Stop The Daily Dinner Debate With 29 Prep-and-Go Recipes
Dinner doesn’t have to be a last-minute scramble every night. These prep-and-go recipes are the kind of thing that make planning meals feel doable, even on the busiest days. With 29 solid options, there’s enough variety to keep things interesting while still keeping prep low-effort. It’s about making dinner feel less like a task and more like a win.

Crunchwrap Supreme

Getting dinner on the table doesn’t have to be a complex affair, especially with recipes like Crunchwrap Supreme. This dish combines convenience with flavor, making it a weeknight winner. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking to amp up your meal prep, it’s versatile enough to suit any taste.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme
Easy Cornbread Casserole

For those evenings when comfort food is on the menu, Easy Cornbread Casserole comes to the rescue. It’s a straightforward dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor, making it a hit for any casual get-together. The simplicity of preparation means more time to enjoy with family or friends. Its heartwarming effect is just right for a cozy dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole
Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and Grits is a classic dish that brings the essence of comfort food right to your table with minimal effort. This dish is proof that simple ingredients can create a memorable meal. It’s ideal for those looking to add a bit of Southern flair to their dinner rotation. Enjoy the praise that comes with serving this beloved favorite.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

If you’re aiming for something quick yet delicious, Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs should be next on your menu. This dish not only saves time but also ensures you’re serving something that will be devoured in minutes. The air fryer does most of the work, leaving you with crispy perfection. It’s a straightforward route to a meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Ending dinner with a sweet note is easy with Pineapple Upside Down Cake. This dessert offers a twist of fruitiness and a touch of nostalgia. It’s as suitable for a special occasion as it is for a regular weekday treat. The simplicity of this cake means you get to enjoy dessert any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Crunchy Onion Rings

When you’re in the mood for something snackable, Crunchy Onion Rings are a go-to choice. They serve as an excellent side dish or a standalone snack. The crunch in every bite is truly fulfilling and proves that sometimes, the simplest dishes are the best. They’re an essential recipe for anyone looking to add a crunch to their meal repertoire.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings
Ravioli Casserole

Bringing a taste of Italy to your kitchen is hassle-free with Ravioli Casserole. This dish combines layers of flavors in an unexpectedly easy way. It’s an excellent option for busy nights when time is of the essence but you’re craving something hearty. Serve up a slice of this casserole and watch it disappear in no time.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole
Copycat Smash Burger

Replicating a restaurant favorite at home is satisfying, especially with a recipe like Copycat Smash Burger. This option proves that homemade can be just as good, if not better, than dining out. It’s a fun recipe to get the family involved in cooking dinner together. Enjoy creating and devouring this mouthwatering dish that’ll keep everyone smiling.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Smash Burger
Pork Chops

Cooking up Pork Chops can turn an ordinary evening into something special without any fuss. These chops are quick to prepare, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. They’re perfect for a weeknight meal that requires minimal prep but delivers full flavor.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops
Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

Infuse a bit of Caribbean flair into your dinner with Jamaican Red Beans and Rice. This dish is not only filling but also packed with flavors that complement each other perfectly. It’s an excellent choice for a meal that needs to serve a lot without complicating the cooking process. Serve this dish and bring a slice of Jamaica to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Red Beans and Rice
Firecracker Meatballs

Spice things up with Firecracker Meatballs, a dish that promises to be as lively as its name. Ideal for those who enjoy a little kick, these meatballs can be a highlight of any meal setting. They’re quick to prepare, which means less time cooking and more time enjoying. Whip up a batch to energize your meal plan with something exciting.
Get the Recipe: Firecracker Meatballs
Easy Meatloaf Recipe

When you need a traditional meal without the traditional effort, turn to Easy Meatloaf Recipe. This dish is a staple that goes back generations and brings a comforting taste to your dinner table. It’s straightforward and does not require any intricate steps. This meatloaf is the perfect centerpiece for a hearty family meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe
Kimchi Stew

Warm up with a bowl of Kimchi Stew, especially when you need a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. This stew is a favorite for its blend of spices and depth of flavor. Ideal for a busy night, it cooks up quickly and offers a comforting meal. Let this stew be your go-to for a fulfilling dinner that requires little effort.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew
Breakfast Burritos

Start your day right or end it on a fulfilling note with Breakfast Burritos. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as a breakfast, lunch, or dinner, making it perfect for any time. They’re easy to make in batches and store, ensuring that a flavorful meal is always ready at your convenience. Enjoy the practicality and treat of having these burritos at your fingertips.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Burritos
Focaccia Bread

Nothing complements a meal quite like freshly baked Focaccia Bread. This easy-to-make bread adds a touch of artisan to any dinner and is deliciously crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Whether you’re an expert baker or a novice, this recipe will guide you to a perfect result. Serve this warm, inviting bread and watch it disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread
Caprese Pesto Tarts

For a light yet flavorful dish, try making Caprese Pesto Tarts. These tarts combine classic flavors in a form that’s as appealing to the eye as it is to the palette. They are wonderfully simple to prepare, making them an excellent choice for quick evening snacks or a part of your meal. Share these tarts at any gathering or enjoy them in a quiet evening at home.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts
Cashew Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that brings a bit of crunch to your dinner table, Cashew Chicken is a solid choice. It’s easy to whip up on a busy evening and guaranteed to impress your family. Leftovers, if you have any, taste just as good the next day for lunch. End your day on a high note with this fulfilling meal that’s sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken
Banana Bread

Transform those overripe bananas into a batch of Banana Bread that’s perfect for a quick breakfast or a comforting snack. This recipe is a foolproof way to bring a smile to anyone’s face. It’s a simple pleasure, really, but one that feels like a warm hug with every slice. Serve it up with a cup of tea or coffee for a calm morning or a relaxing afternoon treat.
Get the Recipe: Banana Bread
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

When you’re in the mood for something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole comes to the rescue. It combines all the flavors you love in a more convenient form. Gather everyone around the table to experience this comforting dish. It’s a meal that promises to keep the conversation going long after the plates are clean.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
French Onion Soup

For those slightly chilly evenings when you need something warming, French Onion Soup is a classic choice that never disappoints. It’s rich, flavorful, and has that irresistible cheesy topping. This dish proves that simplicity can indeed lead to sophistication on your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup
Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Indulge in the creaminess of Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara, a dish that brings restaurant-quality dining to your home. It’s an excellent pick for when you want to treat yourself but skip the dine-out expense. This meal is a testament to the joy of cooking and sharing good food.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara
Korean Burgers

Add a twist to your typical burger night with Korean Burgers, a recipe that infuses classic comfort food with exciting flavors. These burgers offer a unique taste that’ll surely break the monotony of regular meals. Easy to assemble and even easier to enjoy, they are a fun way to spice up your meal routine.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers
Million Dollar Casserole

If you’re after a dish that guarantees smiles all around, look no further than Million Dollar Casserole. It’s as rich in flavors as it sounds and promises a hassle-free cooking experience. What makes it even better is the ease with which it can be prepared in advance, making your dinnertime routine smoother.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Casserole
Korean Corn Dogs

Give your snack game a major upgrade with Korean Corn Dogs, a street food favorite that’s fun to make at home. They bring a playful twist to the classic corn dog with a unique and irresistible crunch. Perfect for gatherings or as a novel weekend treat, they’re destined to vanish quickly from the plate.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Dogs
Mac and Cheese

There’s nothing quite like a creamy, comforting bowl of Mac and Cheese to make everything feel right in the world. It’s the ultimate comfort food that appeals to both kids and adults alike. This dish is a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something wonderfully satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese
Potato Casserole

Potato Casserole is the hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for those nights when you want something fulfilling but straightforward. It’s ideal for feeding a crowd or just ensuring you have delicious leftovers. This casserole’s versatility and ease of preparation make it a dependable choice for any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole
Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken

When you need a meal that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful, Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the way to go. It’s a straightforward recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Slow Cooker Pot Roast

There’s something truly comforting about a Slow Cooker Pot Roast that’s been simmering all day, filling your home with its inviting aroma. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel taken care of, with minimal effort on your part. This dish is perfect for relaxed Sundays with family or any time you crave the homely taste of tender, fall-apart meat.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pot Roast
Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

Bring the flavors of your favorite Mexican grill home with a Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl. It’s customizable to fit everyone’s taste and a healthier alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or meal prep for busy days, this recipe offers both convenience and taste.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl
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.
