Stay on top of your week with these 37 easy meal prep recipes.
From chia pudding to chickpea salad, you’ll find plenty of healthy make-ahead meals to choose from.
![Healthy meal prep recipe Grain Bowl with Quinoa Kale Butternut Squash and Chickpeas](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Grain-Bowl-with-Quinoa-Kale-Butternut-Squash-and-Chickpeas.jpg)
30+ Budget Friendly Meal Prep Ideas
Meal prepping once or twice a week is a surefire way to cut down on stress.
So, instead of scrambling to cook every night after work, just spend one afternoon in the kitchen.
Then you can enjoy healthy homemade food all week long!
Between the spicy fajitas, colorful noodle bowls, and fragrant stir-frys, I know you’ll be thrilled to come home to any of these fantastic meal prep recipes.
Healthy Meal Prep Recipes for Breakfast
![Strawberry banana granola parfaits in three mason jars on top of wooden table.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Strawberry-Parfaits.jpg)
Strawberry Banana Granola Parfaits
Yogurt, granola, and fruit are the best way to start the day.
Don’t believe me? Try a spoonful of these crunchy, fruity, and creamy parfaits.
Make them the night before and put them in the fridge for an elegant but easy breakfast sundae.
![Different variants of overnight oats on mason jars topped with berries.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Overnight-oats.jpg)
Overnight Oats
Overnight oats are a no-cook breakfast meal, soaking up flavors while you sleep.
Mix raw oats with your choice of milk, a pinch of salt, maybe a sweetener, and let them chill.
You’ll then wake up to a creamy, hearty base ready to top with anything from banana to chocolate peanut butter.
It’s a prep-once, eat-all-week kind of deal—your tastebuds will thank you every morning.
![](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Cheesy_Breakfast_Casserole.jpg)
Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole
Paula Deen’s breakfast casserole is like a Southern hug on a plate.
You’ve got soft bread, sweet maple sausage, and a gooey cheese middle, all crowned with a creamy egg custard.
Whip this up on Sunday, then just reheat and beat those manic mornings with a hearty, homemade start.
![](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Breakfast-sandwiches-sliced.jpg)
Healthy Meal Prep Breakfast Sandwiches
Having trouble sticking to a diet? I know it’s not always easy, especially when bagels and pancakes are so tempting.
So, set yourself up for success with these easy but delicious meal prep breakfast sandwiches.
Made with whole-grain muffins and an egg and spinach patty, they’re a healthy alternative to breakfast at the drive-thru.
![Bitten egg muffins stack on a white serving plate.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Egg-Cups.jpg)
Meal Prep Egg Muffins
Meal prep egg muffins are the busy morning’s best friend.
Think mini frittatas you can customize.
With three flavors at your fingertips, variety is on your side!
They’re like personal-sized pockets of protein, ready to grab and go.
Make a batch on Sunday, and you’ve got a quick bite ready for enjoyment all week long.
![Breakfast burrito with dips.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Freezer-Breakfast-Burrito.jpg)
Breakfast Burritos
These wholesome breakfast burritos are fast food done right.
Make them up the night before and the kids will thank you as they grab one on their way out the door.
Make Ahead Lunch Ideas
![Quinoa Lentil Salad on a bowl.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Quinoa-Lentil-Salad.jpg)
Quinoa Lentil Salad
This nutritious, gluten-free, and vegetarian meal doesn’t take much to throw together.
Simply cook the quinoa and lentils beforehand, slice the other ingredients, and then toss everything into a bowl together when you’re ready to eat.
![](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Wheat-berry-salad.jpg)
Lunch Prep: Instant Pot Wheat Berry Salad
Made in the Instant Pot, this recipe is a true time-saver.
The wheat berries cook to fluffy perfection in just over 30 minutes, leaving you free to prep the rest of the ingredients.
With carrots, cucumbers, cheese, cranberries, and toasted pecans in the mix, you’ll have a dazzling array of tastes and textures to enjoy when lunch rolls around!
![Apple quinoa salad on plate made with kale, quinoa, diced apples, roasted sweet potatoes, pistachios, and maple balsamic dressing.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Apple-Kale-Qunioa-Salad.jpg)
Apple, Sweet Potato and Kale Quinoa Salad
This delicious fall salad is a keeper.
Made with kale, quinoa, diced apples, roasted sweet potatoes, pistachios, and maple balsamic dressing, it’s out of this world.
![](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Mediterranean-Chickpea-Salad.jpg)
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Packed with fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and nutty chickpeas, this dish is anything but boring.
And unlike most salads, this one won’t get soggy if you leave it sitting for a while.
In fact, quite the opposite. It’ll taste even better if you give the flavors time to mingle.
Make ahead, and you can store this salad in the fridge for up to five days.
![Top view of Caprese chicken pasta salad on white plate.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Caprese-Chicken-Pasta-Salad.jpg)
Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad
Caprese chicken pasta salad is a vibrant mix of grilled chicken, pasta, tomatoes, and mozzarella, all hugged by a sweet balsamic glaze.
What a colorful pick for your weekly meal prep!
Toss it together on a Sunday, and you’ve got a fresh, zesty companion for your busy weekdays.
![Noodles served with beans, cucumber, chicken and sesame in a bowl.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Sesame-Noodles-with-Chicken.jpg)
Sesame Noodle Bowls
Nutty and filling, there’s a whole lot of goodness in these Asian-style noodle bowls.
And better still, they’re super easy.
The creamy sauce shakes up in a jar, and the noodles are ready in minutes. This is my kind of desk lunch!
![BLT Pasta Salad with Crispy Bacon, Tomatoes, Lettuce and Scallions](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/BLT-Pasta-Salad-with-Crispy-Bacon-Tomatoes-Lettuce-and-Scallions.jpg)
BLT Pasta Salad
BLT pasta salad turns the classic sandwich into a robust, healthy meal.
Bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes are all tossed with al dente pasta and a zesty dressing.
It’s easy to make and even easier to love.
Keep it chilled, then enjoy it with your choice of protein.
![Healthy Salad with Quinoa, Cucumber, Parsley and Onions in a White Bowl](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Healthy-Salad-with-Quinoa-Cucumber-Parsley-and-Onions-in-a-White-Bowl.jpg)
Jennifer Aniston Salad
Maybe Jennifer Aniston shared this on the ‘Friends’ lot, or maybe it’s a just delicious myth.
Either way, this quinoa, chickpea, and pistachio mix is a winner.
Prep this once and you’re ready to take on the week with a smile.
![Curried chicken salad meal prep with lettuce, crackers, and fresh fruit.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Chicken-Salad-Meal-Prep.jpg)
Curried Chicken Salad (Meal Prep)
These curried chicken snack packs aren’t just wholesome and delicious. They’re also totally adorable.
Served in individual lunch boxes, this is how you do deli on the go.
Mix up the creamy chicken salad first, then package it with lettuce, crackers, and fresh fruit for a well-rounded make-ahead meal.
![Mexican Buddha Bowl](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Mexican-Buddha-Bowls.png)
Mexican Buddha Bowls
Mexican Buddha bowls are like a fiesta in a dish.
Think black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and avocado, all resting on a bed of brown rice.
Top that with a dollop of guacamole or a squeeze of lime.
Prep on the weekend then come lunchtime, you’ve got an energizing meal for days.
![Gazpacho Soup](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Gazpacho-in-a-Bowl.jpg)
Ina Garten Gazpacho
Ina Garten’s gazpacho is the perfect summer appetizer.
It’s cool and refreshing, brimming with tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers.
It’s a tangy, no-cook starter that sets the stage for a grilled chicken or shrimp entrée.
Fix a batch this weekend, and you’ve got the perfect lead-in to summer meals all week.
![Broccoli Cheddar Quiche](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Broccoli-Cheddar-Quiche.jpg)
Broccoli Cheddar Quiche
Broccoli cheddar quiche is a meal prep marvel; flaky crust, creamy eggs & cheddar, and broccoli bits.
Bake it once, slice and chill, then enjoy a slice with a side salad or soup for lunch.
It’s hearty yet light, and you’ll get a good veggie fix.
Trust me, you’ll want this in your fridge for those no-time-to-cook evenings.
![Healthy tuna salad on top of tasted brioche served with tomatoes and sliced cucumber.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Healthy-tuna-salad.jpg)
Healthy Tuna Salad
Tuna is loaded with healthy omega 3 fatty acids, making it a great choice for lunchboxes.
This creamy salad is the best way to enjoy healthy fish, with mayo, pickles, celery, and red onion.
It’ll keep for up to five days in the fridge…if hungry family members don’t get to it first!
![Greek chicken meal prep bowls made with fresh oregano, zesty lemon, juicy chicken chunks, creamy feta, and healthy vegetables.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Greek-chicken-meal-prep.jpg)
Greek Chicken Meal Prep Bowls
Greek food is a favorite in our house. Fresh herbs, Mediterranean flavors, crisp veggies – what’s not to love?!
These Greek chicken bowls are definitely on the list for lunch.
They’re made by mixing fresh oregano, zesty lemon, juicy chicken chunks, creamy feta, and healthy vegetables.
![Chicken Waldorf Salad with Grapes, Apples, Walnuts and Lettuce](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Chicken-Waldorf-Salad-with-Grapes-Apples-Walnuts-and-Lettuce.jpg)
Waldorf Chicken Salad
Chicken Waldorf salad is another crunch-time MVP.
It’s a fun combo of tender chicken, crisp apples, grapes, celery, and walnuts.
It’s all tossed in a cool creamy dressing the complements the sweetness of the fruits.
Prep one day, stash in containers, and you’ve got a crisp lunch to grab and go.
![Deviled egg salad on a bowl.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Deviled-Egg-Salad.jpg)
Deviled Egg Salad
This deviled egg salad is your classic appetizer turned into a scoopable delight.
It packs the punch of mustard and the creaminess of mayo, all jazzed up with paprika.
Keep this egg-citing mix chilled, then scoop onto sandwiches or greens.
It’s the perfect protein fix to break that lunch monotony.
![Hearty buffalo chicken bowls with spicy chicken, fresh greens, and brown rice.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Hearty-Buffalo-Chicken-Bowls.jpg)
Hearty Buffalo Chicken Bowls
These hearty buffalo chicken bowls pack a punch with spicy chicken, fresh greens, and brown rice.
Tossed with crisp veggies and sharp cheese, they’re a full-flavored lunch fix.
Whip up a batch on Sunday, stash them in the fridge, and your week’s lunches are sorted.
Best Meal Prep Ideas for Dinner
![Top view of instant pot shredded chicken on a gray plate.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Instant-Pot-shredded-Chicken.jpg)
Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
Crafty cooks know that having cooked chicken in the fridge can save you from a dinner disaster.
Toss your chicken into noodles, rice, pasta, or salad, and voila! Supper is ready!
This recipe gives you two options for your make-ahead meat – spicy or plain.
Both are cooked in the Instant Pot to speed things up and are suitable for gluten-free and Paleo diets.
![Meal prep bowl with chicken fajita , brussels sprouts, carrots and veggies.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Chicken-Fajita.jpg)
Healthy Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowl (Low-carb)
Ideal as a light supper or wholesome lunch, this classic Mexican dish is both healthy and hearty.
Shredded chicken is seasoned with spices and cooked with vegetables like red peppers and onions. Ditch the tortilla and serve with even more vegetables for a delicious low-carb option.
![Chickpea curry topped on white rice.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/chickpea-curry-782x1024.jpg)
Chickpea Curry
This vegetarian curry is so tasty, you’ll be amazed that it takes only 10 minutes to prep.
Made with canned chickpeas, coconut milk, and spices, this might be the easiest meal prep recipe on the list!
My advice is to make a big pot and freeze the leftovers. You can then reheat and serve it with rice for a quick dinner later in the week.
![Chicken meal prep with rice and beans.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Chicken-Meal-Prep-with-Veggies.jpg)
Spicy Chicken Meal Prep with Rice and Beans
This Caribbean-style dish is a medley of amazing tastes.
First, you’ll season the chicken with cumin, chili powder, and cayenne. Then you’ll cook it together with rice and salsa before stirring in the beans.
Once that mixture has cooled, you can package it up with the other ingredients, including black beans, fresh cilantro, and a bright sunny sauce.
