Cook Once Eat Stress-Free All Week 29 Meal Prep Recipes To Try

Planning meals every single day is basically a part-time job no one applied for. With these 29 time-saving ideas, you get to cook once and enjoy the freedom of not answering “What’s for dinner?” for the next six days. It’s like setting up your future self with a big high five. Honestly, it might be the closest thing to cloning yourself in the kitchen.

Twice-baked potatoes topped with melted cheese and chopped green onions on a baking sheet.
Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Mushroom Soup

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

If you’re seeking warmth in a bowl, look no further. Mushroom Soup is here for those chilly evenings when only comfort will do. Perfect for prepping ahead, it reheats beautifully, ensuring you have a stress-free meal ready whenever you need it. Not only is it hearty, but it also pairs perfectly with your favorite toasted bread.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Soup

Pizza Rolls

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

Imagine having a snack that everyone from kids to adults will cheer for. Pizza Rolls are a fantastic make-ahead option that freezes brilliantly. Pop them in the oven for a quick bite or a casual dinner during a busy week. They’re a fun twist on pizza night, without the fuss of making dough from scratch.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

Potato Casserole

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

For those times you need a side dish that doubles as a comforting main, Potato Casserole has got your back. Prepare it once, and enjoy it throughout the week, as it reheats like a dream. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, proving that simple ingredients can indeed create magic. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with any main.
Get the Recipe: Potato 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.

There’s nothing quite like a classic comfort food, and Mac and Cheese fits the bill perfectly. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-fulfilling, making it a hit with both kids and adults. The best part? It tastes even better the next day, ensuring you have a week’s worth of happiness in one cooking session.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Rhubarb Cake

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

When you’re in the mood for something sweet but want to keep things easy, Rhubarb Cake is your go-to. This dessert keeps well, allowing you to indulge in a slice of sweetness anytime during the week. It’s the perfect balance of tart and sweet, proving that desserts can be stress-free too. A slice pairs perfectly with your afternoon tea or coffee.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Cake

Epic Bean Chili

Two bowls of chili with onions and sour cream.
Epic Bean Chili. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who doesn’t love a good chili? Epic Bean Chili is not just any chili; it’s a hearty, comforting bowl of goodness that’s perfect for meal prep. Loaded with beans and spices, it’s a flavorful meal that gets better with time, making your weeknight dinners easy and delicious. Plus, it’s versatile – enjoy it on its own, or top it off with cheese and sour cream.
Get the Recipe: Epic Bean Chili

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.

For a meal that’s both nutritious and comforting, Lentil Soup checks all the boxes. It’s a breeze to make in large batches, ensuring you have a healthy option ready in no time. Full of flavors and textures, it’s a cozy meal for any day of the week. Plus, it’s just as delicious when reheated, making your meal prep a piece of cake.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

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.
Marry Me Butter Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re after something rich, creamy, and utterly fulfilling, Marry Me Butter Beans will not disappoint. These beans are a testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Perfect for a main dish or a hearty side, they’re a surefire way to make your meals throughout the week exciting. And yes, they’re as delicious as they sound.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Butter Beans

Strawberry Cake

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

Strawberry Cake is a dream for anyone who loves a fruity dessert. It’s moist, flavorful, and the strawberries add a lovely burst of freshness. Bake it once, and you have a go-to treat ready to brighten up your week. Whether you’re enjoying it as a dessert or a snack, it’s guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cake

Mashed Potatoes

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

Let’s talk about a classic that never gets old – Mashed Potatoes. Creamy, buttery, and oh-so-comforting, they’re the ultimate side dish that everyone loves. Preparing a big batch at the start of the week means you’ve got a versatile side ready to go, be it for a quick lunch or a dinner feast. They reheat wonderfully, ensuring no fuss meals all week long.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes

Hashbrown Casserole

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

Breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Hashbrown Casserole is here to save the day. It’s a versatile dish that packs flavor and comfort in every bite. Make it once, and you won’t have to worry about what to eat for your next meal. It’s equally delicious when served hot or at room temperature, making it a perfect meal option for any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Stuffed Peppers

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

Stuffed Peppers are a colorful and tasty way to spice up your meal prep routine. They’re filled with all sorts of goodness, making each bite a wonderful experience. Not only are they visually appealing, but they also reheat well, ensuring you have a nutritious meal ready in minutes. They’re a testament to the fact that healthy can also be hearty and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

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.

