Save Money And Eat Better With 23 Simple Meal Prep Ideas

Want to keep both wallet and belly happy? Start by getting in on 23 smart meal prep ideas. They’re all about making eating well both affordable and fuss-free. Imagine, fewer trips to the store, less waste, and tastier meals ready whenever hunger strikes.

Close-up of a creamy macaroni and cheese dish with visible black pepper seasoning.
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Scalloped Potatoes

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

Forget about spending too much on side dishes when you can create magic with some potatoes and cheese. Scalloped Potatoes are here to save your dinner plans with their creamy, layered goodness. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with just about any main dish. Plus, it’s an economical way to stretch your ingredients further.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Egg Bites

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

Who needs expensive coffee shop bites when you can make your own Egg Bites at home? Perfect for breakfast on the go, they’re customizable with your favorite add-ins. Not only do they help you save money, but they’re also a much healthier option. Batch cook them over the weekend for a grab-and-go solution during the week.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

Mushroom Soup

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

Enjoy the earthy tones of Mushroom Soup while sticking to your budget. It’s a fantastic way to use economical ingredients for a rich, flavorful meal. Great for a quick dinner, it reheats well for lunches throughout the week. Each serving is packed with nutrients, making it both smart and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Soup

Eggplant Casserole

A plate of eggplant casserole with sauce and cheese.
Eggplant Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Eggplant Casserole is the perfect dish for those who want to enjoy something different without spending much. This meal is both budget-friendly and great for meal prep. Perfect as a comforting dinner, its flavors develop more the next day, making it ideal for leftovers. It’s a simple way to introduce variety into your meal planning.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

A close-up of a bowl of broccoli cheddar soup garnished with croutons, a sprig of mint, and grated cheese.
Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Indulge in the comfort of Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup without breaking the bank. It’s a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet while enjoying something creamy and delicious. Prepare it over the weekend, and enjoy a hassle-free week of lunches or dinners. It’s cost-effective and perfect for any soup lover.
Get the Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

Pizza Rolls

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

For those times when the pizza cravings hit but the budget says no, Pizza Rolls are the ultimate snack. Make them in batches, freeze, and then bake for a quick fix. They’re perfect for munching during game nights or when you just need a comforting bite. Keeping things simple and affordable has never been tastier.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

Wild Rice Casserole

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

Looking for a simple and filling dish? Wild Rice Casserole is your answer. It’s great for anyone seeking a budget-friendly recipe that feeds many. Full of flavor, it can be enjoyed immediately or saved as leftovers for another day. Its wholesome ingredients provide a nutritious boost to any meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

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.

If you’re looking to stretch your dollar and boost your vegetable intake, consider making Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for making in large batches to save time during the week. The creamy texture makes it a comforting choice, plus you can freeze extras for later.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Hashbrown Casserole

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

When you’re after something comforting without breaking the bank, Hashbrown Casserole is your best friend. It’s a dish that brings together cheesy goodness and crispy hashbrowns. Ideal for breakfast or as a side, it’s a real crowd-pleaser. Plus, making it at home means you get to enjoy hearty meals without the hefty price tag.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

A bowl of Jamaican Red Beans and Rice.
Jamaican Red Beans and Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Spice up your meal routine with Jamaican Red Beans and Rice, an affordable staple that’s easy to make. This dish is perfect for large batches that help streamline your weekly meal prep. It keeps well, ensuring you have quick, tasty meals on hand. Plus, it’s loaded with flavors without costing a fortune.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

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 an economical meal that packs a nutritional punch, Lentil Soup is your go-to option. It’s not only cost-effective but also extremely versatile for meal prep. Whip up a large pot early in the week, and you’ll have hearty meals ready in minutes on busy days. Plus, lentils are great for heart health and keep you full longer.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

Stuffed Peppers

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

Lean on Stuffed Peppers when you’re in need of a meal that’s both nutritious and wallet-friendly. Fill them up with a mix of whatever grains, proteins, and veggies you have on hand. They make for a colorful presentation without much fuss. Plus, they’re great for meal prep, easily reheated for a stress-free dinner.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

Ravioli Casserole

Close-up of a baked dish with ravioli, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheese on top.
Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Turn to Ravioli Casserole for a twist on the traditional, utilizing pre-made ravioli for a quick casserole fix. It’s like having your favorite pasta dish but baked and bubbly in one big pan. Not only does it make meal prep a snap, but it’s also an easy way to enjoy a gourmet-like meal without the gourmet price.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

A Copycat Chipotle burrito bowl, filled with rice, fajita veggies, corn salsa, tortilla chips. and topped with a lime wedge.
Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Craving that restaurant flavor without the hefty price tag? Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl has got your back. Whip up your own version at home with basic pantry staples and top it with whatever you fancy. It’s not only a wallet-friendly meal but also a healthier alternative, giving you control over what goes into your bowl.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

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.

When you need a meal that’s both filling and frugal, Minestrone Soup comes to the rescue. It’s a wallet-friendly option that utilizes day-old veggies and pantry staples. Perfect for a hassle-free dinner after a long day, it’s equally nutritious and wholesome. Plus, it tastes even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

A plate with a slice of Egg & Potato Breakfast Casserole and a fork.
Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Imagine kicking off your day with something that’s both filling and easy on the wallet. Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole fits the bill perfectly, combining hearty potatoes with protein-packed eggs. It’s a breeze to make in advance and reheat on busy mornings. Not to mention, it’s super versatile, letting you mix in whatever leftovers you have in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

Pasta Primavera

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

Opt for Pasta Primavera when you’re looking for a light yet wholesome meal. It’s economical, easy to prepare, and you can use whatever vegetables are on sale or in season. Batch cooking this dish makes weekday meals a breeze and keeps meal costs down, all while filling you up with goodness.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Asparagus Casserole

Cheesy asparagus casserole on a plate with a fork.
Asparagus Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Rolling into something green and creamy has never been easier. Asparagus Casserole is what you need when looking to whip up something quick, healthy, and cost-effective. It’s all about tossing it in the oven and getting a dish that’s both nutritious and comforting. Plus, it’s a smart pick for meal prep that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

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.

Brighten your meals with Roasted Tomato Soup, an easy and inexpensive dish. Perfect for prepping ahead, it can be stored in the fridge or frozen for future meals. With its rich flavor, it’s ideal for dinner or as a quick lunch. Nutrient-dense and wallet-friendly, it’s a must-try for any home cook.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Soup

Potato Casserole

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

Meal prep is a breeze with Potato Casserole, a dish that proves simplicity wins. It’s about getting the most of basic ingredients, turning potatoes into a delicious and filling meal. Perfect for feeding a family or leftovers, it keeps your budget in check. And honestly, who doesn’t love a good potato dish?
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole

Copycat Impossible Burger

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

Craving a burger but not the dine-out prices or the meat? Copycat Impossible Burger is your DIY answer to plant-based goodness at home. Mimic your favorite fast-food treat with ingredients you control, saving both money and the planet. It’s proof that eating greener doesn’t have to cost the earth.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Impossible Burger

Corn Casserole

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

Corn Casserole stands out as a versatile side dish made from budget-friendly ingredients. With its creamy texture and sweet flavor, it complements any main dish without overshadowing it. It’s simple to throw together for last-minute meal prepping. Plus, it’s a comfort food favorite that doesn’t demand much from your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy macaroni and cheese dish with visible black pepper seasoning.
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Revamp classic mac and cheese with a twist by adding butternut squash. Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is not only creamier but packs in extra nutrients. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in veggies while keeping meal costs low. Comforting, filling, and easy to make, it’s a win for both your stomach and your budget.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

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