lunches after busy mornings. Requests for the recipe often roll in fast.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Turkey Chili

Comforting Chicken Soup

A soothing bowl of this Comforting Chicken Soup provides relief from winter chills and busy schedules. Steam rises with every spoonful, delivering familiar flavor to hectic evenings. I prep big batches to last all week. The last ladle always finds an eager bowl.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Chicken Soup

Amish Cinnamon Cake

Soft crumb and gentle sweetness help this Amish Cinnamon Cake stand as a bake-on-hand favorite for December meal planning. Each piece offers a hint of spice, making dessert time quietly special. I love wrapping up extra for holiday gifting. Compliments often arrive right after dessert finishes.
Get the Recipe: Amish Cinnamon Cake

Chicken Marsala

Deep, layered flavor meets gentle richness in this Chicken Marsala that’s easy to prepare and portion for busy winter evenings. The sauce clings to tender pieces, making every serving memorable. I use this recipe when family needs a pick-me-up meal during the season. Empty plates and happy faces always follow.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marsala

Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

Bold, gooey richness draws a crowd to this Four Cheese Mac n Cheese, especially when meal prepping in colder months. Multiple cheeses make every bite a celebration at lunch or dinner. I fill extra containers so leftovers extend comfort all week. Smiles always follow along for the ride.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Soft, pillowy bites set the mood with this Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi during December’s dinner rush. Warm hues and filling texture make it ideal for prepping ahead. I freeze extra so there’s always an easy meal solution. Each plate draws praise for both looks and comfort.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

Silky texture and a crisp, sweet top bring excitement to this Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake each time dessert is served. The layers catch everyone’s attention after a long day. I split it into slices for easy reward after meal prepping. Friends rave about the crunchy topping before digging in.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Comfort layers up with every bowl of this Slow Cooker Beef Stew coming out of the fridge or freezer for quick dinner prep. Rich broth and hearty pieces always draw people to the table. I store extra for night-after-night ease. Appetite grows as soon as the pot is opened.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Chess Pie

Flaky crust and creamy filling combine smoothly in this Chess Pie, bringing sweet relief to holiday meal routines. Each slice feels like a treat without fuss or extra effort. I box up extras for late night or midday rewards. The pie pan usually empties before you expect.
Get the Recipe: Chess Pie

Soft Homemade Gnocchi

Fluffy dumplings make this Soft Homemade Gnocchi a comforting choice for cold, busy nights. Each bite feels gentle and simple, perfect after a long day out in winter weather. I prep a batch ahead to use in quick dinners or lunch bowls. Fans always ask how to roll gnocchi like this at home.
Get the Recipe: Soft Homemade Gnocchi

Classic Shepherds Pie

Layers of mashed potato and savory filling put this Classic Shepherds Pie front and center for cold weather meal prepping. Each spoonful gives you plenty of comfort in a single bite. I load up servings so leftovers last more than one lunch. The first batch is usually gone by the next day.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shepherds Pie

Rich Chocolate Cheesecake

Deep, creamy filling and glossy top add decadence to this Rich Chocolate Cheesecake, making packed desserts more fun. Each bite feels like a reward for busy days spent inside. I split it up for evening snacks or post-dinner treats. Wide eyes and surprised comments always greet the first bite.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cheesecake

Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

Silky sauce and tender beef dish up plenty of comfort with this Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff as part of winter meal plans. Rich flavor keeps everyone reaching for seconds. I rely on leftovers to keep dinner fuss-free after a long day. The serving spoon rarely gets a break.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

Instant Pot Chilli

Quick cooking and warming spices make this Instant Pot Chilli a winner for power lunch prepping. Plenty of flavor in each bowl means busy evenings run smoothly. I set aside extra for last-minute dinners or group meals. Demand always exceeds supply.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chilli

Rich Banoffee Pie

Creamy sweetness and layers of fruit show up in this Rich Banoffee Pie, making each meal prep box feel like a party. The caramel and banana combo suits chilly nights where dessert comfort is needed. I prepare individual slices for sharing after dinner. Everyone keeps an eye out for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Rich Banoffee Pie

Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Fast, comforting servings help this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup win favor for hectic December meals. Warm broth and familiar noodles make night-after-night eating a breeze. I box up extra for feverish friends or family. Not a drop ever goes to waste.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Mississippi Mud Pie

Chocolate swirls and creamy layers lend this Mississippi Mud Pie extra appeal in packed dessert trays. Every piece promises deep flavor and a memorable treat at the end of a meal. I cut small squares for easy sharing. Affectionate sighs follow every last crumb.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie

Tender Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Soft meatballs bathed in heartwarming sauce provide winter meal prep comfort with these Tender Marry Me Chicken Meatballs. The bite-sized portions travel well for lunch or dinner. I keep these in containers for faster evening meals. They disappear before the week ends.
Get the Recipe: Tender Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Juicy Turkey Burger

Moist patties bring energy and satisfaction with this Juicy Turkey Burger, even in the middle of a rushed week. Flavors remain lively after reheating, so meal prepping never feels dull. I stack burgers between sheets for go-to sandwiches. Empty containers are the common result.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Turkey Burger

Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

Crispy, cheesy layers give this Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole its fun reputation for prepping meals ahead. Quick reheating means kids and adults get excited when dinner is ready. I fill up pans for post-holiday gatherings. Often the freezer stash runs out faster than expected.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

Savory Turkey Pinwheels

Rolled, creamy portions deliver comfort with these Savory Turkey Pinwheels as part of the lunch lineup for December prepping. Each bite lets you grab a quick meal without skipping flavor. I make a batch for holiday outings since they pack easily. The snack tray never stays full long enough.
Get the Recipe: Savory Turkey Pinwheels

Ham and Split Pea Soup

Warm broth and smoky ham keep this Ham and Split Pea Soup popular for chilly meal prep strategies. Every bowl feels like classic comfort once the cold sets in. I pack portions away for light dinners or cozy lunches. Soup fans always return for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Split Pea Soup

Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole

Layers of creamy, savory chicken make this Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole a December meal prep hero. Each bite delivers both bite and comfort in one dish. I load up freezer containers for hassle-free weeknight dinners. Requests to bring it back appear before empty dishes.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole

Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Shiny glaze and roasted flavor give these Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze a new winter appeal as a prepped side dish. Each sprout takes on the right mix of tangy and sweet. I stash extra for healthy snacks between meals. Plates return clean, even from skeptics.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Clam Chowder

Hearty warmth and ocean-inspired flavor make this Clam Chowder popular in winter food prepping. Rich broth fills each bite with comfort all season. I divide up portions for easy dinners after cold days. Every spoonful inspires requests for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Clam Chowder

Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Golden, cheesy layers stack up deliciously in this Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, making meal prepping more exciting. Bite after bite packs in comfort and flavor for busy evenings. I throw together extra pans for quick family dinners. Happy chatter follows each serving.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Crispy Stuffing Balls

Fun shapes and crunchy texture lend Crispy Stuffing Balls a playful twist for meal prepping leftovers. Each bite provides a taste of holiday tradition that reheats well. I use them for creative sides or snacks on the go. The serving tray doesn’t last long.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls

Fluffy Egg Fried Rice

Soft grains and colorful veggies fill out this Fluffy Egg Fried Rice for a meal prep staple everyone can enjoy. The light texture suits both lunches and dinners throughout December. I portion extra for busy evenings and late-night cravings. Fridge containers are always the first to empty.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Egg Fried Rice