47 Meal Prep Recipes for When You Want Food Ready Before You Need It

Life gets easier when you have 47 meal prep recipes to pick from for those weeks when time is short. Juggling work, errands, and family activities often means dinner needs to be quick. Putting meals together ahead of time lets you skip last-minute decisions. Every little bit of preparation helps make each day run smoothly.

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.

Hearty Black Bean Sliders

A black bean burger with a slice of cheese, cilantro, and red onion, served on a toasted bun. — Hearty Black Bean Sliders. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Anyone looking for an easy grab-and-go meal will appreciate how this Hearty Black Bean Sliders recipe packs pleasing flavor into every bite. They fit right into meal prep because leftovers make great next-day lunches. I’ve brought these to group meals and watched the tray go empty first. Sliders keep things simple without missing out on comfort.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Black Bean Sliders

Crispy Chickpea Nuggets

A plate of chickpea nuggets with a bowl of sauce. — Crispy Chickpea Nuggets. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bite-sized options are always crowd-pleasers, and these Crispy Chickpea Nuggets don’t disappoint. Each time I prep a batch in advance, the nuggets stay crisp and ready to go for any meal. Lunchtime and snack breaks instantly get more fun. Kids and adults alike reach for seconds without hesitation.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Chickpea Nuggets

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.

Those who crave an easy dessert for busy weeks should try this Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies recipe. You’ll want to slice extra pieces for snacking after dinner or packing in lunchboxes. I like how they never dry out, even when made a day early. Brownies with a twist bring smiles without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies

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.

Aromatic warmth from the oven welcomes you when you bake this Crusty Focaccia Bread ahead of time. Soft inside and crisp outside, it’s perfect for sandwiches or as a meal side. I slice several pieces to freeze for the week ahead. Bread like this makes meal prep feel impressive with barely any work.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Focaccia Bread

The Best Corn Casserole

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

Creamy comfort finds its way onto your meal prep list with this The Best Corn Casserole. Each serving stays moist, making leftovers taste just as good as the first time. I pack squares to heat up on busy nights when home-cooked food matters most. Everyone at the table requests the recipe after the first bite.
Get the Recipe: The Best Corn Casserole

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 slice of this Moist Rhubarb Cake takes breakfast or dessert to another level and handles being made ahead really well. It’s not too sweet, so it fits any part of your week’s menu. I find that one cake lasts for several days when stored in the fridge. Rhubarb adds a tangy note you don’t want to miss.
Get the Recipe: Moist Rhubarb Cake

Hearty Tortellini Soup

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

Soup like this Hearty Tortellini Soup offers comfort, whether you’re prepping meals for the workweek or cozy evenings. It freezes and reheats without losing its rich flavor. I love pulling out a bowl for quick lunches between meetings. Hearty soup keeps everyone happy, even when plans change last minute.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Tortellini Soup

Copycat Chipotle Sofritas

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.

Planning plant-based meals gets easier with this Copycat Chipotle Sofritas recipe that’s both bold and filling. It pairs well with rice, tacos, or salads, so your options stay open all week long. I meal prep a big batch and use leftovers for quick dinners. Each meal feels new and exciting with sofritas at the center.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Sofritas

Fluffy Cottage Cheese Pancakes

A stack of four fluffy pancakes topped with fresh raspberries, pear slices, and a drizzle of syrup. — Fluffy Cottage Cheese Pancakes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Weekend mornings are more enjoyable with this Fluffy Cottage Cheese Pancakes recipe ready to reheat. Golden pancakes hold together nicely for quick snacks or breakfast on the run. I freeze extra to make workdays less rushed. People always ask for this recipe after one bite.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Cottage Cheese Pancakes

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.

Fragrant bowls of this Hearty Jamaican Red Beans and Rice bring both comfort and excitement to prepared meals. Each scoop reheats easily, so you always have a filling dinner handy. I notice that it keeps lunch interesting, even after a few days in the fridge. Beans and rice keep you full and happy all week.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

A casserole dish with zucchini and cheese on it. — Cheesy Zucchini Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Baked ahead and easy to portion, this Cheesy Zucchini Casserole becomes a lunchtime favorite in no time. Creamy layers stay tasty and moist throughout the week. I pack these squares into containers for simple grab-and-go meals. Cheesy zucchini fits right in for anyone trying to eat more veggies.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

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.

Dessert fans will want a slice of this Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake no matter the season. Super creamy and just the right amount of sweet, it keeps well in the fridge for a pre-made treat. I make this in advance to wow guests or share with family all week. Cheesecake always finds its way to the top of meal prep lists.
Get the Recipe: Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Roasted Tomato Soup

Planning cozy lunches is a breeze with a pot of this Roasted Tomato Soup stored in the fridge. Tangy tomato flavor delights after a quick reheat, and it pairs with sandwiches for the ultimate combo. I portion it out for multiple meals to keep things easy. Homemade soup makes you look forward to lunchtime.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Soup

Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

Someone serving broccoli casserole. — Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A dish like this Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves stays popular for leftovers and brings a smile to the table all week. Cheesy, creamy broccoli never loses its appeal, even after a few days. I share this casserole any time friends ask for meal prep ideas. Repeat requests come in regularly because it’s just that good.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

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.

A dessert that actually holds up well in the fridge makes planning ahead sweet, and this Fresh Strawberry Pie fits the bill. Bright berries look beautiful even after a day or two. I slice and serve as needed, knowing each piece tastes as fresh as possible. Strawberry pie adds fun to any meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Strawberry Pie

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.

Ladling this Creamy Mushroom Soup into containers helps fill chilly days with warmth and comfort. Every reheat brings back deep, earthy flavors that only get better with time. I rely on this soup for easy lunches that never disappoint. Mushroom soup brings a savory touch to every meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Soup

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.

Big bowls of this Zesty Italian Pasta Salad always brighten up meals, especially if you make it ahead. Crisp vegetables and tangy dressing keep the salad lively for days. I like packing extra in lunchboxes for something you’ll actually look forward to eating. Pasta salads do double duty: side dish and main course alike.
Get the Recipe: Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

Fluffy Pancake Casserole

A baked French toast casserole topped with powdered sugar, sliced strawberries, and blueberries in a white dish. — Fluffy Pancake Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

It’s fun to pull breakfast from the fridge and have warm slices of this Fluffy Pancake Casserole within minutes. Soft and light, each serving stands up to syrup, fruit, or just a dusting of sugar. I freeze leftovers and reheat as needed for busy mornings. Pancake casserole makes mornings feel like a weekend again.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Pancake Casserole

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.

Crispy snacks have extra staying power during meal prep, especially with these Golden Zucchini Fritters. They’re easy to reheat without turning soggy and work for both meals and quick bites. I pack a few in every lunchbox to keep things interesting. Fritters bring a golden crunch to any prep plan.
Get the Recipe: Golden Zucchini Fritters

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.

Creamy comfort gets a meal prep upgrade thanks to this Buttery Mashed Potatoes recipe that holds texture and taste all week. A quick trip in the microwave brings them right back to life. I rely on mashed potatoes for simple sides that pair with anything. They’re always the first to run out.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Mashed Potatoes

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.

Serving something unexpected sets the mood with this Matcha Tiramisu, which looks and tastes special even days after you make it. The gentle green tea flavor and creamy layers keep everyone curious. I prepare it ahead for fancy-feeling treats without last-minute work. Tiramisu stands out at home or in any meal prep rotation.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Tiramisu

Rich Three Cheese Manicotti

A plate of stuffed cannelloni topped with tomato sauce, grated cheese, and fresh basil. — Rich Three Cheese Manicotti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Planning for hearty dinners means prepping dishes like this Rich Three Cheese Manicotti. Each portion delivers gooey cheese and comfort that reheats just as well as freshly baked. I double the batch for easy grab-and-go meals. Manicotti earns its place on every meal prep list.
Get the Recipe: Rich Three Cheese Manicotti

Pesto Pizza – Game Day Favorite

Rectangular slices of pizza topped with melted cheese, tomato, green pesto, and fresh basil leaves on a baking tray. — Pesto Pizza – Game Day Favorite. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cheesy slices never go out of style, and this Pesto Pizza – Game Day Favorite keeps enthusiasm high long after the final whistle. Prepped ahead and reheated, each slice keeps its crisp crust and bold topping. I find that leftovers disappear faster than expected. Game day or not, pizza remains a top choice.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Pizza – Game Day Favorite

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.

Morning routines get sweeter with these Fluffy Blueberry Muffins baked and ready to go. Bursts of berry make them perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks between meals. I freeze extras so there’s never a scramble when hunger strikes. Muffins always make meal prep feel rewarding.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Blueberry Muffins

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.

A trendy favorite, this Baked Feta Pasta – TikTok Viral Recipe proves that prepping ahead doesn’t have to be boring. Creamy sauce and roasted veggies hold up beautifully in the fridge. I portion out meals for busy evenings and never tire of this one. Pasta dishes stay fun when you have a viral twist waiting.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta – TikTok Viral Recipe

Southern Pineapple Casserole

Pineapple casserole in a casserole dish with a serving spoon in it. — Southern Pineapple Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Savory and sweet fit into meal prep with this Southern Pineapple Casserole, you can serve it any time. Warm, bright flavor lifts up even a routine dinner. I like to share this casserole at potlucks and always leave with an empty pan. Pineapple offers a welcome change during a busy week.
Get the Recipe: Southern Pineapple Casserole

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.

Baking ahead is simple with this Moist Zucchini Muffins recipe, which stays fresh and tender in storage. Even after several days, each bite brings gentle sweetness without feeling heavy. I slip one into every lunchbox. Zucchini muffins are a quiet win for those who want something homemade.
Get the Recipe: Moist Zucchini Muffins

Fresh Pasta Primavera

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

Bringing color to your week, this Fresh Pasta Primavera shines with each reheated bowl. Crunchy veggies and just enough sauce ensure leftovers never feel dull. I meal prep double so I always have a quick, cheery lunch. Pasta primavera beats takeout every time.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Pasta Primavera

Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls

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

Snacking between meals is a breeze with these Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls tucked in the fridge. Their gooey centers and crisp crust win over anyone who gets a bite. I make more than I think I’ll need, and they always vanish. Pizza rolls bring comfort straight from the oven, no guesswork involved.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls

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 classic that never fails, this Moist Banana Bread travels well and keeps its tender crumb throughout the week. Each slice tastes a little better as it sits. I bake a loaf for breakfasts and lunches, and there’s never any waste. Banana bread is the prep-ahead treat I rely on.
Get the Recipe: Moist Banana Bread

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.

Filling, creamy meals start with this Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans in your meal plan rotation. Each serving brings the comfort you want, no matter how busy things get. I pack these up for easy lunches or hearty sides. They’re perfect for warming up after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Marry Me Butter Beans

Plant-Based Copycat Impossible Burger

Close-up of a burger with a plant-based patty, lettuce, and sauce in a bun. — Plant-Based Copycat Impossible Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Vegan and non-vegan meal prep fans both love having this Plant-Based Copycat Impossible Burger ready to go. Patties hold up well for quick weeknight dinners or hearty sandwiches. I switch up toppings to keep things interesting. Burgers like these prove that meal prep can fit any eating style.
Get the Recipe: Plant-Based Copycat Impossible Burger

Sweet French Toast Casserole

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

Extra time on weekends means breakfast can be prepped ahead, just like with this Sweet French Toast Casserole. Every forkful feels warm and cozy, no matter how long it waits in the fridge. I keep slices handy for workweek mornings. French toast casserole brings everyone to the table without fail.
Get the Recipe: Sweet French Toast Casserole

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.

Comfort always has a spot in the fridge, thanks to this Creamy Mac and Cheese that stays cheesy after every reheat. The noodles never go mushy, which makes leftovers something to look forward to. I portion it out for on-the-go lunches. Mac and cheese soothes cravings better than most make-ahead mains.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mac and Cheese

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.

Pitas are a blank canvas for fast lunches, and this Soft Pita Bread proves why meal-prepping bread is worthwhile. Fluffy rounds are perfect for stuffing with meats, salads, or spreads all week. I separate each bread to make easy sandwiches every day. Soft homemade pita brings a bakery feel to any meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pita Bread

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.

Sweets don’t last long when you bake this Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe ahead of time. Each cookie stays tender and gooey, making them impossible to forget. I portion out batches so there’s always fresh cookies on hand. Cookie jars never empty out for long.
Get the Recipe: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Hearty Vegetarian Chili

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

Making this Hearty Vegetarian Chili on Sunday means easy lunches are set all week. Every bowl warms you up without getting dull or repetitive. I switch up toppings every day for variety. Vegetarian chili keeps things simple while bringing plenty of comfort.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Vegetarian Chili

Aromatic Chickpea Curry

Bowl of chickpea stew with spinach, potatoes, tomatoes, and topped with fresh cilantro. — Aromatic Chickpea Curry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Stirring up something special for meal prep, I reach for this Aromatic Chickpea Curry that only gets better with time. Gentle spices make each spoonful interesting no matter how often you eat it. I doubled the recipe to stretch across several days. Serving curry always makes weekday meals brighter.
Get the Recipe: Aromatic Chickpea Curry

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.

Each bite of these Moist Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins packs in fruit and creamy goodness, staying soft for days. These muffins fit breakfast, afternoon snacks, and even dessert. I love how they never get dry or dull. Meal prepping muffins saves time and keeps everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Moist Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins

Hush Puppies

Quick snacks take center stage with this Hush Puppies recipe, which comes out crispy every single time. They store well and keep their crunch for several days. I grab a handful whenever I want salty comfort in a hurry. Hush puppies can steal the scene from even the main dish.
Get the Recipe: Hush Puppies

Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

Each forkful of this Cheesy Asparagus Casserole shines in meal prep containers, staying creamy after every reheat. Asparagus stays tender and packed with flavor throughout the week. I find it brings more excitement to spring meal plans. Sharing this casserole is always a delight.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

Mississippi Mud Pie

Indulgent desserts like this Mississippi Mud Pie become a treat to look forward to with every meal. Layers stay rich and moist, no matter how you serve them. I slice ahead for lunchboxes or midnight snacks. Mud pie ensures dessert is never boring, even after a long week.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie

Smooth Almond Milk

A glass of almond milk sits on a table next to jars containing whole almonds and other ingredients. — Smooth Almond Milk. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Fresh milk alternatives brighten up any prep, particularly when you pour this Smooth Almond Milk into your morning routine. Homemade almond milk can stay creamy in the fridge for days. I use it for smoothies, cereal, or just to drink straight. Making your own means never running out midweek.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Almond Milk

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.

Snacks or meals get an upgrade with this Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes recipe, which stays crunchy even after reheating. Each bite brings both comfort and satisfaction. I freeze extra to make the most of a full prep day. Croquettes make basic meals feel a little more special.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

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.

Filling containers with this Chunky Minestrone Soup gives you a hearty start to any chilly day. Plenty of vegetables make every spoonful lively and bright. I pack up big batches for simple lunches or last-minute dinners. Minestrone covers your craving for comfort and color.
Get the Recipe: Chunky Minestrone Soup

Vegetable Frittata

Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even dinner, this Vegetable Frittata is a meal prep hero ready any time. The dish stores well, holding both flavor and texture without getting rubbery. I keep slices for on-the-go mornings. Frittata brings a little sunshine to busy schedules.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Frittata

Velvety Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Cooler temps make batch cooking soup a natural choice, especially with this Velvety Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. Each spoonful feels creamy and bright, delivering soothing comfort all week. I prep several servings ahead to keep hunger at bay on busy days. Butternut squash soup is always a welcome meal solution.
Get the Recipe: Velvety Roasted Butternut Squash Soup