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The 5-Ingredient Meal Prep Winners Reviewers Call 'Worth Every Minute'

When meal prep needs to be quick but satisfying, these five-ingredient gems deliver every time. Think real flavor, real protein, and real ease—without cluttering your fridge or your day. Your future self will thank you for these.

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Updated on Fri, 08 May 2026
High-protein pizza hot pockets with melty cheese and zesty sauce, wrapped in a golden, crispy dough for a satisfying meal prep snack. Save
High-protein pizza hot pockets with melty cheese and zesty sauce, wrapped in a golden, crispy dough for a satisfying meal prep snack. | ricoskillet.com
01 of 10

High-Protein Pizza Pockets

High-protein pizza hot pockets with melty cheese and zesty sauce, wrapped in a golden, crispy dough for a satisfying meal prep snack.
High-protein pizza hot pockets with melty cheese and zesty sauce, wrapped in a golden, crispy dough for a satisfying meal prep snack. | ricoskillet.com

Stuffed with melty cheese and zesty sauce, these doughy pockets are a meal-prep dream—just grab, reheat, and you're set for lunch.

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02 of 10

Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake

A hearty scoop of Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef showing creamy layers, whole wheat penne, and rich marinara, ready to serve with garlic bread.
A hearty scoop of Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef showing creamy layers, whole wheat penne, and rich marinara, ready to serve with garlic bread. | ricoskillet.com

"So easy to put together and incredibly filling. The cottage cheese makes it so creamy! My son asked for seconds." —Jenna K.

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03 of 10

High-Protein Southwest Chicken Salad

A close-up shows creamy Greek yogurt lime dressing being drizzled over chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheddar in the hearty High Protein Southwest Chicken Salad.
A close-up shows creamy Greek yogurt lime dressing being drizzled over chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheddar in the hearty High Protein Southwest Chicken Salad. | ricoskillet.com

Grilled chicken, black beans, and a bright lime dressing come together for a high-protein salad you'll want in your fridge all week.

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04 of 10

Creamy Split Pea Soup

Steaming bowl of classic split pea soup, a cozy and flavorful comfort food.
Steaming bowl of classic split pea soup, a cozy and flavorful comfort food. | ricoskillet.com

"Seriously the coziest make-ahead lunch! Super creamy—didn't even miss the ham. Will make again for sure." —Maggie

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05 of 10

Lentil Vegetable Soup

A steaming bowl of Lentil and Vegetable Soup with carrots, celery, and wilted greens, garnished with fresh parsley.
A steaming bowl of Lentil and Vegetable Soup with carrots, celery, and wilted greens, garnished with fresh parsley. | ricoskillet.com

Earthy lentils and a medley of vegetables unite in this protein-rich, plant-based soup perfect for batch cooking and freezing.

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06 of 10

Peanut Butter Cup Ultimate Overnight Oats

Two jars of Peanut Butter Cup Overnight Oats feature thick, creamy oats, a dark cocoa ganache swirl, and a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips for an indulgent breakfast.
Two jars of Peanut Butter Cup Overnight Oats feature thick, creamy oats, a dark cocoa ganache swirl, and a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips for an indulgent breakfast. | ricoskillet.com

"Tastes like dessert but it's breakfast! My kids couldn't believe there was peanut butter and chocolate AND it was healthy." —JamieG

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07 of 10

Peanut Chicken Protein Bowl

Colorful Peanut Chicken Protein Bowl featuring tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy peanut sauce drizzled over fluffy coconut rice.
Colorful Peanut Chicken Protein Bowl featuring tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy peanut sauce drizzled over fluffy coconut rice. | ricoskillet.com

Juicy chicken, creamy Thai peanut sauce, and coconut rice make this bowl a meal-prep superstar that never gets boring.

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08 of 10

Black Lentil Salad with Roasted Vegetables

Black Lentil Salad with feta, cherry tomatoes, and zesty lemon dressing in a serving bowl.
Black Lentil Salad with feta, cherry tomatoes, and zesty lemon dressing in a serving bowl. | ricoskillet.com

"Make this one every Sunday! So tasty, filling, and it stays fresh days later. The roasted veggies really make it." —SaraB

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09 of 10

Peanut Butter Cup Overnight Oats

Peanut Butter Cup Overnight Oats
ricoskillet.com

Peanut butter, chocolate, hearty oats, and a dash of sweetness—perfect grab-and-go breakfast that’s packed with protein.

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10 of 10

Ultimate High-Protein Pizza Pasta Bake

Golden-brown, bubbling High-Protein Pizza Pasta Bake fresh from the oven, featuring penne, lean beef, and melted mozzarella.
Golden-brown, bubbling High-Protein Pizza Pasta Bake fresh from the oven, featuring penne, lean beef, and melted mozzarella. | ricoskillet.com

"Pizza for the week! So easy and actually filling. The Greek yogurt sauce was a game changer. Everyone wanted leftovers." —Kev

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