47 Meal Prep Recipes for When You Want Fewer Choices During the Week

Busy schedules often benefit from 47 meal prep recipes that keep choices to a minimum. Figuring out what to eat every night can be exhausting if you like things organized. Many find it helpful to set up reliable options in advance. Having a set meal plan lets you coast through the week with less hassle.

A plate of chickpea salad with chopped red onion, roasted red peppers, capers, almonds, and fresh herbs, served with a spoon. — Copycat Chipotle Sofritas. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

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

Cold mornings suddenly feel shorter with this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole by your side. The golden top hides layers of creamy warmth underneath, perfect for breakfast or brinner. I always see dishes wiped clean when this lands on the table. Watching everyone dig in feels extra rewarding after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Rustic Vegan Ratatouille

A flavorful ratatouille recipe prepared in a skillet filled with vegetables and herbs. — Rustic Vegan Ratatouille. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bright veggies shine in this Rustic Vegan Ratatouille, offering fresh flavor while still feeling homey. It’s a perfect make-ahead dish for lunches that need both heart and color. I notice even skeptics reach for second scoops. Warm or chilled, each serving promises simple comfort.
Get the Recipe: Rustic Vegan Ratatouille

Fluffy Blueberry Muffins

A close-up of a blueberry muffin with a bite taken out, showing the moist interior and whole blueberries; other muffins and loose blueberries are in the background. — Fluffy Blueberry Muffins. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Soft, airy bites from this Fluffy Blueberry Muffins recipe lift any slow morning. Pockets of juicy berries surprise you as soon as you take a bite. I love baking a batch so I can grab one on my way out the door. Folks always ask how they come out so tender.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Blueberry Muffins

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Hunger seems to disappear around this Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. It’s bubbly, golden, and perfect for anyone wanting cozy flavor with a lighter touch. I take it to potlucks since it easily goes from side to star. People always want to know what makes it so creamy.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Chunky Minestrone Soup

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

Rainy afternoons turn out much nicer with this Chunky Minestrone Soup nearby. Each bowl bursts with veggies that keep things bright and warming. I reach for this option when I need a low-stress meal that fills everyone up. It never lasts long on the stove.
Get the Recipe: Chunky Minestrone Soup

Moist Rhubarb Cake

Slice of rhubarb cake dusted with powdered sugar, on a white plate, with a silver spoon beside it. — Moist Rhubarb Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A hint of tartness brings life to this Moist Rhubarb Cake. Soft as a cloud, each slice pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or afternoon tea. I bake extra, knowing it tastes even better the next day. Curious guests sometimes ask about the pretty pink flecks inside.
Get the Recipe: Moist Rhubarb Cake

The Best Corn Casserole

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

Creamy centers and sweet bites make The Best Corn Casserole stand out at any gathering. It’s a classic comfort dish everyone scoops onto their plates. I always return with an empty pan when I share it. Friends often ask for the recipe as soon as they taste it.
Get the Recipe: The Best Corn Casserole

Velvety 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. — Velvety Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Smooth and rich, this Velvety Roasted Butternut Squash Soup brightens gloomy days. The deep color hints at its gentle, warming flavor. I bring this out for cozy lunches or chilly evenings. People cannot help but ask for another bowl.
Get the Recipe: Velvety Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies

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

Classic banana pudding meets gooey brownies in this Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies treat. Swirls of sweetness keep you guessing with each bite. I like serving these as a surprise dessert for guests. Faces always light up when someone realizes what’s inside.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies

Roasted Tomato Soup

Fast-cooling days need a batch of this Roasted Tomato Soup ready to ladle. Roasted flavor comes through strong, making every spoonful feel like a fresh experience. I pair it with grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort meal. The aroma alone brings everyone to the kitchen before dinner’s ready.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Soup

Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy and garnished with fresh thyme and cracked black pepper. — Buttery Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fluffy, smooth bites from this Buttery Mashed Potatoes recipe disappear quickly at any meal. Total comfort makes every plate a little warmer. I always mash extra for leftovers the next day. People love how creamy and rich the potatoes turn out.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Fluffy Strawberry Cake

Close-up of a slice of strawberry cake dusted with powdered sugar, showing a fluffy texture and pieces of strawberries inside. — Fluffy Strawberry Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Layers of soft cake and berries make this Fluffy Strawberry Cake a winner for cozy celebrations. It brings a gentle sweetness that isn’t too heavy. I notice guests eyeing another slice even after dessert. Each piece looks beautiful, like pink clouds on a plate.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Strawberry Cake

Creamy Mushroom Soup

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

Silky spoons of this Creamy Mushroom Soup offer gentle warmth on cold evenings. The flavors blend smoothly as soon as you take a bite. I rely on this recipe for quiet dinners at home or light lunches. Its earthy comfort always cozies up the room.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Soup

Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

A person scooping a sweet potato casserole out of a baking dish. — Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Holiday tables look brighter with this Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows at center stage. Pillow-soft marshmallows melt into the sweet, creamy potatoes below. I always see people scooping up seconds, whether kids or adults. After the first bite, someone always compliments the melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

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

Crowds gather in the kitchen for these Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies. Each cookie breaks apart with gooey chocolate bits inside. I bake them for trips, picnics, and after-school snacks. Everyone who tries them asks if there’s a secret behind their softness.
Get the Recipe: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Hush Puppies

A golden bite of this Hush Puppies recipe tastes like comfort food at its best. Their crispy outside hides a soft, fluffy interior every time. I fry up batches to serve alongside barbecue or seafood. They always disappear faster than expected.
Get the Recipe: Hush Puppies

Crusty Focaccia Bread

Slices of focaccia bread topped with rosemary and flaky salt, arranged on brown parchment paper. — Crusty Focaccia Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

One pull from this Crusty Focaccia Bread brings a chewy crumb and bubbly top. The bread quickly becomes the star of big winter spreads. I bake it when soup is on the menu, since everyone loves to tear off a chunk. Whoever tries it wonders how bread can taste this fun.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Focaccia Bread

Mississippi Mud Pie

Layers of cream, crumbs, and fudge swirl together in this Mississippi Mud Pie. It brings both crunch and silkiness, plus just enough chocolate to keep things exciting. I serve it for celebrations where a regular cake just won’t do. Each slice disappears much quicker than you’d guess.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie

Hearty Huevos Rancheros

A plate of huevos rancheros with sunny-side-up eggs, avocado slices, refried beans, tomato sauce, crumbled cheese, and garnished with green onions and cilantro. — Hearty Huevos Rancheros. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A hot breakfast never disappoints, especially with this Hearty Huevos Rancheros. Spicy, saucy toppings turn ordinary eggs into something extra special. I enjoy this when mornings need both boldness and comfort. The colors and flavors cheer up even the darkest hours.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Huevos Rancheros

Baked Feta Pasta – TikTok Viral Recipe

Baked bow-tie pasta with cherry tomatoes, creamy sauce, basil leaves, and red pepper flakes in a white dish. — Baked Feta Pasta – TikTok Viral Recipe. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Social media made this Baked Feta Pasta – TikTok Viral Recipe a must-try for home cooks everywhere. Gooey cheese swirls with roasted tomatoes for an easy, viral hit. I make it anytime people ask for something fun and new. It’s wild how fast plates empty at dinnertime.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta – TikTok Viral Recipe

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.

A refreshing new spin takes the spotlight in this Matcha Tiramisu treat. Gentle green color and creamy texture make each forkful feel special. I love bringing it out for breezy days or whenever guests want something different. Everyone’s eyes widen after their first bite.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Tiramisu

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

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

Bubbly, golden layers in this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes side dish mean everyone comes back for more. Soft potatoes nestle under a cheesy blanket that feels extra rich. I bring this dish whenever the main meal needs a crowd-pleaser. Friends always ask what makes the sauce so good.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans

A cast iron skillet with creamy pasta mixed with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, topped with cheese, with a wooden spoon resting inside. — Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Comfort food turns creamy in this Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans recipe. The beans turn silky and feel extra hearty with every scoop. I keep this on hand for chilly nights when only a warm bowl will do. It usually ends up as everyone’s favorite dinner surprise.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans

Sweet French Toast Casserole

A person taking a portion of French toast casserole. — Sweet French Toast Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Breakfast gets an upgrade with this Sweet French Toast Casserole. Maple notes and golden tops bring smiles to sleepy faces. I prep it ahead for lazy weekend mornings or cozy brunches. The crowd always polishes off every last crumb.
Get the Recipe: Sweet French Toast Casserole

Golden Crispy 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. — Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crunch meets soft with every bite of these Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes snacks. Tiny, crispy shells reveal fluffy centers that everyone craves. I like to serve them as an appetizer when folks want something simple, but special. Most are gone before dinner is even ready.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Homemade Egg Bites

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

On busy mornings, this Homemade Egg Bites recipe saves the day. Protein-packed and portable, the bites keep breakfast quick but tasty. I make a bunch at once to grab through the week. Guests always want to know how they get so fluffy.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Egg Bites

Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Slice of cheesecake topped with caramel, pretzel, pecan, and sea salt on a plate, with a spoon beside it. — Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy meets gooey in this Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake. The mix of sweet and salty gives every slice major dessert appeal. I prepare it for special days when only something extra will work. People always look for seconds before the last crumb is gone.
Get the Recipe: Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Golden Zucchini Fritters

A stack of zucchini fritters topped with sour cream, thinly sliced shallots, and a sprig of dill. — Golden Zucchini Fritters. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Warm weather squash turns crispy in this Golden Zucchini Fritters recipe. Each fritter feels like comfort, whether you eat them hot or cold. I make them for small plates or picnic baskets. Friends always guess the secret to their perfect crunch.
Get the Recipe: Golden Zucchini Fritters

Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

Seasonal veggies never tasted better than in this Cheesy Asparagus Casserole. Underneath the cheese, the asparagus stays soft and bright. I pull it together for holiday tables and simple weeknight meals. People keep talking about it days after tasting.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

Fresh Strawberry Pie

Close-up of a strawberry pizza featuring a thin crust topped with a layer of strawberry sauce and sliced strawberries, evoking the delightful appearance of a strawberry pie with its vibrant red color. — Fresh Strawberry Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Chilled slices of this Fresh Strawberry Pie mark the start of berry season for many people. The glossy glaze and bursting ripe berries turn dessert into a bright event. I make extra pies because they always disappear at gatherings. Each bite brings memories of breezy days and simple pleasures.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Strawberry Pie

Hearty Tortellini Soup

A close-up of creamy tortellini with spinach and fresh basil leaves. — Hearty Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Steamy broth and stuffed pasta make this Hearty Tortellini Soup ideal for chilly nights. The flavors blend, giving a gentle nudge of comfort. I like to serve big bowls before the main course. Everyone who tries it always grabs seconds.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Tortellini Soup

Cheesy Potato Casserole

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

Crispy tops and soft insides make this Cheesy Potato Casserole a favorite side at any celebration. Cheese lovers always ask how the flavor turns out so bold and creamy. I bring this to potlucks since everyone loves loading up their plate. There are never leftovers when this dish is served.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Potato Casserole

Moist Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins

A plate of blueberry muffins with crumb topping, arranged in a pile. — Moist Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Blueberries burst with flavor in this Moist Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins recipe. Each muffin feels luscious, like dessert and breakfast rolled together. I bake these ahead to have on hand for busy mornings. Smiles start first thing when people find the cheesecake swirl inside.
Get the Recipe: Moist Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins

Soft Pita Bread

A stack of six round, golden-brown pita breads sits on a baking tray, with more pita breads visible to the side. — Soft Pita Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Fluffy, warm rounds from this Soft Pita Bread recipe turn basics into something memorable. Each bite pairs well with everything, from soups to sandwiches. I bake double batches since leftovers work for easy snacks. Friends always comment on the pillowy texture.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pita Bread

Hearty Wild Rice Casserole

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese. — Hearty Wild Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Wild rice stars in this Hearty Wild Rice Casserole packed with cozy flavor. The mix feels just right for dinner when the weather cools down. I serve it for big family meals or quiet evenings alone. Everyone enjoys digging through for the different textures inside.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Wild Rice Casserole

