Because No One Wants to Be Cooking Last Minute 29 Recipes to Prep Early

No one wants to be stuck in the kitchen while everyone else is relaxing. These 29 recipes let you get ahead, so all that’s left is heating, serving, and pretending it was effortless. No more scrambling at the last minute or making a mess right before eating. Get it done early, and enjoy a meal without the chaos.

German Chocolate Cake

Avoid the stress of last-minute baking with German Chocolate Cake; make it in advance, chill it in the fridge, and it’s ready for whenever you need it. It’s perfect for when you have guests or just want something sweet on hand. Plus, it saves you the hassle when you’re juggling other tasks. You’ll appreciate the prep-ahead convenience.
Get the Recipe: German Chocolate Cake

Sausage Balls

Pop Sausage Balls in the oven ahead of time and reheat them when you’re ready to serve. They are an easy grab-and-go snack or a quick addition to any meal. Having them prepped early means one less thing to worry about. These bites maintain their taste and texture well, even after reheating.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

Leek and Potato Soup

This soup is ideal for making ahead, simplifying your meal preparation significantly. After an initial cool down, it stores superbly in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, just warm it up for a hearty meal in minutes. Leek and Potato Soup is a great no-fuss option for any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Smoky Bacon Pig Shots are a hit at any gathering and making them in advance just makes sense. Keep them in the fridge and when it’s time, give them a quick heat up. You’ll have more time to chill instead of being stuck cooking. Plus, they’re as fun to eat as they are to say.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Chicken Pot Pie

A classic like Chicken Pot Pie can easily be prepared early and baked when you’re ready. It holds up well in the freezer or fridge, ensuring a stress-free dinner time. It offers a comforting meal with minimal last-minute effort, feeling like a homemade hug whenever you dig in.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

Dauphinoise Potatoes

Dauphinoise Potatoes can be assembled beforehand, making your eventual meal prep a breeze. Once it’s time to cook, just slide them in the oven. They stay creamy and tender, making for a great side dish any time. It’s convenience without compromising on comfort.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

French Onion Soup

Get the bulk of the work for French Onion Soup done early and reheat it when it’s soup time. It’s got a rich, deep taste that only gets better with a little time. Serve it up whenever you’re ready, minus the rush; a meal that practically takes care of itself.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup

Antipasto Salad

Antipasto Salad is all about tossing it together in advance and letting the flavors mingle. When hunger strikes, pull it out and serve immediately. A straightforward dish that’s ready on your schedule, adding no extra stress to your meal planning.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Dinner Rolls

Prep Dinner Rolls and bake them ahead, then warm them up in no time. They’re the perfect side to accompany just about anything. There’s nothing like fresh bread without the wait, providing fresh comfort food on standby.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Egg Casserole

Assemble Egg Casserole in advance and just bake it when you’re ready for a hearty meal. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of deal, ideal for busy schedules. Enjoy a fuss-free breakfast or brunch, your savory solution for feeding a crowd or just yourself.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole

Lemon Pie

Craft this tangy Lemon Pie ahead of time and keep it chilled until it’s dessert time. It’s a sweet finish without the last-minute fuss. Everyone will think you spent hours, when really you were relaxing. A win-win for taste and time management.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pie

Egg Bites

Prep protein-packed Egg Bites early and just heat them up when hunger hits. They make for a quick breakfast or snack without the morning rush. Offering convenience at its finest, giving you more time to tackle the day. Surprisingly filling, too.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

Mississippi Mud Pie

Always a good move to have Mississippi Mud Pie ready to go in the fridge. That way, when it’s time for a treat, you’re all set. No last-minute baking, just pure enjoyment on your own terms. Convenience takes the cake—or pie, in this case.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie

Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Have Salted Caramel Cheesecake done and dusted well before you plan on indulging. Once you’re ready, just bring it out for instant bliss. A chilled, sweet retreat that’s there when you need it, holding up beautifully over time.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Loaded Potato Skins

Make Loaded Potato Skins ahead, and a scrumptious snack is never far away. Keep them stored until it’s time to crisp them up and serve. You’ll save yourself the kitchen scramble. It’s about kicking back, knowing a crowd-pleaser is just minutes away.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls are what weekends are made for. Get everything prepped the day before and you can enjoy them fresh without messing up your kitchen in the morning. They’re perfect when you want something sweet without rushing. Your kitchen will smell amazing, trust me.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

If you love a good comfort meal, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is the way to go. This dish is a hit at any table, giving you classic flavors without the fuss. Prep it ahead, relax, and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready. It’s a no-brainer for a stress-free evening.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Shortbread Cookies

Shortbread Cookies have this way of making everything feel more special. They are super easy to make ahead of time, so you’re always ready for a sweet snack. Just bake and enjoy whenever you need a little pick-me-up. Their buttery goodness is hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Shortbread Cookies

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

This casserole can take your morning from zero to hero. Prep it the night before and sleep in without worrying about breakfast. Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is hearty, filling, and ready when you are. Make your mornings easy and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls are your answer to an easy yet hearty meal. They’re packed with flavor and can be made ahead for a quick fix. Perfect for when you want something a bit spicy but don’t want to work too hard. They’re a total crowd-pleaser, for sure.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Chewy Chocolate Brownies

There’s nothing quite like Chewy Chocolate Brownies to lift your spirits. Make them ahead, and you’ve got yourself a treat ready whenever you need it. They’re rich, chewy, and oh-so-chocolatey. No one can resist their charm.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Chocolate Brownies

Waffles

Get your breakfast game on point with Waffles that you can start preparing before you hit the bed. Fresh, homemade waffles in minutes without the morning rush. They’re just waiting for your favorite toppings. This breakfast upgrade is serious business.
Get the Recipe: Waffles

Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Simplify your dinner plans with an Easy Meatloaf Recipe that stands ready wherever you are. It’s the epitome of comfort food, made easier by prepping ahead. Just bake and serve for a meal that feels like home. And yes, the leftovers taste even better.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Easy Banana Pudding

Easy Banana Pudding is your shortcut to dessert heaven, just mix ahead and chill. It offers a creamy, dreamy experience with minimal effort. Perfect for satisfying those dessert cravings on a whim. Get ready for a bowl full of happiness.
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding

Mac and Cheese

Make ahead Mac and Cheese for those moments when only ultimate comfort food will do. Just heat and serve for creamy, dreamy deliciousness that everyone will love. It’s a creamy dream come true, with practically no effort. A bowl of this is a hug in food form.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Apple Pie

Fill your kitchen with the inviting aroma of Apple Pie without the last-minute hustle. This classic dessert is even better when made ahead, giving you the perfect slice every time. It’s the ideal way to round off any meal. Just thinking about it makes me hungry.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie

Italian Sliders

Italian Sliders are your little secret for an effortlessly delicious meal. Prepped in advance, they’re ready to steal the show at the dining table. Small in size but huge in taste, they’re sure to be a hit. Watch them disappear as soon as they’re served.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Apple Crisp

Let Apple Crisp be the star of your dessert table with its make-ahead magic. Just the right amount of sweet and crisp, it’s ready to impress. This dish turns simple ingredients into a comforting indulgence. Get ready to scoop up compliments along with every serving.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crisp

Cherry Cheesecake

Cherry Cheesecake is the make-ahead dream dessert for any gathering. Creamy, fruity, and utterly irresistible, it awaits its moment to shine. This no-fuss sweet treat is guaranteed to end your meal on a high note. Go ahead, indulge; it’s worth it.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Cheesecake