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.

Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.
