Less Time In The Kitchen More Time Living 29 Meal Prep Recipes

These 29 meal prep recipes are built for people who want good food without giving up half their day. They’re simple to make ahead, easy to store, and actually hold up when it’s time to reheat. Less daily cooking means more room for everything else—like sitting down for once. And yes, it still counts as homemade even if you made it three days ago.

Pork Chops

If you’re aiming for a quick yet impressive meal, Pork Chops could be your weeknight winner. With minimal fuss and a short cooking time, this dish frees up your evening for more relaxation or catching up on your favorite show. After a long day, the last thing you need is to be stuck in the kitchen, and this recipe ensures that won’t happen.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Everyone loves a good shortcut, and Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is a fun way to bring restaurant flavors home without the wait. Ideal for those looking to maximize their downtime, this dish comes together faster than you can say “takeout.” It’s a reassuring option when you’re aiming to streamline mealtime yet keep everyone at the table happy.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Egg Drop Soup

When simplicity meets comfort food, Egg Drop Soup is the answer. This straightforward recipe translates into less time cooking and more time enjoying those peaceful evening breezes. Ideal for busy bees, it whips up in no time, offering a warm and inviting meal that doesn’t compromise on the comfort factor.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup

Pasta Carbonara

For pasta lovers looking for a quick and easy fix, Pasta Carbonara serves up a delicious meal without the long wait. It’s a perfect match for anyone with a packed schedule seeking to reclaim some personal time. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also lends itself well for leftovers, ensuring a savvy lunch the next day.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

Taco Soup

When you’re craving something hearty but don’t want to overcommit in the kitchen, Taco Soup stands out as a top pick. This recipe delivers bold flavors and satiating comfort without chaining you to the stove. Ideal for cozy evenings, it fills your home with inviting aromas and gives you more time to kick back on the patio.
Get the Recipe: Taco Soup

Beef Wellington

Bringing a touch of elegance to your dinner routine, Beef Wellington impresses without the complexities normally associated with gourmet meals. It’s a straightforward approach to a celebrated dish, and once in the oven, your work is nearly done. This gives you the perfect opportunity to pour yourself a refreshing drink and enjoy the sunset hues.
Get the Recipe: Beef Wellington

White Bean Soup

Looking for a gentle and nourishing meal that won’t keep you busy for hours? White Bean Soup offers a comforting bowl full of warmth and wholesomeness. It’s one of those forgiving recipes that provides more leisure than labor, letting you revel in the quiet hum of early evening.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Firecracker Meatballs

Add a little excitement to meal planning without the fuss by preparing Firecracker Meatballs. This dish is a hands-off wonder, offering you extra downtime to enjoy the fresh, gentle air of the season. Once they’re sizzling away, take that moment to unwind with a good book or your favorite tunes.
Get the Recipe: Firecracker Meatballs

Eggplant Casserole

For those looking to sneak more veggies into their diet, Eggplant Casserole is a fantastic and low-maintenance choice. It’s a dish that requires minimal attention, giving you more freedom to plan your next day or just breathe in the tranquility of your surroundings. As the casserole bakes, you’ll appreciate the extra downtime that this meal affords.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Kimchi Stew

Indulge in a taste of Korean comfort with a pot of Kimchi Stew that comes together with little effort. It’s the kind of recipe that lets you enjoy the beautiful spring twilight while it cooks. Perfect for those evenings when you want something with a bit of warmth and kick, this stew is a conversation starter that leaves more time for chatting.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Tamales

Tamales are a treasured treat that need not be reserved for special occasions, especially with a recipe that simplifies the process. While they steam, you’ll have spare moments to catch the last rays of daylight or simply put your feet up. The beauty of this dish lies in its ability to transport you to a festive mood without the lengthy preparation.
Get the Recipe: Tamales

Chicken Tempura

Crisp, delicious, and surprisingly undemanding, Chicken Tempura can make any evening feel special. This dish is evidence that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen for a meal that looks and tastes indulgent. As the chicken crisps to perfection, take the opportunity to unwind from the day’s hustle or share an appetizer on the patio.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tempura

Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

Start your day right with an Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole that’s as easy to prepare as it is comforting. This make-ahead marvel ensures your morning is as stress-free as possible, so you can enjoy the quiet dawn or just grab an extra few minutes of sleep. Perfect for a hearty family breakfast without the morning scramble.
Get the Recipe: Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

Zucchini Fritters

Brighten up your meal rotation with Zucchini Fritters, a quick-to-make treat that’s both versatile and satisfying. Excellent for those evenings when you’re short on time but crave something homemade. As these fritters sizzle, you’ll find yourself with unexpected time to step outdoors and revel in the fresh, spring air.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Fritters

Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

Treat yourself to homemade Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders, a recipe that promises crowd-pleasing flavor without the typical kitchen commitment. As the tenders bake to golden perfection, you can decompress with a leisure activity. Opt for this recipe when you want to whip up something quick, enjoyable, and reassuringly effortless.
Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

Hot and Sour Soup

Experience the rustic charm of Hot and Sour Soup, a dish that allows you to bask in the simplicity of spring evenings. It’s a straightforward, quick-to-table soup that endears itself to anyone looking for a flavorful yet easy meal option. While it simmers, the spare minutes are yours to use, perhaps sipping tea on the porch or just unwinding.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

Korean Corn Dogs

Bring a twist to snack time or casual dining with Korean Corn Dogs, a playful dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. It’s the type of meal that doesn’t demand constant attention, perfect for those recuperating after a long day. Use the cooking time to indulge in a little self-care or to connect with friends.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Dogs

Marry Me Lentils

Have you ever wanted a meal that’s both heartwarming and time-saving? Marry Me Lentils are your go-to option, blending ease with a homey touch. While they simmer to perfection, you’re afforded the luxury of some me-time that’s too often sacrificed. It’s a one-pot wonder that promises a blissful evening, leaving you more time to bask in the serenity of your home.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Lentils

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed Potatoes are a staple that never goes out of style, especially when prepared with less mess and stress. This version gets you out of the kitchen fast, leaving more time for that evening stroll or catching up with loved ones. As they fluff up to creamy perfection, seize the chance to kick back and cherish the lighter evenings.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes

Antipasto Salad

Refresh your dinner plans with an Antipasto Salad, a dish that’s as quick to assemble as it is vibrant. It’s the kind of meal that comes with the bonus of extra free time, ideally spent relishing the fading sunlight of the day. Whether gathering around the table or packing a picnic, this salad lets you steer clear of the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Prepare to be amazed by Million Dollar Spaghetti, perfect for those who fancy a rich pasta dish without the fuss. Quick to put together, this meal affords you the luxury of languid evenings where doing less is the priority. Enjoy the fact that while the dish bakes, your time is your own.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Beef Stew

Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food that can be tossed together without consuming your evening. It stands as a testament to the joy of hearty meals prepared with minimum effort. While it slowly simmers, you’ve got plenty of time to unwind or enjoy the lingering daylight.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew

Minestrone Soup

Liven up your meal routine with a vibrant bowl of Minestrone Soup that doesn’t keep you tied to the stove. It’s a great solution for busy folks who are looking for a light yet satisfying dinner. This soup allows you the flexibility to relax while it does the simmering. End your day with a fulfilling meal that won’t demand much from your busy schedule.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Mississippi Mud Potatoes

When you’re in the mood for comfort without the time-consuming prep, Mississippi Mud Potatoes is your dish. This recipe offers the joy of savory indulgence and ensures you don’t miss out on a relaxing evening. It’s a breeze to whip up, leaving more time for soaking up the gentle night air or engaging in your preferred pastime. Tuck into this cozy meal while enjoying the ease that comes with it.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Potato Casserole

Rediscover the joy of comfort food with Potato Casserole, which brings satisfaction without monopolizing your time. This dish is an excellent choice for a no-fuss dinner that allows for a spontaneous game night or leisurely reading. As it bakes to golden perfection, you’re free to enjoy the milder weather and longer daylight.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole

Air Fryer Chocolate Brownies

Imagine whipping up a batch of Air Fryer Chocolate Brownies without the usual kitchen chaos. This recipe is a treat for both the sweet-toothed and the time-starved. While these brownies cook to fudgy perfection, you can enjoy a moment of calm or plan your next adventure. Conclude your day with a treat that promises indulgence in record time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chocolate Brownies

Spicy Lasagna Soup

Experience the novelty of Spicy Lasagna Soup, a dish that simplifies classic flavors into an uncomplicated one-pot meal. This is for those evenings when you crave something heartwarming but desire space to breathe. The cooking time grants you the chance to enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors or simply relax with a soothing beverage.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Lasagna Soup

Strawberry Cake

For those special moments that call for a sweet celebration, Strawberry Cake answers without stealing your entire day. This dessert comes together swiftly, allowing for more time to bask in the pleasantness of a dewy evening. It’s a fuss-free approach to baking that keeps your schedule as light as the cake itself.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cake

Egg Bites

Start your morning hassle-free with delicious Egg Bites that are as simple to make as they are to enjoy. This is for the days when breakfast needs to be quick but still fuel you up for what lies ahead. With the bake time offering a pause in an otherwise busy morning, you can use it to ease into your day.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites