47 Winter Meal Prep Inspirations For Dishes That Hold Up Through the Week
Meal planning during the colder months doesn’t have to mean starting from scratch every day. With 47 winter-friendly prep recipes in this list, there’s a mix of ideas that store well and reheat easily. Some are great for batching, others for simple day-to-day use. Keep what helps and leave the rest for later.

Salisbury Steak

A hearty option for chilly days, this Salisbury Steak is a perfect balance of comfort and convenience. It’s tender, savory, and pairs well with simple sides. Whether you’re prepping for busy weeks or craving a filling meal, it delivers every time. Make it once, and it’s sure to become a household favorite.
Get the Recipe: Salisbury Steak
Flavorful Sheet Pan Greek Chicken

With fresh, vibrant flavors, this Sheet Pan Greek Chicken creates a delicious main dish that’s simple to prepare ahead of time. It holds its flavor beautifully for meal prep, making lunch or dinner stress-free during the week. The best part? It’s as healthy as it is easy, and everyone at your table will enjoy it.
Get the Recipe: Flavorful Sheet Pan Greek Chicken
Festive Christmas Casserole

There’s something timeless about this Festive Christmas Casserole – it’s warm, filling, and just what you need during the colder months. It bakes up beautifully for a family dinner or meal prep for the week. Its flavors only deepen with time, making leftovers something to look forward to. Add it to your winter favorites.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Casserole
Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

Creamy and indulgent, this Four Cheese Mac n Cheese is the ultimate cozy meal. It’s decadent enough for special occasions yet practical for everyday meal prepping. Reheat it throughout the week and enjoy how the flavors stay rich and filling. Once you try this recipe, boxed mac will never compare.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Mac n Cheese
White Chicken Enchiladas

Creamy and comforting, this White Chicken Enchiladas recipe is a go-to for cozy meals that last through the week. Its rich flavors make it feel special, yet it’s practical enough for meal prep. It’s the kind of dish that reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it as much on day three as the first bite.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Enchiladas
Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Perfectly indulgent and loaded with flavor, this Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a meal prep star. It reheats like a dream, keeping its creamy texture and savory taste all week long. It’s a crowd-worthy side dish that works just as well as the focus of a cozy dinner. Try it once, and you’ll make it again.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

Add some excitement to snack time with this Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip that balances tanginess, heat, and sweetness. It’s a fresh, unexpected dish that holds up well in the fridge for days. Serve it at a gathering or keep it all to yourself – it’s that good every time you return to it.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip
Easy Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken

For true hands-off cooking, this Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken keeps your week delicious with minimal effort. Each bite is full of comforting flavor, making it perfect for lunches or dinners alike. Because it’s slow-cooked, it stays moist and flavorful whether you’re serving it fresh or reheating.
Get the Recipe: Easy Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken
Loaded Million Dollar Casserole

Cozy layers of indulgence are what make this Loaded Million Dollar Casserole stand out as a prep-ahead favorite. It’s hearty enough for a main meal but works well as a side for larger gatherings too. Perfect for leftovers, this dish is always a hit because the bold, filling flavors never disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Million Dollar Casserole
Ham and Split Pea Soup

Warm, hearty, and deeply fulfilling, this Ham and Split Pea Soup is just what you need when temperatures drop. It reheats beautifully, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping during the week. Packed with bold flavors, it’s the kind of soup that feels like a hug in every bowl. Pair it with bread for a full meal.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Split Pea Soup
Loaded Mexican Casserole

Bring the spice and heartiness of this Loaded Mexican Casserole to your week with ease. It’s great fresh out of the oven and somehow gets even better for next-day leftovers. Easy to portion out, it’s a meal prep workhorse with flavors that everyone will ask for again. Perfect for lunch or dinner any time.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Mexican Casserole
Eggnog Pie

End your prep sessions with something sweet like this Eggnog Pie, a dessert that perfectly balances rich, creamy decadence with a hint of spice. It stores beautifully, making it a make-ahead dream for busy weeks. More than just festive, it’s a slice of comfort that’ll have you savoring every bite through the season.
Get the Recipe: Eggnog Pie
Tender Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Perfect for easy dinners, this Tender Marry Me Chicken Meatballs recipe brings comfort to every bite. Moist and bursting with flavor, these meatballs stay tender even when reheated. They’re ideal for pairing with your favorite sides or sauces, making meal prep a breeze. Once you try them, you’ll be planning another batch.
Get the Recipe: Tender Marry Me Chicken Meatballs
Loaded Cowboy Sliders

There’s something irresistible about this Loaded Cowboy Sliders recipe. Loaded with bold layers of flavor, these party-ready bites also make great weekday meals. They warm up effortlessly and hold their texture, making them just as good the second time. Get ready to enjoy sliders made for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Cowboy Sliders
Mashed Potato Casserole

