Prep Ahead And Enjoy Hassle-free Dinners With 29 Recipes

Think of slicing through dinner prep time without sacrificing a tasty meal at the end of a long day. Now, with a collection of 29 prep-ahead recipes, stress-free evenings can be an everyday thing. Just choose a favorite, do a bit of prep when there’s a spare moment, and relish the ease of assembling a quick, delicious dinner later.

Asparagus Casserole

Whether you’re looking to prep ahead or want something warm for dinner, consider trying Asparagus Casserole. Just combine your ingredients, pop it in the oven, and enjoy a creamy dish that’s as comforting as it is easy. You’ll have more than enough to share or save for leftovers. Making meal-planning a breeze, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

Epic Bean Chili

Make a big pot of Epic Bean Chili on your meal prep day and you’ve got lunches or dinners sorted. It’s chock-full of beans and spices that meld together beautifully, especially as the flavors develop over time. Plus, it’s just as easy to serve as it is to freeze for those days when cooking feels like too much work.
Get the Recipe: Epic Bean Chili

Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

Want to recreate that crowd-pleasing restaurant favorite right at home? Prep your Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl earlier in the day for a no-fuss evening. It’s all about layering flavors like seasoned rice, beans, and grilled veggies for a personal touch. Plus, it’s perfect for customizing to your own preferences or dietary needs.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

When the evenings call for something warm and comforting, whip up some Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup. Preparing it ahead means all you have to do is reheat for a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s great for a no-stress dinner, especially when served with your favorite crusty bread. Plus, kids and adults alike will cheer for the cheesy goodness.
Get the Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

Copycat Impossible Burger

Kick off your meal prep with a twist on a classic veggie burger. With Copycat Impossible Burger, you get all the satisfaction without the meat. Put these together in advance for a quick grill or fry-up during the dinner rush. A perfect option for those who love the idea of a burger night but are looking for a plant-based option.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Impossible Burger

Huevos Rancheros

Spice up your meal prep with Huevos Rancheros. This dish is a colorful and filling way to start the day or end it, easily made in advance for quick assembly later on. Featuring a hearty base of beans and eggs, it’s customizable with any toppings you like. Each bite will be as fulfilling as the next, guaranteed to be a hit any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Huevos Rancheros

Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

Mornings can be hectic, so why not prep an Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole the night before? Come morning, just bake it and you’ll have a hearty way to kick-start the day. It’s also a fantastic dish to slice up and reheat for breakfasts throughout the week. Perfect for when you want to hit snooze one more time.
Get the Recipe: Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

Lentil Soup

Keep warm with a pot of Lentil Soup you’ve prepped ahead of time. It’s rich, hearty, and just gets better as the flavors meld together in the fridge. You can heat it up for a quick, nutritious meal during those busy days. Not to mention, it’s a great way to get your veggies in.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

Egg Bites

For a quick and easy breakfast on the go, make Egg Bites in advance and simply reheat them. They’re customizable with your favorite veggies and proteins. Plus, they’re a great protein-packed start to any day, giving you that much-needed morning boost. Being bite-sized, they’re also ideal for kids and meal prep lovers.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

Minestrone Soup

Full of veggies and so easy to make, Minestrone Soup is perfect for those days you just need something wholesome. Make a big batch early in the week and you’re set with a meal that’s ready to go after a quick warm-up. It’s a great way to use up any produce you’ve got lying around too. Who knew eating well could be so simple?
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Eggplant Casserole

Indulge in a dish that’s prepped in no time — Eggplant Casserole is a great option. Layer up the ingredients beforehand and when you’re ready, bake until bubbly and golden. It’s a hearty choice that promises leftovers, saving you time in the kitchen later in the week. A truly convenient meal for any night.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Pizza Rolls

Make Pizza Rolls ahead of time for a snack that’s as fun to eat as it is easy to serve. Pop them in the oven for a few minutes and voila, instant hit for both kids and adults. They’re perfect for satisfying that pizza craving without the hassle of delivery. Plus, they’re customizable with your favorite toppings.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

Hashbrown Casserole

Fancy a comfort dish that’s easy to assemble? Hashbrown Casserole might be just what you’re looking for. This dish can be put together quickly and popped in the oven for a fuss-free side or main. When it’s done, you’ll have a crispy, golden crust with a soft, cheesy inside — perfect to enjoy any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Mac and Cheese