![Spice salmon and vegetables on meal prep bowls.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Spicy-Salmon-Vegetable-Meal-Prep.jpg)
Spicy Salmon Vegetable Meal-Prep Bowls
Eager to get more healthy fish in your diet?
Look no further than these nutritious make-ahead salmon bowls. They’re loaded with spicy salmon and crisp vegetables for a healthy meal that doesn’t taste like bland diet food.
Make them in advance so you can have yummy goodness on hand when cravings strike.
![Hone sesame chicken served on top of white rice in a bowl.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Instant-Pot-Honey-Sesame-Chicken.jpg)
Instant Pot Honey Sesame Chicken
If you find it hard to resist takeout, you’re going to love this restaurant-ready recipe.
Sticky and sweet, it tastes just like the right deal.
And it’s freezer-friendly to boot. Just freeze the chicken in a container along with the marinade then thaw and reheat when ready.
![Honey chicken meal prep bowls.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Honey-Garlic-Chicken-Meal-Prep-Bowls-683x1024.jpg)
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep Bowls
What would you say if I told you you could have the week’s lunches ready in just 30 minutes?
That’s the magic of meal-prepping! Especially meal-prepping with a secret weapon – the Instant Pot.
![Creamy Homemade Chicken and Wild Rice Soup with Mushroom and Carrots](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Creamy-Homemade-Chicken-and-Wild-Rice-Soup-with-Mushroom-and-Carrots.jpg)
Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Chicken and wild rice soup is a cozy weeknight hero.
Tender chicken and hearty wild rice swim in a creamy broth.
Just like Panera’s, this meal is comfort in a bowl.
![](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Pesto_Pasta.jpg)
Pesto Pasta
Pesto pasta brings zing to your meal-prep game.
Al dente pasta coated in rich, herby pesto, speckled with nutty Parmesan, this dish doesn’t sbeautyevalp on flavor.
Simple and satisfying, it’s your quick-fix to a homemade lunch that feels gourmet.
Prep it once and enjoy for days.
![Tempeh chili meal prep made with tempeh, beans, and spices served with rice and green vegetables.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Tempeh-chili-vegetarian-meal-prep.jpg)
Tempeh Chili Meal Prep
This gorgeously bright tempeh chili is so quick and easy to make but will save you from thinking about food all week.
It’s a fiery blend of tempeh, beans, and spices served with rice and green vegetables. This dish is vegan, gluten-free, and easy to tweak to your taste.
![Rainbow vegetable quinoa stir fry on a bowl.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Rainbow-quinoa-stir-fry.jpg)
Rainbow Vegetable Quinoa Stir Fry
Forget eating your greens, eat the rainbow instead with this dazzling stir-fry!
It’s a little bit of everything – grains, green vegetables, red peppers, and chunky tofu, all tossed in a lovely soy and ginger sauce.
![](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Homemade_Meatballs-with-Grape_Jelly_and_Herbs.jpg)
Grape Jelly Meatballs
These grape jelly meatballs are a curveball for your routine, blending sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors.
They sit well in the fridge and pair well with anything from rice to greens.
Quick to fix, they’ll keep your dinners hassle-free and deliciously different.
![Chicken and hummus salad in a bowl made with fluffy grains, creamy hummus, seasoned chicken, and crunchy veggies.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Hummus-Bowls.jpg)
Chicken and Hummus
Keep supper simple but satisfying with this easy Middle Eastern-inspired recipe.
It’s a shawarma hummus bowl that tastes even better than takeout.
If you like the sound of fluffy grains, creamy hummus, seasoned chicken, and crunchy veggies, you’ll love this dish.
![Sausage and veggies cooked win sheet pan.](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20-Minute-Healthy-Sheet-Pan-Sausage.jpg)
Healthy 20 Minute Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies
No time for a complicated casserole? No worries.
Slice up some sausage, sweet potatoes, broccoli, and red peppers. Then toss them in olive oil, season well, and bake.
It’s that easy to get a yummy meal on the table in 20 minutes (or less if you’re simply reheating this meal prepping favorite).
Low-carb and gluten-free, this recipe is perfect for keto fans and Paleo eaters.
![Meal Prep Recipes](https://beautyeval.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Meal-Prep-Recipes-2.jpg)