This winter, warm up with this Mashed Potato Casserole, a dish that’s as comforting as it is filling. With a creamy texture and hearty finish, it’s perfect for both meals and sides. The leftovers stay delicious and fulfilling, ready for another day. Swap out your usual side for this upgrade you won’t regret.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Casserole
Detroit Style Pizza

Whether it’s dinner tonight or lunch tomorrow, this Detroit Style Pizza always delivers comfort. Its thick, chewy crust and savory toppings don’t miss a beat when reheated. This recipe is as great fresh as it is on day three, proving that meal prep doesn’t mean compromising on flavor. Everyone’s going to love this one.
Get the Recipe: Detroit Style Pizza
Tender Roasted Broccoli

If you’re looking for a side that stays just as crave-worthy on day two, this Tender Roasted Broccoli is a must. With its perfect roasted finish and rich flavors, you can pair it with almost anything. It’s a vegetable dish that reheats beautifully, adding nutrition and taste to every meal. Healthy eating never felt so satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli
Cheesy Baked Ziti

For a dish that truly comforts, look no further than this Cheesy Baked Ziti. Rich layers of gooey cheese and pasta ensure it pops with flavor even after reheating. It’s a staple that fits both family dinners and quick lunches perfectly. One try and you’ll see why it’s a weekly must-have.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Baked Ziti
Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Feel the warmth of home-cooking with this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole. Every serving is packed with flavor that lasts through reheating and stays for the week. It’s perfect for busy nights when ease meets taste. After one bite, it’s sure to become a staple in your rotation.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
Hearty Stuffed Cabbage

Great for make-ahead meals, this Hearty Stuffed Cabbage is filling and full of satisfying flavors. It holds up beautifully when reheated, with every portion feeling as fresh as day one. Packed with a mix of robust ingredients, it’s a winter meal prep superstar. Nobody will believe it was prepped ahead of time.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Stuffed Cabbage
Ham and Cheese Quiche

Enjoy morning to evening moments with this Ham and Cheese Quiche, equally delicious at different times of the day. Each bite bursts with savory goodness, staying perfect when reheated. It’s flexibility pairs well with everything and makes meal planning a delight. This dish is an effortless way to brighten meals.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Quiche
Rustic Pasta alla Norma

When comfort meets simplicity, you get this Rustic Pasta alla Norma. The bold flavors hold their own day after day, making it a meal prep-friendly choice. It’s hearty enough for cold nights but easy enough for laid-back lunches. Pair it with crusty bread or enjoy it solo – it’s bound to be a new favorite.
Get the Recipe: Rustic Pasta alla Norma
Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

Sip into deep satisfaction with this Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup, a reliable companion for cold winter nights. Its rich and full flavors grow stronger day by day, turning each bowl into a cozy meal. It pairs perfectly with warm bread, making every serving a comforting experience. Keep your week warm with this classic.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup
Tender Slow Cooker Mississippi Pork Roast

Worry-free meal prep meets mouthwatering flavor in this Tender Slow Cooker Mississippi Pork Roast. It cooks up juicy and tender, making every reheated bite just as fulfilling. Perfect for sandwiches or paired with your favorite sides, it’s as versatile as it is convenient. This is a winter essential you’ll make again and again.
Get the Recipe: Tender Slow Cooker Mississippi Pork Roast
Rich Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Dessert during meal prep? Absolutely, with this Rich Pecan Pie Cheesecake. It’s decadent, indulgent, and holds up beautifully in the fridge, making it perfect to enjoy over the week. Combining creamy cheesecake and rich, nutty pecans, each slice feels special and fulfilling. You’ll find yourself looking forward to dessert every time.
Get the Recipe: Rich Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Savory Turkey Pinwheels

Perfect for busy weeks, this Savory Turkey Pinwheels recipe offers a flavorful option that’s great for snacking or lunches. The bite-sized rolls are easy to grab and hold up well without losing their freshness. Whether for meal prep or a quick treat, they’re always a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Savory Turkey Pinwheels
Rich Oreo Cheesecake

Few desserts feel as special during the week as this Rich Oreo Cheesecake. Creamy, indulgent, and fulfilling, it turns an ordinary day into something sweet. Friends will want a second slice, and leftovers never go uneaten. It’s perfect to prep ahead for effortless enjoyment throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Rich Oreo Cheesecake
Crockpot Turkey Breast

Juicy and tender, this Crockpot Turkey Breast makes weekly meal planning so much easier. It’s ideal for pairing with a variety of sides or repurposing for sandwiches and salads. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s a smart option that you’ll love coming back to.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Turkey Breast
Baked Feta Pasta – TikTok Viral Recipe

Viral recipes sometimes surprise us, and this Baked Feta Pasta absolutely delivers. Creamy and flavorful, it holds up beautifully for reheating during the week. Perfect for busy schedules, its comforting taste proves that meal prep doesn’t have to feel boring or complicated.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta – TikTok Viral Recipe
Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

No dessert quite feels as indulgent as this Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake. Its rich layers of chocolate and caramel create a balanced treat that hits all the right notes. Prepping ahead isn’t only smart – it means you’re ready whenever cravings strike this week.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake
Easy Spaghetti Casserole

Warm and filling, this Easy Spaghetti Casserole is everything you want for a weeknight dinner. Ideal for meal prep, its comforting flavors carry over perfectly into leftovers. This is one of those dishes that nearly guarantees empty plates every time you serve it.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spaghetti Casserole
Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

A dessert that combines two favorites, this Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake is truly irresistible. It’s the ultimate treat to brighten up your week, fulfilling pie and cheesecake lovers alike. Once you prep it, every slice feels like a reward worth enjoying.
Get the Recipe: Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake
Hearty Cattle Drive Casserole

When you need something hearty and reliable, this Hearty Cattle Drive Casserole is the answer. Packed with bold flavors, it’s a meal prep favorite that keeps you coming back for more. It reheats like a dream and tastes even better the next day, making it a comforting option for any busy week.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cattle Drive Casserole
Flaky Sausage Pinwheels

Offering on-the-go convenience, this Flaky Sausage Pinwheels recipe makes it easy to enjoy something delicious during busy mornings or afternoons. The buttery pastry and savory sausage blend beautifully, reheating effortlessly throughout the week. They’re perfect to keep handy for snacks or quick meals.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Sausage Pinwheels
Hearty Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Comforting and reliable, this Hearty Stuffed Pepper Casserole is packed with flavors that satisfy all week long. Thanks to its hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for meal prep when you need something filling and simple. The leftovers only get better with every serving.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Mashed Sweet Potatoes

When planning your meals for the week, these Mashed Sweet Potatoes are an easy way to add comfort to any dish. Their natural sweetness pairs well with savory mains, creating balance in every bite. They reheat beautifully, making them a reliable option for simple, wholesome sides all week long.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Sheet Pan Gnocchi

Meal prep feels easy and flavorful with this Sheet Pan Gnocchi recipe. Roasted gnocchi stays tender and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Simple to make and reheat, it’s a versatile option that takes the stress out of planning dinners for the week.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Gnocchi
Fluffy Egg Fried Rice

You can never go wrong with this Fluffy Egg Fried Rice for any meal. The richness of the eggs combines beautifully with the flavorful rice, making it hearty yet straightforward. It’s ideal for meal prep and remains delicious even the next day. The perfect dish to keep your week stress-free and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Egg Fried Rice
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Comfort finds its way to your table with this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham, which holds up well for days. Creamy potato layers paired with juicy ham create a filling dish that you can’t resist. It’s suitable for lunch, dinner, or a quick bite, ensuring irresistible flavors every time. A true lifesaver for the week ahead.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies

When looking for a treat, these Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies offer a rich chocolate base with a tangy cream cheese swirl. They stay indulgent yet versatile, keeping fresh throughout the week. Enjoying a slice after a long day brings pure bliss and a touch of sweetness with minimal effort. Perfect as a shareable treat.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies
Chicken Cutlets

Crunchy and filling, these Chicken Cutlets work great for sandwiches or served with sides. Quick to prepare, they pack well for meals throughout the week. The crispy coating stays crunchy even after reheating, maintaining flavor each time. An easy choice for busy days needing a hearty bite.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cutlets
Matcha Tiramisu

Enjoy a refreshing twist on a classic with this Matcha Tiramisu, which is wonderfully creamy. Earthy matcha notes balance the sweetness, making every bite indulgent. Preparing ahead enhances the layers’ flavor over time, perfect for ending your meal with elegance.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Tiramisu
Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

Bringing together kid-friendly comfort and grown-up appeal, this Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole is a joy. Golden tater tots draped in gooey cheese guarantee a crowd-pleaser. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making them a delight rather than a chore. A go-to for fuss-free weekdays or meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole
Mississippi Mud Pie

Layers of decadence make this Mississippi Mud Pie a dreamy dessert all week long. Velvety chocolate, crunchy textures, and a melt-in-your-mouth finish leave a memorable taste. Prepping ahead ensures an indulgent slice in the fridge whenever needed. Essential for chocolate lovers.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie
Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

Experience dessert that feels like a warm hug with these Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes. Flavors mimic a cozy cocoa cup, making them fun and joyful. Stored easily, they offer a sweet pick-me-up ready to enjoy any time. Chocolate-filled comfort suited for any meal or mood.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes
Vibrant Beet Soup

Full of inviting color and wholesome taste, this Vibrant Beet Soup is hearty and nutritious. It’s perfect for meal prep, energizing you through the week with its flavorful profile. Each spoonful feels special, providing a comforting and easy dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Vibrant Beet Soup
Crispy Stuffing Balls

Transform traditional stuffing into bite-sized wonders with these Crispy Stuffing Balls. The crunchy exterior makes them fun snacks or perfect additions to main dishes. Simple to make and enjoy, they add much-needed variety to your meal prep. A smart, tasty twist on stuffing.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls
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.