Nothing screams comfort food quite like Mac and Cheese. Whip it up in advance and all that’s left is a quick bake for that golden, crispy top layer we all love. Perfect for a midweek treat or when you’re in need of a little cheesy goodness. Plus, kids absolutely go for it, making dinner time a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Potato Casserole

Nothing says home-cooked meal quite like a Potato Casserole. Prepare it ahead of time and just heat it up for a side that’s sure to impress with minimal effort. It’s creamy, it’s comforting, and it’s the perfect match for any main dish. Getting dinner on the table just got a whole lot easier.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Welcome the week with a big batch of Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. It’s creamy, it’s comforting, and best of all, it reheats beautifully. This soup offers a smooth and flavorful option for any meal, especially when you’re in the mood for something a bit lighter. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a slice of toasted bread.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Mashed Potatoes

Think Mashed Potatoes can’t be made ahead? Think again. Prep them a day in advance and simply reheat for that same creamy texture we all crave. They’re the perfect companion to any meal, guaranteeing a no-fuss addition to your dinner plans.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes

Three Cheese Manicotti

With Three Cheese Manicotti, you can prep a fancy Italian dinner ahead of time. Fill your pasta, store it away, and when you’re ready, just bake and serve. It’s all the richness and gooey goodness you could want, minus the fuss. Perfect for a night when you’re short on time but want a meal that feels special.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

Mushroom Soup

Got a love for mushrooms? Whip up some Mushroom Soup at the start of the week. It’s a luxurious meal without the fuss, especially when you’ve got it ready to reheat on demand. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread for dipping and you’ve got a meal that feels indulgent yet effortless.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Soup

Pasta Primavera

Brighten up your meal prep with Pasta Primavera, packed with your favorite veggies. It’s as colorful as it is delicious and perfect for those nights when time just isn’t on your side. Plus, it’s super versatile, so you can use whatever produce you have. A quick reheat and dinner is served, simple as that.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Imagine having Salted Caramel Cheesecake ready to go when you’re craving something sweet. Just prepare it in advance, and you’ve got a dessert that’s sure to impress without any last-minute stress. Its creamy richness and a touch of saltiness make it a perfect end to any meal. Keep it chilled and indulge whenever the mood strikes.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Roasted Tomato Soup

When the weather calls for something warm, Roasted Tomato Soup has got you covered. Prep it before your week gets hectic and you’ll thank yourself later. It’s just the right kind of easy, especially when served with your favorite grilled cheese. Heat, eat, and enjoy whenever you need something cozy.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Soup

Ravioli Casserole

Turn a favorite pasta dish into a casserole with Ravioli Casserole. It’s as easy to assemble as it is to enjoy, especially when all the work’s been done in advance. Just bake when you’re ready and dinner is served – no boiling or fussing with pots and pans required. A modern twist on classic flavors.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Stuffed Peppers

Get ahead of the dinner game by prepping Stuffed Peppers early in the week. They’re a great way to pack in some serious flavor and nutrition. Heat them up for a fulfilling meal that’s full of color and taste. Plus, they’re just as eye-catching as they are delicious.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

Tortellini Soup

Settle in for a comforting bowl of Tortellini Soup after a long day, with no slaving over the stove required. Make it on Sunday and come home to a warming bowl any night of the week. It’s the kind of meal that everyone looks forward to, kids included. Plus, the tortellini make it extra hearty.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

Vegan Ratatouille

Vegan Ratatouille is the way to go when you’re looking for a plant-based meal that’s easy to put together. Chop your veggies, roast them ahead, and you’ve got a vibrant dish waiting to be devoured. It’s simple, healthy eating that keeps you on track with your busy schedule. Just reheat and relish every bite.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Ratatouille

Wild Rice Casserole

Ever think that Wild Rice Casserole could be your stress-free go-to for the week? It’s easy to assemble in advance and tastes just as fresh when baked later. It’s a side that promises to steal the show without stealing your time. And it’s just one less thing to worry about when you’re juggling everything else.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

White Bean Soup

You won’t believe how White Bean Soup can transform your meal prep. It’s a fuss-free dish that’s loaded with nutrients and can be reheated in minutes. Picture coming home to a hot, ready-to-eat meal that’s been waiting for you. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you just want to unwind.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Twice Baked Potatoes

Everybody loves a good Twice Baked Potato, and the best part is they’re completely preppable. Bake them once, stuff them with all the good stuff, and when it’s time to eat, just give them their second round in the oven. They come out crisp on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and loaded with flavor—every single time.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes