Meal prepping can be a game changer for busy weeknights, making it easy to enjoy home-cooked meals without the hassle of cooking every day. Here are 20 simple dinner ideas that anyone can whip up in advance, ensuring you have delicious and satisfying meals ready to go. From hearty casseroles to fresh salads, these recipes are designed to save time and keep your evenings stress-free.
Mediterranean Barley and Vegetable Soup
This soup combines pearled barley with a mix of fresh vegetables and classic Mediterranean herbs. It's a healthy and satisfying option that won't break the bank. Perfect for a cozy meal, it's both filling and easy to prepare.
Gnocchi with Bacon & Mushrooms
Pan-fried gnocchi is a hidden gem that really outshines the boiled version. When you cook it this way, it gets a nice crispy texture that adds a lot to the dish. Adding bacon and mushrooms brings in a rich flavor that makes this meal even more enjoyable.
Turkey Chili
This thick and hearty chili is a great way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey. It's packed with flavor from a special ingredient and is simple to make in just one pot. You can have it ready to enjoy in under an hour.
Hamburger Soup
Hamburger soup is filled with juicy ground beef, fresh vegetables, and hearty potatoes, all simmered in a tasty tomato broth. It's a simple meal that you can whip up quickly and enjoy again and again. Perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting and satisfying.
Pink Pasta Sauce
This pink sauce pasta features a tasty blend of tomato and cream, combined with onion, garlic, and melted mozzarella cheese, all tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti. It's a comforting dish that brings together classic Italian flavors in a way that's sure to please anyone who enjoys pasta. Perfect for a quick dinner, this meal is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Nduja Pasta
Nduja Pasta is a simple and tasty pasta dish that packs a punch. It features nduja, a spicy, spreadable salami from Calabria, Italy, which adds a rich and bold flavor. This dish is perfect for anyone looking for a satisfying meal that doesn't take much time to prepare.
Chicken Burgers
These chicken patties are simple to prepare and come together in no time. With just a few easy steps and only 10 minutes in the air fryer, you can have a delicious meal ready. There's no need for chopping, as powdered seasonings do all the work, and a splash of fresh lemon juice keeps them juicy.
Lamb Meatballs with Cilantro & Lemon
These Lamb Meatballs are simple to prepare and packed with fresh lemon and cilantro flavor. They pair perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, but also work great as a snack or part of a larger spread. I've been making these for years, and they always hit the spot.
Sweetheart Cabbage Salad with Gyoza Chickpeas
This sweetheart cabbage salad comes together in just 15 minutes and is perfect for anyone who thinks they don't like salads. It features fresh spinach, crunchy sweetheart cabbage, and tasty chickpeas, all topped with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This dish is not only healthy but also satisfying and simple to prepare.
Chicken Tortilla Soup
This soup is perfect for any time of the year. It's filling, good for you, and has a nice kick to it. Whether it's a chilly day or a warm evening, this dish fits right in.
Pesto Chicken Pasta
Plain chicken breasts get a delicious upgrade with basil pesto, creamy heavy cream, and tangy balsamic vinegar. This simple combination transforms a basic dish into something special that everyone will enjoy. It's an easy way to impress family and friends with a tasty meal.
Hamburger and Potato Casserole
This comforting Midwestern casserole combines ground beef and green beans, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes and crispy French fried onions. It's a filling dish that brings back memories and is perfect for a cozy dinner. With its layers of flavor and texture, this meal is sure to please everyone at the table.
Lemon Kale White Bean Soup
Bright flavors and fresh veggies in a soup you'll make on repeat. This quick and easy recipe makes bright, comforting soup in about 30 minutes.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This 20-minute marry me chicken pasta is a fantastic option for a quick and satisfying meal. Using rotisserie chicken and al dente pasta, it comes together with a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce that tastes like it's been simmering for hours. Perfect for busy evenings, this dish offers comfort and flavor without taking up too much of your time.
Roasted Sweet Potato & Feta Cheese Salad
A healthy salad can be just what you need, and this sweet potato salad fits the bill perfectly. It's warm, filling, and makes a great meal for lunch or dinner. Plus, it tastes just as good the next day, making it a convenient choice for meal prep.
Skillet Chicken with Cream of Mushroom Soup
Skillet chicken with cream of mushroom soup turns plain chicken breast and a classic pantry item into a simple, flavorful one-pan dinner. It's a quick and easy meal that brings a comforting taste to the table without much work. Perfect for busy nights, this dish is sure to please everyone.
Halloumi Wraps
Halloumi wraps are a hit with everyone, from kids to food lovers. Filled with halloumi cheese, red pesto, avocado, and walnuts, these wraps are full of flavor. They come together in just 20 minutes and are really simple to prepare.
Meatballs without Breadcrumbs and Eggs
These meatballs are simple to prepare and can be ready in less than an hour. You can cook them on the stove, in an air fryer, or in the oven, giving you plenty of options. The result is a juicy and flavorful meatball that everyone will enjoy.
15 Minute Creamy Tomato Pasta
A creamy sun-dried tomato sauce wraps around tender noodles and flavorful chickpeas, providing a satisfying meal that's both delicious and nutritious. This dish is a great way to ensure everyone gets their protein while enjoying a comforting dinner. It's simple to prepare and perfect for busy evenings.
Air Fryer Flank Steak
Air Fryer Flank Steak is quick and easy to prepare, taking only 8-10 minutes to cook. The marinade adds great flavor and helps to make the meat tender, resulting in a juicy steak that's ready in no time. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Comments
No Comments