Spend Less Time Cooking With 29 Ready-to-go Meal Prep Ideas

ByMandy

Cooking every day can take a lot of time, especially with a busy schedule. Preparing meals ahead makes it easier to enjoy tasty food without the daily effort. It also helps save money and reduces food waste. There are 29 ready-to-go meal prep ideas that make cooking faster and more simple.

Close-up of several tortilla pinwheel wraps filled with various ingredients including spinach, cream cheese, tomatoes, and other vegetables, arranged neatly on a white surface.
Pinwheel Sandwiches. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Ravioli Casserole

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

Simplify dinner time with Ravioli Casserole, needing just a quick oven bake. It’s a ready-to-go meal that’s perfect for busy nights. Make it in advance, so there’s no stress when it’s time to eat. Spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your evening. It’s a hassle-free way to a delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Asparagus Casserole

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

Make dinner easy during the week with Asparagus Casserole. It’s a simple dish that pairs well with many main courses. Prepare it ahead of time and just reheat when you’re ready. Spending less time in the kitchen means more relaxation for you. Enjoy healthy eating without the extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

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.

Take a break from the kitchen with Three Cheese Manicotti. It’s a dish you can make ahead and enjoy later. Just heat when ready, and dinner is served. It’s cheesy and comforting, perfect for a quick meal. Less cooking time gives you more time to relax.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

Chickpea Curry

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

Enjoy flavorful meals without the long prep times with Chickpea Curry. Make a big batch once and have it ready for the week. It’s quick to reheat, making it an ideal dinner option. Save time in the kitchen while enjoying a tasty bowl of curry. Ready-to-go meals make evenings easier.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Curry

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.

Dinner doesn’t have to be complicated with Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole. Cook it in advance and have a ready meal any night. A simple reheat and it’s good to go. Perfect for busy weeknights when cooking feels like a chore. Spend more time enjoying your meal and less time preparing it.
Get the Recipe: Egg and Potato Breakfast 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.

Make weeknight dinners stress-free with Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl. Prep the ingredients ahead and simply assemble when needed. It’s a convenient meal that doesn’t require much time. Enjoy a flavorful dinner with barely any effort. Ready-to-go meals save you precious time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

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.

Take the hassle out of meals with Mac and Cheese. Prepare it ahead so you can have a quick meal at any time. Just heat and it’s ready to enjoy. It’s an easy dish that’s always a hit. Less cooking time means more time for you.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Corn Casserole

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

Enjoy quick and easy dinners with Corn Casserole. Make it ahead of time and keep it ready for when hunger strikes. It’s a no-fuss meal that requires minimal effort. Perfect for nights when cooking isn’t an option. Spend less time in the kitchen and more time unwinding.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Egg Bites

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

Keep things simple with Egg Bites, great for snacks or light meals. Pre-make a batch and have them on hand for quick bites. They’re easy to heat and eat on the go. Perfect for busy nights when you need something fast. Ready-to-go meals make life easier.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

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.

Skip the hassle of traditional burgers with Copycat Impossible Burger. Prepare them in advance for a quick meal option. Just heat, serve and enjoy. Ideal for nights when you want something delicious with minimal effort. Ready-to-go meals let you relax more.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Impossible Burger

Hashbrown Casserole

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

Need a quick and hearty meal, Prep Hashbrown Casserole ahead of time and just heat it up when needed. It saves time and is perfect for busy days. Less time cooking means you get to relax sooner. Enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown 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.

Spend less time in the kitchen with Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup. Make a batch and store it for easy, quick meals. Just heat and serve whenever you’re ready. It’s a great option for those on-the-go. Enjoy a warm and comforting bowl with ease.
Get the Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

Eggplant Casserole

A slice of cheesy eggplant lasagna with tomato sauce is being lifted from a pan, showing stretchy melted cheese. A bowl is blurred in the background.
Eggplant Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Enjoy more free time by prepping Eggplant Casserole in advance. This dish heats up quickly for a tasty meal with minimal work. It’s perfect for those hectic evenings. Spend less time cooking and more time relaxing. Reheating dinner has never been easier.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

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.

Make breakfast or dinner simple by prepping Huevos Rancheros beforehand. When you’re ready to eat, just assemble and heat. It’s a flavorful meal that’s quick to make. Perfect for busy mornings or nights. Save time and enjoy a delicious dish.
Get the Recipe: Huevos Rancheros

Epic Bean Chili

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

Save prep time with a batch of Epic Bean Chili. Cook it once and have easy meals ready throughout the week. Just reheat and enjoy whenever you’re hungry. It’s convenient and nutritious. Enjoy home cooking without the daily effort.
Get the Recipe: Epic Bean Chili

Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

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

Spend less time cooking by prepping Jamaican Red Beans and Rice. Make enough for multiple meals and enjoy quick leftovers. It’s simple and tasty, perfect for busy schedules. Reheat in minutes for a ready-to-eat dish. Enjoy more free time without compromising on food.
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.

Enjoy convenient meals with Lentil Soup. Make a big pot and store it for busy days. Just heat it up whenever you need a quick, filling meal. It’s nutritious and easy to prepare. Spend less time cooking and more time on what matters.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

Mashed Potatoes

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

Simplify your meal prep with Mashed Potatoes. Make them ahead and reheat when you need them. It’s a quick side dish that complements any meal. Spend less time in the kitchen while still enjoying home-cooked food. Effortless and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes

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.

Save time by prepping Pasta Primavera in advance. Keep it in the fridge for easy meals throughout the week. Just reheat for a delicious, fast option. Perfect for those busy nights. Enjoy more free time with minimal cooking.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

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.

Make life easier with prepped Minestrone Soup. Store a big batch for simple, quick meals. Just heat it up whenever you need it. It’s perfect for busy days. Enjoy a hearty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Pizza Rolls

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

Quick snacks are made simple with Pizza Rolls. Make and store them in advance, so they’re ready whenever hunger hits. Perfect for busy days, just heat and eat. They’re convenient and packed with all the flavors you love. Save time and enjoy homemade goodness with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

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.

Take the hassle out of mealtime with ready-to-go Mushroom Soup. Prepare a batch and have it on hand for quick lunches or dinners. Just reheat and enjoy earthy flavors without the wait. It’s ideal for those who prefer home-cooked meals with less kitchen time. Effortlessly enjoy a comforting bowl any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Soup

Stuffed Peppers

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

Add some color and ease to your meal prep with Stuffed Peppers. Make them ahead and store for quick, flavorful meals. These peppers are great for days when time is short but good food is needed. Simply heat and taste a nutritious dish. Planning ahead with this dish saves time and stress later.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

Potato Casserole

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

Ease your meal prep with Potato Casserole. This hearty dish can be prepped in advance and stored for quick dinners. Ideal for busy nights when you want something warm without the hassle of cooking from scratch. Just heat and serve when needed. It’s a simple way to enjoy a filling meal with less effort.
Get the Recipe: Potato 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.

Simplify your meals with Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. Prep it ahead of time and have a ready-to-go option on busy days. Reheat and enjoy without spending extra time in the kitchen. It’s a smooth, flavorful choice that fits into any meal plan. Make lunches and dinners easier with this flexible dish.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

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.

Indulge easily with pre-made Salted Caramel Cheesecake. Make it in advance and have it ready for any sweet moment. This dessert cuts down prep time and delivers on taste. Just slice and enjoy whenever a craving hits. Keep your dessert game strong with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Cheesecake

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.

Enjoy hassle-free meals with Roasted Tomato Soup. Prep a batch ahead and have it ready for quick reheating. Perfect for lunch or dinner when time is tight. The rich flavors are a bonus with the convenience. Spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your day.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Soup

Scalloped Potatoes

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

Make life easier with prepped Scalloped Potatoes. A great side dish that’s ready to heat whenever you need it. Perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without the prep. Just heat and serve, no extra steps required. A handy addition to any meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Pinwheel Sandwiches

Close-up of several tortilla pinwheel wraps filled with various ingredients including spinach, cream cheese, tomatoes, and other vegetables, arranged neatly on a white surface.
Pinwheel Sandwiches. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Mix up your meal prep with Pinwheel Sandwiches. These are perfect for a quick lunch or snack, ready to grab and go. Make them ahead and save time during busy days. They’re easy to enjoy with minimal effort. Keep your meals interesting and convenient.
Get the Recipe: Pinwheel Sandwiches

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