By Robin AsbellView →
MEAL PREP HERO
18 Easy Dinners That Are Even Better As Leftovers
★★★★★
5.0 (380)|(2 Reviews)Rich beef chilis, baked pastas, and slow-braised curries that taste exponentially more delicious the next day for lunch.
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By Theodora Kaloudis (Recipe Developer)•Published April 24, 2026
⏱ 1 hr 5 mins
Simply Recipes / Theodora Kaloudis🔥 420 kcal
WHY MAKE THIS
- Cook once, eat gourmet lunches for 3 days.
- Spices and flavors marry and deepen overnight.
MEAL PREP HERO
18 Easy Dinners That Are Even Better As Leftovers
Certain meals become deeper, richer, and more harmonious as they rest overnight in the fridge. This roundup highlights the best chilis, stews, and casseroles designed to make tomorrow's lunch your favorite meal of the day. Difficulty: Easy.
Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings6 servings
Scale Recipe:
📱Keep Screen Awake While Cooking
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef & 1 onion, diced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans and black beans
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes & 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, garlic, and salt
Directions
1
Brown beef and aromatics
Brown beef and onion in a pot. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and garlic.
2
Simmer chili
Add tomatoes and beans. Simmer on low for 40 minutes. Cool and refrigerate overnight for optimal flavor.
💡 CHEF'S PRO TIPS
- Let the chili cool completely before refrigerating in airtight glass meal prep containers.
Nutrition Facts
Per ServingCalories420 kcal
Protein32g
Carbs42g
Total Fat14g
Sodium: 640mg
Fiber: 10g
Sugar: 2g
Community Reviews & Ratings
2 cooks have shared their thoughts on this recipe
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Sarah M.★★★★★
This has completely replaced my normal avocado toast! The beans blend so well you cannot even tell, and I stay full until lunchtime!
D
David K.★★★★★
Great trick for adding protein without cooking eggs on busy mornings. Added a pinch of red pepper flakes and lemon zest—delicious.
