Easy Dinner Recipes To Make Ahead Of Time
Are you tired of coming home after a long day at work and having to spend hours in the kitchen preparing dinner? Or maybe you just want to spend more time with your family and less time in the kitchen? Whatever your reasons may be, making dinner ahead of time can be a great solution! Here are some easy dinner recipes that you can prepare ahead of time and have ready to go when you need them.
Description
These recipes are designed to be easy to prepare and make ahead of time. They are perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. By making these meals ahead of time, you can save time and reduce stress during the week.
Prep Time
The prep time for these recipes varies, but most of them can be prepared in under 30 minutes. You can even prep some of these meals on the weekend and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook them.
Cook Time
The cook time for these recipes ranges from 20 minutes to 1 hour. Some of these meals can be cooked in the oven, while others can be cooked on the stovetop or in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
The ingredients for these recipes are simple and easy to find at your local grocery store. You may even have some of these ingredients in your pantry already. Some of the common ingredients include:
- Chicken breast or thighs
- Ground beef or turkey
- Rice or quinoa
- Vegetables (broccoli, carrots, onions, peppers, etc.)
- Canned tomatoes or tomato sauce
- Beans (black beans, kidney beans, etc.)
- Cheese
- Tortillas or pasta
- Spices (garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, etc.)
Equipment
You don’t need any special equipment to make these recipes, but having a slow cooker or Instant Pot can make things even easier. You’ll also need basic kitchen tools like a cutting board, knife, and measuring cups and spoons.
Method
Here are some easy dinner recipes that you can make ahead of time:
1. Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
- 1 cup cooked rice
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Salsa
Method
- Place chicken in slow cooker.
- Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook on low for 6 hours.
- Shred chicken with a fork and mix with the other ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Divide rice between bowls and top with chicken mixture.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese and top with a dollop of sour cream and salsa, if desired.
Notes
You can also use a different type of meat, like beef or pork, and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Nutrition Info
Calories: 450, Fat: 8g, Carbohydrates: 60g, Protein: 36g
Recipes FAQ
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Recipe Tips
You can also add other toppings, like avocado, cilantro, or lime juice.
2. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak, sliced against the grain
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper
- Cooked rice or noodles
Method
- In a bowl, combine sliced beef, cornstarch, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Mix well and let marinate for 15 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
- Add beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until browned.
- Add broccoli and beef broth. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Notes
You can also add other vegetables, like carrots, onions, or peppers.
Nutrition Info
Calories: 350, Fat: 16g, Carbohydrates: 16g, Protein: 33g
Recipes FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken or pork instead of beef.
Recipe Tips
Make sure to slice the beef against the grain to keep it tender.
3. One-Pan Baked Ziti
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper
- 10 ounces ziti pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat.
- Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add ziti pasta and 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until pasta is cooked through and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake in the preheated oven for 5-10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
You can also add other vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Nutrition Info
Calories: 450, Fat: 20g, Carbohydrates: 38g, Protein: 28g
Recipes FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, but adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
Recipe Tips
Make sure to use an oven-safe skillet or transfer the mixture to a baking dish before baking.
4. Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
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