12 Delicious Meal Prep Dinners That Make The Best Leftover Lunches

Carmen Eldridge

September 25, 2025

Unlock the secret to turning your dinner into a delicious leftover lunch the next day! Whether you’re a seasoned meal prepper or just looking for ways to save time and money in the kitchen, we’ve got the solution. In this article, we’ll be sharing some clever recipes that will not only satisfy your hunger at night but also make mouth-watering leftovers for lunch. Think hearty casseroles, savory stir-fries, and other creative dishes that will become your new go-to’s.

From busy weeknights to meal prep days, these recipes will help you turn last night’s dinner into today’s tasty treat with ease.

Caprese Chicken {Five Ingredient!}

Caprese Chicken {Five Ingredient!}

Keeping your meal prep simple and satisfying is just what you need to stay on track with healthy eating habits. This delightful 5-ingredient Caprese Chicken dish embodies the perfect blend of wholesome goodness, rich flavor, and ease of preparation that makes it a family favorite. What’s more, this gluten-free dinner recipe checks all the boxes with its minimal ingredient list – a mere five ingredients are all you’ll need to create this mouth-watering one-pan masterpiece.

Keto Grilled Chicken Souvlaki

Keto Grilled Chicken Souvlaki

Taking centre stage in our household’s grilling repertoire is none other than the mouth-watering Grilled Chicken Souvlaki. This crowd-pleaser owes its irresistible charm to a traditional Greek marinade that not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with an unparalleled depth of flavor and moisture. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen as well.

Shoyu Chicken

Shoyu Chicken

Join us as we explore the delectable world of Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken, a dish that embodies the perfect balance of flavors and ease of preparation. This mouth-watering recipe involves marinating chicken in a savory blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, and a hint of spice from cayenne pepper, resulting in a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

With its impressive flavor profile and quick cooking time, Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken is an ideal choice for those seeking a hassle-free yet satisfying meal, all within the comfort of their own homes. As an added bonus, this recipe happens to be gluten free, making it accessible to individuals with dietary restrictions.

Thai Chicken Salad

Thai Chicken Salad

Joining the ranks of quick and easy salads that are perfect for make-ahead lunches, this Thai Chicken salad shines with its delightful combination of textures and flavors. The use of powdered peanut butter in the Thai peanut dressing is a clever twist, as it not only reduces the calorie count but also maintains the richness and depth of flavor that we expect from traditional peanut butter.

Chicken Parmesan With Pepperoni

Chicken Parmesan With Pepperoni

Not only does this family-friendly Chicken Parmesan with Pepperoni make for a wonderful dinner option, but it’s also incredibly satisfying on those chilly winter evenings spent cozying up by the fireplace. The best part? The leftovers are just as tasty as the freshly cooked meal, making it an excellent choice to cook in bulk.

Easy Roasted Rosemary Lemon Chicken

Easy Roasted Rosemary Lemon Chicken

Cooking up a flavorful and satisfying meal doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when you’re looking for something quick and easy like a weeknight dinner. The Roasted Rosemary Lemon Chicken recipe is perfect for families who want to enjoy a delicious meal together without too much fuss. By making two servings at once, you’ll not only save time but also have leftover chicken that can be used in salads, wraps, or as a protein-packed addition to your favorite dishes throughout the week.

Easy Hamburger Soup

Easy Hamburger Soup

Here’s how you can make the most of your mealtime with this hearty hamburger soup recipe, which combines tender chunks of lean ground beef with an array of fresh vegetables in a rich and savory broth. Not only is it a treat for your taste buds, but also a nutritious option that’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner.

Spicy Tomato Soup

Spicy Tomato Soup

Perfectly tailored to warm your senses during the chilly winter season, this delicious Spicy Tomato Soup is an ideal choice for those seeking a comforting and flavorful meal. The subtle undertones of smoky spice add depth and complexity to this delectable bowl of goodness, making it an excellent option for those with gluten-free or dairy-free dietary requirements.

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Welcoming the classic flavors of Philly cheesesteaks into your home has never been easier. This indulgent casserole recipe perfectly captures the essence of the beloved sandwich, featuring tender sirloin steak, sautéed bell peppers and onions, and a rich blend of three types of cheese that will melt in every bite. Whether you’re craving a satisfying dinner or need a mouthwatering party snack, this low-carb, keto-friendly casserole is sure to please even the most discerning palates.

Simple Salisbury Steak

Simple Salisbury Steak

Gathering around the dinner table with loved ones is always a special occasion, and with a dish as satisfying as Salisbury Steak, it’s no wonder this classic recipe remains a weeknight staple in many households. A combination of tender beef and savory seasonings makes this comfort food a crowd-pleaser, especially when paired with creamy mashed potatoes or a medley of colorful vegetables.

To take your Salisbury Steak to the next level, try serving it with some crispy onions or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

Chicken Pesto Pasta

Chicken Pesto Pasta

Known for its simplicity and rich flavors, this chicken pesto pasta recipe combines the likes of sautéed chicken, al dente farfalle pasta, and halved cherry tomatoes, all masterfully tossed in a vibrant basil pesto sauce and finished with a generous sprinkling of cheese.

Beef Enchiladas Casserole With Corn Tortillas

Beef Enchiladas Casserole With Corn Tortillas

Zero in on this quick and delicious Been Enchilada Casserole that’s ideal for a chaotic weeknight, requiring only 15 minutes of prep time to get started. This mouth-watering casserole is the perfect solution for those days when you’re short on time but still want to serve up a satisfying meal. Beef Enchiladas Casserole With Corn Tortillas

Fiesta Chicken Pasta Casserole

Fiesta Chicken Pasta Casserole

Elevating the classic comfort food experience, this fiesta chicken pasta casserole bake combines a medley of flavors and textures that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Featuring succulent chicken, sweet corn, black beans, and a blend of Mexican-inspired seasonings, this southwest-style dish is a perfect way to spice up your mealtime routine.

Whether you’re using a rotisserie or leftover chicken, this recipe will undoubtedly become a staple in your household, delighting both children and adults alike with its rich flavors and satisfying presentation.

Pan Seared Salmon

Pan Seared Salmon

Creating a delicious and healthy dinner option is easier than you think. Combine the simplicity of pan-searing salmon with the brightness of lemon for a dish that’s both refreshing and quick to prepare. This low-carb, light summer meal can be ready in minutes, making it perfect for any night of the week, requiring minimal ingredients to bring out its full flavor.

Beefaroni: The Hearty And Meaty Pasta

Beefaroni: The Hearty And Meaty Pasta

While enjoying a warm, comforting bowl of homemade Beefaroni is truly a delight, its appeal extends far beyond the meal itself. This hearty, meaty pasta dish is not only infused with rich Italian flavors but also perfectly suited for quick, family-friendly meals and easy storage.

How To Make An Amazing Instant Pot Beef Stew

How To Make An Amazing Instant Pot Beef Stew

Unlock the secret to a mouth-watering instant pot beef stew that’s ready in just 1 hour, packed with deep flavors, wholesome ingredients, and fall-apart tenderness – leftovers are a bonus!

Cajun Chicken Pasta

Cajun Chicken Pasta

Navigating your busy weeknight schedule doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or convenience when it comes to dinner. One-Pan Cajun Chicken Pasta is an ideal solution, delivering a quick and satisfying meal in just 30 minutes. The creamy sauce, spicy kick, and ease of cleanup make this dish a perfect fit for hectic evenings.

Old Fashioned Lasagna

Old Fashioned Lasagna

Recent culinary trends have given rise to a renewed interest in traditional Italian dishes, none more so than the beloved lasagna al forno. This classic Italian recipe is renowned for its bold, meaty flavors which are perfectly balanced by the creamy richness of homemade bechamel sauce and the freshness of mixed veggies, creating a truly satisfying dining experience.

American Chop Suey

American Chop Suey

Zestful flavors characterize American Chop Suey, a beloved recipe that combines the richness of ground beef with the comforting familiarity of pasta, all within a robust tomato-based sauce that’s been carefully seasoned to perfection. This classic dish is a staple in many households, and its enduring popularity can be attributed to its straightforward preparation method and the versatility it offers in terms of ingredient customization.

Baked Feta Pasta

Baked Feta Pasta

Savoring the flavors of Greece has never been easier than with this baked feta pasta dish that perfectly combines creamy, tangy feta cheese with sweet, juicy tomatoes. Its simplicity makes it a quick and effortless meal to prepare, guaranteeing its place in your recipe collection as a new favorite and go-to option for a delicious dinner solution.

The Best Creamy Baked Tuscan Chicken Recipe

The Best Creamy Baked Tuscan Chicken Recipe

Understanding why this recipe has gained such popularity, it’s because of its simplicity and rich flavors. Unlike other complex recipes, this classic Creamy Baked Tuscan Chicken is straightforward to prepare and packed with Italian herbs and spices that bring out the true essence of Tuscan cuisine. The combination of tender chicken breasts smothered in a garlic-infused cream sauce results in a dish that’s not only mouth-watering but also incredibly satisfying.

Whether it’s for a mid-week family meal or an elegant dinner party, this recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palates. The chicken absorbs all the flavors of the delicious sauce, making each bite a true delight.

One Pot Creamy Sausage Gnocchi

One Pot Creamy Sausage Gnocchi

Savoring the taste of Italy, One Pot Creamy Sausage Gnocchi is a delicious and convenient dinner option that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. This flavorful dish is made with just one pot, eliminating the need for multiple cooking vessels.

Easy Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Easy Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Zeroing in on a satisfying meal, this classic dish is often considered the epitome of Italian-American cuisine. The combination of crunchy exterior, juicy interior, and rich melted cheese creates an unforgettable flavor experience.

Pollo Asado

Pollo Asado

Delivering a mouth-watering and satisfying meal has never been easier with this simple yet impressive homemade pollo asado recipe. One of its standout features is the fact that it’s prepared in just a single pan, making cleanup a breeze while saving you valuable time. Moreover, this delicious one-pan meal can be ready to devour in only 20 minutes!

Cheesy Bolognese Rice Bake

Cheesy Bolognese Rice Bake

Here’s the perfect way to introduce your new family favourite – this mouthwatering Cheesy Bolognese Rice Bake is a twist on traditional lasagne that everyone will love. With its rich and satisfying flavour profile, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your household. The combination of a layer of seasoned rice topped with a hearty bolognese sauce and finished off with a creamy bechamel sauce is absolute perfection.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time, making it ideal for busy families or those looking for a meal that can be prepared in advance. What’s more, this recipe can easily be adapted to be gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it regardless of dietary requirements.

Leftover Turkey Pot Pie (With Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix!)

Leftover Turkey Pot Pie (With Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix!)

Unlock the secret to repurposing leftover turkey with a mouthwatering twist. This innovative Leftover Turkey Pot Pie Biscuit Casserole combines the richness of a savory Cheddar Bay Biscuit crust with the comforting warmth of a classic pot pie, all while showcasing the versatility of using leftovers in a whole new way.

Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Versatility is key when it comes to this delectable Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken recipe, which not only incorporates the brightness of lemon and pungency of garlic but also relies on the richness of olive oil and the subtle depth of dried herbs. Whether you prefer grilling or baking your chicken breasts or thighs, this marinade is sure to elevate your meal.

Pineapple Curry

Pineapple Curry

Unlocking the secrets of Thai cuisine, this delectable Pineapple Curry comes together effortlessly with the aid of a premium curry paste. Its sweet and spicy flavors perfectly blend in harmony, making it an instant crowd-pleaser that’s sure to tantalize taste buds!

Mississippi Pot Roast Recipe

Mississippi Pot Roast Recipe

Crafting the perfect comfort food dish, the Mississippi Pot Roast recipe delivers on its promise of tender and succulent slow cooker roast beef. With a mere five simple ingredients, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also appealing to both kids and adults alike, making it an excellent choice for hosting company. The rich flavors and fall-apart texture of the roast will undoubtedly satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

Brazillian Chicken (Tempero Baiano)

Brazillian Chicken (Tempero Baiano)

Often described as a quintessential Brazilian dish, Brazilian Chicken is a staple in many households due to its simplicity and versatility. This recipe can be prepared in no time, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights when everyone’s looking for something quick and delicious. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability – whether you’re using the air fryer or oven, any chicken pieces will do.

Easy Baked Ziti With Meat Sauce

Easy Baked Ziti With Meat Sauce

Personally, I’m a huge fan of baked ziti – it’s one of those timeless Italian-American dishes that never fails to hit the spot. Similar to my beloved Spaghetti Bolognese, this classic recipe is a perfect blend of pasta, meat sauce, and melted cheese, making every bite an absolute delight.

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