We all have those nights where we simply don’t have the time or energy to cook a meal from scratch. That’s why it’s always a good idea to have a few make-ahead meal options in your arsenal. Here are some great ideas to get you started:
1. Mason Jar Salads – Take a mason jar and layer in some colorful veggies, protein (chicken, steak, tofu, etc.), and your favorite dressing. Seal the jar and refrigerate until it’s time to eat. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply shake it up and dig in!
2. Freezer-Friendly Burritos – Roll up a filling of rice, beans, cheese, and your choice of protein (ground beef, shredded chicken, etc.) in a flour tortilla. Wrap each burrito in foil and freeze. To reheat, just pop them in the oven or microwave.
3. Slow Cooker Soup – Nothing beats a comforting bowl of soup on a chilly night. Toss some chopped vegetables, broth, and your choice of protein into the slow cooker in the morning. Let it simmer all day and come home to a delicious and warming meal. Bonus – leftovers make great lunches!
4. Sheet Pan Dinners – These are a favorite for a reason – they’re quick, easy, and require minimal clean-up. Simply toss your choice of protein (chicken, fish, tofu, etc.) and veggies onto a baking sheet, season with your favorite herbs/spices, and roast in the oven.
5. Make-Ahead Casseroles – There are endless options when it comes to casseroles – lasagna, shepherd’s pie, chicken pot pie, etc. The beauty of these dishes is that you can assemble them ahead of time, refrigerate or freeze, and then pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
By making a few simple tweaks to your meal planning, you can make busy weeknights a little less stressful. Give these make-ahead meal ideas a try and see how much easier life can be!
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