If you’re always on the go during the week, finding time to cook can be tough. That’s why these 17 recipes to try meal prepping are great for keeping on hand for busy weekdays. They’re quick to make and perfect for preparing ahead of time. They make sure you have healthy and enjoyable meals ready when you’re short on time. Whether you’re dealing with a hectic work schedule or juggling family activities, these meal prep ideas are here to help.
Each of the recipes is all about making your life easier. They’re great for anyone who wants to plan their meals for the week without spending too much time in the kitchen. You’ll find a variety of meals in this list, from light lunches to filling dinners. Each is chosen to be straightforward and to suit different tastes.
Bell Pepper Sandwich
This Bell Pepper Sandwich is a great choice for a quick lunch on busy days. By using a bell pepper instead of bread, this meal is both light and easy to make in just 10 minutes. It’s perfect for preparing ahead of time for a quick lunch during your busy week.
Get the Recipe: Bell Pepper Sandwich
Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats
These Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats are perfect for a quick lunch. Made with canned chicken, bacon, cheese, and cucumber halves, they are easy and fast to prepare. Great for meal prepping, these boats are a great lunch option for your busy workdays.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad
This Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad is a great pick for a fast, simple lunch. Easy to make and perfect for preparing in advance, it’s a light and flavorful choice for busy weekdays. This salad is a practical option for anyone looking to prep meals ahead of time with a bit of a kick.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad
Cottage Cheese Breakfast Muffins
Cottage Cheese Breakfast Muffins are a great option for a quick breakfast on the go. Ready in just 30 minutes, these muffins are not only high in protein but also versatile. They’re an excellent choice for meal prep, ensuring you have a hearty start to your busy mornings.
Get the Recipe: Cottage Cheese Breakfast Muffins
Canned Chicken Patties
Canned Chicken Patties are a perfect solution for a speedy lunch. They take only 20 minutes to make and are straightforward. Pair them with vegetables for a balanced meal, perfect for those days when you’re short on time but still want something nutritious.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties
Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad
This Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad is ready in just 30 minutes. Its simple ingredients make it a breeze to prepare, and it’s a great complement to a variety of main dishes, especially during busy weeks when time is precious.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad
Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats
Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats are perfect for a quick 10-minute snack. They combine cream cheese and tuna for a seasoned flavor, creating a simple and fresh option for a speedy lunch. These boats are great for those days when you need a meal that’s quick to prepare and easy to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats
Broccoli Fritters
Broccoli Fritters are ready in 35 minutes. Easy to prepare with chopped broccoli and Parmesan cheese, they add a touch of simplicity to your meals. These fritters are especially handy for meal prepping, saving time during busy weekdays.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Fritters
Wild Rice Mushroom Soup
This Wild Rice Mushroom Soup is a comforting choice for a quick lunch. It combines a hearty, nutty flavor with a light yet filling consistency. The time-saving cooking process makes it perfect for busy weeks. Make it in advance, store in containers, and warm up when you’re ready to eat.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Mushroom Soup
Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties
Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties can be prepared in just 30 minutes. They’re a convenient and flavorful addition to any meal, perfect for when you need something quick and light. These patties are great for days when you’re looking for a fast lunch option.
Get the Recipe: Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup is a creamy, one-pot meal that’s ready in 1 hour. It’s a comforting choice for a light lunch or dinner and stores well for eating throughout the week. This soup is great for meal prepping, providing a nutritious option on busy days.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup
Greek Salad Meal Prep Jars
These Greek Salad Meal Prep Jars are perfect for a quick, simple lunch. To prep them, you’ll just assemble the vegetables and dressing in jars. They’re perfect for preparing ahead of time, ensuring you have a fresh and healthy meal ready to go.
Get the Recipe: Greek Salad Meal Prep Jars
Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers
Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers are perfect for a quick dinner or appetizer. Ready in under an hour, these poppers combine oven-baked chicken and bacon with homemade ranch dressing. They’re a great choice for a flavorful yet light dish that’s easy to prepare on busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers
Cauliflower Potato Salad
Cauliflower Potato Salad is a great meal that doesn’t take long to prepare. With ingredients like cauliflower, bacon, and cheese, it’s a fun alternative to traditional potato salad. This dish is perfect for days when you want something quick for your meal.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Potato Salad
Zucchini Bites
These Zucchini Bites, ready in 30 minutes, are a great option for meal prepping. Made with ingredients like shredded zucchini, Parmesan, cheddar, and Italian seasoning, they’re not only easy to prepare but also a quick addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bites
Keto Chicken Nuggets
In just 30 minutes, Keto Chicken Nuggets are ready to enjoy. Prepared with canned chicken and coated with pork rinds, they are crispy on the outside with a tender inside. They’re a perfect choice for a light dinner when you’re short on time.
Get the Recipe: Keto Chicken Nuggets
Avocado Tuna Salad
This Avocado Tuna Salad is a quick and nutritious option for lunch. Mixing tuna with avocado creates a light meal that’s straightforward and great for those seeking a quick lunch. It’s easy to prep in advance and is a healthy and filling option for your busy weekdays.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Tuna Salad