From big batches of tuna salad to a pot of vegetable stew, planning meals in advance is one of the easiest ways to eat healthy and save money. Here are our favorite healthy meal prep ideas to make on Sunday and enjoy all week long.
30 Healthy Meal Prep Ideas
Updated on Oct. 13, 2023
Healthy Turkey Chili
I’ve taken my mother’s healthy turkey chili recipe and made it thicker and more robust. It’s a favorite, especially in fall and winter. —Celesta Zanger, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan
1/30
2/30
Chicken Parmesan
Total Time
40 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband used to order chicken parmigiana at restaurants. Then I found this recipe in our local newspaper, adjusted it for two and began making the beloved dish at home. After more than 50 years of marriage, I still enjoy preparing his favorite recipes. —Iola Butler, Sun City, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half: 444 calories, 26g fat (8g saturated fat), 166mg cholesterol, 1496mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 29g protein.
3/30
Lettuce-Wrap Burgers
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These fresh flavors blend like a dream. It's a snap to throw the wraps together for a quick, healthy lunch. The burgers can also be served on buns if you like. —Rachelle McCalla, Atlantic, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
2 wraps: 252 calories, 15g fat (5g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 518mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 fat.
4/30
Moroccan Chickpea Stew
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When I'm invited to a potluck, I easily double or triple this healthy Moroccan chickpea stew to treat the crowd to an exotic dish of enticing, bold flavors. —Heather Demeritte, Scottsdale, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 217 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 455mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 9g fiber), 7g protein.
5/30
Quinoa Patties
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This easy to make veggie burger packs an amazing taste, and the crunch from the addition of quinoa makes the texture to die for. This is an easy and delicious vegetarian burger option that you must try. Pan-frying adds a perfect crisp that takes it to the next level. The mixture can be made ahead of time, and it freezes very well. Enjoy! —Beth Klein, Arlington, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
2 patties: 235 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 273mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 5g fiber), 8g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1-1/2 fat, 1 lean meat.
6/30
Chicken Quinoa Bowl
Total Time
40 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love this recipe because its simplicity allows me to spend time with my family while not sacrificing taste or nutrition. Plus the fresh spring flavors really shine through! —Allyson Meyler, Greensboro, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 491 calories, 21g fat (5g saturated fat), 101mg cholesterol, 715mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 6g fiber), 42g protein.
7/30
Brussels Sprouts & Quinoa Salad
Total Time
35 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
With Brussels sprouts for the green and cranberries for the red, I make a cheery Christmastime salad. Refreshing and versatile, it works with any kind of nut or dried fruit. —Cameron Stell, Los Angeles, California
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 286 calories, 15g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 206mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 4g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 fat.
8/30
Spiced-Up Healthy Soup
Total Time
55 min
Servings
14 servings (3-1/2 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
“This has been a hit with family and friends. It’s spicy, low-fat and filled with good-for-you ingredients.” Diane Tayman — Dixon, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 156 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 601mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 7g fiber), 11g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
9/30
BLT Quinoa Bowls
Total Time
35 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I absolutely love a BLT with sliced avocado and an egg. Recently, I've been trying out grain bowls, and I thought the flavors of my favorite sandwich would work really well. My family agreed! —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 446 calories, 28g fat (5g saturated fat), 194mg cholesterol, 228mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 6g fiber), 17g protein.
10/30
Healthy Chicken Dumpling Soup
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband was fooled with this low-fat recipe and I'm sure your family will be, too! A savory broth, hearty chicken and rich dumplings all add up to comforting flavor. —Brenda White of Morrison, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 363 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 73mg cholesterol, 900mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 4g fiber), 42g protein.
11/30
Fajita in a Bowl
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Pull out the skewers and take a stab at grilling peppers, onions and corn for an awesome steak salad that’s all summer and smoke. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 351 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 862mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 7g fiber), 28g protein.
12/30
Lemony Turkey Rice Soup
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings (2 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
While growing up in Texas, I spent a lot of time helping my grandma cook. Lemon and cilantro add a deliciously different twist to turkey soup.
—Margarita Cuellar, East Chicago, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 166 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 42mg cholesterol, 1047mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 13g protein.
13/30
Vegetable Meat Loaf
Total Time
55 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm not big on leftovers, so I've pared down my recipes to serve two. This meat loaf is simple and quick to prepare, plus it helps you eat your veggies. It's great served with cheddar-topped baked potatoes. —Judi Brinegar, Liberty, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 330 calories, 16g fat (6g saturated fat), 163mg cholesterol, 1349mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 1g fiber), 25g protein.
14/30
Black Beans and Pasta
Total Time
25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This black bean pasta was something I created as a teenager, back when I was a vegetarian. Now that my daughter doesn't eat meat, she asks for this dinner several times a week. —Ashlynn Azar, Beaverton, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 255 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 230mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 9g fiber), 12g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 1 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
15/30
Mediterranean Cobb Salad
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm a huge fan of taking classic dishes and adding some flair to them. I also like to change up heavier dishes, like the classic Cobb salad. I've replaced typical chicken with crunchy falafel that's just as satisfying. —Jenn Tidwell, Fair Oaks, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 258 calories, 18g fat (5g saturated fat), 83mg cholesterol, 687mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 5g fiber), 13g protein.