A bowl of Minestrone Soup is like a hug from the inside. It’s packed with vegetables and flavors, making it a wholesome choice for any day of the week. It’s one of those soups that taste even better the day after, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. Plus, it’s incredibly filling, ensuring you’re satisfied meal after meal.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

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 you crave something sweet and savory, Roasted Butternut Squash Soup is the way to go. It’s velvety, rich, and full of flavor, proving that simple ingredients can be transformed into something spectacular. Perfect for a cozy night in, it reheats beautifully, offering a stress-free meal option for busy weekdays. It’s a bowl of comfort that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Scalloped Potatoes

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

Say hello to Scalloped Potatoes, your new favorite side dish. These thinly sliced potatoes, baked to perfection in a creamy sauce, are a testament to how something so simple can be so delicious. They’re a hit at any meal and reheat well, making your meal prep efforts totally worth it. It’s comfort food at its best, ready to accompany any main dish you have planned.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Three Cheese Manicotti

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

For a cheesy delight, Three Cheese Manicotti is sure to impress. It’s loaded with cheese and nestled in a bed of marinara sauce, guaranteeing a flavor-packed meal. Perfect for those days you crave something Italian, it reheats beautifully, ensuring a stress-free dining experience. It’s like a little piece of Italy right at your dinner table, any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

Salted Caramel Cheesecake

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

Salted Caramel Cheesecake is for those moments when only indulgence will do. With its creamy center and a tantalizing salted caramel topping, it’s a dessert that’s sure to make your week feel a bit more special. It keeps well, ensuring you can savor a slice whenever the craving hits. This cheesecake is a little slice of heaven that’s just waiting in your fridge.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Cheesecake

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.
Huevos Rancheros. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Starting your day with Huevos Rancheros is a surefire way to kick things off on a high note. It’s a flavorful, protein-packed breakfast that’s as fulfilling as it is delicious. Make it once, and you have a breakfast that’ll have you jumping out of bed all week long. It’s a vibrant, delicious way to start your day with minimal morning prep.
Get the Recipe: Huevos Rancheros

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.

If you’ve never tried Roasted Tomato Soup, you’re in for a treat. It’s a richer, more flavorful take on traditional tomato soup, perfect for those cooler days. Make a big batch, and you’ve got a quick and easy meal ready to go, whether it’s lunch or dinner. It pairs wonderfully with a grilled cheese sandwich, making for the ultimate comfort meal combo.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Soup

Vegan Ratatouille

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

Vegan Ratatouille is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a delicious way to enjoy your vegetables. With layers of seasoned veggies, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and healthy. Cooking this at the start of the week ensures you have a delicious option that’s ready to eat anytime. It’s proof that plant-based meals can be as fulfilling as they are nutritious.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Ratatouille

Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

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

Bring some Caribbean flair to your weekly meal prep with Jamaican Red Beans and Rice. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that gets better as the days go by. Perfect for when you want something a little different, it’s a hearty meal that’ll keep you full and satisfied. Not to mention, it’s incredibly easy to reheat, making your weeknight dinners a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

Tortellini Soup

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

When time is of the essence, Tortellini Soup comes to the rescue. It’s a hearty, comforting soup that’s quick to make and even better to eat. The tortellini makes it a filling meal, perfect for those chilly days when you need a little extra warmth. Plus, it’s just as delicious the next day, making your meal prep efforts go a long way.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

Wild Rice Casserole

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

Wild Rice Casserole is the comfort food you didn’t know you needed. With its hearty texture and rich flavors, it’s a one-dish wonder that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or ensuring you have leftovers for the week. It reheats beautifully, ensuring you have a warm, comforting meal ready to go. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a main or a side, depending on your mood.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

Cottage Cheese Pancakes

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

Looking for a breakfast that’s a bit out of the ordinary? Cottage Cheese Pancakes offer a protein-packed start to your day, with a twist. They’re light, fluffy, and just a little bit tangy, making them a wonderful change from the usual. Plus, they can be made ahead and reheated, ensuring you have a quick, nutritious breakfast option every day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Cottage Cheese Pancakes

White Bean Soup

A bowl of hearty white bean soup topped with melted cheese and a slice of toasted bread, garnished with fresh parsley.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

White Bean Soup is a testament to the power of simplicity. With its soothing flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s a meal that’s both fulfilling and comforting. Perfect for chilly days, it’s a soup that warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s excellent for meal prep, as it reheats well, ensuring you have a stress-free, delicious meal ready whenever you’re hungry.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Vegetarian Stew

Vegetable Stew in a pot with lid.
Vegetarian Stew. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This Vegetarian Stew is the answer to your meal prep prayers. It’s thick, hearty, and packed with veggies, making it a wholesome option for any meal. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, this stew won’t disappoint. Plus, it tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect choice for stress-free weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Stew

Zucchini Fritters

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

Zucchini Fritters are a great way to sneak some veggies into your meals in a fun and tasty way. They work perfectly as a side dish or a light main, providing flexibility in your meal planning. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they reheat well, ensuring you always have a delicious meal option ready to go.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Fritters

Vegetarian Chili

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

A tasty Vegetarian Chili is a bowl of cozy, flavor-packed goodness that’s sure to please any palate. It’s hearty, fulfilling, and perfect for those who love a good chili but are looking for a meatless option. The best part? It freezes and reheats like a dream, making it an ideal option for meal prepping. You won’t miss the meat in this delicious, stress-free meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Chili

Twice Baked Potatoes

Twice-baked potatoes topped with melted cheese and chopped green onions on a baking sheet.
Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Twice Baked Potatoes are where comfort food meets convenience. They’re a fantastic side dish that can easily be transformed into a filling main, thanks to their customizable fillings. Prepare them ahead of time, and you’ve got a delicious option that’s ready to be reheated and enjoyed.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

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