Forget the stress of daily meal planning. These invented-in-your-grandmother’s-kitchen recipes have stood the test of time for good reason. You can prep them once and then focus on more important things, like catching up on your favorite TV show or finally reading that book. It’s like having a food genie at your beck and call, minus the fancy lamp. They’re lifesavers for those nights when you can’t deal with cooking from scratch. Spoiler alert: these dishes may even trick you into thinking you’ve figured out this adulting thing.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
A busy week or not, Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings can save your day with its comforting flavors. These dumplings and tender chicken pieces can be made well in advance. Reheat them when you’re ready. This nostalgic meal is both practical and profoundly moving. It’s perfect for bringing a taste of comfort food without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
There’s nothing more nostalgic than Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole, which can be prepped ahead of time without losing its charm. With its rich and creamy potatoes, this casserole transforms a stressful dinner time into a breeze. Make it on a Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. The flavors meld even more beautifully over time. No busy week should go without this reliable dish.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Planning ahead becomes easier with Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots on your weekly menu. These sweet and tender carrots are uncomplicated to prepare and easy to store. Their simplicity masks the richness they bring to any meal. This dish offers a no-fuss way to add some veggie goodness to your busy schedule. A quick reheat, and they’re ready to go with any main course.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless choice when you need something comforting and convenient. This hearty soup can be stored in advance, making it perfect for busy weeks. Just warm it up and enjoy a bowl of creamy goodness. It’s a lifesaver when you want something homemade without the hassle. This recipe has endured because of its simplicity, complexity, and reliability.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Pastitsio
Adding Pastitsio to your make-ahead repertoire ensures you’ll enjoy a fun weeknight meal without fuss. This layered Greek dish is rich with flavors that develop even better as it stands. Make it ahead and store it until you’re ready to heat and serve. It’s a hearty dish that brings authentic taste without hours spent in the kitchen. A plate of this can turn any busy day around.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio
Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich
Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich is ready when you need it for a hassle-free meal. These sandwiches, made with succulent beef, can be prepared and stored for later use. Reheat and dip in au jus for a quick, flavorful meal. They’re perfect when you need something filling but can’t afford the time. This make-ahead delight keeps busy weeks manageable and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich
Ground Beef Fried Rice
Delicious and simple, Ground Beef Fried Rice is an easy way to manage your weeknight dinners. This dish can be whipped up ahead and kept refrigerated for those tight-scheduled evenings. The blend of rice and beef brings a hearty flavor that’s hard to resist. It’s an efficient way to use leftover rice, bringing convenience to the forefront. Reheat, and it’s good to go!
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Fried Rice
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup
Perfect for busy nights, Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup hits all the right notes. This soup can be made and stored to warm you on any hectic day. It’s packed with hearty ingredients that create a comforting meal in minutes. Heat up and enjoy a bowl of this comforting soup. Nothing beats its simplicity and comforting flavors during rush hours.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup
Butter Scones
When mornings are too chaotic, Butter Scones can be a quick fix. These scones can be baked in advance and stored, providing ready-to-eat options on those crazy weekdays. Serve them fresh from the freezer or pop them in the oven to warm them up. They’re a great way to bring some baked comfort with minimal effort. Your breakfasts will never be a dull affair with these scones on standby.
Get the Recipe: Butter Scones
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips make busy weeks easier with their make-ahead convenience. This hearty dish can be stored and quickly reheated, coming out flavorful every time. The beef tips stay tender and rich, ready to be the star of your dinner. Prepared your way on a less busy day, they save considerable time during the week. The ease of reheating makes it a reliable family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips
Shipwreck Casserole
Bringing Shipwreck Casserole into your weekly rotation means less stress and more delicious meals. This multifaceted dish is well-suited for bulk preparations. Store portions and pull them out when needed for a reliable meal solution. Its layers of ingredients only get better with time, making every bite something to look forward to. It’s an excellent dish to keep you sailing smoothly through the week.
Get the Recipe: Shipwreck Casserole