16/30
Israeli Couscous & Chicken Sausage Skillet
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Our comfort food is a big plate of sausage with couscous. Add some onion, celery, a little heat and a sprinkle of feta. —Angela Spengler, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 343 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 694mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 3 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
17/30
Asian Vegetable Pasta
Total Time
20 min
Servings
5 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A little peanut butter and a sprinkling of peanuts give this side dish plenty of flavor. While red pepper flakes offer a little kick, brown sugar balances it out with a hint of sweet. —Mitzi Sentiff of Annapolis, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 358 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 472mg sodium, 54g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 5g fiber), 15g protein.
18/30
Southwest Turkey Bulgur Dinner
Total Time
45 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
In the past few years, I’ve been trying to incorporate more whole grains in our dinners. Bulgur is one of my favorite grains to work with because of its quick cooking time. Besides being high in fiber and rich in minerals, it has a mild, nutty flavor that my kids enjoy. —Maria Vasseur, Valencia, California
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups with 2 tablespoons topping: 387 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 628mg sodium, 59g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 14g fiber), 27g protein.
19/30
Sweet Potato Lentil Stew
Total Time
5 hours 15 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I fell in love with the spicy aromas in this sweet potato lentil stew. Add whatever ingredients you have on hand, like zucchini, spinach, kale and corn. —Heather Gray, Little Rock, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 290 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 662mg sodium, 58g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 15g fiber), 15g protein.
20/30
Greek Zucchini & Feta Bake
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Looking to highlight your meal with something light, indulgent and golden on top? Turn to this Greek-style egg bake. —Gabriela Stefanescu, Webster, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 231 calories, 13g fat (7g saturated fat), 128mg cholesterol, 583mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 12g protein.
21/30
Stuffed Pepper Soup
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
8 servings (2 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
I was talking about stuffed peppers with the other cooks at the restaurant where I work. We decided to mix similar ingredients for a soup. Customer response was overwhelming! —Krista Muddiman, Meadville, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 337 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 1466mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 4g fiber), 24g protein.
22/30
Roasted Veggie Orzo
Total Time
45 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
“My sister inspired this recipe. I added a few more spices, but the concept is hers. It's easy to vary, is a great way to add veggies to your diet and the olive oil is heart healthy.”Jackie Termont - Richmond, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 164 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 188mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
23/30
Vegetable Barley Bake
Total Time
1 hour 20 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Forget the potatoes and rice, and consider this change-of-pace dinner accompaniment. Wholesome barley makes for a heart-smart dish that complements just about any main course and other sides, too. —Shirley Doyle, Mount Prospect, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 155 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 158mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 6g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1.500 starch, 1 vegetable, 0.500 fat.
24/30
Tarragon Tuna Salad
Total Time
10 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
It's surprising how a few herbs can brighten up tuna salad. Made with reduced-fat mayonnaise, this version gets its zip from mustard. It makes a terrific light lunch or Sunday brunch dish. —Billie Moss, Walnut Creek, California
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 151 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 38mg cholesterol, 373mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 17g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat.
25/30
Grilled Asian Chicken Pasta Salad
Total Time
35 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This cool noodle salad makes a great casual one-bowl dinner or a perfect dish for a potluck or buffet. —Sharon Tipton, Casselberry, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 478 calories, 16g fat (3g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 321mg sodium, 51g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 32g protein.
26/30
Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
Total Time
30 min
Servings
9 servings (21/4 qt.)
From the Recipe Creator:
When the weather turns cold, get cozy with a bowl of this butternut squash soup. The cream adds richness, but if you're looking to cut calories, it can be omitted. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 157 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 483mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 6g fiber), 3g protein.
27/30
Chickpea Tortilla Soup
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings (3 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
This vegan tortilla soup recipe is healthy, filling and family-friendly! We love how hearty and flavorful it is. We like to play around with the different toppings we add each time it's served. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 289 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 702mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 9g fiber), 13g protein.
28/30
Apple Cider Chicken Quinoa Skillet
Total Time
40 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Since I’m especially busy with three active teenagers, I don’t have much time to get dinner on the table in the evening. Instead, I rely on quick options, like this one-skillet dish that boasts essential proteins, veggies and good carbohydrates. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 492 calories, 18g fat (3g saturated fat), 61mg cholesterol, 888mg sodium, 62g carbohydrate (29g sugars, 6g fiber), 22g protein.
29/30
White Bean Chicken Chili
Total Time
3 hours 25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My sister shared this white bean chicken chili recipe with me. I usually double it and add one extra can of beans, then serve with cheddar biscuits or warmed tortillas. The jalapeno adds just enough heat to notice but not too much for my children. —Kristine Bowles, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 344 calories, 16g fat (6g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 894mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 6g fiber), 25g protein.
30/30
Black & White Bean Chili
Total Time
4 hours 30 min
Servings
8 servings (2 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a healthy and filling meal that even the kids love! The satisfying chili is great for football games or potluck dinners. —Katti Scott, Manteo, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 252 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 850mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 8g fiber), 24g protein.
