As a parent, you want to make sure your family is well-fed and happy, even on the busiest of days. But let’s face it – sometimes cooking up a storm can feel like a daunting task, especially when there are picky eaters involved! That’s why we’re excited to share our collection of 20 delicious meal train recipes that are perfect for busy families.
These comforting dishes are designed to be easy to prepare, cook in large quantities, and freeze well – making them ideal for meal trains, potlucks, or just a quick weeknight dinner. From hearty stews to satisfying casseroles, we’ve got you covered with our top picks below…
Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
A comforting and flavorful stew perfect for a chilly day, this slow cooker recipe combines tender beef with a medley of root vegetables in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion to the slow cooker.
2. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add it to the slow cooker.
3. Add garlic, carrots, potatoes, parsnip, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme to the slow cooker.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of chicken, wild rice, and cream, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked wild rice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through and the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the cream of chicken soup and heavy cream until smooth.
4. Add the cooked wild rice, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage
A hearty, one-pan meal that combines the flavors of Italian sausage, ziti pasta, and rich tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 ounces ziti pasta
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Add ziti pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine with the sauce.
6. Transfer skillet to oven; bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Lasagna with Homemade Meat Sauce
A timeless Italian favorite, this classic lasagna recipe combines layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese for a satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in marinara sauce; bring to a simmer.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked lasagna noodles, meat sauce, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
7. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create layers with the pasta mixture, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Easy Taco Soup with Ground Turkey
This hearty soup is a twist on traditional taco recipes, featuring ground turkey as the main protein source. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8 cups of chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and taco seasoning. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with your choice of optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Shells
This recipe combines the classic flavors of spinach, mushrooms, and ricotta cheese with the convenience of stuffed shells. The result is a deliciously cheesy, savory dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic until tender. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked spinach mixture, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the cheesy spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and effortless recipe that combines the brightness of lemon, the richness of garlic, and the tender flaky texture of salmon.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on one half of the sheet pan.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and garlic. Pour the mixture over the salmon.
5. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it out on the other half of the sheet pan.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and the asparagus is tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegetable Lentil Soup with Crusty Bread
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, packed with nutritious lentils, colorful vegetables, and served with crusty bread for dipping. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little water until tender.
2. Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Coleslaw
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for casual gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw ingredients (see below)
Coleslaw:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker and cover with BBQ sauce.
5. Cook for 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and mix with any remaining BBQ sauce.
7. Split hamburger buns in half and toast on the grill or in oven.
8. Assemble sandwiches by spooning pulled pork onto toasted buns, topped with coleslaw.
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Pie Crust
Classic Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Pie Crust Recipe
This comforting recipe combines tender chicken, creamy vegetables, and a flaky pie crust to create a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables in butter until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
3. Add flour, heavy cream, and thyme to the skillet; stir until smooth.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Pour the chicken mixture into the pie crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Jasmine Rice
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for a reason – the combination of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and flavorful jasmine rice is a match made in heaven. Whip up this quick and easy stir-fry for a satisfying meal any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp of oil. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add broccoli to the pan and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
5. Return beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Cook for 1 minute, then serve over cooked jasmine rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quinoa and Black Bean Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the creamy texture of black beans, all wrapped up in a roasted bell pepper.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, or diced tomatoes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together cooked quinoa, black beans, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling as full as possible.
4. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup with Fresh Herbs
This recipe combines the classic comfort of chicken noodle soup with the bright flavors of fresh herbs, creating a hearty and nourishing meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy a warm and satisfying bowl in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken, broth, carrots, celery, onion, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add noodles and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until they’re al dente.
4. Stir in chopped parsley and dill before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe combines al dente macaroni, rich cheddar cheese sauce, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping for the perfect combination of creamy and crispy.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs. Drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Meatloaf with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
A classic comfort food combination that’s sure to please! This recipe is a twist on traditional meatloaf, using turkey instead of beef and pairing it with creamy garlic mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
For the Turkey Meatloaf:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix well.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, boil potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with garlic, milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Vegetable and Chickpea Coconut Curry
This flavorful curry recipe combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with a medley of colorful vegetables and protein-rich chickpeas, perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, bell pepper, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in coconut milk, chickpeas, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spaghetti Carbonara with Crispy Pancetta
A rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the flavors of pancetta, eggs, and Parmesan cheese. This recipe is a twist on the classic carbonara, adding a satisfying crunch from crispy pancetta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of pancetta, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Meanwhile, cook the pancetta in a skillet over medium heat until crispy and golden brown.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss with the egg mixture until well coated.
5. Add the crispy pancetta to the bowl and toss everything together.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken and Potatoes
Transform your weeknight dinner with this sweet and savory slow cooker recipe, where honey and mustard work together to create a finger-licking good chicken dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and halved
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together honey, mustard, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker and coat with the honey-mustard mixture.
3. Arrange the potato halves around the chicken.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole
This classic casserole recipe is a crowd-pleaser, combining the flavors of tender broccoli, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and broccoli in butter until tender.
3. Combine cooked rice, cheese, milk, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
5. Add the rice mixture to the baking dish, followed by the broccoli mixture.
6. Top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Beef Chili with Cornbread Muffins
Warm up on a chilly day with this hearty and comforting classic beef chili, served alongside crumbly cornbread muffins.
Ingredients:
For the Chili:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
For the Cornbread Muffins:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tbsp melted butter
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add diced tomatoes, beans, and water (as needed); simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
6. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, milk, egg, and melted butter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared muffin tin; bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden.
Cooking Time: 60 minutes (30 minutes chili + 30 minutes cornbread)
Summary
Discover 20 delicious meal train recipes perfect for busy families. From hearty stews and casseroles to comforting soups and baked dishes, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables or Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole for a satisfying dinner. Or, opt for easy-to-make favorites like One-Pan Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage or Easy Taco Soup with Ground Turkey. With options to suit every taste and dietary need, these meal train recipes are sure to become family staples.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
