45 Vegan Meal Prep Recipes That Make Cold Days Run Smoother

Windy days and chilly evenings work better with 45 vegan meal prep recipes that take some pressure off your schedule. People who get a jump start on the week tend to find mealtime easier all around. Packing up food in advance gives you extra time to relax after work or school. Home cooks understand that comfort and convenience don’t have to be a trade-off.

Three jars of oatmeal with berries and maple syrup. — Overnight Vanilla Oats. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Vegan Poke Bowl

A bowl of tofu cubes with sliced carrots, radishes, edamame, scallions, and sesame seeds, garnished with sauce, with black chopsticks on the side. — Vegan Poke Bowl. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Chilly days call for meals that spark a little excitement, and this Vegan Poke Bowl delivers with vibrant colors and fresh crunch. Every spoonful offers a mix of veggies and flavor that keeps lunch interesting. I feel good prepping them in advance since leftovers never go to waste. Friends are always curious about what gives it that coastal flair.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Poke Bowl

Marry Me Lentils

A pan of lentil dish with spinach, fresh basil, tomato sauce, and melted cheese, garnished with lemon wedges. — Marry Me Lentils. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Hearty, warm, and quick to pack, this Marry Me Lentils recipe transforms basic meal prep into something everyone looks forward to. Aromas drift from the kitchen, hinting at comfort in every bowl. I cook a big pot so there’s plenty for busy nights. People often wonder what makes lentils taste so cozy yet simple.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Lentils

Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce

Kids and adults both crowd around for these Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce as soon as the container opens. Each nugget offers crispy fun, while the ranch dip keeps things lively. I use them in salads, wraps, or just for snacking between meals. The best part is that nobody misses classic nuggets at all.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce

Vegan Pot Pie

Winter meal planning is easier with this Vegan Pot Pie layered in a lunchbox. Flaky topping and a heartwarming filling bring plenty of cheer on a cold afternoon. I divide leftovers into single portions for later in the week. Homemade comfort this good always earns rave reviews.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pot Pie

Vegetable Casserole

A baked casserole with a golden breadcrumb topping, garnished with fresh herbs. — Vegetable Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Rainbow layers and savory goodness shine in this Vegetable Casserole made for batch cooking. Each scoop brings a new texture, keeping meal prep exciting instead of routine. I share squares with co-workers, who always ask for more info. With every portion, there’s something new to discover.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole

Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

A plate of roasted cauliflower steaks garnished with chopped pistachios, pomegranate seeds, and fresh parsley. — Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Instead of the usual lunch, try prepping these Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks for a new weekday favorite. Roasted edges create a flavorful base, while the hearty texture makes this a surprising hit. I pair slices with salad or grain bowls for a filling meal. Leftovers taste just as good warm or cold.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

Vegan Chocolate Cake

A slice of chocolate cake with chocolate frosting on a plate, with a small piece broken off and crumbs scattered around. — Vegan Chocolate Cake. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Dessert during a cold snap means reaching for this Vegan Chocolate Cake in your fridge or freezer. Moist layers turn any cloudy afternoon into a celebration. I slice it into squares, storing some for surprise cravings. Comments always focus on how no one can believe it’s plant-based.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chocolate Cake

Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

A baked casserole with Brussels sprouts and a crispy, golden-brown topping, garnished with chopped parsley. — Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Breaking out of a lunch rut comes easier with this Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole. Roasted greens and a crisp topping make veggies something to look forward to. I pack it in single-serve bowls for fast reheating. Folks don’t even realize they’re eating so many veggies.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

Mushroom Gravy

A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with mushroom and onion gravy, garnished with rosemary. — Mushroom Gravy. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Drizzling this Mushroom Gravy over meal-prepped potatoes or grains turns the simplest dish into something special. Each spoonful brings earthy richness that warms you from the inside out. I keep extra in a jar for quick flavor boosts. Guests mention how it’s perfect with almost anything.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

Layered Moussaka

A pan of cooked lasagna topped with melted cheese, black pepper, and chopped parsley. — Layered Moussaka. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bringing Mediterranean vibes to winter meals, this Layered Moussaka packs layers of flavor with every forkful. Creamy, spiced, and hearty, it makes leftovers a joy instead of a chore. I portion squares for lunch or dinner on chilly days. Every bite feels unique, making it a group favorite.
Get the Recipe: Layered Moussaka

Vegan Mushroom Lentil Stew

Few things feel cozier than a bowl of this Vegan Mushroom Lentil Stew after being outside in the cold. The stew fills bellies and keeps energy up through busy schedules. I store portions in jars to grab before heading out the door. People love how hearty one bowl can be.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mushroom Lentil Stew

Vegan Rasta Pasta

A close-up of penne pasta mixed with red and green bell peppers, onions, grated cheese, and sprinkled with chili flakes. — Vegan Rasta Pasta. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bold color meets creamy sauce in this Vegan Rasta Pasta, which lightens up gloomy afternoons. Twirling noodles and peppers in your lunchbox just makes winter brighter. I transition it between workdays and lazy dinners. Leftovers taste as good as fresh servings.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Rasta Pasta

Vegan Chili

Close-up of a bowl of chili, topped with chopped cilantro, sliced red onions, and a dollop of sour cream. The chili contains beans, tomatoes, and other visible vegetables. — Vegan Chili. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bringing heat into chilly weather, this Vegan Chili makes batch lunches an event, not a chore. Every bite is full of beans, veggies, and a little spice for lasting comfort. I freeze single-serve containers for later cravings. Friends always compliment the depth of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chili

Vegan Squash Casserole

A bowl of roasted butternut squash and vegetables, garnished with chopped herbs, with a gold fork on the side. — Vegan Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Golden edges and soft insides give this Vegan Squash Casserole standout status in my winter meal prep routine. Mild squash makes it easy to pair with just about any main dish. I split the pan into squares for quick reheating. Compliments revolve around its cheerful color and creamy bite.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Squash Casserole

Lentil Bolognese

A pot of pasta with a tomato-based sauce, lentils, mushrooms, and vegetables on a light surface beside a bowl of grated cheese. — Lentil Bolognese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Pasta nights get an instant upgrade with this Lentil Bolognese packed ahead for busy evenings. Rich sauce clings to noodles and heats up perfectly after a cold commute. I double the recipe to make weeknight dinners a breeze. No one misses classic versions after trying this.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Bolognese

Marry Me Tofu

A bowl of creamy pasta salad with cubed noodles and sun-dried tomatoes, garnished with fresh basil leaves and black pepper, served in a rustic dish on a brown cloth. — Marry Me Tofu. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Even skeptical eaters try seconds of this Marry Me Tofu after meal prep is done. Each bite brings crispy coating and a flavorful inside that fits in salads, wraps, or bowls. I stash pieces in snack containers for busy afternoons. Curiosity about what makes this tofu irresistible keeps coming up.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tofu

Vegan Tikka Masala

A skillet filled with chickpea and tofu curry in a creamy sauce, garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges. — Vegan Tikka Masala. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Spices and creaminess make this Vegan Tikka Masala an excellent batch-cook recipe for wintry lunches. Pouring sauce over rice or potatoes turns leftovers into a new meal. I serve mine with naan from the freezer. The crowd usually comments on how warming each spoonful feels.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tikka Masala

Stuffed Acorn Squash

A roasted acorn squash half filled with a stuffing of couscous, apples, nuts, raisins, and fresh herbs sits on a plate. — Stuffed Acorn Squash. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Winter brings big flavor thanks to this Stuffed Acorn Squash, perfect for prepping ahead. Each roasted half shows off vibrant color and a hearty filling. I line up cooked halves in containers for grab-and-go lunches. Guests always ask what’s inside and want to try it themselves.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Acorn Squash

Vegan Mashed Potatoes

A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with chopped chives and black pepper. — Vegan Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Comfort food gets a vegan twist with these Vegan Mashed Potatoes for midday hunger or weeknight dinners. Creamy texture feels just right on a chilly afternoon. I topped with a scoop of gravy for an instant upgrade. Friends are shocked that such a rich flavor comes without dairy.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Thai Peanut Curry

Gray days feel lighter when your fridge has bowls of this Thai Peanut Curry packed and ready. Creamy sauce hugs every veggie, making leftovers disappear before you know it. I spoon it over noodles or rice, never getting tired of the taste. Comments always mention the satisfying heat.
Get the Recipe: Thai Peanut Curry

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Baking a big pan of this Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole keeps lunch and dessert both within reach. Silky filling and crunchy topping bring warm smiles on cold January days. I use leftovers as both a side and a treat. People have a hard time believing it’s dairy-free.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Baked Mushroom Rice

A plate of mushroom baked rice served next to a cast iron skillet. — Baked Mushroom Rice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Swapping plain rice for this Baked Mushroom Rice means never dreading leftovers again. Aromas drift through the house while the mushrooms roast, making everyone hungry. I spoon portions into meal prep containers for busy stretches. Each serving packs the comfort of a full meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mushroom Rice

Vegan Lasagna

Close-up of a slice of vegetable lasagna showing layers of pasta, assorted vegetables, ricotta cheese, and tomato sauce with a breadcrumb topping. — Vegan Lasagna. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Layer upon layer of goodness goes into this Vegan Lasagna made ahead for meal prep. Hearty filling, creamy sauce, and golden tops help fend off winter chills at lunchtime. I freeze slices so dinners come together in minutes. Most people request the recipe after the first bite.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Lasagna

Vegan Enchilada Casserole

Close-up of a layered dish with melted cheese, corn, beans, diced tomatoes, and green onions. — Vegan Enchilada Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Spicy sauce and hearty layers join forces in this Vegan Enchilada Casserole, prepping easily for multiple meals. Each square reheats beautifully, keeping weekday lunches from getting boring. I rotate toppings for new combinations each time. Friends rave about its vibrant color and taste.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Enchilada Casserole

Golden Roasted Potatoes

Close-up of vegan roasted potato wedges garnished with chopped parsley. The potato skins are slightly crispy and browned, with visible seasoning. — Golden Roasted Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Roasting keeps these Golden Roasted Potatoes crispy outside and tender inside, ideal for fast meal prep. Each bite pairs well with any protein or salad for flexible winter lunches. I store extras for tossing into breakfast hashes. People always appreciate how snackable they are, fresh or reheated.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Potatoes

Vegan Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy dish with a spoon, likely consisting of mashed potatoes or a similar textured food. The mixture appears smooth and slightly chunky. — Vegan Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Turning comfort food into vegan magic, this Vegan Mac and Cheese makes even the snobbiest cheese fan do a double-take. Silky sauce coats noodles with bold, creamy flavor. I prep individual portions for busy school or work days. Compliments land on that familiar, rich taste with no dairy in sight.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mac and Cheese

Red Lentil Soup

A bowl of lentil curry garnished with chopped cilantro and a swirl of cream, with a spoon in the bowl. — Red Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Cold weather finds a friend with this Red Lentil Soup filled with hearty texture and light spice. Bowls reheat perfectly throughout the week, making it a top choice for meal prep. I toss in whatever greens I have on hand for variety. Guests come back for seconds during every visit.
Get the Recipe: Red Lentil Soup

Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Classic comfort shows up strong in this Vegan Green Bean Casserole made to last all week. Crispy topping and creamy base satisfy cravings for something familiar. I serve helpings as both sides and stand-alone lunches. Comments always touch on its rich taste without a bit of cream.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Marry Me Chickpeas

Skillet with creamy chickpeas, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, garnished with herbs. — Marry Me Chickpeas. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Opening a lunchbox with these Marry Me Chickpeas inside makes any winter day better. Savory, layered flavor keeps everyone guessing as to the exact blend of spices. I add leftovers to salads for a change of pace. The name sparks lots of laughs and questions.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chickpeas

Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

A plate of roasted Brussels sprouts topped with pine nuts on parchment paper. — Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Roasting transforms these caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze into a star side or main for meal prep. Sweet and tangy notes bring out the best in every sprout. I use leftovers in grain bowls or salads throughout the week. Friends usually ask for extras before the week is over.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Caribbean Rice and Beans

A bowl of cooked rice mixed with kidney beans, garnished with chopped herbs on top, placed on a light-colored surface with fresh greens on a wooden board in the background. — Caribbean Rice and Beans. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Lunches channel tropical energy with this Caribbean Rice and Beans recipe. Each scoop offers color, warmth, and enough protein to fuel a long day. I grab a second helping when I want to break out of the winter blues. Compliments focus on its bold flavor and easy meal prep style.
Get the Recipe: Caribbean Rice and Beans

Plant-Based Vegan Spam

Slices of Vegan Spam. — Plant-Based Vegan Spam. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Surprises are always welcome in my fridge, which is why this Plant-Based Vegan Spam is a meal prep hit. Each pan gives you thick slices for sandwiches, breakfast bowls, or snack boards. I portion out the pieces for grab-and-go lunches. The flavor keeps everyone talking well past lunchtime.
Get the Recipe: Plant-Based Vegan Spam

Ultimate Vegan Burger

A close-up of a plant-based burger with layers of creamy sauce, sliced cucumbers, red onions, and a brioche bun. — Ultimate Vegan Burger. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Burgers don’t have to be boring when you prep this Ultimate Vegan Burger in advance. Hearty patties pack up well for work or quick dinners by the TV. I layer mine with veggies and sauce, then freeze extras for later. Every bite brings questions about what makes it taste so good.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Vegan Burger

Mushroom Pie

Four individual pot pies with flaky crusts on a round tray, one open to reveal a mushroom filling. — Mushroom Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A golden crust hides comforting layers in this Mushroom Pie, turning meal prep into an event. Thick filling makes each slice good for lunches or light dinners all winter long. I wrap individual pieces for easy reheating. Guests always ask how the crust stays so flaky.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pie

Muhammara with Pita Bread

A bowl of tomato-based dip garnished with chopped parsley and walnuts, with pita bread pieces on the side. — Muhammara with Pita Bread. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Dips brighten meal prep containers, especially with this Muhammara with Pita Bread for a midday pick-me-up. Smoky, nutty flavor adds something different to the week’s rotation. I keep pita triangles handy for quick snacking. Friends mention its unique taste and crave it again soon.
Get the Recipe: Muhammara with Pita Bread

Vegan Apple Crisp

A bowl of apple crisp topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, with a spoon placed in the bowl. — Vegan Apple Crisp. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Cold mornings improve with ready-made portions of this Vegan Apple Crisp waiting in the fridge. Soft apples and a crumbly top are perfect with tea or coffee. I spoon leftovers over oatmeal for quick weekday breakfasts. Compliments roll in on how sweet and comforting each bite is.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Apple Crisp

Veg Winter Stew

A bowl of lentil stew with potatoes and carrots, garnished with sliced green onions and parsley, accompanied by slices of crusty bread. — Veg Winter Stew. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Blizzard season means prepping big pots like this Veg Winter Stew that only get better with time. Each serving brims with robust flavors and a hearty base. I fill containers to make sure lunches stay cozy and filling. One taste, and most people want more recipes for veggie heavy stews.
Get the Recipe: Veg Winter Stew

Vegan Pizza

Close-up of vegetable pizza with artichokes, mushrooms, zucchini, and red peppers on a baked crust, garnished with fresh herbs. — Vegan Pizza. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Takeout cravings become a thing of the past with this Vegan Pizza that reheats beautifully for lunch or dinner. Each wedge serves up gooey cheese, crisp crust, and bold toppings. I top different sides with various veggies for a little variety throughout the week. Guests love customizing their own slices when they visit.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pizza

Rich Vegan Pecan Pie

Slice of pecan pie topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a white plate, accompanied by two spoons. — Rich Vegan Pecan Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Sweet tooth cravings during cold weather meet their match in this Rich Vegan Pecan Pie. Gooey filling and crunchy nuts taste like a holiday in every bite. I serve slivers after dinner or pack extras for treats on the go. Everyone is surprised by just how authentic the flavors are.
Get the Recipe: Rich Vegan Pecan Pie

Vegan Hashbrown Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with browned breadcrumbs and chopped parsley, with a serving spoon inside. — Vegan Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Timeless breakfast casseroles get an upgrade with this Vegan Hashbrown Casserole that’s prepped ahead for hectic mornings. The texture hits a balance between soft layers and crispy edges for all-day comfort. I portion squares for quick reheating before work. One serving often leads to another.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Hashbrown Casserole

Mushroom Bolognese

A plate of tagliatelle pasta topped with tomato sauce and chopped herbs, with a black fork resting on the side. — Mushroom Bolognese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Pasta night is sorted when you have this Mushroom Bolognese ready in the fridge. Every bowl offers depth and warmth that only gets better with time. I alternate serving it with spaghetti or mashed potatoes. People mention how easy mealtime feels with such a rich sauce on hand.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Bolognese

Roasted Cauliflower Tacos

A plate of tacos with red cabbage and cauliflower slaw. — Roasted Cauliflower Tacos. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Tacos no longer feel boring with these Roasted Cauliflower Tacos stashed for lunch. Roasted veggies and bright toppings help taco Tuesday last all week. I wrap them tightly for on-the-go lunches. Friends often say they never knew cauliflower could taste so good.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Tacos

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole

A baked sweet potato casserole topped with a crunchy pecan and oat crumble, with a serving scooped out, revealing the orange filling. — Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Comfort food takes a lighter turn with this Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole cooling on the counter. Sweet insides and crispy edges make it a convenient choice for freezing or lunch packing. I enjoy it as both a side and a snack. Everyone enjoys the crunch that holds up after reheating.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole

Vegan Mushroom Soup

A bowl of creamy mushroom soup with sliced mushrooms, herbs, and a spoon, with pieces of bread on the side. — Vegan Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Steaming lunch breaks shine with bowls of this Vegan Mushroom Soup loaded with savory broth and hearty slices. Each serving provides fuel for cold afternoons at home or work. I divide it into jars for easy grab-and-go lunches. People respond with happy sighs and ask for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mushroom Soup

Overnight Vanilla Oats

Getting out of bed in the winter feels easier when Overnight Vanilla Oats are waiting in the fridge. Creamy texture and sweet vanilla flavor brighten up any early morning. I layer fruit or nuts on top to keep things fresh. Coworkers ask about the amazing scent every time you open your container.
Get the Recipe: Overnight Vanilla Oats