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14 Cozy Make Ahead Meals for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

By: Author Jessica Ashcroft

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Try these healthy and delicious cozy make-ahead meals for fall and winter — Comforting recipes to meal prep for the week!

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We’re sharing our favorite cozy make-ahead recipes to help you meal prep for the week.

Perfect for fall and winter, these hearty and healthy comfort foods are easy to make, keep well in the fridge, and won’t break the bank.

Find low-carb, low-calorie, and high-protein options to support your goals, and meal prep recipes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Cozy Make-Ahead Meals

Breakfast Recipes

Close up of baking dish of chile relleno casserole with several pieces removed.
A crustless ham and broccoli quiche with one piece removed in a white pie plate.
Two Monte Cristo sliders on white plate with fresh raspberries and raspberry jam.

Lunch and Dinner

Spoon rests in bowl of pumpkin chili with Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, and cilantro
Two bowls of cream cheese taco soup with avocado, lime, and cilantro garnish on top and nearby the bowls.
Bowl of white chicken chili with cream cheese garnished with lime wedge and tortilla strips.
Bowl of hamburger stew with potatoes and carrots on table with plate of scones nearby.
Meatloaf with mashed potatoes and green beans on a plate and in meal prep containers.
Two white plates with serving of chicken sausage and sweet potato skillet.
Melted Colby Jack cheese over cooked chicken, broccoli, and rice in a large skillet.
Two bowls of gnocchi with chicken sausage and brussels sprouts on table.
Spatula lifts piece of lasagna with cottage cheese from pan.
Kielbasa pasta in white bowls.
Crock Pot country style pork ribs on brown parchment paper with fresh parsley leaves.

What makes a good make ahead meal?

A good make-ahead meal has several key qualities that make it convenient, delicious, and practical for busy days. Here’s what to look for:

  1. Long Shelf Life or Freezability
    Durability: Should stay fresh for a few days in the refrigerator or freeze well without losing texture or flavor.
    Examples: Soups, casseroles, and pasta bakes freeze and reheat beautifully.
  2. Easy to Reheat
    Meals should reheat quickly and evenly, maintaining their original taste and texture.
    Tips: Use methods like baking, microwaving, or stovetop reheating that are straightforward.
  3. Minimal Loss of Quality
    Foods that don’t get soggy, mushy, or over-dried when reheated are ideal.
    Best options: Dishes with hearty grains, proteins, and sauces that can absorb and retain moisture.
  4. Balanced Nutrition
    A good make-ahead meal often includes a mix of protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates, and vegetables for a complete meal.
  5. Portionability
    Meals that can be divided into individual portions make them more convenient for grab-and-go or customized serving sizes.
  6. Low Maintenance
    Should require minimal effort during reheating or serving.
    One-dish meals like lasagna or grain bowls minimize cleanup and additional prep.
  7. Versatility
    Meals that can be served as-is or paired with simple sides are more flexible.

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