29 Meal Prep Recipes To Make Dinner Decisions A Thing Of The Past

Some days, cooking feels like a chore—but not when your meals are already prepped and waiting. These 29 meal prep recipes give you the power to plan ahead and keep dinner stress off your plate. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, having a ready-made meal is always a win. Because dinner should work for you, not the other way around.

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.

Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

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

Sometimes you just need a classic that hits all the right notes without too much fuss. Picture chicken tenders but upgraded with a sweet and tangy twist. Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders are what happen when you want a bit of comfort without spending all day in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

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.

Have you ever craved something different for dinner but wanted it to be straightforward to make? That’s where Easy Bibimbap comes in; it’s a Korean mixed rice dish with layers of flavor that you tailor to what you love. It’s like taking a trip without leaving your kitchen, and it’s perfect for those nights when you’re feeling a bit adventurous.
Get the Recipe: Easy Bibimbap

Hot Honey Chicken Salad

A honey hot chicken salad with succulent fried chicken pieces, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese crumbles, cucumber slices, and mixed greens, all topped with a creamy dressing.
Hot Honey Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those evenings when you can’t decide if you want something sweet, spicy, or downright tasty. Hot Honey Chicken Salad blends all three, offering a unique twist on a hearty salad that packs a punch. It transforms your salad game by bringing in a bold combination that’s irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad

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.

Simplicity can be surprisingly hearty, and this is where White Bean Soup shines. It’s a warm hug in a bowl, ideal for when you want something soothing. It’s a straightforward dish, focusing on subtle flavors and textures. Plus, it’s great for making in batches and reheating through the week.
Get the Recipe: White Bean 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.

Childhood favorite or adult indulgence, Mac and Cheese is a classic that never fails. It’s creamy, cheesy, and can be dressed up with add-ons or enjoyed in its pure form. Make a big batch; it keeps well and might even taste better the next day. Just reheat for a quick and cozy meal.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

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.

Explore a taste of Korea with Kimchi Stew, known for its unique flavors and comforting warmth. It’s one pot of tasty, slightly tangy warmth with varying levels of heat according to your preference. It’s even better after a day or two, as the flavors get the chance to meld together.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!)

Air fryer chicken wings served with fresh tomatoes and herbs on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Air fryers have changed the game for crispy food lovers everywhere. Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!) are a testament to that, giving you that perfect crunch without the hassle of deep-frying. Whether it’s game day or you’re just in the mood for something tasty, these wings will not disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!)

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.

When one round in the oven just isn’t enough, Twice Baked Potatoes come to the rescue. These are not your average spuds; they’re creamy, dreamy, and stuffed with all the good stuff. Perfect as a side dish or a meal on their own, they’re versatile and oh-so-delicious. If you’re looking to impress with minimal effort, this recipe has got your back.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

Easy Air Fryer Lasagna

A close-up of a lasagna slice being lifted from a baking dish, showing layers of pasta, meat sauce, cheese, and garnished with herbs.
Easy Air Fryer Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Who says you need a whole afternoon to make lasagna? Not with Easy Air Fryer Lasagna, that’s for sure. This recipe squashes the idea that lasagna is too complicated for a weeknight, bringing all the comforting layers and cheesy goodness into your meal prep routine.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Lasagna

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.

When you’re after something nourishing, Leek and Potato Soup delivers a smooth, homely blend. It’s an uncomplicated combo that’s been warming bellies for ages. Whip it up, watch it disappear, and smile because it’s as easy to make as it is to love.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bring a bit of Italy to your table with a quick-to-assemble Italian Pasta with Salami. It’s the type of meal that feels like a treat without any fancy footwork. Choose your pasta shape, add slices of salami, and you’ve got a fulfilling meal that speaks with a slight accent.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

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.

Switch up chili night with a lighter take and go for White Chicken Chili. It’s filled with tender chunks of chicken and a creamy base that’s a welcome break from the tomato-based classic. It’s especially great when you’re looking for something different but don’t want to stray too far from tradition.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Chili

Funeral Potatoes

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.
Funeral Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Don’t let the name fool you; Funeral Potatoes are for any occasion requiring some serious comfort food. This dish is cheesy, creamy, and crowned with a crispy topping. It’s usually a crowd-pleaser and sure to be a hit at any gathering, not just post-serious events.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

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.

For those nights when you need dinner to be both easy to make and to clean up, Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe is the answer. It’s a balance of sweet and tasty right on one pan. You’ll appreciate the minimal prep and the fact that the flavors come together while baking, giving you time to relax.
Get the Recipe: Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Banana Bread

Close-up of a sliced banana bread loaf, showcasing its moist, textured interior with visible banana chunks.
Banana Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Make your kitchen smell amazing with a loaf of freshly baked Banana Bread. It’s a classic treat that doubles as breakfast, dessert, or a snack. It’s great fresh out of the oven but perhaps even better the next day when the flavors have settled and become even more pronounced.
Get the Recipe: Banana Bread

Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

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

Bring some island flavor home with Jamaican Red Beans and Rice. It’s a dish full of heart and soul, simple in its preparation but rich in taste. Leftovers keep well and can transport you back to the tropics with each reheated serving.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

Focaccia Bread

Slices of focaccia bread topped with rosemary and flaky salt, arranged on brown parchment paper.
Focaccia Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

There’s something truly special about homemade bread, and Focaccia Bread is no exception. This Italian staple is soft, airy, and embedded with dimples that hold olive oil, herbs, and sometimes toppings. Whether you’re a baking newbie or an aficionado, it’s impressive to serve and rewarding to master.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

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.

For a hearty, fiber-packed meal that’s both nutritious and delicious, try your hand at Lentil Soup. It’s a blend of simple ingredients that together create a filling dish. It’s also one of those meals that tastes even better the next day, making your lunch prep a snap.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

A baked potato topped with shredded barbecue chicken, sour cream, and chopped herbs on a white plate.
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Combine two favorites with BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes for a hit at your dinner table. They’re loaded with flavor and can be prepped in advance, then assembled and baked when you’re ready to eat. It’s comfort food that brings a smile without a lot of fuss.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

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.

If you’re in the mood for street-style food with a twist, Korean Corn Dogs are a fun experiment. They’re a unique blend of familiar and new, often involving a mix of different coatings and fillings. Enjoy making them as much as eating them, and they’re perfect for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Dogs

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.

Treat yourself to the rich, caramelized warmth of French Onion Soup. Each spoonful is a combination of sweet and tasty, topped with a toasted slice of bread and melted cheese. It’s a labor of love that pays off with deep flavor, perfect for occasions when you’re in the mood to indulge.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup

Creamy Beef Stroganoff

A close-up of fettuccine pasta with creamy sauce, reminiscent of Beef Stroganoff, paired with sliced beef, mushrooms, and sprigs of rosemary.
Creamy Beef Stroganoff. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you’re after something that feels gourmet but without the fuss, Creamy Beef Stroganoff hits the spot. It’s a dish that’s as worthwhile to eat as it is simple to make. Serve it over your favorite base, and watch it become a request on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beef Stroganoff

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.

Few things beat the smell and taste of homemade Dinner Rolls, fresh and warm out of the oven. They complement just about any meal, from soups to salads to the main course. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make and always a welcome addition to the table.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

BBQ Chicken Quesadilla

Quesadillas stacked on a plate, topped with sliced jalapeños, cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream.
BBQ Chicken Quesadilla. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Upgrade your quesadilla game with a filling of flavorful BBQ Chicken Quesadilla. It’s a bit sweet, a touch smoky, and fully worthwhile. Whether for a quick dinner or a casual appetizer, it’s a dish that’s easy to whip up with a guaranteed yum factor.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Quesadilla

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.

Nothing says comfort food quite like bread, but Garlic Knots take it to a whole new level. They’re the perfect addition to any meal, turning a simple dish into something special. Soft, garlicky, and downright irresistible, they’re sure to disappear fast. Plus, they make your kitchen smell like an Italian bakery, which is always a bonus.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Tuscan Pasta

A close-up of a plate of Creamy Tuscan Pasta topped with a rich white sauce, grated cheese, and garnished with chopped parsley.
Tuscan Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Imagine a meal that takes you to the Italian countryside with minimal effort—Tuscan Pasta is just that. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that pleases palates without being pretentious. It’s versatile enough to be a weekday staple or dressed up for company.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta

Wild Rice Casserole

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

Get a taste of something wholesome with Wild Rice Casserole. This dish packs variety in texture and flavor, all while being an excellent option for meal prep. It’s filling, usually a crowd-pleaser, and leftovers often taste even better, capturing all the herby goodness.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

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.

Sometimes, you just need a snack that doubles as a conversation starter. Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls do just that. Packed with flavor and just the right amount of kick, they’re perfect for parties or a fun twist on the usual appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

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.

There are days when only a soup will do, but not just any soup. Hot and Sour Soup is for those times when you crave something with a bit of edge. It’s a classic that balances spicy and tangy flavors beautifully, offering a comforting bowl that warms you from the inside out.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

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.

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