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Home » Recipe Collections

32 Make Once, Eat Twice Recipes for Busy Weeks You Can’t Ignore

Published: Oct 13, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Make once, eat twice recipes are a game changer for busy weeks, allowing you to whip up quick, easy meals that taste great and save time. These recipes let you cook once and enjoy the leftovers later, making dinner planning a breeze. Whether juggling work, or family or needing a break, these meals fit right into your schedule. With simple ingredients and straightforward prep, you’ll have plenty of tasty options to keep your week running smoothly. Say goodbye to stress and hello to easy mealtime solutions that keep everyone happy!

A bowl of Sheet Pan Bibimbap with a pair of chopsticks.
Sheet Pan Bibimbap. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Close-up image of sliced homemade Margherita pizza.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is packed with veggies and provides a cozy meal in just 35 minutes. Perfect for busy weeks, you can enjoy it immediately and keep the leftovers for another quick dinner later.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

An image of a white plate with a serving of cheesy green bean casserole with a fork on the side, and the casserole behind it.
Cheesy Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

The cheesy green bean casserole features crispy beans with a golden topping, coming together in just 30 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights, this dish simplifies meal prep, providing a savory side that holds up well for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

Tuscan Cannellini Bean Soup

An overhead view of the Tuscan bean soup placed on a serving dish with a spoon on the side.
Tuscan Cannellini Bean Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Tuscan bean soup is a hearty, budget-friendly option ready in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for quick weeknight meals and stores well, making it a reliable choice for easy lunches or dinners later in the week.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Cannellini Bean Soup

Spicy Pumpkin Soup

An overhead image of spicy pumpkin soup served in a bowl.
Spicy Pumpkin Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Curry-roasted pumpkin soup combines ease and flavor using just a sheet pan and blender. Its creamy texture and simple preparation make it a great fit for busy weeks, with leftovers saving you time for future meals.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Pumpkin Soup

Sheet Pan Bibimbap

A bowl of Sheet Pan Bibimbap with a pair of chopsticks.
Sheet Pan Bibimbap. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This sheet pan bibimbap blends roasted veggies and crispy tofu with bold Korean flavors, ready in 35 minutes. It’s an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it fresh and save the rest for later in the week.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Bibimbap

Enchilada Casserole

An image of vegetarian enchilada casserole in a clear baking dish.
Enchilada Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

My vegetarian enchilada casserole is packed with hearty veggies and a homemade sauce, all prepared in one pan. Great for meal prepping, this dish serves multiple portions, providing easy, no-fuss dinners throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Enchilada Casserole

Roasted Vegetable Salad

An overhead image of roasted vegetable salad on a serving dish. with the dressing on the side.
Roasted Vegetable Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

The roasted vegetable salad is perfect for fall, featuring a light vinaigrette and versatile serving options. Whether served hot or cold, it stores well, making it a great addition to busy weeknight meals or packed lunches.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Vegetable Salad

Nigerian Jollof Rice

A close up image of nigerian jolloff rice garnished with slices of red onion and bay leaves.
Nigerian Jollof Rice. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Nigerian jollof rice is a one-pot wonder infused with bold tomato and pepper flavors and ready in 30 minutes. This dish is perfect for meal prep, providing rich flavors that improve as leftovers for future meals.
Get the Recipe: Nigerian Jollof Rice

Easy Veggie Lasagna

An image of a slice of vegetable lasagna on a white serving plate.
Easy Veggie Lasagna. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This easy vegetable lasagna, layered with ricotta and roasted vegetables, comes together in just 45 minutes. It’s a practical way to boost your veggie intake, with enough servings to feed you through multiple meals during a busy week.
Get the Recipe: Easy Veggie Lasagna

Roasted Kabocha Squash

Close-up of baked kabocha squash slices seasoned with sesame seeds.
Roasted Kabocha Squash. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted kabocha squash is easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy schedules. This side dish can be made in advance, ensuring you have something quick and flavorful to enjoy throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Kabocha Squash

Stuffed Peppers

A photo showing vegan stuffed peppers arranged on a white plate, set atop a brown cloth, with a fork and knife placed beside.
Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted vegan stuffed peppers are filled with quinoa, lentils, and veggies, offering a nutritious meal that can be prepared ahead. They reheat beautifully, providing a healthy, quick dinner option for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

An angled shot of savory sweet potato casserole served in a baking dish.
Savory Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This savory sweet potato casserole combines sweet potatoes with garlic and a honey walnut topping. Great for meal prep, it holds up well in the fridge and provides several servings to enjoy throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese

A  Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese topped with a golden-brown crust and garnished with sliced green onions.
Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This classic green bean casserole with cream cheese can be prepared quickly using fresh or canned beans. It’s perfect for holiday dinners or weeknight meals, offering an easy side dish that can be enjoyed as leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese

Shiro Wat (Ethiopian Chickpea Stew)

A large white pot filled with thick, orange shiro wat is pictured from above.
Shiro Wat (Ethiopian Chickpea Stew). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Ethiopian chickpea stew is filled with warm spices and ready in 45 minutes, making it a hearty option. Its ability to store well ensures a satisfying, quick meal during busy weeks, perfect for meal prepping.
Get the Recipe: Shiro Wat (Ethiopian Chickpea Stew)

Greek Chickpea Soup

An image of greek chickpea soup in a bowl with utensils beside it.
Greek Chickpea Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Greek chickpea soup is ready in just 45 minutes and works well any time of year. It’s easy to make ahead and stores nicely, providing multiple servings to enjoy for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Greek Chickpea Soup

Pinto Bean Soup

An overhead image of pinto bean soup in a green bowl with a spoon on the side.
Pinto Bean Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pinto bean soup is a warm and nourishing dish, perfect for cold days and quick to prepare in one pot. It’s an excellent choice for busy weeks, as it stores well and can be reheated easily for another meal.
Get the Recipe: Pinto Bean Soup

Pesto Tortellini Salad

A close up view of cooked tortellini pasta salad in a white bowl.
Pesto Tortellini Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This tortellini pasta salad comes together in just 20 minutes with under ten ingredients. It's a refreshing option for summer and can serve as a light meal that holds up well for leftovers, perfect for meal planning.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tortellini Salad

Efo Riro (Nigerian Spinach Stew)

An overhead image of the vegan efo niro in a pot.
Efo Riro (Nigerian Spinach Stew). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan efo riro is a Nigerian spinach stew packed with robust flavors and can be paired with rice or enjoyed alone. Its simplicity makes it great for meal prep, providing nutritious servings throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Efo Riro (Nigerian Spinach Stew)

Misir Wot - Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew

A close-up of a plate featuring misir wot.
Misir Wot - Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Ethiopian split lentil stew is full of spices and can be served with flatbread or rice. Ready in 45 minutes, it stores well, allowing you to prep meals for the week without sacrificing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Misir Wot - Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew

Mushroom Barley Soup

An image of mushroom barley soup in a bowl.
Mushroom Barley Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Mushroom barley soup is a hearty dish ready in under an hour, offering both nutrition and comfort. It’s perfect for meal prepping, with leftovers that make for an easy, quick dinner later in the week.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Barley Soup

Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

A close up view of spaghetti squash lasagna placed in a baking dish.
Spaghetti Squash Lasagna. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This spaghetti squash lasagna, layered with ricotta and mozzarella, is ready in 45 minutes. It’s a great meatless option that you can prepare ahead, making it easy to enjoy leftovers for several meals.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

Instant Pot Mulligatawny Soup

An overhead image of instant pot mulligatawny soup being scoop out from the pot.
Instant Pot Mulligatawny Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

The Instant Pot Mulligatawny Soup comes together in under an hour, combining vegetables and lentils for a flavorful meal. It’s a perfect option for meal prepping, offering easy reheating throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mulligatawny Soup

Easy, Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

A close up view of a cooked asparagus casserole in a baking dish.
Easy, Cheesy Asparagus Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Simple asparagus casserole blends tender asparagus with a creamy cheddar topping and is ready in just 45 minutes. It’s a quick and easy side dish that holds up well for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Close up of mashed potatoes with a slice of butter and a golden spoon.
Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This no-drain Instant Pot mashed potato recipe results in creamy, garlicky potatoes that are perfect for any meal. It’s a great option for prepping ahead, making it convenient to serve up a flavorful side throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili

An overhead image of vegan white bean chili with toppings.
Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan white bean chili comes together in just 30 minutes, offering a hearty and convenient meal. It’s an excellent option for busy weeks, with leftovers making it easy to enjoy a quick and nutritious dinner later.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili

Authentic Mulligatawny Soup

An overhead image of mulligatawny soup being scooped out in a large pot.
Authentic Mulligatawny Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Mulligatawny Soup, blending vegetables and lentils in a coconut broth, is ready in under an hour. It’s a great make-ahead dish, perfect for enjoying throughout a busy week without needing much prep.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Mulligatawny Soup

Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

Close up of mashed potatoes in a Dutch oven, with wooden spoon.
Cheesy Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These cheesy mashed potatoes can be made on the stovetop or Instant Pot, coming together in just 45 minutes. They store well, making them a great choice for busy weeks when you need a quick and comforting side.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

Zucchini Soup

An image of zucchini soup in a bowl.
Zucchini Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This zucchini soup is ready in under 30 minutes, making it a simple, comforting meal for busy days. Its straightforward preparation and ability to store well make it a great choice for a quick dinner or lunch later.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Soup

Thai Curried Butternut Squash Soup

Top view of butternut squash soup with a spoon in it.
Thai Curried Butternut Squash Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Thai-curried roasted butternut squash soup features creamy coconut milk and warm spices, perfect for fall. It’s easy to prepare ahead, giving you multiple servings to enjoy throughout a busy week.
Get the Recipe: Thai Curried Butternut Squash Soup

Whole Roasted Gochujang Cauliflower

A close up view of whole roasted cauliflower.
Whole Roasted Gochujang Cauliflower. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Gochujang cauliflower delivers a bold, spicy umami flavor that can be served family-style or alongside rice. It’s an excellent choice for meal prepping, as it reheats well and can be enjoyed throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Whole Roasted Gochujang Cauliflower

Zucchini & Asparagus Frittata

A close-up of a vegetable frittata slice on a plate.
Zucchini & Asparagus Frittata. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegetable frittata is a versatile breakfast dish that can be prepared using stovetop and oven methods in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious start to the day multiple times a week.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini & Asparagus Frittata

Kale Harvest Salad

An overhead image of kale salad in a large serving bowl.
Kale Harvest Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Fall kale salad, featuring carrots and dates, is ready in just 15 minutes and makes a healthy side for any meal. Great for busy weeks, it stores well and adds a nutritious touch to lunches or dinners.
Get the Recipe: Kale Harvest Salad

More Easy Make-Ahead Recipes

Overhead image of best tuna casserole in a dish.
Best Tuna Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Discover 23 easy make-ahead recipes that simplify fall gatherings with delicious, stress-free dishes perfect for any occasion!
Read it Here: 23 Easy Make-Ahead Recipes for a Hassle-Free Fall Gathering

More Low-Prep Chicken Dishes

Instant pot chicken adobo in a bowl atop cauliflower rice.
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Discover 27 low-prep chicken dishes packed with flavor and minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight!
Read it Here: 27 Low-Prep Chicken Dishes That Are Big on Flavor, Low on Effort

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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