Need meals that won’t demand all your time but still get the job done? Here are 15 time-saving wonders that can be whipped up before you even think about running late. They’re the kind of meals that give you back your evenings, so you can focus on more important things—like rewatching that series you swore you’d only watch once. Whether you’re working overtime or just pretending to, these dishes will be waiting for you.
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken
Planning meals ahead can be a lifesaver, especially when you can prep something that delivers so much flavor. Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken makes a great weeknight dinner, and you won’t be scrambling at the last minute. Toss this dish in the oven the night before, and you’ll have lunch ready for a few days, making it perfect for meal prep. With its robust flavors, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken
Wild Rice Salad
When you’re juggling a million things, a versatile dish like Wild Rice Salad can be your go-to. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own, or you can pair it with something else from your meal prep stash. This salad travels well, so it’s ideal for lunch at the office or a quick snack between meetings. You can easily make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it all week.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Salad
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito
Are you craving that fast food burrito without the drive-thru? You can easily make Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito in advance, and it’ll taste just as good reheated. It’s a great way to bring some excitement to your usual lunch routine. Plus, you know exactly what’s going into it, so no mystery ingredients here. Go ahead make this marvel now!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito
Fasolakia Lathera – (Greek Green Beans)
Need something light yet filling? Fasolakia Lathera – (Greek Green Beans), a classic Greek green bean dish, fits the bill. It’s easy to make a big batch, and the flavors only get better with time, making it perfect for leftovers. Whether it’s a side or main, you’ll have something healthy ready to go when you are short on time.
Get the Recipe: Fasolakia Lathera – (Greek Green Beans)
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich
When a burger just feels too heavy, Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich is a solid alternative. It’s lighter but still packed with flavor, and you can make a batch to have ready for quick dinners or lunches throughout the week. Keep it simple by reheating or jazz it up with some toppings, depending on your mood. This one is also great for when you’ve got a few people to feed.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich
Chicken Divan
Ever wish you could enjoy a homemade casserole without slaving over it right before dinner? Chicken Divan is that dish you can prepare ahead of time and have on hand for those hectic evenings. It’s hearty, comforting, and can feed the whole family with ease. Just pop it in the oven, and you’ve got yourself a no-fuss meal in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
When life gets busy, having Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs ready to go is a real time-saver. They’re fun, flavorful, and cook themselves while you’re getting stuff done. You can make a large batch and reheat them for dinner or lunch, and they still taste just as good the next day. Whether you serve them over rice or on their own, they fit perfectly into your weekly meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
Authentic Tzatziki Sauce
You wouldn’t think something like Authentic Tzatziki Sauce could make meal prep easier, but it’s surprisingly versatile. It pairs well with so many dishes, whether you’re dipping, topping, or using it as a spread. Make a batch and keep it in the fridge for a quick add-on to all your meals. It’s also a great way to freshen up leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Tzatziki Sauce
Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots
If you want to bring a little fun to your meal prep, Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots is your answer. You can make these ahead of time and reheat them when you need a quick snack or side. They’re packed with all the flavors you love, and they’ll keep you satisfied during those busy days. Plus, who can resist loaded tots?
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots
Easy Mexican Rice
Easy Mexican Rice is one of those side dishes you’ll be glad to have on hand when time is tight. It pairs with almost anything and is a great filler for burritos or bowls. You can make a big pot of it and store it in the fridge for a quick and easy addition to your meals. Plus, it reheats well, so no worries about leftovers losing their charm.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mexican Rice
Grilled Pork Souvlaki
If you’re a fan of make-ahead meals with lots of flexibility, Grilled Pork Souvlaki is right up your alley. You can prep it early, and when you’re ready to eat, just heat it up and go. Whether you’re packing it for lunch or eating it at home, it’s a rewarding option. Plus, it works well in wraps, salads, or just on its own. Make some of these marvels now!
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Souvlaki
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips
Craving some hearty comfort food without all the fuss? Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips are perfect for prepping in advance. These beef tips are rich and flavorful, and they reheat like a dream. So, when you’re short on time, just pull these out and have a delicious, filling meal ready in minutes. This is one of the dishes that are for busy professionals!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips
Cinnamon Muffins
Do you need a quick breakfast or snack during your busy week? Cinnamon Muffins are an excellent option to make ahead. They’re easy to grab on your way out the door or when you need something to munch on between meetings. Bake a batch and enjoy them all week long without worrying about making breakfast each day.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Muffins
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Having a dish like Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole in your fridge means you’re always prepared for a comforting meal. It’s great to make ahead for busy weeks when you want something filling but don’t have time to cook. This casserole holds up well in the fridge, making it a reliable side dish whenever you need it. Plus, it’s just as good reheated.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches
If you’re looking for something to keep lunch exciting, Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches are a great choice. You can prep the meatballs in advance and build your sandwich when you’re ready to eat. It’s a quick, flavorful, and portable meal that’s perfect for busy workdays. And since you’ve already made the meatballs, lunch comes together in no time.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches
