Explore 30 tasty make ahead meals that will change your weeknight dinner plans. These recipes are simple to make and let you enjoy healthy, tasty meals without the rush. You’ll find everything from cozy casseroles to hearty baked pastas and nourishing soups. They’re all easy to prepare in advance and can be quickly reheated for a stress-free dinner.
Meal prep is a lifesaver for busy families, saving you time and effort. It’s perfect for new parents, college students, or anyone looking to make dinner easier. These meals are designed to save you time, reduce stress, and give your family delicious, healthy dinners.
Key Takeaways
- Discover 30 delicious make ahead meal ideas for busy weeknights
- Learn easy preparation and storage techniques to save time
- Explore a variety of family-friendly casseroles, baked pastas, and soups
- Meal prep for convenience and enjoy quick, stress-free dinners
- Suitable for busy households, new parents, college students, and more
Understanding Make Ahead Meals: A Time-Saving Solution
Meal prepping can change your life if you’re busy and want to eat well. Spend a few hours each week making meals ahead. This way, you get healthy, ready-to-eat food that saves time and money. Let’s explore the benefits and see what you need to make it easy.
Benefits of Meal Prepping
Meal prepping has many perks. It makes your week easier and helps you eat better. You save time, cut down on food waste, and stay within your budget. Plus, it’s easier to eat healthy, balanced meals.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
To make meal prepping better, get some key tools. You’ll need good food storage containers and freezer-safe bags. Also, a sharp knife, cutting boards, and measuring tools are a must for prep work.
Storage Options and Duration
Proper food storage is key to keeping food fresh and safe.Cooked meals can last 3-4 days in the fridge or 3-9 months in the freezer. Use airtight containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.Knowing how to store your meals ensures they stay good and safe.
| Storage Option | Refrigerator | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked Meals | 3-4 days | 3-9 months |
| Chopped Vegetables | 3-5 days | 8-12 months |
| Cooked Grains | 3-5 days | 6-12 months |
| Cooked Proteins | 3-4 days | 2-6 months |
Classic Casseroles for Weekly Meal Planning
Classic casseroles are the best for easy meals. They’re comforting, delicious, and great for planning meals. Our collection includes Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole and Five-Cheese Ziti al Forno, making dinner prep easier.
These casseroles save time on busy nights. You can make all 30 recipes ahead of time. Just thaw and bake when you’re ready. Remember to let them come to room temperature before baking.
Some casseroles can be frozen for up to 3 months. For example, Deluxe Hash Brown Casserole is quick to prepare. It’s perfect for breakfast or dinner.
| Recipe | Total Time | Servings | Nutritional Value (per serving) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole | 145 minutes | 8 | 341 calories, 11 g fat, 64 mg cholesterol, 526 mg sodium, 35 g carbohydrate, 23g protein |
| Chicken & Cheddar Biscuit Casserole | 75 minutes | 12 | 357 calories, 16 g fat, 78 mg cholesterol, 1081 mg sodium, 29 g carbohydrate, 23 g protein |
| Vegetable Strata | 115 minutes | 12 | 677 calories, 36 g fat, 244mg cholesterol, 940 mg sodium, 55 g carbohydrate, 35 g protein |
| Deluxe Hash Brown Casserole | 60 minutes | 12 | 273 calories, 17 g fat, 36 mg cholesterol, 838mg sodium, 20 g carbohydrate, 10g protein |
Our casseroles cater to all tastes and diets. They’re easy to make ahead, so you can enjoy a homemade meal any day.
Freezer-Friendly Italian Favorites
Make your life easier with make-ahead Italian dishes. Enjoy classic lasagna roll-ups and hearty baked ziti. These frozen favorites bring Italy’s flavors to your table with less prep.
Lasagna and Pasta Bakes
Lasagna is a favorite for a reason. Make a big batch, layer it in pans, and freeze for up to 3 months. Heat it in the oven for a quick, hearty meal. Baked ziti also freezes well. Mix cooked ziti with red sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella, then freeze for later.
Homemade Sauce Preparations
The key to great Italian dishes is the sauce. Make lots of your favorite sauces, like spaghetti or Alfredo. Freeze them in portions for easy use. These sauces will make your pasta dishes even better.
Portion and Storage Tips
- Divide pasta dishes into individual or family-sized portions before freezing for quick reheating.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags to minimize air exposure and preserve freshness.
- Label your frozen meals with the dish name, date, and reheating instructions for hassle-free access.
