Skip to content

25+ Meal Prep Ideas

Easy, healthy and delicious recipes that will make your meal prep a success! Also includes FREE meal prep printables that are perfect for getting organized and planning ahead.

Collage of meal prep ideas.
This post may contain affiliate links. Read disclosure policy.

The Best Meal Prep Ideas

If you’ve never meal prepped before, I highly recommend it! It may seem a bit intimidating at first, but it doesn’t have to be. There are plenty of quick and easy recipes that will make your prepping a success!

Meal prep is great for when your trying to eat healthy or even doing a Whole30. It’s so much easier to stay on track when everything is already prepared. You can just grab it out of the fridge and dig in!

How to Meal Prep

  • Make time to plan, shop, and cook. I like to meal prep at the beginning of each week, but feel free to choose a day that works with your schedule.
  • In order to get organized, I use my free printables (scroll down to download and print) to plan out my meals for the week ahead.
  • Choose recipes you know you can accomplish. If you’re not big into planning, check out my free 7 day meal plan…all of the work is already done for you!

I’ve included some of my favorite ideas below to help make your next meal prep as easy and stress-free as possible! There are tons of healthy, delicious and even several Whole 30 recipes to choose from when planning out your menu. You can’t go wrong with any!

Meal Prep Containers

To stay organized, it’s so helpful to use meal prep containers when storing your meals. Below are some of my favorites. I love using glass containers because they keep so much longer and don’t stain, however I’ve included some plastic ones too.

Overnight oats in meal prep containers.

Meal Prep Breakfast Ideas

I don’t know about you, but my mornings are pretty crazy, and I often don’t have time to cook something up. That’s why I love to breakfast meal prep, so that I can just quickly grab and go. Plus, this way I know I’m grabbing something healthy rather than an unhealthy quick option.

overnight oats

Meal Prep Lunch Ideas

You definitely won’t be bored with these tasty and healthy lunch ideas. They are packed with amazing flavor and are so easy to make! My favorite to make is my sheet pan sausage with veggies.

Sheet pan sausage and veggies ingredients on counter.

Meal Prep Dinner Ideas

When things are really busy during the week, I sometimes don’t have time to whip up dinner. That’s why dinner meal prep is super handy! Instead of just ordering a pizza or getting take out, I have a healthy and nutritious meal that I can easily reheat in a matter of minutes. I can’t tell you how many times it has saved me. It’s definitely worth the extra work!

egg roll mix in container

Snack Ideas

It’s so helpful to have snacks ready for when you get hungry throughout the day. That way you know you’re grabbing a healthy option that will give you energy and hold you over until your next meal. I always make sure to have fresh fruit on hand, but also love to make protein balls, yogurt bites, and homemade applesauce.

A bowl of no bake energy balls

FREE Meal Prep Printables

To help make your planning a little easier and stress-free, I created these free printables. I use these all the time! They help me stay organized and are perfect to stick on the fridge.

Printables include:

  • Weekly meal plan template (with boxes for shopping lists & weekly goals)
  • Monthly meal plan template (with box for monthly goals)
  • Weekly water tracker
meal prep printable template

Full List of Meal Prep Ideas

Click on the links below for all of the easy meal prep ideas mentioned above.

healthy overnight oats
Overnight Oats Recipe
It's easy to make overnight oats for a quick make ahead, grab and go breakfast or snack. Customize with add-ins and toppings to find your favorite delicious combination.
Total Time: 6 hours
Read more
Mini Egg Frittatas
Mini Egg Frittatas – these egg muffins are full of protein and veggies, and less than 80 calories each. They are great for Whole30, 21-Day Fix or Paleo diets. So easy and delicious!
Total Time: 35 minutes
These No Bake Breakfast Cookies are easy to make, healthy, packed with protein and simply delicious. They can be whipped up in less than 5min and stored for up to two weeks.
Breakfast Cookies
These naturally sweetened, flourless no-bake breakfast cookies are easy to make, healthy, hearty and simply delicious. They can be whipped up in less than 5 minutes, stored for up to two weeks and are perfect for an on-the-go breakfast or snack.
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Read more
yogurt parfait in glass cup
Yogurt Parfait
This yogurt parfait is an easy grab-go option for a healthy breakfast on busy mornings! It's simple to make with yogurt, granola and fruit.
Total Time: 5 minutes
Read more
homemade stack of cereal bars
Cereal Bar Recipe
These cereal bars are the best after school snack that my kids absolutely love. Made with just 3 simple ingredients and take only 10 minutes to make! 
Total Time: 10 minutes
Read more
baked oatmeal with greek yogurt
Baked Oatmeal Recipe
This blueberry baked oatmeal is a healthy and delicious make-ahead breakfast made with oats, blueberries and sweetened with brown sugar. Cozy, customizable and filling!
Total Time: 25 minutes
Read more
stacked breakfast popsicles
Breakfast Yogurt Popsicle Recipe
Popsicles for breakfast! Yes, you heard right. These easy breakfast yogurt popsicles are not only delicious but are also packed with summer fruits and topped with a crunchy granola.
Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
Read more
egg white muffins with tomatoes on top
Egg White Muffins Recipe
Easy egg white muffins recipe that make the perfect healthy on-the-go breakfast. They're high in protein, low in fat, and freezer friendly! 
Total Time: 35 minutes
Read more
Peanut butter overnight oats in a jar with chocolate chips on top.
Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
Creamy peanut butter overnight oats topped with chocolate chips and sliced bananas. The perfect healthy on-the-go breakfast that will keep you powered up throughout the day!
Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
Read more
Granola in a glass jar.
Granola Recipe
Easy homemade granola recipe with oats, honey, coconut, pecans and a delicious crunch. Perfect for snacking, breakfast or dessert!
Total Time: 25 minutes
Read more
roasted sausage and veggies on a wooden spoon
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies
Quick and easy this sheet pan sausage and veggies is loaded with flavor from vegetables, sausage and simple seasonings. It's healthy, nutritious and made on one pan for easy cleanup!
Total Time: 30 minutes
Read more
chicken fajita bowl on counter top
Chicken Fajita Bowl Recipe
Mexican chicken fajita bowls made with rice, seasoned chicken, fajita veggies, beans and pico de gallo. An easy lunch or dinner that's healthy and packed with flavor!
Total Time: 45 minutes
Read more
quinoa mediterranean salad ingredients in bowl
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
Make this delicious Mediterranean quinoa salad in minutes! A vibrant, fresh, and highly nutritious salad combining bold flavors, crunchy textures, and wholesome ingredients all tossed in a tangy vinaigrette!
Total Time: 30 minutes
Read more
spinach salad with fresh berries and sliced almonds
Spinach Berry Salad Recipe
A refreshing salad made with spinach, mixed berries, almonds and a red wine poppyseed vinaigrette. Delicious, healthy and easy to make!
Total Time: 10 minutes
Read more
close up of teriyaki chicken in a bowl with rice and veggies
Teriyaki Chicken Bowl Recipe
Topped with a delicious teriyaki sauce and served with steamed vegetables, this baked teriyaki chicken bowl is a yummy dinner recipe that tastes better than the take-out!
Total Time: 45 minutes
Read more
Vegetable beef soup in a blue pot.
Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
This vegetable beef soup is packed with tender beef and veggies simmered in a flavorful broth. It's a hearty homemade soup that is a classic favorite and easy to make!
Total Time: 45 minutes
Read more
mediterranean salad
Mediterranean Salad Recipe
This Mediterranean salad with creamy balsamic dressing is full of greens, protein and flavor! Comes together super quickly and tastes so fresh and delicious. Plus it's healthier than most restaurants, too!
Total Time: 5 minutes
Read more
quinoa salad
Southwest Quinoa Salad
This southwest quinoa salad makes a delicious and flavorful side dish or main meal. You can feel great about eating this healthy, protein-packed salad all summer long!
Total Time: 30 minutes
Read more
Mexican chicken soup in white bowl
Mexican Chicken Soup
Paleo, gluten-free and Whole30 friendly! An easy crock pot soup recipe that takes just 5 minutes of prep. This Mexican chicken soup is packed with veggies and is healthy and delicious!
Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
Read more
Taco salad recipe in a bowl.
Taco Salad Recipe
How to make a delicious and easy taco salad recipe that is ready in just 20 minutes! Filled with chopped greens, seasoned ground beef, rice, corn, beans, tomatoes and your favorite salad dressing, it's a flavorful dinner that whole family will love.  
Total Time: 20 minutes
Read more
chicken quinoa salad with mango, lime and cilantro
Mango Chicken Quinoa Salad
Chicken quinoa salad with juicy mango and chunks of rich avocado is the perfect light meal or side dish to make this summer.
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Read more
One Pan Balsamic Chicken and Veggies ...a healthy, EASY and delicious dinner recipe! A meal the whole family will love!
Balsamic Chicken
This one-pan balsamic chicken and veggies is a healthy, EASY and delicious dinner recipe that's full of flavor. A meal the whole family will love!  
Total Time: 45 minutes
Read more
sweet potato bowls on table close up
Sweet Potato Bowls
These one pot sweet potato bowls are an easy vegetarian meal option that's ready in just 30 minutes! Loaded with diced sweet potatoes, black beans, corn, rice and seasonings, this delicious dinner packs a punch of flavor. 
Total Time: 30 minutes
Read more
Bowl of the best turkey chili.
Healthy Turkey Chili
This healthy turkey chili recipe is hearty and delicious with plenty of flavor, plus it is easily made on the stove top or slow cooker. Perfect for a cozy dinner.
Total Time: 1 hour
Read more
Chick stir fry in a white bowl.
Chicken Stir Fry
This chicken stir fry is loaded with fresh veggies and coated in a flavorful stir-fry sauce. It's an easy 30-minute meal better than takeout and perfect for weeknights!
Total Time: 30 minutes
Read more
healthy turkey meatballs
Turkey Meatball Recipe
Easy, healthy and full of flavor. Low in carbs and fat and high in protein. This turkey meatball recipe makes the perfect weeknight dinner!
Total Time: 35 minutes
Read more
Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
These sheet pan chicken fajitas are made with only 5 ingredients in just 30 minutes. A quick and easy dinner recipe that the whole family will love!
Total Time: 30 minutes
Read more
Shredded honey chicken and rice in a white bowl.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Slow cooker honey garlic chicken is one of my favorite crockpot chicken recipes that's quick, flavorful and absolutely delicious. It comes out perfectly tender every time!
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Read more
chicken stuffed peppers in a baking dish
Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Chicken stuffed peppers made with 5 simple ingredients in just 30 minutes! A flavorful family-favorite that's perfect for busy weeknights!
Total Time: 30 minutes
Read more
taco bowl with toppings
Instant Pot Chicken Taco Bowl Recipe
Easy instant pot chicken taco bowls that take just 5 minutes of prep. A family favorite meal idea that's perfect for busy weeknights. Just simply dump and go! 
Total Time: 30 minutes
Read more
cooking egg roll filling in a skillet
Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
This egg roll in a bowl recipe is an easy low carb alternative to egg rolls! Made with ground turkey and veggies tossed in a flavorful sauce of choice and ready in 20 minutes.
Total Time: 20 minutes
Read more
Energy balls stacked in a white bowl.
Energy Balls Recipe
No-bake energy balls recipe is the perfect breakfast or portable snack made in one bowl in only 5 minutes with 5 ingredients!
Total Time: 10 minutes
Read more
Protein balls on a baking sheet.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls
These chocolate peanut butter protein balls taste like no bake cookies but healthier! These make the perfect pre-work out snack, breakfast or dessert!
Total Time: 20 minutes
Read more
frozen yogurt bites in a glass bowl
Yogurt Bites
Frozen berry yogurt bites are a simple and kid-friendly snack made with only 2 ingredients. Healthy, refreshing and SO easy! These froyo bites are perfect for Summer!
Total Time: 5 minutes
Read more
Perfect hard boiled eggs on counter.
Hard Boiled Egg Recipe
How to make hard boiled eggs that are easy peel with a vibrant yolk and no green ring! The best method for boiled eggs that can be used in deviled eggs, egg salad and more meals.
Total Time: 11 minutes
Read more
Homemade hummus in a wooden bowl with vegetables.
Homemade Hummus
This homemade hummus is is super easy to make, smooth, creamy and perfect for any occasion. Tastes amazing served with fresh veggies, pita bread, chips or crackers. 
Total Time: 30 minutes
Read more
roasted pumpkin seeds
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
The perfect way to use up leftover pumpkin seeds after carving your Halloween pumpkin! Roast with your favorite spices and seasonings to create a delicious and flavorful snack. We can't get enough of these roasted pumpkin seeds!
Total Time: 1 hour
Read more
Homemade granola bars on the counter.
Homemade Granola Bars
These homemade granola bars are soft, chewy and easy to make with only 5 ingredients! A simple no-bake healthy snack that is so much better than store-bought.
Total Time: 50 minutes
Read more
stack of lemon coconut energy balls
Lemon Coconut Energy Balls
Lemon coconut energy balls filled with dates, nuts, coconut, chia seeds and lemon juice. The perfect healthy snack that has no added sugar and is paleo and Whole30 approved!
Total Time: 15 minutes
Read more
Apple chips in a red and white bowl.
Cinnamon Apple Chips
Crispy and sweet cinnamon apple chips baked in the oven. Such an easy, healthy and delicious snack idea made with just 3 ingredients!
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Read more
berry fruit salad in glass bowl
Berry Fruit Salad Recipe
Summer berry fruit salad full of fresh strawberries, blackberries, blueberries and raspberries. Topped with a honey lime dressing that adds the perfect hint of sweetness! 
Total Time: 10 minutes
Read more
Jar full of applesauce.
Crockpot Applesauce
Crockpot applesauce made with only a few ingredients and SO delicious! Once you've made this homemade version, you'll never go back to store bought. So easy and fresh!
Total Time: 4 hours
Read more
bowl of no-bake energy balls
Almond Joy Energy Bites
These almond joy no-bake energy bites are the perfect pre-workout fuel, afternoon snack or late night treat. Much healthier than an almond joy and SO tasty!
Total Time: 25 minutes
Read more
A close up of a healthy oatmeal cookie with chocolate chunks
Healthy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
Healthy oatmeal chocolate chip cookies made with just 3 simple ingredients! Absolutely no sugar, butter or flour added and only 50 calories per cookie!
Total Time: 17 minutes
Read more

Let’s connect

Join our community of over 5 million!

Featured on

  • Taste of Home
  • Martha Stewart
  • Country Living
  • BuzzFeed
  • Yahoo
  • Food Network
  • Today