Lazy Days, Full Plates: 5 Summer Meal Prep Recipes for Busy Moms

Laura's Lean Beef - June 20, 2025

Summer is officially here, bringing longer days, warmer weather, and the joyful chaos of kids on break. Between pool parties, road trips, backyard BBQs, and spontaneous playdates, it’s easy for busy moms to feel stretched thin. The last thing anyone wants to do is spend hours in a hot kitchen when there’s sunshine to enjoy and memories to make. If you’re a mom looking for healthy Sunday meal prep ideas, you’re in the right place.

At Laura’s Lean, we know that summer isn’t just about fun—it’s about keeping your family nourished with food that’s wholesome, satisfying, and easy to prepare. That’s why we’ve rounded up five delicious make-ahead recipes that will help you take control of your week. Whether you’re prepping lunches, planning for busy weeknights, or simply trying to eat healthier without the hassle, these recipes are designed for real-life routines.

Why Sunday Meal Prep is a Game-Changer

Meal prepping on Sundays can be a lifesaver for women juggling work, family, and wellness goals. By dedicating a couple of hours each weekend to prepping meals, you’ll save time, reduce mid-week stress, and be less tempted to grab fast food or takeout. These easy summer meal prep recipes use clean, lean ingredients like Laura’s Lean 96% Lean Ground Beef—so you get all the flavor without compromising your healthy lifestyle.

What You’ll Get in This Week’s Meal Prep Guide:

Quick, healthy family dinner recipes perfect for summer evenings

Make-ahead lunches you can grab from the fridge on your busiest days

Light and fresh summer meals that don’t sacrifice taste

Time-saving kitchen hacks for busy moms

Tips for storing and reheating meals to keep them fresh and flavorful

Each recipe has been crafted with busy women in mind—moms, professionals, or anyone looking to stay on track with their healthy eating goals without the fuss.

Real Food for Real Life

Our recipes feature clean ingredients, lean proteins, and seasonal produce that make your meals both nutritious and family-approved. From grilled beef and veggie bowls to low-carb lettuce wraps and flavor-packed taco salads, these dishes are perfect for meal planning on Sundays and enjoying all week long.

Stay on Track with Healthy Habits

Meal prepping isn’t just about convenience—it’s about setting yourself up for success. These Sunday dinner ideas for families are also perfect for women who want to feel good about what they’re feeding their families. You’ll cut down on last-minute meal decisions, reduce food waste, and spend more time doing what you love—whether that’s reading by the pool, enjoying a walk with the kids, or sneaking in a moment of calm.

Ready to Simplify Your Week?

Check out our full list of summer meal prep recipes and make this season easier, healthier, and more delicious. With Laura’s Lean, you don’t have to choose between convenience and quality—you get both.

1. Meatball Sub Skewers

A fun twist on the classic meatball sub, perfect for summer gatherings or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients:

1 lb Laura's Lean Ground Beef
1 large egg
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 can refrigerated pizza dough
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Marinara sauce, for dipping
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Cooking spray

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Shape into 1-inch meatballs (about 30 total).
Unroll the pizza dough on a work surface and cut crosswise into 10 (1-inch) strips.
Thread 1 strip of dough and 3 meatballs onto each skewer, alternating so the dough wraps between the meatballs, leaving a little space between layers. Trim excess dough if necessary.
Place skewers on the prepared baking sheet and spray with cooking spray.
Bake for 27 minutes, turning after 20 minutes, until the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F and the dough is golden brown.
Sprinkle skewers with mozzarella cheese and bake for an additional 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Serve skewers sprinkled with fresh parsley, if desired, alongside marinara sauce for dipping.

These skewers are great for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Southwest Taco Egg Bites

Perfect for breakfast or a protein-packed snack, these egg bites are loaded with flavor and easy to grab on the go.

Ingredients:

1 lb Laura's Lean Ground Beef
1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
1/2 bell pepper, finely chopped
1 package taco seasoning
5/16 cup water
6 large eggs
1/2 cup cheddar cheese
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 tbsp Greek yogurt (plus extra for topping)
2 tbsp almond milk creamer (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: avocado, pico de gallo, jalapeño slices, chopped cilantro

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F.
In a skillet, heat avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
Add chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5 minutes.
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, almond milk creamer, Greek yogurt, chopped spinach, salt, and pepper.
Spray a muffin tin with nonstick spray. Fill each cup halfway with the meat mixture, then pour egg mixture on top until 3/4 full.
Top each with a tablespoon of cheddar cheese.
Bake for 18-22 minutes until set and slightly golden.
Let cool before removing from the muffin tin.
Top with desired toppings before serving.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

3. Ground Beef Cajun Macaroni

A spicy twist on a classic comfort food, this dish combines creamy macaroni and cheese with seasoned ground beef and vegetables.

Ingredients:

1 lb. Laura's Lean Ground Beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1/2 cup chopped celery
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 package macaroni and cheese
2 tbsp milk
1 tbsp butter

Instructions:

In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, green pepper, and celery over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain.
Add diced tomatoes and Cajun seasoning. Cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Meanwhile, prepare macaroni and cheese according to package directions, using 2 tablespoons of milk and 1 tablespoon of butter.
Stir prepared macaroni and cheese into the beef mixture; cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. Spiced Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Salad

A hearty salad that combines sweet and savory flavors.

Ingredients:

1 lb. Laura's Lean Ground Beef
1/4 cup avocado oil
4 3/4 cups sweet potatoes, cut into wedges
1 1/2 cups chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp tahini
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp ground allspice
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 long red chili, finely chopped
1 1/2 tbsp honey
1/4 cup mixed salad leaves
1 tbsp pine nuts, toasted
1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp fresh flat parsley leaves, chopped

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss sweet potato wedges with 1 tbsp avocado oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 30-35 minutes until tender.
In a food processor, blend chickpeas, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and 2 tbsp oil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
In a skillet, cook ground beef with remaining oil, allspice, cinnamon, chili, and honey until browned and caramelized.
Spread hummus on a plate, top with salad leaves, roasted sweet potatoes, spiced beef, pine nuts, goat cheese, and parsley.

Components can be prepared in advance and assembled when ready to serve.

5. Campfire Burger & Veggie Grill Packets

A fun and customizable meal that's perfect for outdoor dining.

Ingredients:

1 lb. Laura's Lean Ground Beef
1 tbsp olive oil
Steak seasoning to taste
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
4 slices onion
2 cups baby potatoes, halved
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
Olive oil for drizzling
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slices cheese (optional)

Instructions:

In a bowl, mix ground beef with olive oil, steak seasoning, garlic, and parsley. Form into 4 patties.
In another bowl, toss potatoes and mushrooms with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
On a sheet of foil, place an onion slice, a portion of the potato-mushroom mixture, and a beef patty on top. Seal the foil to create a packet.
Grill packets over medium heat for 30-40 minutes until vegetables are tender and burgers are cooked through. Add cheese slices during the last few minutes if desired.

Prepare packets ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to grill.

Final Thoughts:

With just a little prep, you can turn the lazy days of summer into easy, nourishing nights around the table. Whether you're headed to the pool, the park, or just enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, these Laura’s Lean recipes help take one big thing off your plate—dinner. Here’s to more sunshine, more smiles, and more time spent making memories with the people you love. Happy summer, moms—you’ve earned it!