My List Always Starts With 47 Christmas Meal Prep

Holiday chaos feels a lot less chaotic with a plan that actually works. That’s why 47 Christmas meal prep ideas stay at the top of every smart host’s list. They make it possible to enjoy the day instead of juggling timers and trays. It’s the kind of secret that makes people wonder how you pulled it all off.

A stack of waffles and fried chicken pieces with syrup being poured on top, served on a beige plate.
Chicken and Waffles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Eggs Benedict Casserole

A serving of bread pudding with a creamy sauce and chopped herbs is lifted from a baking dish.
Eggs Benedict Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Mornings feel easier with dishes that fill everyone up and keep things moving. Eggs Benedict Casserole sits at the center of holiday breakfast traditions, giving a classic flavor twist in a single dish. People enjoy it for how fast it comes together and how simple it is to serve to a group. You can keep your meal prep smooth with one pan and leftovers heat up well.
Get the Recipe: Eggs Benedict Casserole

Chocolate Cream Pie

A slice of chocolate cream pie with a graham cracker crust, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, served on a black plate.
Chocolate Cream Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Some desserts stick around because everyone asks for them again next year. Chocolate Cream Pie appears on every list for a reason, bringing simple comfort with its familiar blend of textures. Kids love grabbing seconds and it pops up among the top requests at every gathering. It always goes quickly, so you might want to double up.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Cream Pie

Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup

A close-up of soup with meatballs, carrots, celery, spinach, slivered almonds, and fresh herbs in a clear broth.
Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Soup is always a hit when you want something that heats up well and feeds a crowd. Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup saves time and simplifies lunch, with easy steps and warm bowls passed around. This one always gets comments for how easy it is to keep warm and ready all day long.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup

Buckeye Brownies

Several squares of chocolate cake with a layer of peanut butter filling and a chocolate topping are arranged on brown parchment paper.
Buckeye Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Parties get a boost when something rich makes an appearance and cuts well into squares. Buckeye Brownies pop up in conversation thanks to their blend of textures and flavors that balance every sweet craving. When you include them in your meal prep, you always have a steady option for dessert trays. Watch out as these disappear fast from any holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Buckeye Brownies

Green Bean Casserole

A casserole dish filled with green bean casserole with a spoon in it.
Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You hear stories about certain sides becoming staples year after year. Green Bean Casserole is that dish everyone scoops up, reminding people of get-togethers and busy family kitchens. The creamy filling keeps people coming back, even after they claim they’re full. It’s one of those dishes you can always count on for your meal prep list.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Cornbread Stuffing

A metal spatula lifts a serving of baked stuffing topped with chopped parsley from a white casserole dish.
Cornbread Stuffing. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

There’s no need to complicate prep when a single dish can do a lot of heavy lifting. Cornbread Stuffing comes in handy, offering a hearty part of your dinner without fuss. Each bite mixes well with every plate, from turkey to ham, adding a familiar texture that works for almost everyone. It fills out meal plans when you want simple, trusted choices.
Get the Recipe: Cornbread Stuffing

Chicken Divan Casserole

Close-up of a cheesy casserole topped with chopped parsley and crumbly bits, featuring melted cheese and a creamy texture.
Chicken Divan Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Kids and adults both reach for a dish they know and like, especially if it fits reheats well. Chicken Divan Casserole finds its place as a quick dinner or lunch option, working nicely for leftover management. Many people appreciate how fast it is to put together and how well it stays good in the fridge for several days. It’s easy to grab and serve.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan Casserole

Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Close-up of two stacked pieces of chocolate cake drizzled with caramel sauce on a plate, with more cake in the background.
Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Whenever you need a win at dessert time, something rich and layered gets people talking. Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake catches every eye on the table, sporting layers that line up just right. This cake slices well and holds up as your go-to treat for groups, especially when you want something memorable.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Baked Brie

A baked brie with walnuts and thyme, with a jar of honey next to it.
Baked Brie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Gatherings get easier when you offer a simple starter people can enjoy as they settle in. Baked Brie pops up as the answer for quick snacks between main courses or before dinner starts. Its easy prep means you can focus on other dishes while this one comes together with little fuss. People gather around it, making small talk while grabbing a bit each time.
Get the Recipe: Baked Brie

Vegetable Beef Soup

A bowl of beef stew with chunks of meat, potatoes, carrots, and peas in a brown broth, garnished with chopped parsley.
Vegetable Beef Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Lunches get a boost when warm soup is ready to go and easy to portion out. Vegetable Beef Soup finds favor for its filling nature and simple pairing with crackers or bread. Folks appreciate how well it reheats and the fact that it keeps hunger away. You’ll find it helpful for feeding larger groups with little effort.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Beef Soup

Cinnamon Applesauce

A jar labeled
Cinnamon Applesauce. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sometimes the side dish brings out stories of childhood kitchens and favorite meals. Cinnamon Applesauce always ends up paired with other dishes, making every plate a bit more complete. You’ll see it eaten by all ages, from snacks to main courses. It’s a dependable option that fits easily on your meal prep plan.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Applesauce

Turkey Casserole

Close-up of a plate of creamy turkey casserole topped with bread crumbs and garnished with fresh basil leaves, reminiscent of a comforting turkey casserole.
Turkey Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Using leftovers well is part of smart meal planning, especially for busy seasons. Turkey Casserole helps you avoid waste while making lunches and dinners easier over several days. Dishes like this are practical, easy to reheat, and popular across generations. It makes sure every bit goes into something special.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Casserole

Chocolate Chip Cookies

A hand holding a chocolate chip cookie on a cooling rack.
Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Treats that fill the kitchen with good smells draw people in quickly. Chocolate Chip Cookies are always part of lists that work year after year, rewarding simple efforts with great results. Kids help out in making them and everyone lines up for a fresh batch. These keep well on the counter and bring smiles every time.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Cookies

Stuffing Balls

Close-up of several stuffing balls containing herbs and dried cranberries, garnished with fresh parsley.
Stuffing Balls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sides can be fun when you change up shapes and make them easy to share. Stuffing Balls stand out as dinner rolls with a twist, popular at busy gatherings. They work well with dipping sauces and clean-up is fast when you serve them. This option fits well with all sorts of main courses, making meal planning easier.
Get the Recipe: Stuffing Balls

Broccoli Casserole

Someone serving broccoli casserole.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Balancing plates with something green gives every gathering a bit of variety. Broccoli Casserole gets requested for both big meals and lunches, showing up on lists everywhere. It works as a main for vegetarians or as a side for everyone else. Any leftovers fit right into tomorrow’s lunch box.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Fruit Cake

A close-up of a fruitcake with a slice being lifted out, showing its dense texture and pieces of dried fruit inside.
Fruit Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Some desserts have traditions built in, with people expecting them every year. Fruit Cake is that holiday staple, offering long shelf life and slices for sharing. People talk about how it flavors every bite with something familiar and special. It’s easy to slice up and pack for after-meal snacks or care packages.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Cake

Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

A serving of creamy chicken pot pie casserole with vegetables, lifted on a fork, with a flaky crust and garnished with herbs.
Chicken Pot Pie Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bringing something hearty to the table usually makes dinner feel complete. Chicken Pot Pie Casserole lines up as an option that packs a good punch for hungry groups. Hard to beat for ease of serving, it allows you to dish out servings quickly. Whether it’s just family or a crowd, clean plates are a sure thing.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

Mushroom Wellington

Mushroom wellington on a white serving plate.
Mushroom Wellington. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Keep things interesting with a main dish that stands out for veggie lovers and everyone else. Mushroom Wellington gives your prep list a bit of variety, letting you serve something that draws people in. The easy slices work well for sharing and make meal times a bit neater. You’ll often have guests asking for the recipe after the first bite.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Wellington

Turkey Pinwheels

Turkey Pinwheels. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.
Turkey Pinwheels. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Faster lunch ideas help keep your schedule free on busy days. Turkey Pinwheels stack up as handy options to pack or put out for casual meals and snacks. They’re quick to grab, easy to store, and usually gone before you notice. Everyone enjoys the portable size, especially for quick bites.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pinwheels

Easy Chicken Casserole

A fork lifting a cheesy bite from a bowl of chicken casserole topped with bacon and breadcrumbs.
Easy Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Making meal prep painless is key for busy families or large groups. Easy Chicken Casserole is your answer when you want a lunch or dinner that won’t take up too much time. Cleanup is simple, and extra servings can be reheated without losing flavor. It’s a reliable item that gets repeat requests whenever you serve it.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

Ham and Bean Soup

A bowl of white bean soup with pieces of ham, garnished with chopped parsley, and a spoon resting in the bowl.
Ham and Bean Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Days seem smoother with one big pot that feeds everyone and stores well. Ham and Bean Soup gets praised for being easy to freeze and quick to reheat on cold mornings. You’ll see guests returning for extra helpings throughout the day. With a short ingredient list, you’re able to prep it fast and stretch it over several meals.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Bean Soup

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Close-up of a flavorful chicken salad with diced chicken, green onions, chopped pecans, and raisins, all served on a bed of fresh spinach leaves.
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Lunchtime changes up with a mix that fits in sandwiches or on its own. Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad brings a twist people notice in their dinner plates or lunchboxes. You’ll hear comments on how well it pairs with crackers or greens. It’s simple to batch and handy to keep in the fridge for a few days.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Dauphinoise Potatoes

An oven dish with baked dauphinoise potatoes in it.
Dauphinoise Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sides that add something special to the holiday spread get noticed fast. Dauphinoise Potatoes win points for how well they fill plates and hold up to reheating. Cutting neat slices is easy and you can dress them up for any crowd. Preparing ahead means less work later and more time with guests.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Chicken and Biscuits

A close-up of a baked chicken pot pie topped with six round biscuits and garnished with chopped parsley.
Chicken and Biscuits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Families look for dishes that feel familiar and keep everyone full for hours. Chicken and Biscuits serve up comfort in every bite with fuss-free portions. Cleanup remains easy, leaving you more time to enjoy your gathering. Kids are always first at the table for this dish.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Biscuits

Turkey Chili

A close-up of a pot of chili with beans, avocado slices, red onion, sour cream, and garnished with chopped cilantro.
Turkey Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Feeding hungry guests is simple when hot meals come out of one big pot. Turkey Chili makes for easy serving and stores well for quick lunches later. You’ll get plenty of requests for seconds, and leftovers go fast. This one shows up on lists because it’s easy to tweak or double as needed.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Chili

Christmas Casserole

A close-up of a spoon scooping a portion of creamy baked casserole topped with herbs, with a dish of the casserole and a spoon in the background.
Christmas Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Big gatherings need one dish everyone looks forward to year after year. Christmas Casserole helps you cover lots of tastes in just one pan. Fast prep and easy serving make it a staple in any meal plan. Guests tend to remember this one for its simple crowd-pleasing nature.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Casserole

Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing

A roasted turkey stuffed with vegetables is served on a platter, surrounded by various side dishes including rolls, salad, and stuffing.
Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Centerpieces matter for dinner when you want something people talk about. Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing anchors each plate with bold bites and easy pairing. Slicing up leftovers for lunches or snacks keeps meal prep going for days. You’ll find it makes a statement at the table.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing

Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

A plate of roasted Brussels sprouts topped with pine nuts on parchment paper.
Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sides sometimes surprise everyone with easy prep and fast cleanup. Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze gives greener options that work with many mains. This one always draws comments for how quickly it disappears. Guests line up for seconds, so you may want to make extra.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Caprese Skewers

Caprese skewers on a serving dish with balsamic glaze drizzled over.
Caprese Skewers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Quick snacks or starters smooth out busy meal days for hosts. Caprese Skewers stack up easy for serving both large and small groups in minutes. Prep is simple—just toss them together and they’re ready to go. These disappear quickly as people mingle and chat.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Skewers

Thanksgiving Casserole

A golden brown Thanksgiving casserole of baked stuffing garnished with fresh herbs.
Thanksgiving Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Meals with variety help keep everyone happy at busy tables. Thanksgiving Casserole packs plenty into one tray, letting each bite feel complete. It helps serve larger crowds, and reheats well for leftovers. This dish always feels right at home on holiday prep lists.
Get the Recipe: Thanksgiving Casserole

Banana Pudding Brownies

Several squares of chocolate brownies with a yellow and brown marbled pattern are stacked and arranged on parchment paper.
Banana Pudding Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dessert bars often wind up as the first plates cleaned off after dinner. Banana Pudding Brownies stand out for fun textures and bite-sized serving options. They pair well with coffee or tea and can be packed up for later. Most people come back for another piece before leaving.
Get the Recipe: Banana Pudding Brownies

Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

A plate with a slice of Egg & Potato Breakfast Casserole and a fork.
Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Early risers appreciate breakfast that comes together with little effort. Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole becomes the go-to choice for busy mornings and holiday brunches. Serving is fast, cleanup is simple, and leftovers prove popular with everyone. The quick prep keeps things moving and leaves more time for other activities.
Get the Recipe: Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

Tiramisu Cheesecake

A close-up of a slice of layered tiramisu cake with cream, coffee-soaked sponge, and dusted cocoa powder on top, served on a white plate.
Tiramisu Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Every dessert table needs something with layers guests remember later. Tiramisu Cheesecake is often the answer for something creamy that slices neatly. Its easy prep fits hectic days, showing up well alongside fruit or coffee. When you want to change up tradition, this one goes over well.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu Cheesecake

Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

A platter of whipped cheese topped with roasted cranberries, chopped herbs, and sliced green onions.
Cranberry Jalapeño Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bring crowd appeal with dips that mix sweet and a bit of tang. Cranberry Jalapeño Dip winds up at the center of snack tables, paired with chips or crackers. It keeps things simple on busy prep days and adds something new to your spread. People enjoy grabbing a quick scoop as they chat.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

Potato Croquettes

Breaded and fried patties garnished with chopped parsley are arranged on a plate next to a bowl of creamy dipping sauce with herbs.
Potato Croquettes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Finger foods are always popular when people want to grab something fast. Potato Croquettes work as a warm snack or a simple side for bigger meals. Their easy bite-sized shape makes them good for parties or relaxed dinners. You’ll appreciate how clean plates are easier with these around.
Get the Recipe: Potato Croquettes

Matcha Tiramisu

A close-up of a slice of tiramisu topped with green matcha powder, served on a ceramic plate.
Matcha Tiramisu. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Familiar flavors sometimes get a little update for modern holiday tables. Matcha Tiramisu has started to become a favorite, delivering something just a bit different without much hassle. Prep stays quick and servings always look nice on each plate. New flavors fit well with standard prep lists.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Tiramisu

Cranberry Brie Bites

A tray of cranberry brie bites with walnut topping.
Cranberry Brie Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Parties pick up pace when snacks are quick to eat and pass around. Cranberry Brie Bites often end up among the first trays cleared during gatherings. Their easy size means there’s never much cleanup to worry about. They help keep guests talking and enjoying each course.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Brie Bites

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

A close-up of a spoonful of chicken stuffing, showcasing croutons, shredded chicken, peas, carrots, and sprinkled herbs.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Practical dinners that handle leftovers are a welcome addition during busy times. Chicken and Stuffing Casserole delivers quick prep and easy to reheat bites for any meal. You’ll notice people stick around for seconds. It fits into meal plans thanks to its simple steps and steady results.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Waffles

Freshly made waffles on a plate with strawberries.
Waffles. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Breakfast can stay special with a dish people build on their own. Waffles land at the top of meal prep lists with their reliable texture and fast batches. Everyone tops them their own way, making them popular for all ages. Keep extra handy for grab-and-go snacks later.
Get the Recipe: Waffles

Egg Bites

Egg Bites on a board with a little parsley on top.
Egg Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Busy mornings get easier when snacks cook quickly and store well. Egg Bites fit perfectly for breakfast on the run or packed up for lunch. Guests tend to pick them up without fuss, especially at group brunches. It’s a smart option to keep things tidy and simple.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

A close-up of a slice of cheesecake with a caramelized sugar topping, resting on parchment paper with a crumbly base visible.
Creme Brûlée Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Treat trays get noticed when there’s something smooth and creamy in the mix. Creme Brûlée Cheesecake provides simple slicing and easy serving for anyone wanting a sweet bite. You’ll hear comments on how clean it looks on a plate. This dessert always feels easy to add to meal plans.
Get the Recipe: Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

Easy Tater Tot Casserole

A serving of tater tot casserole on a spoon.
Easy Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fast prep works best when you need to feed a group without stress. Easy Tater Tot Casserole stays on the survival list for dinner, keeping everyone happy and full. Cleanup is simple, making it the perfect solution for busy nights. People enjoy grabbing servings straight from the dish.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot Casserole

Cream Cheese Brownies

Brownies with a cream cheese layer in the center are cut into squares and arranged on parchment paper.
Cream Cheese Brownies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fudgy treats stick around because guests reach for seconds without asking. Cream Cheese Brownies often fill dessert trays fast, especially when you want options that pack and store nicely. You’ll enjoy how neatly these slice and how well they keep for a few days. Add them to your prep plans to cover dessert gaps.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Brownies

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Baked rice casserole with melted cheese on top, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Reliable food means fewer worries and more time with friends. Chicken and Rice Casserole answers that need with easy prep and quick serving for most crowd sizes. Reheating is a breeze and leftovers don’t lose their flavor after a night in the fridge. Include it for a stress-free addition to your meal list.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Casserole

Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

A baked pull-apart bread ring with melted cheese and cranberries on a gray plate, garnished with rosemary sprigs.
Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Light bites keep parties rolling and help guests relax. Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread stacks up well on appetizer trays and fills out snack tables. Picking apart a fresh bread is always popular at gatherings. Quick prep means more time for visiting.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Close-up of a tater tot breakfast casserole topped with melted cheese, sliced green onions, and chopped herbs.
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Getting breakfast sorted out in one pan makes mornings run better. Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole leaves more time for relaxing while everyone enjoys their meal. Serving up slices is easy for any group size. It’s a top choice for hungry families.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Chicken and Waffles

A stack of waffles and fried chicken pieces with syrup being poured on top, served on a beige plate.
Chicken and Waffles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fun combos sometimes become favorites once people get a taste. Chicken and Waffles mixes up dinner or brunch with a fresh approach that draws attention. Serve it fast and keep extra on hand for anyone craving seconds. The blend works well and keeps guests asking for more.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Waffles

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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