Cravings don’t stand a chance against these 17 make-ahead low-carb recipes. Perfect for busy days, they take the stress out of meal planning without leaving you hungry, and they’re ready whenever you are. No need to worry about last-minute cooking chaos either; just grab and go when you’re ready to eat. You might even wonder why you didn’t start prepping meals like this sooner—your future self will thank you!

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Seeking a meal that blends sweetness with a bit of crunch? Toss in some dried cranberries and walnuts with your Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. It’s a perfect blend for those looking for a meal that’s both nutritious and filling, with the added convenience of being prepared in advance. You’ll appreciate how it keeps well, making your meal planning hassle-free.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Sausage Parmigiana

Sausage Parmigiana comes in handy when you want a hearty dish without the extra carbs. It’s layered with rich tomato sauce and creamy cheese, using savory sausage as a base. Perfect for a comforting dinner, it’s also easy to prep ahead of time. Simply reheat for a quick and easy meal that’s sure to fill you up.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Parmigiana

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

For a quick and simple dish that brings a twist to a classic, try this Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. This meal is a great way to get that crispy coating without the added oils from traditional frying. Filled with ham and cheese, it’s a convenient option that cooks up in no time. It’s a stress-free dish that keeps you on track with your low-carb goals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Mediterranean Cod

Take a coastal approach to your dining with this Mediterranean Cod. This light, flaky fish is seasoned with herbs that bring out its natural flavors, giving you that fresh, seaside vibe. It’s a breeze to prepare and great for a nutritious meal on a busy day. Despite its simplicity, it packs a punch in terms of taste and health benefits, leaving you feeling happy and healthy after every bite.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Garlic Steak & Mushrooms

Indulge in robust flavors with Garlic Steak & Mushrooms without worrying about your carb intake. This pairing is a classic combination that’s hearty and fulfilling. It can be prepped in advance, and then cooked to perfection when you’re ready. You’ll find that it’s just as suitable for a weeknight dinner as it is for a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Steak & Mushrooms

Shirazi Salad

This salad offers a refreshing side dish or a light meal option. It features tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and herbs with a tangy dressing, and it’s as vibrant in color as it is in taste. Plus, it’s simple enough to throw together in a pinch, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Shirazi Salad is a perfect complement to any main course or just as good by itself.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Grilled Greek Chicken

Grilled Greek Chicken brings you the taste of Greece without the extra carbs. Marinated with olive oil, lemon, and a blend of herbs, this chicken is always a hit when you’re looking for something straightforward yet appetizing. It’s ideal for a quick lunch or a casual dinner outdoors. Plus, it’s another dish that can be prepped ahead of time, saving you effort when entertaining or meal-prepping for the week.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Greek Chicken

Pot Roast with Bacon

If you’re in the mood for a classic comfort meal, look no further than Pot Roast with Bacon. Adding bacon brings another layer of rich flavor to this already beloved dish. It’s a fantastic way to round out your meal prep roster, and just waiting to be heated up whenever you need a fulfilling dinner. Plus, who doesn’t love the bonus of bacon?
Get the Recipe: Pot Roast with Bacon

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup

When the temperature drops and you want something warm, Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup is a great choice. Even without the tortillas, you won’t miss a thing with its smoky flavor and hearty ingredients. Preparing this soup in advance means you can have a comforting meal ready in minutes. It’s a wonderful option for those colder days or when you just want some homestyle cooking.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup

Cucumber Salad with Feta

Cucumber Salad with Feta is the epitome of a fresh and easy side dish. It mixes crisp cucumbers with the salty tang of feta cheese, all dressed in a simple vinaigrette. It’s an ideal partner for heavier main courses, bringing balance to your meal while keeping things light. This salad is not only flavorful but also lightning-quick to assemble, perfect for when you need something in a pinch.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta

Steakhouse Creamed Spinach

For a side that’s indulgent, yet low on carbs, opt for this Steakhouse Creamed Spinach. It’s rich, and creamy, and complements a wide array of main dishes beautifully. Whether you’re pairing it with steak, fish, or even chicken, it offers a smooth and cozy texture. Even better, it can hang out in your fridge until you’re ready to serve, making your meal planning a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Steakhouse Creamed Spinach

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

A favorite from the famous restaurant chain is now doable in your kitchen with Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. It’s a simple dish with the essence of honey mustard, mushrooms, and of course, bacon. You can look forward to enjoying this dish with all its nuanced flavors. What makes it even better is its suitability for meal prep — just heat and serve.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Baked Eggs Florentine with Ham

Breakfast doesn’t have to be a rushed affair with Baked Eggs Florentine with Ham. This dish combines eggs, spinach, and ham to start your day with a well-balanced meal. It’s something you can make in advance, then warm up for a quick morning feed. Plus, it doubles magnificently as a brunch item for those leisurely weekend gatherings when you want something filling without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Baked Eggs Florentine with Ham

Chinese Chicken Salad

Chinese Chicken Salad is a stellar choice for anyone who loves Asian-inspired tastes without the carb-heavy components. This salad is a crunchy, savory, and refreshing option for lunch or dinner. The great thing is, that it holds up well in the fridge, so you can prepare it ahead and enjoy it later. It’s a splendid way to add variety to your meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

This sandwich is an easy-to-make, casual dish that will remind you of your favorite diner. Even without the bun, the seasoned ground beef works great on low-carb options like lettuce wraps. You’ll find that this Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich is not only comforting but also adaptable to your meal prep needs. It’s a true classic that doesn’t skimp on flavor, perfect for both a weeknight dinner and a meal-prepped lunch.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Beef Barbacoa

Smoky, tender, and incredibly versatile, Beef Barbacoa is a must-try for meal preppers. This dish can be the centerpiece of tacos, salads, or simply enjoyed on its own. The best part is how it becomes more flavorful as it sits, making it the perfect make-ahead meal. Whatever your plans, this dish has the convenience and taste to match.
Get the Recipe: Beef Barbacoa

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Last but not least, this Mediterranean Chicken Bake pulls together the bright flavors of the Mediterranean into a simple, oven-baked dish. With ingredients like olives, feta, and tomatoes included, it’s a robust meal that’s ready when you are. It holds up well in the fridge for those days when cooking just isn’t on the agenda. This dish keeps it easy without sacrificing an ounce of enjoyment.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake