50 Delicious Make-Ahead Meal Recipes for Easy Weekdays and Busy Weeknights

Meal prepping can be a lifesaver, helping you save time, reduce stress, and ensure that you are consistently eating healthy, delicious meals. Below, we share a collection of make-ahead meal prep recipes that are both versatile and easy to prepare. Whether you're looking for comforting soups, hearty stews, or quick and satisfying breakfast options, you'll find something here to fit your preferences and dietary needs.

Baked Pasta Casserole

One of the most comforting make-ahead dishes is a baked pasta casserole. This can be a delicious lasagna, baked ziti, or macaroni and cheese. Just assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate or freeze it. When you’re ready to serve it, simply bake until it’s bubbling and golden.

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Create tender and flavorful slow cooker pulled pork by seasoning a pork shoulder or butt with your favorite spices. Place it in the slow cooker and cook it on low for several hours until it falls apart easily. Once cooked, let it cool, portion it out, and store it in the fridge or freezer. Use it as a topping for sandwiches, tacos, or salads.

Quiches or Frittatas

Quiches and frittatas are fantastic for breakfasts or lunches. Fill your pie dish or baking pan with your favorite vegetables, cheese, and protein, then bake until golden. Let it cool, cut it into individual servings, and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

Freezer-Friendly Soups or Stews

For an easy and comforting soup or stew, such as chicken noodle soup, chilli, or beef stew, make a big batch and store it in freezer-safe containers until you’re ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of warmth.

Breakfast Burritos or Wraps

Prep a big batch of scrambled eggs, roll them into tortillas with cooked bacon or sausage, cheese, and vegetables, and store them in individual servings in the freezer. Simply heat them up in the microwave or oven for a quick and satisfying breakfast.

Mason Jar Salads

Create your own salad jars by layering your favorite ingredients, starting from the dressing at the bottom, followed by your greens, protein, and leafy greens on top. Seal the jar and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, shake the jar to distribute the dressing and enjoy a fresh, ready-to-eat salad.

Make Smoothie Packs Ahead

For a quick and nutritious breakfast or snack, create smoothie packs by mixing your favorite fruits, vegetables, and add-ins like spinach, berries, bananas, and protein powder. Freeze them in individual bags and blend with your liquid when you’re ready for a quick and nutritious smoothie.

These are just a few examples, but the possibilities are endless. Choose recipes that suit your preferences and dietary needs. Don’t forget to label and date your food for easy identification.

Key Takeaways:

Make-ahead meals save time and reduce stress. Experiment with different recipes to find what works best for you. Label and date your food for easy organization and identification.

With a little bit of planning, you can make meals that will last you weeks, saving you time, money, and energy while ensuring you always have a healthy, delicious meal to enjoy.