21 Meal Prep Ideas To Keep Your Fridge Full And Your Evenings Calm

Ever think about how nice it would be to open the fridge and find it full of ready-to-go meals? With 21 meal prep ideas, that’s totally doable. Imagine no more last-minute cooking stress; just a simple grab, heat, and eat routine every evening. Keep the kitchen chaos at bay and cruise through the week with a smile, thanks to a little planning and some nifty prep work.

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.

Egg Bites

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

For those who love breakfast for dinner, or need a quick protein-packed snack, Egg Bites are ideal. They are customizable with ingredients you have on hand. Make a big batch at the start of the week, and you’ve got a ready-to-eat option that’s both convenient and pleasing. Plus, they reheat in no time.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

Mushroom Soup

Mushroom soup that's delightfully creamy, adorned with sautéed mushrooms, a dollop of cream, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of parsley.
Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Earthy flavors come to life in every bowl of Mushroom Soup. It’s a great choice for a homemade lunch that’s ready in no time. Batch cooking and storing it means you’ve got a quick-fix solution for a nourishing meal. Pop it in the microwave and it’s like you’ve just made it fresh.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Soup

Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy potato casserole in a white dish with a fork.
Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Scalloped Potatoes can become a centerpiece of stress-free dining throughout the week. Layered with tender potatoes and a creamy sauce, it’s designed to comfort and fill you up. Having it prepped in advance means all you need to do is reheat for a meal that’s both effortless and indulgent. It’s like a hug on a plate whenever you need one.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

A close-up of a bowl of broccoli cheddar soup garnished with croutons, a sprig of mint, and grated cheese.
Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Say hello to creaminess with Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup. This comfort food staple is packed with broccoli and oozes with cheese. Cooking up a big batch ensures that a relaxing night with a comforting bowl is just minutes away. Serve it up with some crusty bread and unwind from your busy day.
Get the Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

Eggplant Casserole

A plate of eggplant casserole with sauce and cheese.
Eggplant Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Consider Eggplant Casserole when you’re looking for a hearty plant-based option. It’s layered with flavor and perfect for those evenings when you need something substantial. Plus, it only gets better as the flavors meld in the fridge. Heat it up for a wholesome meal that requires next to no effort.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Pizza Rolls

Freshly made pizza rolls stacked on each other.
Pizza Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Forget takeout when you can have homemade Pizza Rolls ready in your refrigerator. They’re super easy to make in batches and are the perfect grab-and-go option for busy evenings. Just pop them in the oven, and you’ve got a delicious meal in minutes. These rolls also freeze beautifully, making future prep even simpler.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

Ravioli Casserole

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

For a twist on traditional pasta nights, try Ravioli Casserole. It’s just as simple to batch-cook and as it is delicious to eat. Packed with flavor, it holds up splendidly in the fridge. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a lazy dinner day, this casserole has got you covered.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Close-up of a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup garnished with herbs, seeds, and two slices of seasoned bread. The soup has a swirled texture and a vibrant orange color.
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When looking for something warm to come home to after a long day, consider trying Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. It’s a smooth and filling option that can be easily reheated. Roasting the squash brings out its natural sweetness, making your weeknight dinner so much simpler. Just pour, heat, and your comforting meal is ready.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Pasta Primavera

A colorful Pasta Primavera salad with cherry tomatoes, asparagus, peas, and spinach in a blue bowl.
Pasta Primavera. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Meal prepping Pasta Primavera ensures a vibrant dish is always on hand. It’s a straightforward, veggie-forward meal that’s easy to customize with whatever produce you have. A quick reheat brings out the freshness of the vegetables combined with your favorite pasta. It’s a true life-saver on nights when time is of the essence.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Stuffed Peppers

Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers in a white bowl.
Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both nutritious and filling, Stuffed Peppers are a splendid choice. These can be made with various fillings, offering a new twist every time you make them. They reheat well, making your weeknight dinners a breeze. Keep a batch in the fridge for those times when cooking feels like too much work.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

Potato Casserole

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

Potato Casserole is the kind of dish that you can eat any time of the day. It’s creamy, comforting, and perfect for meal prep as it reheats wonderfully. Whip up a large batch to solve several meals throughout the week. It’s a no-fuss recipe that saves time without compromising on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole

Minestrone Soup

A bowl of hearty minestrone soup packed with green beans, pasta, zucchini, tomatoes, and herbs, served with crusty bread slices.
Minestrone Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Minestrone Soup is your go-to when you need a veggie-packed dinner that’s ready to go. Loaded with a variety of vegetables, it’s both refreshing and hearty. Make a big pot on Sunday, and you’ve got a fuss-free meal waiting for you throughout the week. Each bite brings a different veggie to the forefront, keeping your dinners interesting.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who doesn’t love a good Hashbrown Casserole? This dish is not just for breakfast; it’s a great side for any meal. It stores well in the fridge, ensuring that you have a delicious side dish ready to go. Simply reheat for a dish that complements any main course.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

A Copycat Chipotle burrito bowl, filled with rice, fajita veggies, corn salsa, tortilla chips. and topped with a lime wedge.
Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Preparing meals ahead ensures stress-free dinner plans, like when you opt for Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl. Inspired by your favorite restaurant, this bowl is easy, quick, and versatile for any night. You can customize it with your choice of protein or veggies. It’s a wholesome meal that keeps well in the fridge, perfect for your meal-prep agenda.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

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

For those times when you crave something filling and full of flavor, Jamaican Red Beans and Rice comes to the rescue. It strikes the perfect balance of spices and hearty beans. Make a large batch, and you’ve secured several no-fuss dinners. It’s as easy as reheating and serving to keep your weeknights relaxing.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

Asparagus Casserole

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

Asparagus Casserole might just become a favorite with its creamy texture and crisp asparagus. Perfect for a comfy dinner, it’s a dish that holds up well throughout the week. Prepping it ahead means you get more time back in your evenings. Just serve it up when you’re ready for something uncomplicated yet filling.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

Roasted Tomato Soup

Close-up of a bowl of roasted tomato soup topped with toasted bread chunks, fresh thyme, and a sprinkle of black pepper.
Roasted Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Everyone needs a classic like Roasted Tomato Soup in their meal prep repertoire. It’s simple to throw together, and roasting the tomatoes beforehand adds depth to the flavor. Whether you pair it with a grilled cheese or enjoy it solo, it’s a dependable choice for a stress-free evening. A quick zap in the microwave, and dinner is served.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Soup

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.

Breakfast for dinner? Why not, with a pre-made Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole at your fingertips. It’s the right mix of protein and comfort to end your day. Prep it in advance, store in the fridge, and come evening, a pleasing meal is mere minutes away. That’s one less decision to make after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

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.

Kids and adults alike will always cheer for Mac and Cheese. Make it ahead for a hassle-free weeknight treat that’s ready to heat and serve. It’s the perfect comfort food to wind down with after a long day. Plus, it keeps well in the fridge or freezer, ready whenever you need it.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Corn Casserole

Corn casserole in a casserole dish with a portion removed.
Corn Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Enjoying a comforting dish like Corn Casserole can make any evening meal special. It’s simple to prepare in bulk, ensuring you have an excellent side dish ready throughout the week. Its creamy texture and sweet flavor are always a hit. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making your dinner prep a snap.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

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.

Everyone needs a go-to soup, and Lentil Soup fits the bill perfectly. It’s hearty, healthy, and tastes even better the next day. Prepare a big pot early in the week to enjoy hassle-free meals when you need them. It’s a smart choice for nutritious dining without the last-minute rush.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

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