Batch cooking makes lunch prep easier, simplifies meals for two, and takes the stress out of busy family life.
Imagine opening your fridge to find everything prepped for a full week of delicious meals. With just one cooking session, you can mix and match a variety of meals the whole family will love, without feeling like you’re eating leftovers on repeat.
This week’s game plan starts with six easy base preps. Each one turns into several creative meals using recipes you already know and love. It’s a flexible way to meal prep that still feels fresh and fun!
1. Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos is a powerhouse for building fresh, colorful meals all week long. After night one, repurpose the chicken in Taco Salad, Walking Tacos, Chicken Taquitos, Tostadas, or Chicken and Rice Enchiladas.
2. Grilled Corn
Grilled Corn adds smoky sweetness that transforms simple dishes into summer favorites. Whether you cook it in the husk, foil, or straight on the flame, it's worth the extra step. (But you can also cook it in your Instant Pot!) Use it in Corn Salad, Street Corn Dip, Corn Casserole, Esquites, Corn Chowder, or Street Corn Pasta Salad later in the week.
3. Pulled Pork
Pulled Pork is one of those magic meals that keeps on giving. After the first night, use the leftovers for BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches, Pulled Pork Nachos, Mexican Tamales, Pork Carnitas, or a saucy Wet Burrito. It’s comfort food on repeat, with almost no extra work.
4. Air Fryer Meatballs
These juicy, Air Fryer Meatballs come together fast and freeze beautifully for later. Make a big batch (and freeze!) and you’re set for Meatball Subs, Meatball Casserole, Swedish Meatballs, Mediterranean Meatball Bowl or Green Curry Meatballs. They’re the kind of meal starter you’ll be so glad you prepped ahead.
5. Garden Tomatoes (canned or fresh)
Nothing beats garden-fresh Canned Tomatoes for flavor and flexibility. Toss them into Tomato Basil Pasta, blend up a batch of Homemade Salsa, or slice them for Tomato Pie, Marinara Sauce, or Roasted Tomato Soup. They bring brightness to any dish and never go to waste!
6. Steak
Perfectly grilled (or air-fried!) steak makes dinner feel special without the stress. Just slice the leftovers and add to Carne Asada Tacos, Yum Yum Bowls, Cornish Pasties, or Korean Beef Tacos for an effortless upgrade. With a few simple tips, you’ll nail it every time.
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