Master Meal Prep With 23 Ideas For Stress-Free Eating

Meal prep doesn’t have to be a chore. With these 23 ideas, cooking once can set you up for days of easy eating. No more staring into the fridge hoping dinner will appear like magic. Spend less time cooking and more time enjoying food that’s actually ready when you are—without the stress.

Mushroom Soup

For those days when you want something warm and comforting, Mushroom Soup is just the ticket. It’s perfect for making ahead and having ready for a quick lunch or dinner this week. If you’re into meal prep, this one is a no-brainer because it reheats like a dream. Plus, it freezes well, so make a big batch and stash some for later.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Soup

Eggplant Casserole

Eggplant Casserole offers a hearty and convenient meal that’s easy to layer up on a Sunday and enjoy throughout the week. This dish is all about keeping it simple, but still hitting all the right notes for a filling dinner. You can reheat portions as needed, which means hassle-free meals on demand.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

When you want something that screams comfort, whip out this Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works just as well for solitary lunches. Batch cooking this recipe is a smart move, because it’s even better the next day. Trust me, you’ll want to have this one on standby in the fridge or freezer.
Get the Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

Scalloped Potatoes

Got a craving for something indulgent that won’t take all day to make? Try Scalloped Potatoes—they’re the kind of side that makes any meal feel special. Prepping a pan at the start of the week means you’ll have a go-to ready to reheat whenever you want. It’s pure comfort without the last-minute rush.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Egg Bites

Breakfast on the go doesn’t have to be a sad, cold affair, thanks to Egg Bites. They’re the champions of a busy morning routine, totally customizable, and freeze like champs. Pop them in the microwave, and you’ve got a hot breakfast in no time. Breakfast prepping has never been easier or more delicious.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

Ravioli Casserole

Ravioli Casserole brings the kind of weeknight win you need when you’re out of dinner ideas. It’s a great dish to assemble in advance, and it bakes to bubbly perfection. Portions heat up well, ensuring a stress-free and hearty meal anytime. Plus, it’s 100% kid-approved, if that’s the sort of thing you’re after.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

On cooler days or when you just need a hug in a bowl, Roasted Butternut Squash Soup is there for you. It’s a smooth sipper that works great for meal prepping. Make a big pot, and you’ve got lunch sorted for days. And yes, it gets better with time, so the flavors will be on point when you’re ready.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Wild Rice Casserole

Looking for a plant-powered dish that keeps on giving? Wild Rice Casserole has your back. It’s a make-ahead dream that sees you through the busiest of days. Bonus: it’s a complete meal in one dish, so less washing up. You’ll thank yourself for having it prepped and ready to reheat.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

Lentil Soup

Lentil Soup is the kind of staple you’ll want in your meal prep rotation. It’s hearty, it’s nutritious, and it just hits the spot without much fuss. Leftovers? They’ll be even better the next day. This soup’s convenience and nourishment are hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

Switch up your meal prep with some island vibes courtesy of Jamaican Red Beans and Rice. This one’s a slow-burn favorite that’s perfect for batch-making and flavor building. Reheat for a quick escape to the Caribbean during your workweek lunches. It’s the practical way to keep meals interesting and enjoyable all week.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

Minestrone Soup

Minestrone Soup has that “straight from the kitchen of a cozy Italian bistro” feel but in the comfort of your home. It’s robust, filling, and reheats like a charm, so it’s a wise choice for any meal prep plan. Plus, it’s loaded with all the good stuff to keep you going. Leftovers will make you look forward to lunch, and that’s a promise.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Asparagus Casserole

This casserole might just be the side dish you didn’t know you were missing. Asparagus Casserole is an under-the-radar crowd-pleaser, perfect for prepping ahead. It’s great for those days when you need a little something extra without the work. Just heat it up, and you’ve got a perfect complement to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

Roasted Tomato Soup

The simplicity of Roasted Tomato Soup shouldn’t be underestimated; it’s a straightforward dish that checks all the boxes. It’s ideal for making in large batches and having ready for the week. This soup is a testament to the joys of simple, honest meals. And yes, you can freeze it, reheat it, and it’s still going to be good.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Soup

Pasta Primavera

Brighten up your pasta game with Pasta Primavera—it’s as versatile as it is delicious. Cook up a big batch, and you’ll have lunches and dinners that are quick to serve. It promises a no-fuss meal that’s ready in a jiffy after a long day. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

When you’ve got a hankering for a hearty breakfast but no time to spare, Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole will save the day. Prep it the night before and just reheat in the morning for a warm, filling start to your day. It’s great for feeding a crowd or just ensuring your breakfast game is strong all week. Definitely a make-ahead hero for those hectic mornings.
Get the Recipe: Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

With Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl, it’s a lifesaver on busy weekdays, and you can customize it to your liking. Forget waiting in line when you can prep this ahead. You’ve got a trusty meal that’s easy to toss together. Bonus: It definitely beats takeout on any day.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

Pizza Rolls

Pizza Rolls are a surefire hit for any get-together, even if it’s just you and Netflix. Quick to grab from the fridge, they never disappoint. Making them in advance means you’re never far from a comforting bite. They’re perfect for when the munchies strike unexpectedly.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

Potato Casserole

Ever need a dish that feels like a warm hug? Potato Casserole is your go-to, with hassle-free reheating to boot. Meal prepping shouldn’t be boring, and this casserole proves just that. It’s the kind of dish that makes you look forward to lunchtime.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole

Stuffed Peppers

The beauty of Stuffed Peppers is that they’re a full meal in a neat package. Pop them in the microwave, and you’ve got a meal that hits the spot. They sit in the fridge ready for when hunger strikes, no fuss needed. They also bring a pop of color to your meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

Corn Casserole

Corn Casserole is like the best part of a meal rolled into one easy-to-serve dish. It’s perfect for when you want something a bit special without extra work. It reheats like a dream, keeping mealtime straightforward. Let’s just say it’s a crowd-pleaser without the crowd.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Mac and Cheese

This is classic comfort food that’s ready whenever you are. No one can deny the convenience of a dish that tastes just right after reheating. Mac and Cheese makes mealtime something to look forward to, no kidding. It fits right into your meal prep lineup.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Copycat Impossible Burger

You won’t believe it’s not takeout with Copycat Impossible Burger. It’s the plant-based solution for prep-ahead lunches or dinners. If you’re craving something burger-like, this is ready to hit the spot. Good luck keeping these around for long; they’re just that tempting.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Impossible Burger

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown Casserole has got you covered, be it breakfast or dinner. It’s the kind of meal prep that simplifies your life. You’ve got yourself a no-fuss dish that’s comforting at any time of day. Plus, it’s a solid choice for those who love their breakfast all day long.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole