If there’s one thing I’ve learned after years of meal prepping, it’s that pasta is a lifesaver. It’s easy to make in bulk, pairs well with just about any protein or veggie, and reheats like a dream. No sad, dry chicken breasts here—just satisfying, flavorful meals that make you excited to open your meal prep containers.
Back when I first started meal prepping, I used to overcomplicate things—making five different meals a week, spending hours in the kitchen, and stressing over every little detail. Then I realized something: meal prep is supposed to make life easier, not harder. That’s when I started prepping pasta dishes more often. They keep well, they’re versatile, and honestly… who doesn’t love pasta?
So if you’ve been looking for easy, delicious meal prep recipes that won’t leave you bored by Wednesday, you’re in the right place. Before we dive into my 11 favorite pasta meal prep recipes, here are a few simple tips that have made my pasta meal prep even better:
My Best Pasta Meal Prep Tips
1. Cook Pasta Al Dente (Or Slightly Undercooked)
I used to make the mistake of cooking pasta all the way through before storing it—only to end up with mushy noodles by day three. If you’re meal prepping, cook your pasta just until it’s al dente (or even slightly undercooked). It’ll soften more when reheated, but still have that perfect texture.
2. Toss It With a Little Oil
Nobody likes a clump of sticky pasta. Before storing, I toss my pasta with a tiny bit of olive oil to keep it from sticking together. If I’m meal prepping pasta with sauce, I mix them together so the pasta can soak up all the flavor.
3. Store Sauce Separately for Some Recipes
This depends on the recipe, but for some creamy or delicate sauces, I store them separately and combine when reheating. This keeps everything from getting soggy and makes the dish feel fresh when I eat it.
4. Add Fresh Ingredients Later
This one changed the game for me. If I’m using fresh herbs, cheese, or delicate greens like spinach, I add them after reheating. Trust me, melted Parmesan and fresh basil will make your meal taste like you just made it.
5. Reheat the Right Way
For the best results, I reheat pasta on the stove with a splash of water or broth. If I’m in a hurry, I’ll use the microwave—but I always cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out.
Now that I’ve shared my pasta meal prep secrets, let’s get into the 11 best pasta recipes for meal prep! Whether you’re looking for high-protein meals, veggie-packed options, or low-carb swaps, these recipes will make your week so much easier.
