When it comes to navigating the challenges of parenthood, make-ahead meals can be a game-changer, especially during hectic weeknights. Between juggling work responsibilities, helping with homework, and managing household chores, cooking dinner can often feel like the last straw on a very full camel’s back. Being able to prepare a meal in advance when you have a few moments of breathing room can be incredibly liberating. It gives you the chance to reclaim a bit of peace during your busy evening, allowing you to focus on what truly matters — spending quality time with your family. So take back your weeknights and give yourself a little extra time and less stress. With these 17 make-ahead meals, you can put a delicious dinner on the table with minimal fuss, allowing you to enjoy those precious family moments even more.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
This 30-minute casserole blends steamed broccoli and cauliflower with a creamy cheese sauce and bacon. It bakes to a golden, bubbly finish that’s hard to resist. The quick cooking time and minimal ingredient list make it a convenient make-ahead dinner. Busy parents can easily prepare this dish earlier in the day and reheat it for a quick weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake
In just 30 minutes, you can have this casserole ready featuring chicken thighs, spinach, and a medley of cheeses. The ease of preparation and quick cooking time make it an ideal make-ahead dinner. Busy parents will appreciate the straightforward steps and the stress-free evening it affords them. The casserole remains flavorful when reheated, maintaining its comforting qualities. It’s the perfect way to end a long day without spending extra time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
This one-pan wonder offers a hearty dinner featuring roasted sausage and a variety of vegetables. A total prep and cooking time of 30 minutes make it a fast option for any night of the week. It’s an excellent make-ahead choice that keeps cleanup to a minimum, perfect for tired parents. Make it earlier in the day and enjoy a stress-free dinner hour. The simple ingredient list and easy cooking method make it a go-to for busy families.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
Crock Pot Taco Soup
With only 20 minutes of hands-on time, this slow cooker soup is a set-it-and-forget-it gem. Busy parents can brown the ground beef in the morning, add the remaining ingredients, and come home to a ready meal. It’s the perfect make-ahead dish that makes weeknights easier. The soup’s flavors meld together wonderfully as it cooks, making it just as good, if not better when reheated. It provides both comfort and convenience in a single dish.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
This one-pot soup features Italian sausage, cream cheese, and canned tomatoes. In just 30 minutes, it can be ready to serve or stored for later. It makes an ideal make-ahead meal, freeing up your evenings for relaxation or family time. Busy parents will find this a practical option that offers a creamy texture and hearty flavors. The ease of a one-pot meal means less cleaning and more time for yourself.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
Big Mac Salad
This salad offers a unique and quick meal, requiring minimal prep and combining various flavors for a hearty dish. Busy parents can assemble this salad in advance and simply toss it before serving, making weeknight dinners a breeze. It’s a convenient option for those who need to prepare meals ahead of time. The recipe is simple, easy to follow, and quick to execute, freeing up precious time in the evenings. Store it in the fridge and enjoy a hassle-free meal when you’re ready.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole
With shredded chicken, bacon, cream cheese, hot sauce, and jalapeños, this casserole brings spice and richness to the dinner table. It bakes to a golden, bubbly perfection that’s irresistible. Parents will find this casserole a helpful make-ahead option for those chaotic weeknights. Its flavors meld well over time, making it an excellent choice for reheating. Assemble it in advance to save time and energy for a relaxing evening.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole
Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken
This dish features oven-baked chicken breasts seasoned with spices and topped with cream cheese, mini sweet peppers, and mozzarella. It’s a straightforward recipe that takes minimal effort and time to prepare. The easy steps make it a sensible make-ahead meal that can be reheated effortlessly. Parents looking for a quick yet hearty dinner will appreciate its practicality. Keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to heat it up for a stress-free evening meal.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken
Canned Chicken Patties
Whipped up in just 20 minutes, these chicken patties offer a versatile meal solution. They can be paired with steamed vegetables or enjoyed as a stand-alone dish. Busy parents can make these patties ahead of time for a quick and convenient weeknight dinner. Their simple ingredients and quick cooking time make them an excellent option for families on the go. Store them in the fridge and simply reheat for a quick meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties
Cauliflower Cheddar Cheese Bacon Soup
This 30-minute soup combines cauliflower, cheddar cheese, and bacon into a comforting meal. Steam the cauliflower, blend with seasonings, and thicken with butter and cream for a creamy texture. For busy parents, this is a fantastic make-ahead meal that keeps well for later. Reheat it for a quick, comforting weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy. Its simple preparation steps make it a practical choice for those short on time.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Cheddar Cheese Bacon Soup
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
In 30 minutes, this casserole combines ground beef, cauliflower rice, spinach, and cheddar for a hearty meal. Its minimal prep time and quick cooking make it a convenient dinner option. Parents can easily prepare this in advance and keep it stored for a relaxing weeknight meal. It’s a versatile dish that reheats well, making it ideal for busy families. Save time and stress by making this flavorful casserole ahead of time.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
Keto Zuppa Toscana
This soup mimics the flavors of a popular restaurant version, featuring radishes as a potato substitute. It takes just 1 hour to prepare and cook, making it an accessible option for weeknights. Busy parents will find it a suitable make-ahead meal that’s easy to reheat and still maintains its flavor. Cook it in advance and enjoy more free time in your evening. Its rich and hearty characteristics make it a comforting choice for the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole
This less-than-an-hour recipe puts a casserole spin on the classic Philly Cheese Steak. It combines sirloin steak, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and provolone cheese. Make it in advance for an easy weeknight dinner to help busy parents save time and reduce stress. The dish holds up well when reheated, ensuring you have a convenient and hearty meal ready to go. Its practical cooking steps make it easy to add to your regular meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheese Steak Casserole
Zucchini Pizza Casserole
This 20-minute prep casserole offers a unique twist on
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Pizza Casserole
Sausage Breakfast Casserole
This breakfast casserole is ready in 50 minutes and features Italian sausage, eggs, and shredded cheese. It’s ideal for meal prep, offering a quick breakfast option for busy mornings. Parents can prepare this beforehand and simply reheat servings as needed throughout the week. It’s both filling and protein-packed, ensuring everyone starts their day right. It stores well, making it a convenient make-ahead option for hectic weekday mornings.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad
This chicken salad provides a spicy twist on a classic, and it’s quick to prepare. Make it in advance and store it for a convenient weekday lunch or dinner. It’s an excellent make-ahead option for parents needing to balance work and family life. The salad holds up well in the fridge and offers a hassle-free meal when you’re ready. Its combination of flavors and ease of preparation make it a practical choice for busy households.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad
Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin
This 40-minute soup offers a warm and savory meal perfect for fall. The steps are simple: simmer, blend, and simmer again. Busy parents can easily prepare this soup in advance for a quick weeknight dinner option. The flavors intensify over time, making it even better when reheated. It’s the ideal make-ahead meal for those chilly evenings when you need comfort fast.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin