{"id":246067,"date":"2025-12-01T03:00:11","date_gmt":"2025-12-01T03:00:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/blog\/?post_type=articles&#038;p=246067"},"modified":"2025-11-19T19:18:02","modified_gmt":"2025-11-19T19:18:02","slug":"make-ahead-meals-for-busy-nights","status":"publish","type":"articles","link":"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/blog\/articles\/read\/246067\/make-ahead-meals-for-busy-nights\/","title":{"rendered":"Make-Ahead Meals for Busy Nights"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Between shopping, decorating, parties, and family gatherings, the holidays are a whirlwind. Oftentimes, dinner is an afterthought. Instead of hitting the drive-thru, prep with make-ahead meals for busy nights. Each of these dinner recipes can be made ahead of time and reheated when you need them. Whether you&#8217;re leaving dinner for the babysitter when heading out to a holiday party or need something handy for when the calendar has an activity every night, having these make-ahead dinner recipes is a gift.<br \/>\n<!-- Recipe Roundup 6239518491410432 --><\/p>\n<div class=\"card card-white shadow my-4 mx-auto\">\n<div class=\"position-relative\">\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/chicken\/king-ranch-chicken-casserole-3.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/WI3GjCFq2S_7_p3Zs5Z1eEdn7IRu__ydf4-pczMwB9ATn5gyckhJRQtzTLluPOHIKpHMH7pZ14DxagC-8faRs50bEHkYQhi_ab-fWKL3Hv7Om2_Inowr\" class=\"card-img card-img-top\" alt=\"recipe image\"><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"position-absolute text-white banner-blue\">\n<div class=\"w-100\">\n<div class=\"ellipsis\">KATHY JOPPIE<\/div>\n<div class=\"small ellipsis\">NASHVILLE, MI<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/fD_7YIJPAFzDDripnQNEdjC-FsK8Q5-pLX8vBlTRwCw_TcSsRX8Y2JwKT0jbmpq_tzdGOgdfUEThJqFUD_I3RlAOHyAAQ5dgPWUYXwyRZyZphUkRGCnYaA=s78-p\" class=\"position-absolute shadow shadow-lg border border-white rounded-circle\" style=\"top:10px; left: 20px; width:80px; height:80px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/chicken\/king-ranch-chicken-casserole-3.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">King Ranch Chicken Casserole<\/a><\/h2>\n<div>&#8220;This is more like chicken enchiladas. Easy to prepare and always a huge hit! Great for a potluck or picnic too. Adjust heat for your particular taste by adding more green chiles or using tomatoes without chiles. To save time, use a rotisserie chicken from your local deli.&#8221; &#8211; Kathy<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card card-white shadow my-4 mx-auto\">\n<div class=\"position-relative\">\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/chicken\/crock-pot-honey-chicken-and-rice.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/uVWIOxXS1ntp9kCxwVVvFZm5yK-cJ1SY8UcHplPKql9BmzDPPFDpMlxdzO5_Y8UNPdMCmDX6zYZMR94SV5bJe_exD7lq5LVCudCvNiHGOHP3PU86lOSj\" class=\"card-img card-img-top\" alt=\"recipe image\"><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"position-absolute text-white banner-blue\">\n<div class=\"w-100\">\n<div class=\"ellipsis\">OPAL JACKSON-CAKMAK<\/div>\n<div class=\"small ellipsis\">BIRMINGHAM, AL<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/yVAlr2KzoVlKIxGHntRaMLofnFfuNlJneQ0u8HmfnhZ2LmJCESAc2u7FLi6KkYZ_4ZIn1rzhU44xRmNIqwIl75T4-eu5mlcCWLyGv0E=s78-p\" class=\"position-absolute shadow shadow-lg border border-white rounded-circle\" style=\"top:10px; left: 20px; width:80px; height:80px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/chicken\/crock-pot-honey-chicken-and-rice.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Crock Pot Honey Chicken and Rice<\/a><\/h2>\n<div>&#8220;An easy and delicious Crock Pot chicken.&#8221; &#8211; Opal<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card card-white shadow my-4 mx-auto\">\n<div class=\"position-relative\">\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/italian\/grandmas-italian-meatballs.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/6poO4C0MFk3xCMr1Pgp55XjGDdkCk-RA0o1-fvnPiSrdByTqc7Qp_EwwhWFLlnxt88ev-26q3peVWybC5XwQ6YbxyolXV313NDl4QXYrPVRlKcCqFIDs\" class=\"card-img card-img-top\" alt=\"recipe image\"><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"position-absolute text-white banner-blue\">\n<div class=\"w-100\">\n<div class=\"ellipsis\">CASSIE *<\/div>\n<div class=\"small ellipsis\">SOMEWHERE, PA<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/WNPXOPBKAVxK8dV_e9B_6IrjxDgT62tQnMRu0bfqI4qMf-L5e9F5sprzNnDmigbyNX0khMy40L8N8vot3cXJcKdFYckxYkL50atkPAmcu2d3nR6Edw4=s78-p\" class=\"position-absolute shadow shadow-lg border border-white rounded-circle\" style=\"top:10px; left: 20px; width:80px; height:80px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/italian\/grandmas-italian-meatballs.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Grandma&#8217;s Italian Meatballs<\/a><\/h2>\n<div>&#8220;My grandma gave me this Italian meatball recipe years ago. I keep them stocked up in the freezer and when I need them there they are. Delicious! I make the balls bigger if I&#8217;m using them for meatballs subs. I slice them in half, flat side down on a hoagie roll, add sauce, and cheese, and broil for about 10 minutes. I also smash them up and add them to my sauce for lasagna.&#8221; &#8211; Cassie<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card card-white shadow my-4 mx-auto\">\n<div class=\"position-relative\">\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/chicken\/white-chicken-chili-2.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/mCP84H12p-W3K9lM5g08k3v_CabPoHmpKK2FJpbXMTrhSWzLB0y_k2wVBScW1xi-yfosbn13SYLROjCATWl10yYDrq7nmicw-5NBvT_EIxLNhtEksWxHjw\" class=\"card-img card-img-top\" alt=\"recipe image\"><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"position-absolute text-white banner-blue\">\n<div class=\"w-100\">\n<div class=\"ellipsis\">SHAUNA EVANS<\/div>\n<div class=\"small ellipsis\">PLEASANT GROVE, UT<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/lcI-mwDLncvbLv9k4kxFleN8nWuAVFvd8WrghWl1W_gmmOhpr7t1Sw-0ndqWoAUPyb3b2gT23bsF7i6D7hMl6LMI8swSxiNgpphxvhs=s78-p\" class=\"position-absolute shadow shadow-lg border border-white rounded-circle\" style=\"top:10px; left: 20px; width:80px; height:80px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/chicken\/white-chicken-chili-2.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">White Chicken Chili<\/a><\/h2>\n<div>&#8220;I love savory soups, stews, and chili &#8211; especially when the weather turns cold. This is a savory chili packed with flavor and a little kick. This is the perfect comfort food and game day recipe. A one bowl dish that satisfies hungry football fans.&#8221; &#8211; Shauna<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card card-white shadow my-4 mx-auto\">\n<div class=\"position-relative\">\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/main-course-beef\/beef-enchilada-bake.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/nxYcga2ggv929IyAOvMGCHHT2NAW9ISuktOhsKE71Rv_V5kaYygCwNLXSORDA-J6l2eJ0qIXXk-NofyaHAYzTZE6LZnPGjrrkiIubrYaZSTHjgviWoqv6A\" class=\"card-img card-img-top\" alt=\"recipe image\"><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"position-absolute text-white banner-blue\">\n<div class=\"w-100\">\n<div class=\"ellipsis\">DAWN NELSON<\/div>\n<div class=\"small ellipsis\">SUMNER, WA<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/X5my5AQ2aO1TmXjy5wgxoGcZVfY13V_GYfRqb5tTKMNo7NIbKbphyK-64hgV3dQL2gAubTcDrYSmLRzTSC8Wo7URo_Hi8CGVNghI-Ulo=s78-p\" class=\"position-absolute shadow shadow-lg border border-white rounded-circle\" style=\"top:10px; left: 20px; width:80px; height:80px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/main-course-beef\/beef-enchilada-bake.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Beef Enchilada Bake<\/a><\/h2>\n<div>&#8220;My family absolutely loves my enchiladas. Can adjust the heat of the dish by going a step up or down on the heat in the enchilada sauce. Great served with a salad and refried beans.&#8221; &#8211; Dawn<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card card-white shadow my-4 mx-auto\">\n<div class=\"position-relative\">\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/beef\/meatloaf-and-mashed-potato-cupcakes.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/BzbmWCr1ZZ2dRfM8TGSWphjZQk6xUDAJI-nHyfBD56vgpxRTn9csDwlIo8xBf4IsREKV-d64fQcRpUgbi0rJD-9xHgLqBZMylqDeyj13pH2VYq69K-RA\" class=\"card-img card-img-top\" alt=\"recipe image\"><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"position-absolute text-white banner-blue\">\n<div class=\"w-100\">\n<div class=\"ellipsis\">CARA METZGER<\/div>\n<div class=\"small ellipsis\">WARSAW, IN<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/ZCxd8zDaeXocoT-gi74wl47tnL6YWPWvdkpJcDoSTOVIfpq_TvFHm0lG_7Fdneb3Rzs230oJ8UszmwiDE4xoBfsm0TnTZIjPEqrIWiW6Br_TWGiRjcYBlw=s78-p\" class=\"position-absolute shadow shadow-lg border border-white rounded-circle\" style=\"top:10px; left: 20px; width:80px; height:80px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/beef\/meatloaf-and-mashed-potato-cupcakes.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Meatloaf and Mashed Potato Cupcakes<\/a><\/h2>\n<div>&#8220;My sons love to eat these cupcakes for dinner. They are fun for the whole family and can be adapted by making them with ground turkey or chicken and adding other veggies to the mixture.&#8221; &#8211; Cara<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card card-white shadow my-4 mx-auto\">\n<div class=\"position-relative\">\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/soup\/chili\/tanyas-tex-mex-chilli.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/mIvsUFen_euzU_nf13PMQZtUOstFBqeOphBeEX6GcSvd9bWj2h4vPXGYvvr8phLsxvctJ3op8kXcqiKQlOM07PqvxO8NXv6wPfnB1vpY\" class=\"card-img card-img-top\" alt=\"recipe image\"><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"position-absolute text-white banner-blue\">\n<div class=\"w-100\">\n<div class=\"ellipsis\">TANYA STRAYHORN<\/div>\n<div class=\"small ellipsis\">BEEBE, AR<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/s6xE3Q0B8ocGa-lrJiKlU8pjZ9XHiFoCZn10ACQmTqCXcUsbdoAI2PzmHGNrYeY9JX1EQDePXo0augXysP9gpqOAnrwaF9RgxwyY_rI=s78-p\" class=\"position-absolute shadow shadow-lg border border-white rounded-circle\" style=\"top:10px; left: 20px; width:80px; height:80px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/soup\/chili\/tanyas-tex-mex-chilli.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tanya&#8217;s Tex-Mex Chili<\/a><\/h2>\n<div>&#8220;Easy and a family favorite!&#8221; &#8211; Tanya<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card card-white shadow my-4 mx-auto\">\n<div class=\"position-relative\">\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/chicken\/pineapple-chicken-stir-fry.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/khvhiLBXg81SFZGQ1G2foDO3MPzrZL3F_vur6ExcyL0VeXaRLu2mXRIACRpmn_wDM1hv19Sni87IRls7qqflwuLUBxk7AqaQ28ykzUE9wgXGfjKIjlxH\" class=\"card-img card-img-top\" alt=\"recipe image\"><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"position-absolute text-white banner-blue\">\n<div class=\"w-100\">\n<div class=\"ellipsis\">RACHEL WEYERMAN<\/div>\n<div class=\"small ellipsis\">CLOVERDALE, MI<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/fZMxo56qoReYiw-QirreaHbqZBCc-MPOeAQ286ZKzbnPXU43qe_kl1u2917yHYeBPXi6Qtzf3-bwQpBr_GZmz612WpkyL2WWP7Zt-pY=s78-p\" class=\"position-absolute shadow shadow-lg border border-white rounded-circle\" style=\"top:10px; left: 20px; width:80px; height:80px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/chicken\/pineapple-chicken-stir-fry.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pineapple Chicken Stir-fry<\/a><\/h2>\n<div>&#8220;This is a great recipe if you&#8217;re craving stir-fry for dinner. The soy sauce gives it flavor, while the pineapple gives it a bit of sweetness!&#8221; &#8211; Rachel<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card card-white shadow my-4 mx-auto\">\n<div class=\"position-relative\">\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/soup\/beef-soup\/taco-stewp.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/hj0vDwDfZgZRSFYJbiuQcOzS0OQ5o5VzHvlkgYLtWI7jaaOwTiGbn6AA1fBtqieERIzPodBy1dqfihMdGuDhSfj8m5FwXrj0BEIKLp8QJPFf6S_l_gz4\" class=\"card-img card-img-top\" alt=\"recipe image\"><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"position-absolute text-white banner-blue\">\n<div class=\"w-100\">\n<div class=\"ellipsis\">CINDY KLINGENSMITH<\/div>\n<div class=\"small ellipsis\">ACME, PA<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/TRrXyH2i2BCYhEQeN2Sd8JTlaP8FVldRpju7usLE9ZD8P4Mt9CEJAxlAEDvJ9W3G23bOULzM6CG5DlKzsogY4i4pqy_ZFn3gUPFsviI=s78-p\" class=\"position-absolute shadow shadow-lg border border-white rounded-circle\" style=\"top:10px; left: 20px; width:80px; height:80px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/soup\/beef-soup\/taco-stewp.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Taco Stewp<\/a><\/h2>\n<div>&#8220;I came up with this version when I didn&#8217;t have all the ingredients for another recipe.&#8221; &#8211; Cindy<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card card-white shadow my-4 mx-auto\">\n<div class=\"position-relative\">\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/beef\/shephards-pie.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/HB5R8LWWbXH23R8lNZmUVNflbmlS-JKau0woYg2WzqlUPRaASf3K7ORUKsrVy9rX55s4cfe_zD4aHPPDqSerWQ4X_zY6I8C_vr7t9Mok3juxxy7Fga_PaA\" class=\"card-img card-img-top\" alt=\"recipe image\"><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"position-absolute text-white banner-blue\">\n<div class=\"w-100\">\n<div class=\"ellipsis\">CARI BLOWERS<\/div>\n<div class=\"small ellipsis\">GREEN ISLAND, NY<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/eiJCf6X7njck_x9n03-QMv--bfM2qYjktOPxPPehVKBpz0AC0r0PJWMOxX1S60u3u7ED9MJ0cdepdKvTvG38KyS5tGIcjDwBglWlow=s78-p\" class=\"position-absolute shadow shadow-lg border border-white rounded-circle\" style=\"top:10px; left: 20px; width:80px; height:80px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/beef\/shephards-pie.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Shepherd&#8217;s Pie<\/a><\/h2>\n<div>&#8220;If you want a taste of Ireland? Taste this Irish favorite comfort food.&#8221; &#8211; Cari<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card card-white shadow my-4 mx-auto\">\n<div class=\"position-relative\">\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/bakedbroiledandbasted.com\/taco-potato-casserole-a-quick-and-budget-friendly-dinner\/?utm_source=featured-blogger&#038;utm_medium=curatorcrowd&#038;utm_campaign=curatorcrowd&#038;utm_content=justapinch.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/ZDrQcD945WZKLDpL_Fn5wHeNMzMw4Z-SVHYOSZjxa1FEHPiDQ8XUbMDS36Byfu4mxRha38BzfP1I6PktHt5kxYa1ifhFLi7S_pI1-q7liclr5bsZmVzKCw\" class=\"card-img card-img-top\" alt=\"recipe image\"><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"position-absolute text-white banner-blue\">\n<div class=\"w-100\">\n<div class=\"ellipsis\">FEATURED BLOGGER <\/div>\n<div class=\"small ellipsis\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/ADrOTxRjcmqfedLJqk3fj42ltYdwTFC9pwYdoZHFGJO4vvqly7uOP0z_XTaoFcdXMvEP3vZWObo6DckQ7HcXwufkkh5kARCup3wmGbo=s78-p\" class=\"position-absolute shadow shadow-lg border border-white rounded-circle\" style=\"top:10px; left: 20px; width:80px; height:80px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/bakedbroiledandbasted.com\/taco-potato-casserole-a-quick-and-budget-friendly-dinner\/?utm_source=featured-blogger&#038;utm_medium=curatorcrowd&#038;utm_campaign=curatorcrowd&#038;utm_content=justapinch.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Taco Potato Casserole<\/a><\/h2>\n<div>&#8220;This easy Taco Potato Casserole is cheesy, hearty, and full of flavor! A quick weeknight meal made with ground beef, potatoes, and taco seasoning.&#8221; &#8211; Debbie<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card card-white shadow my-4 mx-auto\">\n<div class=\"position-relative\">\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/main-course-beef\/bacon-cheesburger-skillet.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/sQVSw4_cUwa_GN_0PeFn0G-6LnaVBrCRjiJRbQkhKq7p2oVpnVmNP0Utm6mAoh7jN445PsyLJHxL5kMOpi9TMGntbDTTqVxlo2nvzctERPRdjUbN2tQI\" class=\"card-img card-img-top\" alt=\"recipe image\"><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"position-absolute text-white banner-blue\">\n<div class=\"w-100\">\n<div class=\"ellipsis\">JANET CROW<\/div>\n<div class=\"small ellipsis\">QUINWOOD, WV<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/epgmWIzlmFnGk9p9Rp5Rf6tksvF55HowEiXWVjQ-_nVOZR6hLVAXwbrRmkbN5Dt9A_4ZouqWlH2Z5irddIUb_g9DI9rrhoRl6ZynIkM=s78-p\" class=\"position-absolute shadow shadow-lg border border-white rounded-circle\" style=\"top:10px; left: 20px; width:80px; height:80px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/main-course-beef\/bacon-cheesburger-skillet.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bacon Cheesburger Skillet<\/a><\/h2>\n<div>&#8220;In trying to teach my daughter that you can make your own Hamburger Helper without the box, I came up with this dish. It is now a regular on our menu and we love it.&#8221; &#8211; Janet<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card card-white shadow my-4 mx-auto\">\n<div class=\"position-relative\">\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/chicken\/oven-roasted-chicken-shawarma.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/zVstS9RcI1g0Ks_hKGnsEZxmDBSyXZ35sJwGQbl4H1_13Z7GTM1o28mZuw1WaZ2DiEJAXcWz51PIxATistzYxz_rUJArl5RHQjlPqKuZZY_xSs4p42Y\" class=\"card-img card-img-top\" alt=\"recipe image\"><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"position-absolute text-white banner-blue\">\n<div class=\"w-100\">\n<div class=\"ellipsis\">BRENDA WASHNOCK<\/div>\n<div class=\"small ellipsis\">NEGAUNEE, MI<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/zppQStz6jLayp-cf72iMlZKnVpXtlPRuFSy8tgWXKxKx_yk2vybxfn2BgddGFJaeAus-KC0gkNA1B4Rw4OJSfxPRwRa5bC1wIo_kPYM=s78-p\" class=\"position-absolute shadow shadow-lg border border-white rounded-circle\" style=\"top:10px; left: 20px; width:80px; height:80px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/chicken\/oven-roasted-chicken-shawarma.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Oven-Roasted Chicken Shawarma<\/a><\/h2>\n<div>&#8220;Shawarma is traditionally a meat preparation on a vertical spit, slow roasted for the day. This is an easier oven version; a bit more practical when feeding the family. The marinade ingredients are indigenous to the Eastern Mediterranean region.&#8221; &#8211; Brenda<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card card-white shadow my-4 mx-auto\">\n<div class=\"position-relative\">\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/chicken\/chicken-spaghetti-20.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/-Ifi-cjlWIxmmJJWeZebCwxn_x1VAF_aat7r5OXYoka3HE5e-5vfUnNYXWPU4blPLVLUO43PxTzdFrYWR-hK8RPhBT8h2hobWairFDvhh3L4JFgKur0\" class=\"card-img card-img-top\" alt=\"recipe image\"><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"position-absolute text-white banner-blue\">\n<div class=\"w-100\">\n<div class=\"ellipsis\">LESLIE HOLT<\/div>\n<div class=\"small ellipsis\">FRANKLIN, TN<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/nLzJN0g2FXRgf4JWi1fLViMDMdWblGJAvoQQZ4DecbHg3rjdJoWFaxJZdvU6bVv7bKBdeAh_BLit-NWY9V6pjWozpdINryOi5tSqPQ=s78-p\" class=\"position-absolute shadow shadow-lg border border-white rounded-circle\" style=\"top:10px; left: 20px; width:80px; height:80px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/main-course\/chicken\/chicken-spaghetti-20.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Chicken Spaghetti<\/a><\/h2>\n<div>&#8220;This is a great recipe for a cold day. My kids devour it! There are many easy substitutes; I have used cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, cooking wine with a bouillon cube, etc. Always tastes great!&#8221; &#8211; Leslie<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card card-white shadow my-4 mx-auto\">\n<div class=\"position-relative\">\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/soup\/bean-soup\/pasta-e-fagioli-zuccaro-family.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/KCWlhru5OABo99CiyGZ1sTe9ElfNmF9cKq41QvQiYqOuCUGnT2hx-zzjHxBQxC9cGs1gME5Ypq0IYvCRnlNkkEzMSJ3YwDTMa1lVgmQXWpuIuiNuDuAQ\" class=\"card-img card-img-top\" alt=\"recipe image\"><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"position-absolute text-white banner-blue\">\n<div class=\"w-100\">\n<div class=\"ellipsis\">LESLIE MACARTHUR<\/div>\n<div class=\"small ellipsis\">ROCKLEDGE, FL<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/4j02w8saACok3DiyVNEAow8uVaxH03BGbFxYZ0EubwOeI5Vo9QqO_osVxxwwYa3ObGc-hI8_bm-hx_xLmdpemd6Nv629QcPGz-B8HQ=s78-p\" class=\"position-absolute shadow shadow-lg border border-white rounded-circle\" style=\"top:10px; left: 20px; width:80px; height:80px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.justapinch.com\/recipes\/soup\/bean-soup\/pasta-e-fagioli-zuccaro-family.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pasta E Fagioli Zuccaro Family<\/a><\/h2>\n<div>&#8220;This is my family&#8217;s quick and personal take on a great soup. I used small shells the first time, and the beans disappeared in the shells. I added another can, thinking they had cooked out&#8230; turned into a very musical soup. This soup can be frozen and reheated.&#8221; &#8211; Leslie<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card card-white shadow my-4 mx-auto\">\n<div class=\"position-relative\">\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.closetcooking.com\/skillet-chicken-fajita-rice\/?utm_source=featured-blogger&#038;utm_medium=curatorcrowd&#038;utm_campaign=curatorcrowd&#038;utm_content=justapinch.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/fJe2GHFTVfTj8Ls2o7XFFDLq2lnk7hf7kdxMPMwEnG4U7jGrnwVZRullJal0E1AD1gbwDgo-oXkvvVbXPPc-4RPLGb24k5t1RucPv2vIuMVPWCJ37SA\" class=\"card-img card-img-top\" alt=\"recipe image\"><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"position-absolute text-white banner-blue\">\n<div class=\"w-100\">\n<div class=\"ellipsis\">FEATURED BLOGGER <\/div>\n<div class=\"small ellipsis\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><img src=\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/hbo479oDLVnmFba5fwAY1gZ6fI59-4PbppqlMwvPK1yDr-qErba6z0rLfC_YCkka4Ox4-bhI9z0D-lRptXh7qJnxG4Fq4jMQg8biD2s=s78-p\" class=\"position-absolute shadow shadow-lg border border-white rounded-circle\" style=\"top:10px; left: 20px; width:80px; height:80px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.closetcooking.com\/skillet-chicken-fajita-rice\/?utm_source=featured-blogger&#038;utm_medium=curatorcrowd&#038;utm_campaign=curatorcrowd&#038;utm_content=justapinch.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Skillet Chicken Fajita Rice<\/a><\/h2>\n<div>&#8220;Fajita-style chicken, peppers, and onion in a one-pan rice meal!&#8221; &#8211; Kevin<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Between shopping, decorating, parties, and family gatherings, the holidays are a whirlwind. Oftentimes, dinner is an afterthought. Instead of hitting the drive-thru, prep with make-ahead meals for busy nights. Each of these dinner recipes can be made ahead of time and reheated when you need them. Whether you&#8217;re leaving dinner for the babysitter when heading [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":246096,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":[],"tags":[366],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v18.8 (Yoast SEO v19.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Make-Ahead Meals for Busy Nights - Just A Pinch<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Don&#039;t make dinner an afterthought Meal prep with make-ahead meals for busy nights. 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