Moist Banana Bread

Close-up of a sliced banana bread loaf, showcasing its moist, textured interior with visible banana chunks. — Moist Banana Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A fresh loaf of this Moist Banana Bread goes a long way, especially on busy afternoons. Each slice bursts with banana scent and a soft crumb. I bake extra so there’s never a shortage, even if friends stop by. People always ask for “just one more piece.”
Get the Recipe: Moist Banana Bread

Creamy 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. — Creamy Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Each forkful of this Creamy Mac and Cheese melts away your worries after a long day. The sauce clings to noodles in the best way. I use this classic for movie nights when everyone craves something warm. Empty plates tell me it hit the spot.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mac and Cheese

Hearty Lentil Soup

A hearty bowl of savory lentil soup, beautifully garnished with fresh cilantro, a swirl of cream, and an aromatic blend of spices. — Hearty Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Earthy, simple flavor shines in this Hearty Lentil Soup, perfect for quiet nights. A big bowl fills you up and brings a sense of calm. I make this in bulk, freezing portions for quick meals. Even after reheating, it tastes just like the day it was made.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Lentil Soup

Sweet Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Close-up of a dish of warm cinnamon rolls topped with white glaze. — Sweet Cinnamon Roll Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sticky, sweet, and fluffy, this Sweet Cinnamon Roll Casserole changes breakfast into a party. The kitchen smells incredible while it’s in the oven. I love serving this for brunches and holidays. Seconds are a given, especially when the glaze melts over the top.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Creamy Corn Chowder

A close-up of a hearty potato and corn chowder with diced vegetables and a dollop of sour cream, garnished with fresh parsley. — Creamy Corn Chowder. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A warm, creamy finish makes this Creamy Corn Chowder comforting in a bowl. Each spoonful balances sweet corn with gentle richness. I always have requests for seconds at potlucks. People agree it’s a keeper for cold weather.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Corn Chowder

Hearty Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

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

Caribbean comfort shines through in this Hearty Jamaican Red Beans and Rice dish. The combination fills you up with bold, earthy flavors. I serve it to break up the routine in weeknight meals. Picky eaters almost always end up loving it.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

Moist Zucchini Muffins

Close-up of several zucchini muffins on a plate, with one muffin split in half to show its moist, textured interior. — Moist Zucchini Muffins. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These Moist Zucchini Muffins come out fluffy with every batch. Each bite hides a little green but never feels heavy. I like baking them as a snack to sneak extra veggies into the day. Friends grab two before breakfast ends.
Get the Recipe: Moist Zucchini Muffins

Fluffy Egg Casserole

A casserole dish containing egg casserole. — Fluffy Egg Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Mornings get easier with this Fluffy Egg Casserole in the fridge. It lifts brunch spreads or busy weekdays with its light, airy texture. I make it ahead and slice as needed. There is never any waste since pieces vanish first.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Egg Casserole

Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls

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

Biting into these Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls brings a crunch before the gooey filling spills out. Each roll packs classic pizza flavor inside a golden crust. I bake them up for after-school snacks or party treats. Rarely does even one roll make it to leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls

Hearty Vegetarian Chili

Two bowls of chili with onions and sour cream. — Hearty Vegetarian Chili. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

No one misses the meat in this Hearty Vegetarian Chili. Beans and spices combine for rich comfort that makes every bowl worth a second helping. I like to make a big pot for game days or cozy evenings. It always ends up as a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Vegetarian Chili

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

Bowtie pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze in a green bowl. — Zesty Italian Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bright flavors transform lunchtime with this Zesty Italian Pasta Salad. Every forkful adds energy to any midday break. I enjoy making this ahead since it gets better the longer it sits. Friends repeatedly suggest I bring it to picnics and potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

Copycat Chipotle Sofritas

Fans of takeout will appreciate this Copycat Chipotle Sofritas. A savory, plant-based filling adds bold flavor to burritos and bowls. I always make extra for meal prep since the flavor grows stronger after sitting. Most are surprised that it’s homemade.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Sofritas