Juggling life’s craziness and trying to eat right can feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube blindfolded. Meal prepping is our secret weapon, though—it’s like having your future self high-five you for being awesome. Here are 23 meal prep ideas that’ll turn your week from frantic to fantastic, with zero last-minute kitchen scrambles!
Molly Bars
Whip up a batch of Molly Bars, and you’ve got your snack game on lock for the week. They’re the perfect sweet treat to grab on a busy day, and they’ll keep you smiling through those afternoon slumps. Trust me, your future self will thank you.
Get the Recipe: Molly Bars
Baked Spanish Rice
If you’re looking to add a little flair to your meal prep routine, our Baked Spanish Rice has got you covered. It’s a simple way to bring some Spanish vibes to your dinner table, and it reheats like a dream. Perfect for those evenings when cooking is the last thing on your mind, it’s a meal prep idea that will definitely save your week.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice
Million Dollar Spaghetti
This isn’t your average spaghetti. It’s like your pasta night got a major upgrade with loads of cheese and flavor. Meal prep it over the weekend, and you’ve got a luxurious dinner ready to go in no time during the week. A true game-changer for busy schedules.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
Here’s a way to make Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy like a fancy dinner without actually having to do much. The creamy gravy is a hit, and it’s a perfect match for any side. Meal prep this, and your future self will thank you on those days when cooking feels like too much work.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
Beef Bourguignon
Imagine coming home to Beef Bourguignon, a dish that tastes like you’ve been cooking all day but you actually prepped it ahead. It’s a smart way to add some luxury to your weekly meal routine. Reheat and serve for a dinner that impresses every time.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon
Shrimp & Corn Chowder
This chowder is basically comfort in a bowl, making it a fantastic meal prep option for the week. It’s easy to whip up in a big pot, and freezing portions means you’ve got a go-to meal ready whenever you need it. Definitely a week-saving choice when the weather’s chilly or you just need some foodie love.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp & Corn Chowder
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
This twist on a fancy dish is a weeknight lifesaver. It gives you all the cozy feels of chicken, ham, and cheese without the fuss. Meal prepping this casserole means you’re setting yourself up for a stress-free week with a meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Authentic Hungarian Goulash
Spicing up your meal prep with some authentic Hungarian goulash can be a game changer. It’s hearty and gets even better the next day, making it a perfect dish to cook in bulk and enjoy throughout the week. A little international flair can really save your meal plan from boredom.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash
Chicken Paprikash
This dish is all about bringing comfort food into your meal prep lineup. It’s easy, tasty, and just what you need on a cold evening. Plus, it’s a great way to make sure you have something delicious and satisfying ready to go, making your week a lot easier to manage.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash
Sloppy Joe Casserole
Who knew turning a messy sandwich into a Sloppy Joe Casserole could make your week so much easier? It’s hearty, it’s tasty, and you can make a big batch to last you for days. Talk about a meal prep savior that keeps the whole family happy and your weeknights less hectic.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Buttermilk Pancakes with Blueberry Sauce
Breakfast for dinner? Yes, please. These Buttermilk Pancakes with Blueberry Sauce are not just for mornings; they’re a brilliant meal prep idea for any time of the day. Freeze them, and you’ve got a quick, delightful meal that’s sure to save your week whenever you need a pick-me-up.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Pancakes with Blueberry Sauce
Bacon-Wrapped Burgers
Imagine biting into a juicy Bacon-Wrapped Burger after a long day. That’s meal prep gold right there. Freeze a batch, and you’ve got quick, delicious dinners sorted for the week. It’s like each burger is a little high-five for your future self.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Burgers
Greek Meatballs
Adding these Greek Meatballs to your meal prep list means you’re all set for a week of delicious, Mediterranean-inspired meals. They’re easy to make, great for leftovers, and versatile enough to keep things interesting. It’s a hassle-free way to ensure you have something yummy and ready to eat, no matter how busy your week gets.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatballs
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Merging this southern classic into a Shrimp and Grits Casserole form is your ticket to an easier week. It’s the comfort food you crave with the convenience you need. Prepping this dish ahead means you’ve got a delicious, ready-to-eat meal that saves time and satisfies your hunger.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Raspberry Crumb Cake
A slice of Raspberry Crumb Cake turns any breakfast into a treat or ends your day on a sweet note. Bake it once, and enjoy it all week; your meal prep just got a delicious upgrade. It’s like a little promise of happiness waiting in your fridge.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Crumb Cake
Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe
With skillet gnocchi, sausage, and broccoli rabe, you’ve got a one-pan wonder that makes meal prep a breeze. It’s hearty, tasty, and saves you from washing a pile of dishes. Plus, it’s a balanced meal that’ll keep you powered up all week.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe
Pickled Yellow Beans
Pickled yellow beans are the zesty side dish that keeps on giving. Add them to your meal prep for a tangy crunch in salads or as a snack. They’re super easy to whip up and make every meal feel a bit more gourmet.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Yellow Beans
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Prep this Mediterranean Orzo Salad, and you’ve got lunches that transport you straight to the seaside. It’s fresh, flavorful, and the shrimp make it feel like a treat. Meal prep doesn’t get much better than this.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Beefy John Wayne Casserole
The Beefy John Wayne Casserole is like a hug in casserole form. It’s comforting, filling, and perfect for meal prep. Just heat it up for a dinner that feels like a big deal without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Beefy John Wayne Casserole
Turkey à la King
Turkey à la King transforms your meal prep into a creamy, comforting dream. It’s a clever way to use up leftovers and make sure you’ve got something delicious waiting for dinner. Pair it with rice or pasta, and it’s a hit every time.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King
Roast Pork with Apples
Roast pork with apples makes your Sunday dinner leftovers the star of your meal prep. It’s savory with just the right amount of sweetness, turning your weekly meals up a notch. Plus, it’s versatile enough to become sandwiches or salads for easy lunches.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples
Nanna’s Apple Cake
Nanna’s apple cake is the comfort food your meal prep has been missing. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, it’s a week-long reminder of home. Just slice and serve any time you need a little pick-me-up.
Get the Recipe: Nanna’s Apple Cake
Beef Barbacoa
Tender, slow-cooked beef barbacoa is a meal prep MVP. Use it for everything from tacos to burrito bowls, and suddenly, dinner is the easiest part of your day. Making a big batch over the weekend saves you from the dreaded “What’s for dinner?” question.
Get the Recipe: Beef Barbacoa