10 Prep-Ahead Meals That’ll Save Your Weeknights

If your weeknights feel like a frantic scramble between work, homework, and figuring out what’s for dinner—this collection is for you. These 10 meals you can prep ahead are your secret weapon against decision fatigue and last-minute takeaway. We’re talking crispy chicken schnitzels straight from the freezer, comforting pies you can stash for later, and easy stir-fries and rice bowls that come together in minutes. Every recipe is family-friendly, packed with flavour, and designed to help you get ahead without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re meal prepping on a Sunday or just doubling a batch for later, this line-up will save your sanity all week long!

You can find all of these recipes here as well as in my new book Simple Dinners Every Day which is filled with 100+ recipes designed to make our lives easier. Pre-orders are now open, make sure you pre-order to secure your copy, shipping from 30 September, while stocks last!

Pre-order your copy here

Freezer Friendly Chicken Schnitzel

Freezer-friendly Chicken Schnitzel

Freezer-friendly Chicken Schnitzel is the ideal weeknight family meal. This perennial favourite can be served with almost any side of your choice and is on the table in under 30 minutes.

Close up of Spring Roll Bowls Stir-fry with chopsticks

Spring Roll Bowls

The classic flavours of spring rolls … in a bowl! These quick and easy Spring Roll Bowls are packed with vegetables and come together so quickly, perfect for busy weeknights when you want to spend as little time in the kitchen as possible. Serves 4 with loads of leftovers!

Cheesy Chicken and Broccolini Rice in bowl

Cheesy Chicken and Broccolini Rice

Cheesy Chicken and Broccolini Rice is a comforting, hearty meal made with simple, low-cost ingredients. It’s stress-free, easy to prep and, because it’s made in just one pan, it means there’s virtually no washing up.

Juicy Beef Rissoles

Juicy Beef Rissoles

Delicious Beef Rissoles are the perfect quick and easy family dinner. Make a big batch to freeze, ready for a rainy day!

A creamy, cheesy tuna mornay stuffed into giant pasta shells and baked to golden perfection. This comforting Supercharged Tuna Mornay is packed with family-friendly flavours and pantry staples, making it the ultimate weeknight dinner or entertaining crowd-pleaser.

Supercharged Tuna Mornay

A creamy, cheesy tuna mornay stuffed into giant pasta shells and baked to golden perfection. This comforting Supercharged Tuna Mornay is packed with family-friendly flavours and pantry staples, making it the ultimate weeknight dinner or entertaining crowd-pleaser.

Cottage Pie

Cottage Pie

Cottage Pie is my go-to dinner when I need something delicious, nourishing and comforting to serve the family at the end of a busy day. My version of this classic recipe is loaded with extra vegetables.

Full beef and potato pie in one pan, with a golden flaky crust.

Crispy Potato Topped Beef “Pie”

This Crispy Potato Topped Beef “Pie” is a quick, comforting alternative to a traditional cottage pie, made with finely sliced potatoes as the topping instead of mash. It’s loaded with vegetables, cooked in one pan, and finished with a buttery, golden potato layer. A family favourite, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and makes great leftovers.

Filipino Stir-fried Noodles and Chicken

You’ll be amazed by the gorgeous depth of flavour of this easy, simple, economical dish. Filipino Stir-fried Noodles and Chicken is a one-pan wonder, just as suitable for weeknight family meals or entertaining a crowd.

Slow cooker chicken nachos topped with melted cheese, served on a plate.

Slow-cooker Chicken Nachos

Slow-cooker Chicken Nachos is a fuss-free, flavour-packed meal featuring tender Tex-Mex chicken, crunchy corn chips and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners, game nights or casual entertaining, this recipe is easy, delicious and versatile!

Korean Beef Rice Bowls

Quick, bold, and satisfying Korean Beef Rice Bowls with a creamy gochujang mayo drizzle, served with tangy kimchi and optional fresh toppings. Perfect for a flavour-packed weeknight meal. It’s also customisable.

  1. Love all your recipes

    • Thank you so much, Susan! Nic xxx

  2. Would love those 10 recipes

    • Hi Christine, hopefully you can view the recipes easily by hitting the “view recipe” button. Nic x

  3. I made the crispy potato topped beef pie last night and it was so good! Enough for lunches for everyone today too with a side salad. Love your recipes so much, Nic!

    • So glad you enjoyed this one, Kiara, and happy you’re loving the recipes! Nic x

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Simple Dinners Every Day by Nicole Maguire

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