13 Easy 5-Ingredient Meal Prep Recipes for the Whole Family

Meal prep doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming, especially when it comes to feeding the family. With these family-friendly 5-ingredient recipes, you can whip up delicious and nutritious meals in no time. Simplify your weeknight cooking and keep everyone happy with minimal fuss and maximum flavor!

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

This creamy tomato basil pasta is a delightful dish that’s perfect for family dinners. The image showcases a plate of spaghetti, topped with fresh tomatoes and vibrant basil leaves. The colors are bright and inviting, making it hard to resist. The simplicity of the ingredients makes this meal not only quick to prepare but also a hit with kids and adults alike.

To make this dish, you only need five ingredients, which keeps it easy and budget-friendly. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the fresh tomatoes and basil, creating a comforting meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Stir in the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with extra basil and Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your creamy tomato basil pasta!

Chickpea Salad with Feta

This Chickpea Salad with Feta is a colorful and nutritious dish that’s perfect for meal prep. It features vibrant cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed together with chickpeas for a protein-packed meal.

The fresh ingredients not only make this salad visually appealing but also provide a burst of flavor. It’s light yet satisfying, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, which is a bonus for busy families.

To make this salad, simply combine cooked chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, and crumbled feta in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and your favorite dressing, then toss everything together. You can also add herbs like parsley for an extra touch.

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later. Enjoy!

Mini Turkey Meatloaves

Mini turkey meatloaves are a fun twist on a classic dish. They are perfect for families looking for a simple, tasty meal. These little loaves are packed with flavor and are easy to make. Plus, they are a hit with kids and adults alike!

The image shows perfectly shaped mini meatloaves topped with a glossy glaze and garnished with fresh parsley. They sit alongside a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes, making for a comforting meal. This dish is not only visually appealing but also delicious and satisfying.

Using just five ingredients, you can whip up these mini meatloaves in no time. They are great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Serve them with your favorite sides, and you have a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, ketchup, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small loaves and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Top each mini meatloaf with a little extra ketchup for added flavor.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaves are cooked through and golden brown.
6. Serve with mashed potatoes or your favorite side dishes.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Rice

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Rice is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. The image showcases plump shrimp, perfectly cooked and nestled on a bed of fluffy white rice. Bright yellow lemon wedges and fresh parsley add a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing. This recipe is simple and uses just five ingredients, making it perfect for busy families.

The shrimp are sautéed with garlic, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through. The lemon juice adds a refreshing zing, balancing the savory flavors. This meal is not just quick to prepare; it’s also nutritious and satisfying.

Pair this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It’s a great option for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge and can be easily reheated. Your family will love it!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
4. Pour lemon juice over the shrimp and stir to combine.
5. Serve the shrimp over cooked rice and garnish with lemon wedges and parsley.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

Sweet potato and black bean tacos are a fantastic option for a quick and healthy meal. This dish is colorful and packed with nutrients, making it perfect for the whole family. The combination of sweet potatoes and black beans provides a hearty base that is both filling and satisfying.

The tacos are topped with fresh avocado slices and cilantro, adding a creamy texture and bright flavor. You can serve them with a side of salsa or a squeeze of lime for an extra zing. These tacos are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them a great choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes, or until tender.
2. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, warm the corn tortillas in a skillet over medium heat until pliable.
3. Once the sweet potatoes are done, combine them with the black beans in a bowl.
4. Assemble the tacos by placing a generous scoop of the sweet potato and black bean mixture on each tortilla.
5. Top with avocado slices and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy!

One-Pan Chicken and Veggies

One-Pan Chicken and Veggies is a simple, tasty dish perfect for busy families. This meal combines juicy chicken with colorful vegetables, all cooked together in one pan. It’s not only easy to make, but it also means less cleanup afterward!

The image shows a beautiful arrangement of chicken drumsticks surrounded by vibrant veggies like bell peppers, celery, and carrots. The colors pop, making it visually appealing and inviting. This dish is great for meal prep, as you can portion it out for the week.

To make this dish, you’ll need just a few ingredients. It’s a great way to use up any veggies you have on hand. Plus, the chicken absorbs all the flavors from the veggies, making every bite delicious!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Add the diced bell peppers, chopped celery, and sliced carrots to the bowl. Toss everything together.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your healthy, one-pan meal!

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a classic dish that brings together tender beef and vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce. This meal is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for family dinners. The image shows a colorful bowl filled with juicy beef pieces, bright green broccoli, and cubes of a sweet ingredient, likely a type of squash or cheese, adding a delightful contrast.

This dish is simple and can be made with just five ingredients, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The combination of flavors is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin, sliced thin
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: In a bowl, mix the sliced beef with soy sauce and cornstarch. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Broccoli: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
3. Add the Beef: Push the broccoli to the side of the skillet and add the marinated beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through.
4. Combine: Stir everything together in the skillet, ensuring the beef and broccoli are well coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Serve: Enjoy your Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry hot, served over rice or noodles if desired.

Vegetable Quesadillas with Salsa

Vegetable quesadillas are a fantastic choice for a quick and healthy meal. They’re packed with colorful veggies and ooze with melted cheese, making them a hit with both kids and adults. In the image, you can see perfectly toasted quesadillas, golden brown and crispy on the outside. They’re filled with vibrant peppers and greens, served alongside a fresh salsa and creamy avocado. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for family meal prep.

To make these quesadillas, you can use any vegetables you have on hand. Bell peppers, spinach, and corn work wonderfully. The key is to sauté the veggies until they’re tender and then layer them with cheese between tortillas. Cook them on a skillet until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted. Serve with salsa for a refreshing dip!

Ingredients

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup corn (canned or frozen)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salsa for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced bell peppers and corn. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat.
3. On one half of each tortilla, layer the sautéed vegetables and sprinkle cheese on top. Fold the tortilla over.
4. In the same skillet, cook each quesadilla for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
5. Slice into wedges and serve with salsa on the side.

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Honey garlic chicken thighs are a fantastic option for a family-friendly meal. They are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. The sweet and savory glaze makes them a hit with both kids and adults. Pair them with some rice and steamed broccoli for a complete dinner that everyone will enjoy.

This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. With just five ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal in no time. The chicken thighs soak up the honey garlic sauce, creating a sticky and tasty coating. Plus, they can be prepped ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Here’s how to make these honey garlic chicken thighs:

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and olive oil.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the honey garlic mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
5. Serve hot with rice and steamed broccoli for a complete meal.

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Zucchini noodles, or zoodles, are a fun and healthy twist on traditional pasta. They are light, fresh, and perfect for a family meal. This dish combines the vibrant flavors of pesto with the crunch of cherry tomatoes and the creaminess of cashews, making it a delightful choice for everyone.

Making zucchini noodles is simple. You can use a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler to create long, noodle-like strands. Toss them with homemade or store-bought pesto, and you have a quick meal ready in no time. The cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness, while the cashews provide a nice crunch.

This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep. You can make a big batch and store it in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis
• 1 cup basil pesto
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cashews, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Spiralize the Zucchini: Use a spiralizer to create noodles from the zucchinis. If you don’t have one, a vegetable peeler can work too.
2. Mix with Pesto: In a large bowl, combine the zucchini noodles with the pesto. Toss until the noodles are well coated.
3. Add Tomatoes and Cashews: Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes and chopped cashews. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits

Fruit and yogurt parfaits are a delightful way to enjoy a healthy snack or breakfast. These layered treats are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. The combination of creamy yogurt, fresh fruit, and crunchy granola makes for a satisfying bite every time.

In the image, you can see two tall glasses filled with layers of yogurt, strawberries, blueberries, and granola. The vibrant colors of the fruit contrast beautifully with the creamy yogurt, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. This dish is perfect for family meal prep, as it can be made in advance and stored in the fridge.

To make these parfaits, you only need a few simple ingredients. They are versatile, so feel free to mix and match your favorite fruits. Kids love helping to assemble these, making it a fun family activity!

Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells

Spinach and cheese stuffed shells are a delightful dish that brings comfort to the dinner table. These large pasta shells are filled with a creamy mixture of spinach and cheese, then topped with marinara sauce and more cheese. The vibrant green spinach peeking out from the shells adds a pop of color, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

This recipe is perfect for family meal prep. With just five ingredients, it’s simple to make and can be easily customized. Whether you’re feeding kids or adults, everyone will enjoy this cheesy goodness. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!

To make this dish, you’ll need jumbo pasta shells, ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Cook the shells according to package instructions, then mix the ricotta with sautéed spinach. Stuff the shells, place them in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce, and sprinkle mozzarella on top. Bake until bubbly and golden.

Ingredients

• 12 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a pan, sauté the chopped spinach until wilted. Allow it to cool slightly, then mix with ricotta cheese.
4. Stuff each shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture.
5. Spread half of the marinara sauce in a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top, then cover with the remaining sauce.
6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Egg Fried Rice with Peas

Egg fried rice with peas is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table. This recipe is simple, quick, and perfect for busy weeknights. The vibrant green peas add a pop of color and sweetness, while the eggs provide protein and richness. It’s a meal that both kids and adults will enjoy.

Making egg fried rice is straightforward. Start by cooking your rice ahead of time. Cold, day-old rice works best, as it keeps the grains separate. In a hot pan, scramble some eggs and then add in the peas and rice. A splash of soy sauce ties everything together, creating a savory and satisfying dish.

This recipe is not just easy to make, but it also allows for creativity. You can toss in leftover vegetables or proteins to make it your own. It’s a great way to use up what you have in the fridge!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Crack the eggs into the skillet and scramble them until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps.
4. Stir in the green peas and soy sauce, mixing well.
5. Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until everything is heated through.
6. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious egg fried rice!