- Thaw frozen Italian dishes overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or on the stovetop.
| Pasta Dish | Freeze Time | Reheating Method |
|---|---|---|
| Lasagna | Up to 3 months | Bake at 350°F for 45-60 minutes |
| Baked Ziti | Up to 3 months | Bake at 350°F for 30-45 minutes |
| Spaghetti Sauce | Up to 3 months | Thaw and reheat on the stovetop |
| Alfredo Sauce | Up to 2 months | Thaw and reheat on the stovetop |
Enjoy the ease of Italian cuisine with these freezer-friendly dishes. Savor Italy’s flavors any night with little effort.
Slow Cooker Make Ahead Meals
Slow cooker recipes are perfect for make-ahead meals. They offer a mix of classic comfort and new flavors. This makes it easy to enjoy a homemade dinner with little effort.
Prep ingredients early for easy slow cooker recipes. Try Chicken Broccoli Alfredo, Sweet & Sour Chicken, and French Dip Sandwiches. These recipes are great when you’ve already done the prep work. You can also freeze them for later, making mealtime stress-free.
- The author recommends the Paprika app for storing recipes and creating shopping lists from recipe ingredients.
- The Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken Tacos recipe allows for making several batches simultaneously.
- The Slow Cooker Sweet-And-Sour Pot Roast recipe is a kids’ favorite.
| Recipe | Serving Size | Calories | Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fiber (g) | Cholesterol (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No-Guilt Beefy Nachos | 8 servings | 99 | 1 | 232 | 7 | 5 | 1 | 0 |
| Butternut Squash and Carrot Soup | 10 servings | 125 | 1 | 577 | 3 | 24 | 4 | 0 |
| Stuffed Chicken Rolls | 6 servings | 451 | 26 | 1124 | 60 | 9 | 9 | 167 |
Slow cooker recipes are great for any meal craving. They’re perfect for busy weeknights. With some planning, your freezer can be filled with delicious slow cooker recipes, Crock-Pot meals, and make-ahead dinners.
Family-Friendly Chicken Dishes
Chicken is a great protein for many meals. You can make Chicken Pot Pies or Chicken Enchiladas ahead of time. These dishes are perfect for busy families. Focus on making them flavorful and easy to eat.
Chicken Pot Pies and Casseroles
Chicken Pot Pie is a favorite that freezes well. Make the filling and crust separately. Then, bake them together when you’re ready to eat.
Try a Chicken and Rice Bake or a Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake for a casserole. These dishes are easy to make ahead and quick to cook.
Seasoning and Marinade Options
Use different seasonings and marinades to make your chicken dishes tasty. Try Lemon-Herb, Garlic-Parmesan, or Southwestern flavors. Marinate the chicken before freezing for easy reheating.
| Recipe | Calories | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stuffed Chicken Rolls | 525 | 26 | 9 | 60 |
| Chicken Tater Bake | 374 | 22 | 27 | 18 |
| Chicken Burritos | 760 | 44 | 40 | 51 |
| Chicken & Cheese Noodle Bake | 509 | 24 | 42 | 29 |
| Simple Creamy Chicken Enchiladas | 828 | 40 | 72 | 42 |
Make-ahead chicken dishes are easy and tasty. They’re perfect for any meal. Whether it’s for a big gathering or a weeknight dinner, chicken is always a good choice.
Hearty Beef and Pork Preparations
Beef and pork dishes are perfect for make-ahead meals. They offer a hearty and satisfying option. You can make classics like Beef Barley Stew or Super Easy Country-Style Ribs ahead of time. Then, just reheat them for a delicious dinner.
The Pork Stew is a standout recipe. It highlights the robust flavor and tender texture of pork shoulder. It’s a great alternative to beef stew, with a mix of carrots, celery, and potatoes. The secret to its great taste is searing the pork and deglazing the pan.
| Recipe | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pork Stew | 30 mins | 4 hrs | 4 hrs 30 mins | 6 | 467 |
| Beef Barley Stew | 45 mins | 3 hrs | 3 hrs 45 mins | 8 | 353 |
| Super Easy Country-Style Ribs | 20 mins | 4 hrs | 4 hrs 20 mins | 4 | 553 |
When making these beef and pork recipes, remember to store and reheat them right. Soups and stews can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for 2-3 months. They might change a bit in texture. Thaw them in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or in the oven. Serve them with sides like cornbread, biscuits, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Healthy Make Ahead Vegetarian Options
Discover the ease of plant-based meals that you can make ahead. These healthy freezer meals are packed with nutrients and taste great. They’ll change how you plan meals for the week.
Plant-Based Protein Meals
Boost your energy with vegetarian recipes full of plant-based protein. Make a big batch of chickpea salad that lasts 3-4 days. Try a creamy vegetable soup for bold flavors that last several days.
For a cozy meal, make a sweet potato chili that stays fresh for days. Lentil curry can be prepped up to 5 days ahead. And, a Italian-inspired lentil bolognese keeps well for 5 days too. Plus, falafel can be pre-cooked or its batter stored for a week.
Vegetable-Rich Casseroles
Enjoy more veggies with plant-based meals like vegetable strata, cheesy broccoli soup, or vegetable lasagna. These healthy freezer meals are nutritious and easy to prepare in advance.
Try zucchini boats that can be frozen for up to three months. Or, a chickpea stew that keeps in the fridge for 4-5 days. Also, a sweet potato curry and a black bean soup get better with time in the fridge.
Breakfast for Dinner Make Ahead Ideas
Try “brinner” – breakfast for dinner – with these easy make-ahead dishes. Learn how to prep, freeze, and reheat breakfast items for quick dinners. They’re perfect for satisfying both savory and sweet cravings.
Begin with a Sausage Egg & Cheese Biscuit Casserole ready to bake at your convenience. Or, enjoy a French Toast Casserole for a cozy weekend dinner. These dishes are great for busy weeknights, offering convenience and versatility.
For a healthy choice, make Overnight Oats with Berries and Nuts for a filling dinner. Also, try Muffin-Tin Scrambled Eggs with your favorite fillings for a quick, easy meal.
| Recipe | Calories | Fat (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ham & Cheese Breakfast Strudels | 439 | 33 | 16 |
| Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats | 346 | 13 | 10 |
| Baked French Toast | 297 | 15 | 9 |
| Muffin-Tin Scrambled Eggs | 88 | 6 | 8 |
With these breakfast for dinner, make-ahead breakfast, and brinner ideas, enjoy breakfast anytime without the stress. Have a delicious breakfast for dinner ready, thanks to your meal planning.
Budget-Friendly Batch Cooking Recipes
Make-ahead meals don’t have to cost a lot. With some planning and smart shopping, you can make tasty, affordable meals. Let’s look at some cheap ingredients and how to shop in bulk to start.
Cost-Effective Ingredients
For affordable meals, use ingredients that are good for you and can be used in many dishes. Some cheap options include:
- Canned beans and legumes
- Frozen vegetables
- Ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oats
- Eggs
- Peanut butter
- Spices and herbs
By buying these ingredients in bulk, you can make many healthy, affordable meals for batch cooking.
Bulk Shopping Guidelines
Shopping in bulk can save you money. Buying more at once often means better deals. Here are some tips for bulk shopping:
- Plan your meals and make a list to avoid buying things you don’t need.
- Look for sales, coupons, and discounts on bulk items.
- Use airtight containers to keep food fresh longer.
- Choose items that last a long time, like grains, canned goods, and spices.
- Share bulk items with friends or family to save even more.
By using cheap ingredients and smart bulk shopping, you can make many delicious, affordable meals. These meals will feed your family well without spending too much.
| Recipe | Portions | Prep Time | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child friendly slow-cooker chilli | 6 | Not specified | Not specified |
| Butternut squash and chickpea tagine | Not specified | 30 minutes | Not specified |
| Slow-cooker chicken tikka masala | 6 | Not specified | Not specified |
| Slow-cooked pork, cider & sage hotpot | 6 | Not specified | Not specified |
Quick-Assembly Sandwich and Wrap Fillings
Ready for a change from the usual sandwich? Try delicious make-ahead fillings for a quick, satisfying meal. Options like Shredded Beef Fajitas and Chicken Taquitos make lunch prep easy.
Keep your fridge or freezer stocked with protein and veggie fillings. Make these in advance. Then, just grab what you need for a fast sandwich fillings or wrap recipes lunch.
Versatile Fillings for Sandwiches and Wraps
- Shredded Beef Fajitas: Tender, seasoned beef with sautéed peppers and onions
- Chicken Taquitos: Shredded chicken rolled in tortillas with Mexican spices
- Italian Sandwich Wraps: Salami, pepperoni, ham, and provolone cheese with zesty Italian dressing
- Cranberry Turkey Wraps: Sliced turkey, cranberry sauce, and creamy cheese spread
- Club Roll-Ups: Layers of turkey, bacon, and cheese wrapped in a soft flatbread
With these sandwich fillings and wrap recipes ready, you can make a quick, tasty make-ahead lunches. Just pick your filling, add it to your bread or wrap, and you’re good to go.
Feel free to mix things up with your favorite ingredients. Create your own sandwich fillings and wrap recipes. A bit of prep work means you’ll always have a quick lunch option.
Make Ahead Soups and Stews
Homemade soups and stews are perfect for cozy meals. Many are freezer-friendly, great for meal planning. Let’s look at some tasty freezer-friendly soups for easy dinners.
Make-ahead soups and stews get better with time. Our Quick Beef Chili is smoky and beefy, perfect for up to three months in the freezer. The Creamy Tomato Basil Soup gets even better after a day or two, ideal for batch cooking and freezing.
- Freeze Darn Good Chili for an easy dinner upgrade any night of the week.
- Slow-cook a big batch of Black Bean Soup and store it in the freezer for quick, nutritious meals.
- Prepare a Vegetable-Packed Soup in just 35 minutes, then freeze it for future use.
Soups and stews freeze well. Separate them before freezing so you can easily reheat them. This way, you can thaw and reheat only what you need, without wasting leftovers.
| Dish | Total Time | Nutrition Facts |
|---|---|---|
| Hearty Baked Potato Soup | 385 mins | 310 calories, 11g fat, 38mg cholesterol, 906mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate, 9g protein |
| Vietnamese Chicken Soup | 405 mins | 147 calories, 7g fat, 65mg cholesterol, 836mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate, 10g protein |
| Garden Minestrone | 50 mins | 209 calories, 4g fat, 0 cholesterol, 929mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate, 12g protein |
| Italian Beef Vegetable Soup | 320 mins | 127 calories, 3g fat, 24mg cholesterol, 617mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate, 11g protein |
Whether you want a classic soup recipe or a hearty stew dish, there are endless options. Prepping and freezing these dishes makes weeknights easier. Enjoy homemade soups and stews with ease.
Conclusion
Adding make-ahead meals to your weekly plan can change your life. You can enjoy a variety of make ahead meals like casseroles and slow cooker dishes. This way, you can have tasty, homemade meals without the daily hassle.
Meal prep makes dinners easier and keeps your family happy. With the right storage and freezing tips, your meals stay fresh for months. This lets you focus on other important things in your life.
Keep trying new make-ahead recipes and find what works for you. Whether it’s batch-cooking or making sandwich fillings ahead, the goal is to make dinner easy and fun. With a bit of planning, you can make weeknights less stressful and more enjoyable.
FAQ
What are the benefits of make-ahead meals?
Make-ahead meals save time and money. They reduce stress on weeknights. You can have healthy dinners ready quickly.
What kitchen equipment is needed for make-ahead meal prep?
You’ll need aluminum foil pans, freezer-safe bags or containers, and reusable containers. These help you portion, freeze, and reheat meals.
How long do made-ahead meals last in the freezer?
Most meals can be frozen for 3-9 months. Use airtight containers or bags to keep food fresh.
What are some good make-ahead casserole recipes?
Try Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole and Five-Cheese Ziti al Forno. They can be frozen and baked later.
How can I make Italian dishes like lasagna in advance?
Prepare pasta sauces and assemble dishes like lasagna roll-ups. Freeze them, then bake when you’re ready.
What type of slow cooker recipes work well for make-ahead meals?
Slow cooker recipes like Chicken Broccoli Alfredo and Sweet & Sour Chicken are great. Prep ingredients ahead and cook on busy nights.
What are some good make-ahead chicken recipes?
Chicken dishes like Chicken Pot Pie and Chicken Enchiladas freeze well. Season and marinate chicken for extra flavor.
How can I make beef and pork dishes in advance?
Try Super Easy Country-Style Ribs and Beef Barley Stew. Choose the right cuts and freeze for later.
What are some healthy vegetarian make-ahead meals?
Options include Vegetable Strata and Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Soup. Add protein like beans or tofu for a filling meal.
Can I make breakfast-inspired dishes for dinner?
Yes! Prepare French Toast Casserole and Sausage Egg & Cheese Biscuits ahead. Reheat for a quick dinner.
How can I save money with make-ahead meals?
Batch cooking saves money by buying in bulk and reducing waste. It also uses ingredients efficiently.
What type of sandwich and wrap fillings can I prep in advance?
Shredded Beef Fajitas and Chicken Taquitos are great. Prepare them, freeze, and assemble for quick meals.
How can I make soups and stews in advance?
Recipes like Quick Beef Chili and Creamy Tomato Basil Soup freeze well. Proper storage keeps them fresh.