When life gets busy, planning meals in advance can save time and stress. Here are three diverse and practical examples of easy make-ahead meals that will help you and your family enjoy delicious home-cooked food without the last-minute rush.
This colorful stir-fry is packed with nutrients and can be customized based on your family’s preferences. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Imagine coming home after a long day and having a wholesome meal ready to go. You can prepare this dish on the weekend and store it in individual portions for easy access.
To make this dish, start by cooking 1 cup of quinoa according to package instructions. While it’s cooking, chop up a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat, add the veggies, and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until they’re tender but still crisp. Once the quinoa is ready, mix it in with the veggies, add soy sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
After it’s cooled, divide the stir-fry into meal prep containers. This dish stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days and can be easily reheated in the microwave.
Notes/Variations: Feel free to add protein like chicken, tofu, or shrimp. You can also experiment with different sauces, like teriyaki or sweet chili, to switch up the flavor.
This comforting pasta dish is perfect for busy weeknights, and it’s a family favorite! You can make it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
Consider preparing this meal on a Sunday so that you have an easy, filling dinner option available for the week. It’s perfect for families who love cheesy, creamy dishes without the fuss of cooking every night.
Start by boiling 8 ounces of penne pasta until al dente. In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of cooked, shredded chicken, 2 cups of fresh spinach, 2 cups of marinara sauce, and 1 cup of ricotta cheese. Once the pasta is done, drain it and add it to the chicken mixture, stirring until everything is combined. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
Cover it with foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. When you’re ready to eat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, removing the foil for the last 10 minutes to get that cheese bubbly and golden.
Notes/Variations: Swap out the spinach for kale or add in some mushrooms for extra flavor. You can also use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
These breakfast burritos are a hit with both kids and adults! They’re perfect for busy mornings when you need to grab something on the go.
Imagine having a hearty breakfast ready to fuel your family’s day. You can prepare a batch of these burritos on the weekend and keep them in the freezer for an easy breakfast option all week long.
To create these burritos, scramble 6 eggs in a skillet and add diced bell peppers, onions, and cooked sausage or bacon for protein. Once everything is cooked, take a large tortilla and spoon some of the egg mixture in the center. Top it with shredded cheese and wrap it tightly.
Wrap each burrito in foil or plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, simply unwrap and microwave for about 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Notes/Variations: You can make them vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding black beans or avocado. Feel free to customize the fillings with your family’s favorite ingredients!
With these examples of easy make-ahead meals for weekly planning, you’ll have delicious options ready to go, reducing stress and making family meal times enjoyable. Happy cooking!