As busy parents, we all know how hectic the week can get—especially when the kids are heading back to school, and we’re juggling a million other things. That’s why I’ve created my Get Ahead Sunday series, designed to help you save time, money, and stress with simple meal prep ideas that make your weeknight dinners a breeze.

In this week’s Get Ahead Sunday, I’m sharing four easy, budget-friendly recipes you can prep in just 1.5 hours! Whether you’re recovering from a cold (like I was) or simply want to take the pressure off during the week, these meals are perfect for busy nights when you need dinner on the table fast. From San Choy Bow to Mini Lunchbox Pizzas for school lunchboxes, this collection has everything you need to keep your family happy and your week stress-free.

Check out the links below to get started on this week’s meal prep and discover my tips for getting ahead without sacrificing flavour or fun!

1
San Choy Bow

San Choy Bow

4.84 from 6 votes
San Choy Bow is a delicious dinner that’s easy to make and fun to eat. Lettuce cups are filled with a flavoursome minced (ground) pork and veggie mixture. Add vermicelli rice noodles if you like!
View recipe
2
Homemade Nachos Recipe

Homemade Nachos

4.50 from 2 votes
There's no need to buy takeout when you can make this Homemade Nachos recipe quickly and easily at home in only 15 minutes. Made with economical ingredients like minced (ground) beef, canned beans, corn chips and pantry flavourings, this one-pan wonder emerges from the oven brimming with golden melty cheese. Simple avocado and tomato salsas are served on top, along with sour cream and jalapeños.  
View recipe
3
Freshly baked mini pizzas on a tray, topped with shredded mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni.

Mini Lunchbox Pizzas

4.90 from 47 votes
These Mini Lunchbox Pizzas are made with a two-ingredient dough, topped with pepperoni and mozzarella – perfect for school lunches or quick meals. Ready in under 15 minutes!
View recipe
4
Slow cooker honey garlic chicken served in a pan, topped with fresh spring onions

Honey-Garlic Slow-cooker Chicken

4.67 from 3 votes
This amazing, restaurant-quality Honey-Garlic Slow-cooker Chicken recipe is made with just a few simple, low-cost ingredients. After just 10 minutes of prep, it all goes in the slow-cooker to “set and forget”. After a few hours, you are left with the most satisfying family meal that is great for leftovers and also freezer-friendly.
View recipe

Watch how to make it: