Life shouldn’t be a frenzied mess of last-minute cooking. These whiz-bang make-ahead dishes replicate your favorite restaurant meals without the price tag. They provide hearty, scrumptious meals that keep you ahead of the game. Forget those frantic dashes to the grocery store at the eleventh hour. The ease of having something ready to go will make you feel like you’ve got superpowers. Your weeknight dinners will shine, despite the chaos of everyday life.
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup
For a hearty and comforting meal, Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup is a go-to. This classic soup pairs rich broth with tender chicken and nutritious vegetables. Preparing it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s an excellent option to freeze and reheat whenever you need a quick dinner. Perfect for chilly nights and busy schedules alike.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup
Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers
When craving a dish with well-seasoned sausage, opt for Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers. This combination of sausage, bell peppers, and flavorful spices creates an easy weeknight meal. Preparing it ahead can save a lot of time during a hectic week. Serve it with a side of rice or pasta, and you’ve got a delicious dinner ready. Ideal for family gatherings or a simple meal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers
Panera Bread Mexican Street Corn Soup
For a twist on classic corn soup, try Panera Bread Mexican Street Corn Soup. This recipe delivers a comforting bowl with a hint of spice, capturing the essence of Mexican street food. Making it ahead allows the flavors to shine. Reheat it for lunch or dinner, adding a touch of freshness with some garnish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to whip up.
Get the Recipe: Panera Bread Mexican Street Corn Soup
Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe
Spice up your week with the Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe. This hearty chili boasts rich flavors and a pleasurable texture, ideal for warming up on cold days. Prepare it in advance to let the spices infuse perfectly. It’s a fantastic option for meal-prepping or serving at a casual get-together. A delicious bowl that’s both comforting and convenient.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe
Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup
For those who love creamy soups, Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup is a top pick. This soup blends potatoes and rich broth for a smooth, delicious experience. Preparing it ahead makes it even creamier and ready to serve. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner fix. You’ll appreciate the convenience it brings to a busy week.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich
Switch up your sandwich game with Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich. This recipe offers a unique, delicious experience with seasoned ground beef. Easy to prepare and serve, it’s especially handy when made in advance. Simply heat and assemble for a hassle-free meal. Great for lunchboxes or casual dinners.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips
For a tender and flavorful dish, turn to Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. This recipe ensures perfectly cooked beef tips that are easy to prepare ahead. Pair them with mashed potatoes or vegetables for a complete meal. Having it ready to go simplifies those busy evenings. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing option.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips
Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken
Enjoy an Asian-inspired meal with Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. This dish combines tender chicken with crunchy peanuts and vegetables. Preparing it in advance allows the flavors to develop fully. Serve it over rice for a quick weeknight dinner. Both are convenient and packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
For a creamy and rich soup, try Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This recipe blends tender chicken with gnocchi and a creamy broth. Preparing it ahead lets the soup become more flavorful. It’s a great option for a quick dinner or even a lunch. Versatile and perfect for any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Diner Style Salisbury Steak
Step up your steak game with Diner Style Salisbury Steak. This recipe recreates the classic dish with juicy steak and flavorful gravy. Preparing it ahead makes it even easier to serve after a long day. Pair it with mashed potatoes for a complete meal. It’s an old-school favorite made simple.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
For a pasta dish with a twist, try Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. This recipe brings together rigatoni pasta with a creamy vodka sauce. Preparing it in advance means a quick and easy meal when you need it. Pair it with a side salad for balance. A restaurant-quality dish made at home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Zuppa Toscana Soup
Warm up your week with Zuppa Toscana Soup. This hearty soup is packed with sausage, potatoes, and kale in a rich broth. Making it ahead of time enhances the flavors. Serve it with some crusty bread for a lovely meal. Ideal for a comforting lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Zuppa Toscana Soup
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken
Flavorful and simple, Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken is a fantastic make-ahead option. This dish uses seasoned chicken breast and toppings to create a delicious meal. Prepare it in advance and reheat it when ready. Paired with veggies or a salad, it makes for an easy and tasty dinner. Convenient and perfect for any day.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken
Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes
Try something different with Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes. These croquettes combine crispy exteriors with flavorful pork filling. Preparing them ahead makes for an easy, quick meal. Serve with a dipping sauce or side salad. An exciting dish that’s both convenient and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes
Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich
Experience a hearty bite with Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich. This sandwich features a smoky, tasty filling that’s easy to prepare and assemble. Making it in advance saves time and effort during busy days. Perfect for a quick lunch or hearty snack. It’s a must-try for sandwich lovers.
Get the Recipe: Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich
Pasta e Fagioli Soup
For a filling and nutritious soup, go for Pasta e Fagioli Soup. This recipe combines pasta with beans and veggies in a flavorful broth. Prepping it ahead makes it a breeze to reheat and enjoy. It’s a great option for meal-prepping. Ideal for healthy, comforting meals.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich
For a sandwich with depth, Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich is the way to go. This recipe offers tender beef and rich dipping sauce. Preparing it ahead of time enhances all the flavors. Simply reheat and serve for a quick, delicious meal. Great for lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich