15 Budget-Friendly Meal Prep Ideas

Need some meal prep ideas to help you plan ahead and get you through the week? These easy meals can be made ahead of time, stored, and enjoyed during the busy work week.

There are a couple of reasons why you would want to start meal prepping. First, it can save you time and money. Instead of hitting the vending machine or spending money eating out at the fast food joints, you have a tasty meal already made and ready to enjoy. Secondly, takes the guess work out of trying to figure out something to eat for your meals. Some days, this can be the worst.

If you’re looking to make some meals ahead of time for the upcoming week, these meal prep ideas are easy to make and delicious.

1. Cuban-Style Tuna Meal Prep Bowls

Power through your midday slump with these tuna meal prep bowls. You’ll love the combination of fresh veggies, jalapeno tuna, and a zesty yogurt.

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2. Ground Chicken Enchiladas

You can make these chicken enchiladas in advance and then pop the casserole dish in the oven when you want to enjoy a filling dinner. Additionally, you can bake and reheat the leftovers.

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3. Korean Beef Rice Bowl

Made with ground beef and a Korean-inspired sauce mixture of brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and aromatics, it’s served perfectly with rice and can be made ahead of time.

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4. Mediterranean Bowls with Trader Joe’s Greek Chickpeas

Prep and enjoy throughout the week. Not freezer friendly, but this dish is fridge friendly and allows you to enjoy a healthy lunch throughout the week.

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5. Deconstructed Stuffed Peppers

Great for meal prep, leftovers, and busy weeknights. In addition, this recipe is suitable for many diets and lifestyles!

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6. Easy Amish Macaroni Casserole

This tasty casserole dish is a delicious blend of tender macaroni, savory meat, and green peas in a creamy, cheesy sauce.

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7. Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Tender chicken thighs and melted feta cheese are marinated in a flavorful sundried tomato dressing for this dish. Make it ahead of time and enjoy it for a filling meal during the week.

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8. Egg Roll in a Bowl

This egg roll in a bowl recipe has that egg roll flavor you’re craving without all the work and can be prepped ahead of time.

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9. Chicken Burrito Bowl

Simple to make, healthy, and delicious! If you’re looking for a filling meal prep idea, you won’t be disappointed with this one!

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10. Chopped Italian Sub Sandwiches

Made with a mix of Italian meats, cheeses, and classic vegetables. When you’re craving a sub sandwich, this easy prep can be made in advance and stored in the fridge.

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11. Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Made with no mayo, high in protein, low fat and low carb. This is a healthy chicken salad you can make and then enjoy it as a sandwich or eat with crackers for a snack throughout the week.

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12. Protein Snack Pack

Filled with hard-boiled eggs, almonds, hummus, and crunchy veggies, this snack pack is a light lunch that’s packed with healthy proteins.

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13. Easy Loaded Mashed Potato Bowls

Loaded with tasty goodness, these potato bowls can be made ahead of time and warmed up in the microwave.

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14. High Protein Egg Bites

These egg bites are packed with protein and will be a great option for breakfast or as a snack. You can make them ahead of time and reheat when you want to enjoy them.

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15. Pesto Chicken and White Bean Skillet

You can store this tasty dish in the fridge for up to five days and reheat in the microwave or store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

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