Make-ahead dinners for busy weeknights
Don't have time to cook most nights? These easy meals serve up to eight people and can get you through the week.
5 October 2025
It's always reassuring to have a few meals stashed in the fridge or freezer.
Cut down on weeknight cooking with these options that feed between six and eight people.
Don't have all afternoon to make a lasagne? Same. This version uses layers of fresh zucchini and frozen peas. The only cooking you'll need to do is making a quick crème fraîche sauce with leeks.
Cooking tips: Save time by using pre-shredded cheese.
This recipe is popular for a reason. Six chicken thighs bake on top of biryani-inspired rice that's spiced and soaks up the flavour of both the chicken thighs and stock as they cook.
Cooking tips: The prep time is a fast 15 minutes but be sure to factor in an hour for the chicken to marinate.
Frozen peas replace split peas in this vibrant take on a classic winter dish. While this dish has a long cook time, you'll be rewarded with a meal that feeds between 6-8.
Cooking tips: This soup freezes well, but the ham will become saltier when frozen then defrosted, so season with this in mind if freezing.
Bolognese is a favourite in many homes and this vegetarian version uses pantry staples, hopefully saving you a trip to the shops and some money, too.
Cooking tips: Option to add cream to the bolognese before serving. Swap the tomato paste for a spice paste like harissa or gochujang if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Make two mushroom and cheese tarts in 35 minutes using store-bought puff pastry. Savoury tarts can be served at room temperature or hot alongside a salad.
Cooking tips: There's only 15 minutes prep in this recipe. The ingredients are sliced and assembled before it's time to bake.
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