28 Recipes for Bulk Meal Preparation
28 Recipes for Bulk Meal Preparation
Simplify your meal planning with these delicious and nutrient-rich dishes.
In our fast-paced modern lives, finding the time to prepare and enjoy nutritious meals can be a constant challenge. Juggling work, family, and the myriad demands of a busy schedule often leaves little room for thoughtful meal preparation. That's where the Rily team comes in. We understand the need for solutions that balance health, taste, and time, and that's why we've carefully curated this collection of our favourite recipes, each tailored for bulk preparation.
Our goal is to make your culinary journey smoother, more efficient, and, most importantly, delicious. In this article, we'll guide you through a selection of dishes that are not only nutrient-rich but also designed to streamline your meal planning. Whether you're a seasoned meal-prepper looking for fresh ideas or someone who simply wants to save time in the kitchen, our recipes offer an answer to your culinary needs.
From hearty soups and stews that get better with time, to flavourful casseroles and one-pot wonders, we've got you covered. Imagine enjoying a home-cooked meal every day without the daily cooking grind. This isn't a dream; it's a reality when you opt for bulk preparation. By preparing larger batches of your favourite dishes, you can stock your freezer with convenient and healthy options that are ready to heat and enjoy at a moment's notice.
With our expertly chosen recipes, you'll embark on a journey where efficiency meets nutrition, allowing you to savour the pleasures of mealtime without the added stress of daily prep. Discover how to say goodbye to mealtime dilemmas and embrace the ease and satisfaction of bulk cooking. Let's dive into these delectable, nutrient-rich dishes that will revolutionize your approach to meal planning and make your life a little more delicious, one batch at a time.
Sheet Pan Polenta with Sausages
Recipe by Fran Allen
Indulge in the convenience of bulk meal prep with Rily's Sheet Pan Polenta with Sausage recipe. This dish, featuring Italian sausages, chopped polenta, red onions, cherry tomatoes, chilli flakes, Italian seasoning, and rapini, offers a flavourful and balanced meal that's perfect for preparing in larger quantities. The beauty of polenta, naturally gluten and dairy-free, adds versatility to your cooking. In just under an hour, this sheet pan meal delivers crispy polenta, spicy sausage, sweet onions, crispy rapini, and burst tomatoes - a harmonious combination that's bound to break you out of your kitchen rut. So, elevate your meal prep game with this recipe, and enjoy the ease and variety it brings to your weekly menu.
Peruvian Chicken
Recipe by Julia Gibson
Step up your meal prep game with Rily's Peruvian Chicken recipe, perfect for bulk preparation. This one-pan meal is a wholesome combination of a whole chicken seasoned with cumin, paprika, oregano, and a blend of spices, roasted alongside Russet potatoes, broccoli, and an orange bell pepper for a balanced and flavourful feast. To top it off, we include a vibrant cilantro and jalapeno yogurt sauce, adding a burst of fresh flavour to your dishes. This meal is not only rich in healthy fats, protein, carbohydrates, and fibre, but it's also an efficient and nutritious choice to keep you fuelled and satisfied throughout the week. So, simplify your meal prep routine and enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of this show-stopping Peruvian Chicken dish.
Flank Steak & Veggie Stir Fry
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
Simplify your meal prep routine with Rily's Flank Steak & Veggie Stir Fry, a recipe designed for bulk preparation. This dish combines sliced flank steak marinated in a flavourful blend of tamari, coconut sugar, mirin, and avocado oil with a vibrant array of vegetables, including broccoli, yellow onions, red bell peppers, shiitake mushrooms, and aromatic garlic and ginger. It's a quick and easy weeknight meal that's both well-balanced and bursting with flavor. By prepping all the ingredients ahead of time while the steak marinates, you can streamline your cooking process and enjoy a delicious, nutritious, and efficient meal throughout the week.
Shepherd's Pie Skillet
Recipe by Julia Gibson
Discover the convenience of bulk meal prep with Rily's Shepherd's Pie Skillet recipe, delivering the classic flavours of a traditional Shepherd's Pie in a simplified, one-pan format. This dish features ground beef, white onions, garlic, new potatoes, carrots, celery, frozen peas, and a medley of flavourful seasonings, all cooked to perfection in a single skillet. You can savour the beloved tastes of a Shepherd's Pie without the need for boiling, mashing, layering, and baking. This easy-to-prepare, crowd-pleasing meal stands strong on its own or pairs wonderfully with a vinegary side salad for a burst of freshness. Say goodbye to complicated cooking and hello to a convenient and delightful meal prep solution for the week ahead.
Pot Roast
Recipe by Tina Gravalos
Experience the ultimate comfort food with our Pot Roast recipe, tailored for bulk preparation to keep you satisfied and nourished all week long. This hearty dish features boneless beef chuck roast seasoned with sea salt and black pepper, seared to perfection in extra-virgin olive oil. Accompanied by garlic, yellow onions, carrots, celery, and a medley of flavourful ingredients, including beef stock, crushed tomatoes, coconut aminos, balsamic vinegar, and dried parsley, it's a savoury delight that fills your home with delicious aromas. Plus, the benefits of choosing high-quality meat go beyond just taste, as it provides your body with essential vitamins and minerals, promoting healthy hormones, immune function, and heart health. Enjoy the warmth and convenience of this classic comfort food that tastes even better as leftovers, making meal prep a breeze.
Southwest Veggie Chilli
Recipe by Kelsey Russell-Murray
Experience the convenience of bulk meal prep with our Southwest Veggie Chilli, a hearty, one-pot wonder filled with flavour and nutrition. This vegan recipe is a superstar for gut health, thanks to its high-fibre ingredients, including Spanish onions, garlic, sweet potatoes, celery, red bell pepper, canned tomatoes, black beans, and frozen corn. Packed with fibre and plant protein, it's designed to keep you satisfied for hours, making it a perfect meal for the colder months. Whether you're planning lunches for the week or looking for a quick and healthy option for busy evenings, this chilli is your go-to choice. With its long-lasting freshness in the fridge and excellent freezing properties, you can enjoy this warming, nutritious meal with ease and simplicity.
Sheet Pan Lamb Meatballs
Recipe by Fran Allen
Indulge in the convenience of bulk meal prep with Rily's Sheet Pan Lamb Meatballs, a hearty and flavour-packed dish designed for busy weeknights. Crafted from lean ground lamb, these meatballs are seasoned with Aleppo pepper, cumin, and za'atar, creating a blend of rich flavours that's both satisfying and low in carbs. The dish comes together effortlessly with a medley of cherry tomatoes and red onions, all roasted to perfection on a single sheet pan, while the accompanying tahini, lemon juice, and sumac sauce adds a tangy twist. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a quick side salad, this meal is a delicious and nutritious option for those seeking a low-carb, weeknight-friendly dinner.
One Pan Sausage & Winter Vegetables
Recipe by Julia Gibson
Prepare your meals in bulk with Rily's One Pan Sausage & Winter Vegetables recipe, offering the perfect combination of hands-off cooking and delectable winter flavours. This dish features Brussels sprouts, kale, acorn squash, red onions, beets, and garlic, all roasted to perfection alongside savoury sausages and fresh rosemary on a single pan. Elevating the dish is a sweet, bright, and acidic dressing composed of red wine vinegar, raw honey, grainy mustard, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and black pepper. Whether you're serving a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal for yourself, this dish is a delightful choice that stands strong on its own or pairs beautifully with a side salad for an extra dose of vegetable goodness.
Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma
Recipe by Fran Allen
Make meal prep a breeze with Rily's Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma recipe, a weeknight favourite that's both quick and easy to prepare. This dish combines boneless, skinless chicken thighs with cauliflower in a flavourful marinade featuring garlic powder, cumin, za'atar, sea salt, Aleppo pepper, coriander seeds, turmeric powder, cinnamon, and extra-virgin olive oil. A trip to the hot oven transforms the ingredients into a delightful, satisfying meal. Perfect for a takeout alternative or preparing lunches for the week, this dish pairs wonderfully with a quick chopped salad or some toasted pita, making it a go-to choice for busy evenings.
Oven Baked Eggplant Parmesan
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
Simplify your meal prep with Rily's Oven Baked Eggplant Parmesan, a delightful twist on the classic dish that eliminates the need for time-consuming coating and frying. This recipe offers the same wonderful flavours without the fuss, making it easy to put together and incredibly delicious. Featuring gluten-free bread crumbs, chopped walnuts, tomato sauce, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and fresh mozzarella, it's a fantastic option for those following gluten-free and low-sugar diets. With the convenience of baking, you can enjoy the comforting taste of eggplant parmesan without the extra effort.
Spicy Chickpea Minestrone
Recipe by Fran Allen
Enjoy a hearty and delicious meal with Rily's Spicy Chickpea Minestrone recipe, perfect for weeknight dinners and meal prep. This comforting soup is loaded with an array of vegetables, including yellow onion, carrots, celery, garlic, russet potato, tomato paste, chickpeas, kale, and a medley of fresh herbs. The addition of chili flakes provides a delightful hint of spice, making it a warm and inviting dish for any evening. With minimal, straightforward ingredients, this recipe comes together in no time and offers fantastic leftovers for a quick and satisfying meal on the go.
Beef Short Rib Stew
Recipe by Fran Allen
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Rily's Beef Short Rib Stew recipe, designed to warm your soul on a chilly day. This hearty and wholesome stew is crafted with a handful of simple yet flavourful ingredients, including tender beef short ribs, carrots, Yukon Gold potatoes, frozen peas, and a rich blend of seasonings. Simmered to perfection on the stove, this dish is a nutrient-packed powerhouse, offering collagen, iron, fibre, and vitamin A. With its long simmering time, it's not only an ideal option for those with digestive or absorption issues, but it also becomes even more delicious as it sits, making it a fantastic choice for bulk preparation, meal prepping, or freezing for future enjoyment.
Maple Coriander Sheet Pan Chicken
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
Simplify your weeknight meals with Rily's Maple Coriander Sheet Pan Chicken recipe, an easy yet delicious combination of sweet and smoky flavours. Crafted with succulent chicken thighs, butternut squash, and Brussels sprouts, this one-pan dish allows you to enjoy a mouthwatering, hearty meal without the hassle of extensive preparation. The marinade, featuring a blend of maple syrup, lime juice, sesame seeds, and a mix of spices, infuses every bite with an irresistible combination of sweet, tangy, and smoky notes. Ideal for bulk meal preparation, this dish provides a convenient solution for busy schedules, making it the perfect option for a quick, nourishing dinner.
Lemon Bean Soup
Recipe by Tina Gravalos
Experience the refreshing zing of Rily's Lemon Bean Soup, a tangy and vibrant recipe perfect for lovers of lemony flavours. This soup offers a delightful balance of brightness and richness, combining the zest of fresh lemon juice with the earthy goodness of cannellini beans, farro, and kale. With a base of aromatic onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, it's not only flavorsome but also packed with essential nutrients and fibre. The addition of Italian seasoning and fresh parsley adds a touch of herbal charm, making it an ideal choice for both a hearty meal and convenient meal prepping.
Rutabaga & Red Pepper Ragu
Recipe by Bianca Osbourne
Get comfy cozy Rily's Rutabaga & Red Pepper Ragu with Chickpea Pasta, a hearty dish that's perfect for cooler days. This flavourful and nutrient-rich recipe combines the earthy sweetness of rutabaga, the vibrant flavours of red bell pepper, and the umami richness of miso paste. The dish is seasoned with sea salt and black pepper, and fresh parsley adds herbal delight. Ideal for meal prepping, this comforting meal provides a sense of fullness while offering anti-inflammatory properties.
One Pan Crispy Chicken & Artichokes
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
Enjoy the luxury of a hassle-free meal with Rily's One Pan Crispy Chicken & Artichokes recipe. This deceptively simple yet incredibly flavourful dish is perfect for those looking to simplify their weeknight dinners. Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are seasoned with kosher salt and black pepper, then cooked alongside artichoke hearts, red onion, garlic, lemon slices, Castelvetrano olives, and fresh thyme. A splash of dry white wine infuses the dish with rich, complex flavours. Plus, it's grain-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences and ideal for those with specific health conditions.
Immunity-Boosting Chicken Soup
Recipe by Julia Gibson
This nourishing chicken soup is perfect for bulk cooking, allowing you to prepare a large batch for meal prep. Packed with garlic, ginger, and turmeric, it not only warms your soul but also supports your immune system. The bone broth offers a wealth of nutrients, while the addition of miso and lemon enhances the flavour and health benefits. Portion out servings for quick, healthy meals throughout the week, ensuring you always have comfort food on hand.
Rosemary Lemon Chicken Patties
Recipe by Julia Gibson
These flavourful chicken patties are ideal for meal prep, making them easy to cook in bulk and freeze for later. Infused with fresh rosemary and garlic, they not only taste amazing but also provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. Simply bake a batch and enjoy them throughout the week in wraps, salads, or as a quick protein boost for your meals. This versatile dish supports a healthy lifestyle while saving you time in the kitchen.
Gemista
Recipe by Tina Gravalos
Gemista, meaning "filled with," is a delightful Greek dish perfect for meal prep. These stuffed peppers can be made in large quantities and frozen for future meals, preserving their vibrant flavours. With a hearty filling of ground beef, rice, and vegetables, this dish is rich in protein and fibre, making it a nutritious option. Batch cooking allows you to enjoy this comforting dish whenever cravings strike, ensuring a healthy, home-cooked meal is always just a reheating away.
Greek Inspired Turkey Meatballs
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
These Greek-inspired turkey meatballs are a fantastic choice for bulk cooking, allowing you to prepare a generous batch for quick weeknight meals. Ground turkey offers a lean source of protein, while the accompanying veggies and feta bring in flavour and essential nutrients. Cook and freeze for an easy, nutritious option that can be enjoyed with a variety of sides or sauces, ensuring your meal prep is both delicious and health-conscious.
Spring Vegetable and Chicken Stir Fry
Recipe by Megan Horsley
This vibrant spring vegetable stir fry is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for bulk cooking. Packed with nutrient-rich ingredients like broccoli, snap peas, and ginger, it supports your immune system and promotes overall health. Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week, whether over brown rice or as a light meal on its own. The fresh flavours make healthy eating enjoyable and convenient for busy lifestyles.
Smoky Chicken with Roasted Veggies
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
This easy sheet pan dinner is a great option for bulk cooking, allowing you to prepare multiple servings of smoky chicken thighs alongside hearty roasted veggies. With just 45 minutes of cook time, you can create a satisfying meal that's both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for meal prep, the leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a hassle-free choice for busy weeknights while delivering a good dose of protein and vitamins from the veggies.
Turmeric Braised Chicken Thighs
Recipe by Fran Allen
Tender turmeric braised chicken thighs make for an excellent meal prep option, as you can easily double or triple the recipe for several hearty meals. The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric, combined with nutrient-dense kale, create a dish that supports wellness while satisfying your taste buds. Batch cooking means you can enjoy this rich, flavourful dish throughout the week, adding grains like quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal.
Butternut Squash Quinoa Risotto
Recipe by Megan Horsley
This creamy, dairy-free quinoa risotto is perfect for bulk cooking, allowing you to whip up a large batch that keeps well in the fridge or freezer. Roasted butternut squash adds a natural sweetness, while quinoa offers a complete protein, making this dish not only comforting but also health-conscious. Ideal for meal prep, you can enjoy it as a nutritious side or a wholesome main dish throughout the week.
Turkey & Sundried Tomato Ziti
Recipe by Megan Horsley
This one-pot baked pasta dish is a great option for bulk cooking, making it easy to prepare a large batch for the week ahead. Ground turkey provides lean protein, while the addition of kale adds vital nutrients. Packed with flavour, this comforting ziti is perfect for freezing individual portions, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal whenever you desire—without compromising on health.
Coconut Thyme Chicken & Rice
Recipe by Megan Horsley
This warm and comforting one-pot meal is fantastic for bulk cooking, allowing you to prepare a generous quantity for the week. The aromatic saffron and coconut milk not only create a rich flavour profile but also offer numerous health benefits. With its hearty combination of chicken, brown rice, and kale, this dish supports your health while providing an easy-to-reheat meal option for busy days.
Lentil Shepherds Pie
Recipe by Megan Horsley
This plant-forward shepherd's pie is perfect for bulk cooking, offering a comforting and nutritious meal option for busy weeks. Loaded with lentils and a variety of vegetables, it's a rich source of fibre and protein. Prepare a large batch and freeze portions for quick reheating, ensuring that a hearty, wholesome meal is always on hand to nourish you during the cooler months.
Moussaka
Recipe by Tina Gravalos
This classic gluten-free moussaka is a wonderful choice for bulk cooking, allowing you to prepare a generous amount to share or freeze for later. With layers of eggplant and ground beef, it delivers a satisfying combination of flavours and nutrients. Preparing this dish in advance means you can enjoy this beloved Greek comfort food whenever cravings arise, making healthy eating both easy and delicious.
