The Easiest Way To Stay Ahead On Meals 29 Meal Prep Recipes

Busy weeks feel easier with meals ready to go. The easiest way to stay ahead on meals is with 29 meal prep recipes. These dishes save time, cut stress, and bring tasty food to every day. Simple steps and easy storage make each one a smart choice. Great for work lunches, quick dinners, or lazy weekends. A little prep brings a lot of peace later.

A close-up of a chicken and broccoli casserole featuring browned cheese, herbs, and green leafy garnish on top, displayed in a rectangular baking dish.
Chicken and Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

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.

Get cozy with a meal that’s simple to prepare and keeps well for days. Leek and Potato Soup comes together quickly for a smooth and comforting dish that’s perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re having it for lunch or dinner, it’s a flavorful way to save time during the week. Store portions in your fridge, and you’ll have a quick, hearty option ready to warm up.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

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.

Prepare something flavorful and quick that’s perfect for prepping in advance. Korean Burgers balance a mix of classic and bold flavors, making them a standout in your meal rotation. Cook them, portion them, and pair them easily with rice or veggies for an effortless next-day meal. They’re great for saving time while keeping meals exciting.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

Macaroni Salad

A spoon lifting a serving of creamy macaroni salad with diced red onion and fresh herbs, with pepper sprinkled on top.
Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A simple dish that feels right at home in both lunches and quick dinners. Macaroni Salad is an easy choice for prepping ahead, letting all the flavors come together as it chills. It works as a great side option or a light, standalone meal for busy days. Prep a batch to enjoy throughout the week with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Baked Oatmeal

Baked berry oatmeal in an oval dish, topped with dollops of cream and sprinkled cinnamon, with a serving spoon lifting a portion.
Baked Oatmeal. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Start your days with a breakfast you can make ahead without the morning rush. Baked Oatmeal is easy to portion out and keeps well, so it fits seamlessly into busy schedules. Add small toppings as you go to switch things up day-to-day if you like variety. Just a little prep means you’re set for breakfasts that are filling and no-fuss.
Get the Recipe: Baked Oatmeal

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.

Make something comforting without needing too much effort in the kitchen. French Onion Soup is a meal prep-friendly option that saves well and feels tatsy when reheated. All it takes is some simple prep to get a rich, hearty dish that’s great for lunches or dinners. Make ahead and enjoy a convenient, warm bowl anytime.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup

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.

Perfectly soft and easy to bake, these rolls become everyone’s favorite side dish. Dinner Rolls can be prepped ahead in batches, so you always have fresh bread ready to pair with meals. They’re quick to reheat or enjoy as-is for simple lunches or snacks. It’s an easy way to round out your meals with homemade comfort.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

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.

A colorful and customizable meal that’s perfect for prepping in advance. Easy Bibimbap lets you pack vibrant ingredients into simple bowls for quick lunches or dinners. Cook everything ahead and mix portions for variety throughout the week. It’s about having a balanced, ready-to-go choice whenever you need it.
Get the Recipe: Easy Bibimbap

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.

Go for a dish that’s filling, easy, and perfect for batch cooking. Hamburger Casserole brings together hearty flavors and a fuss-free prep process for busy weeks. Store it in portions, and you’ll have a convenient heat-and-enjoy option ready to go. All you need is a few steps to make this a staple in your weekly meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger 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.

A great option for those who love bold and flavorful meals. Asian Style Pork Chops are easy to cook ahead and pair well with cooked rice or greens for balanced meal prep. They stay juicy and reheat beautifully, saving time on busy days without sacrificing flavor. Prep once and enjoy multiple meals that feel like a treat.
Get the Recipe: Asian Style Pork Chops

Ravioli Casserole

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

Keep things simple with an easy meal that comes together in no time. Ravioli Casserole is a great way to have a warm, comforting dish on hand for busy weeknights. Portion it out for meal prep and enjoy a homemade option that reheats beautifully. It’s a stress-free way to keep mealtime delicious and effortless.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

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.

Bite-sized perfection comes together in no time when you combine smoky flavors with a crispy twist. Bacon Wrapped Smokies make an easy shortcut snack or appetizer that’s packed with flavor. Whether for a quick get-together or a lazy-day treat, these are prepped fast and cook even faster. They’re a go-to for making any meal prep simple and stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

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.

A quick and hearty dish that pairs simplicity with big results. Pork Chops take no time to prepare and work like magic for weekly meal prep. Toss them in with a marinade or simple seasoning for a super-easy fix. They’re great for mixing and matching with a variety of sides for a no-fuss dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops

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.

Layers that bring it all together with minimum effort and mess. Easy Air Fryer Lasagna makes getting that classic comfort food feel quicker than ever. With just a few steps, you’ll have layers prepped and cooked up perfectly. It’s ideal to batch out for lunches or busy evenings when time is in short supply.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Lasagna

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.

A simple yet delicious dish that packs bold flavors into a pot. Kimchi Stew is a meal prep champion that’s as quick to make as it is versatile. You can prepare it ahead of time and keep it ready for reheating all week long. Perfect on its own or paired with rice for a filling option.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

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.

An effortless snack or side that’s crispy and golden with every bite. Crunchy Onion Rings are surprisingly easy to whip up and add some crunch to your mealtime. You can prep them in batches and heat them in minutes when you need something quick. Perfect for meal prep without much cleanup involved.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

Crunchwrap Supreme

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

Your meal prep game just got easier with a fun twist on layers and textures. Crunchwrap Supreme is quick to assemble and works perfectly for customizing to your week’s needs. Each one is prepped and ready in minutes with little hassle. Store them for quick lunches or dinners you can grab and heat in no time.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

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.

Cheesy and creamy, yet shockingly simple to make ahead. Funeral Potatoes are ideal for meal prepping large portions without much effort. They store amazingly well for those evenings when you don’t want to cook from scratch. A great way to have something filling and comforting on hand.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

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.

Soft, flavorful, and incredibly easy to throw together for any meal. Garlic Knots are perfect when you want something prepped in minutes and baked just as quickly. They’re great to make in batches, store, and reheat throughout the week. Serve them alongside just about anything, and they won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

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.

A quick, no-hassle meal that’s ready to go in minutes. Ham and Cheese Sliders make meal prep convenient and fun with their pull-apart style portions. Just layer everything, toss them in the oven, and they’re ready to store for any time. They make portioning out meals for the week incredibly simple.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

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, hearty, and one of the easiest options to meal prep ahead of time. Lentil Soup comes together quickly with minimal ingredients and is perfect for big batches. Portion it out for lunches or dinners, and it reheats fantastically. It’s a low-effort way to stay ahead of your busy meals.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

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.

These little bites of heat are paired perfectly with something smoky. Wrap up your ingredients, and you’re all set for a quick prep. Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers are great when you’re aiming for a meal that’s light and needs minimal effort. They’re a perfect example of how easy prepping can be.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Potato Casserole

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

Putting together hearty dishes like Potato Casserole can save loads of time during the week. With a few simple steps, it’s all about layering. This recipe gives a creamy way to stretch meal portions. Make it once, and you’re sorted for days without extra hassle.
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.

Toss everything into one dish and let flavors mix, making Italian Pasta with Salami a no-stress option. It’s quick and easy, with everything done in one go. A meal-prep favorite for those busy days, it’s all about keeping things simple. It cuts your cooking time while still staying super hearty.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

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

A filling meal that brings everything together with ease, Jamaican Red Beans and Rice is a time-saver. The mix of textures is super easy to work with in a single dish. Prep it ahead, and you’ll have an easy go-to meal for the week. Keeping it straight-forward and minimal, this one is perfect.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

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.

With a blend of spicy and cheesy, Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas can be pulled together in no time. Folded, cooked, and ready, it’s simple meal prep at its finest. This recipe works well for prepping ahead without worries. It’s quick, balanced, and a great way to keep your meals prepped easily for the week.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas

Asparagus Casserole

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

Packed into a dish that’s prepped in minimal steps, Asparagus Casserole is straightforward and convenient. With everything baked together, it keeps the prep time short and sweet. Perfect for having something ready-made throughout your week, this one’s a win. Balance in flavors with zero complicated effort.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

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.

No need for complicated setups when Ice Cream Cake takes the lead for dessert prep. It’s simple layers pulled together in minutes, saving you time while making something fun. A quick way to have a sweet option ready during meal planning. Skip the fuss and have something enjoyable on hand easily.
Get the Recipe: Ice Cream Cake

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.

Few meals keep it simple and comforting like Mac and Cheese, and it’s an easy one to prep. Toss everything together and let it come together into a creamy treat. Great for saving time during meal prep while ensuring you’ve got something hearty ready. One of the easiest ways to stay ahead throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

A close-up of a chicken and broccoli casserole featuring browned cheese, herbs, and green leafy garnish on top, displayed in a rectangular baking dish.
Chicken and Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you’re aiming for filling yet simple, try Chicken and Broccoli Casserole for meal prep. With everything baked together, it handles itself with minimal work. An easy dish to pull together and save for dinners during the week. Prep it once, and you have a no-stress meal ready to go.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

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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