29 Meal Prep Recipes For When You Want Food Without The Daily Effort

Meal prep recipes help save time during busy days. Cooking once and eating many times makes life easier. These 29 meal prep ideas offer tasty and simple options for every meal. Each recipe uses easy steps and basic ingredients. With these meals ready to go, there is no need to cook every day.

Close-up of a savory beef stew with chunks of beef, bacon, onion, and vegetables in a rich, glossy sauce, served over creamy mashed potatoes.
Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crunchwrap Supreme

Three folded tortillas filled with seasoned ground meat, diced tomatoes, and melted cheese.
Crunchwrap Supreme. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Life gets easier with a meal that’s ready to grab and eat. The Crunchwrap Supreme is packed with layers and textures that make every bite a win. Prepping it ahead means you’ve got a fast option when hunger strikes. It’s all the flavors you want, rolled into a delicious handheld meal.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

Ice Cream Cake

Close-up of strawberry shortcake slices topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. Layers of cake, cream, and strawberries are visible.
Ice Cream Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Prep once and enjoy sweet moments later with a cold dessert ready in your freezer. An Ice Cream Cake is a perfect treat that combines smooth and crunchy in every bite. Making it ahead of time keeps dessert stress off your plate. Celebrate any moment with a dessert that’s ready when you are.
Get the Recipe: Ice Cream Cake

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.

Some meals are just better when made in advance, and this one gets more flavorful with time. French Onion Soup is the cozy comfort of deeply cooked onions in a rich broth topped with something cheesy. Heat it up when you need something warm and ready to go. A meal prep win for easy weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup

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.

When you want something filling and balanced, this layered creation is the way to go. Easy Bibimbap is perfect for prepping ahead so you only need to heat and mix your bowl together. Loaded with colors and textures, it’s a quick fix for busy days. Keeps meal times simple but never boring.
Get the Recipe: Easy Bibimbap

Crunchy Onion Rings

A close-up of crispy, golden-brown onion rings sprinkled with chopped parsley and black pepper on a white parchment-lined surface captures perfection in every bite.
Crunchy Onion Rings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fried snacks that stay crispy are a meal prep dream come true. Crunchy Onion Rings can be prepped and frozen so they’re ready to cook whenever you’re craving a crunchy side. Skip the long process and enjoy them fresh in minutes. Perfect for pairing with your favorite main dishes or dipping sauces.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

Hamburger Casserole

A close-up of a spoon lifting a portion of hamburger casserole, showcasing baked macaroni and cheese layered with ground meat and topped with lettuce and creamy sauce.
Hamburger Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Who doesn’t appreciate a meal that can be made ahead and tastes even better over time? Hamburger Casserole is just the kind of one-dish wonder you’ll be glad to have waiting for you. Packed with hearty layers, it’s easy to bake and store for later. Warm, filling, and prepped to save you time.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole

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.

Planning ahead for bold and comforting dinners just got easier. Kimchi Stew is prepped with rich and spicy flavors that only deepen after some time in the fridge. Heat it up for a simple meal that doesn’t require extra work on busy days. It’s a quick way to enjoy something warm and perfect without the effort.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

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.

Fresh, warm bread doesn’t have to be a last-minute effort. Dinner Rolls can be prepped in advance and baked right when you need them. Fluffy and golden, they pair perfectly with any meal. You’ll appreciate having them on hand for a quick and easy bread fix.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Korean Burgers

Close-up of a hamburger with a sesame seed bun, beef patty, green onions, and rich brown sauce.
Korean Burgers. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Spice up your meal prep routine with something that stands out. Korean Burgers are a flavorful change that’s easy to make in batches and store for later. Toss them on a grill or skillet when it’s time to eat, and they’re ready in no time. Perfect for when you want something quick but packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

Ravioli Casserole

Close-up of a baked dish with ravioli, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheese on top.
Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Planning ahead for meals doesn’t have to mean boring choices. Ravioli Casserole is loaded with layers and stored with ease, so it’s ready when you are. Making it is simple, and reheating is even easier on the days you need it most. It’s a go-to solution for comforting weeknight options.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Asian Style Pork Chops

Close-up of sliced grilled pork belly garnished with sesame seeds and green chili, served on a bed of kale.
Asian Style Pork Chops. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cooking ahead becomes effortless when the dish stores well and tastes amazing. Asian Style Pork Chops deliver just that with bold marinades and easy-to-cook instructions. Keep them ready to grill or bake for a flavorful main dish anytime. A time-saving option for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Asian Style Pork Chops

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.

Sheet pan meals make life easier, especially when you’re preparing food ahead of time. Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe is designed to save you time while offering a blend of bold and sweet flavors. Just bake everything at once, and it’s ready to portion out for the week. No extra dishes or hassle when you need quick meals.
Get the Recipe: Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

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.

Classic comfort food gets even easier with this time-saving approach. Easy Air Fryer Lasagna is layered beautifully, prepped in minutes, and cooked to perfection. Making it ahead means you’ve got a comforting dinner ready in no time. Less hassle, same great flavors you love.
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 a warm and creamy meal sounds just right, planning ahead is the way to go. Leek and Potato Soup is simple to make, and storing it for later only makes it better. Heat it up with minimal effort for a fuss-free lunch or dinner. A practical and tasty option to keep on hand.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

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.

A quick prep session is all you need to stock up on these crowd-pleasers. Garlic Knots are easy to freeze and bake fresh when you want something warm and flavorful. They’re the perfect addition to almost any meal or even as a snack on their own. Say goodbye to last-minute scrambling and hello to effortless sides.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Pork Chops

Close-up of a cooked, seasoned pork chop topped with melted cheese and garnished with chopped parsley on a dark plate.
Pork Chops. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Prep ahead to make a dish that’s hearty and flavorful. Pork Chops cook up tender and pair well with a variety of sides, making them perfect for weekday meals. These are easy to reheat and taste great even the next day. You’ll love having these ready to go when time feels short.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops

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.

Creamy and comforting, Funeral Potatoes are a meal-prep favorite for busy weeks. They reheat beautifully and fit effortlessly into any meal plan. Making them ahead saves valuable time during packed schedules. Get ready for an easy solution to your dinner dilemmas.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

Asparagus Casserole

Cheesy asparagus casserole on a plate with a fork.
Asparagus Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A modern twist on a veggie classic, Asparagus Casserole brings together simplicity and convenience. Prepped in advance, it works perfectly for hassle-free lunches or dinners. Each bite is balanced, making it a reliable dish to keep in rotation. Perfect for grabbing when you’re too busy to cook.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible.
Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Melt-in-your-mouth goodness comes easily with Ham and Cheese Sliders. They’re quick to prepare, even easier to reheat, and work well for crazy busy weeks. These handheld bites can double as lunch or dinner without much effort. Stock your fridge with them and mealtime gets a whole lot easier.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

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

Simple yet bold, Jamaican Red Beans and Rice is an ideal prep-ahead solution for busy days. It’s a one-dish wonder that reheats well, holding its flavor perfectly. Whether it’s lunch or dinner, having it ready makes life smoother. A no-fuss option when you just want food, not a kitchen project.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

Bacon Wrapped Smokies

A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish.
Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Small bites, big convenience—Bacon Wrapped Smokies are great to cook once and enjoy over several days. They warm up quickly, making them an easy grab-and-go meal or side. Perfect for those moments when you just don’t have time, but still want something comforting. You’ll be glad to have these waiting.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Potato Casserole

Potato Casserole being served.
Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Filling and simple, Potato Casserole ticks all the boxes for meal prep. Prepare it in advance, and you’ve got a versatile dish that fits almost any meal. It’s a sure bet for days when cooking isn’t on the schedule but eating well still matters. A quick reheat, and dinnertime’s solved.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole

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.

Bursting with flavor, Italian Pasta with Salami is your go-to for easy meal prep. It stays fresh in the fridge, ready to reheat and enjoy whenever time’s tight. Tossing it all together is simple, but the payoff is completely worth it. You’ll appreciate having this flavor-packed dish just waiting for you.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

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.

Warm and hearty, Lentil Soup is perfect to portion out for meal prep. It’s easy to make in bulk and holds its texture and flavor over several days. A quick reheat turns it into a fast, stress-free option for mealtime. It’s an effortless way to stay nourished without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas

Close-up of folded tortillas filled with chicken, cheese, and herbs, garnished with cilantro.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Packed with cheesy goodness, Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas make mealtime exciting and easy. They’re simple to assemble ahead of time and delicious when reheated. You’ll love having these prepped for when you need a quick lunch or dinner option. No fuss, just quick and flavorful bites.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas

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.

Comfort made simple, Mac and Cheese is an ideal solution for meal prep. Prepare it once, and you’ve got a dish that’s easy to warm up and enjoy all week. Its creamy consistency holds up well, making it a go-to for quick meals. Forget about cooking from scratch every day and enjoy this instead.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

A plate of bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers filled with cheese, secured with toothpicks, next to a small dish of dipping sauce.
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bite-sized and bold, Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers are a convenient prep-ahead snack or side dish. They reheat without hassle, keeping their texture and flavor intact. Whether it’s a quick meal or an add-on to dinner, these are ready when you need them. Effortless and delicious for hectic moments.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

A plate of creamy penne pasta garnished with chopped parsley and grated cheese, featuring pieces of sun-dried tomatoes. A black fork is resting on the plate.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy and flavorful, Marry Me Chicken Pasta works perfectly for meal prep and busy weeks. Made in advance, it maintains its rich taste and reheats beautifully. Whether it’s packed in lunch boxes or served for dinner, it keeps things both simple and delicious. A ready-made solution when cooking isn’t on your mind.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Beef Bourguignon

Close-up of a savory beef stew with chunks of beef, bacon, onion, and vegetables in a rich, glossy sauce, served over creamy mashed potatoes.
Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Rich and hearty, Beef Bourguignon is a make-ahead dream for dinner prep. Its flavors deepen over time, making reheating even better than the first day. Perfect for freezer or fridge storage, ready to warm up when life gets busy. A classic made for modern schedules, no extra effort required.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon

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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