30 Clever Meal Train Ideas with Recipes (2024)

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The only list of meal train ideas you'll need to take them a meal they'll deeply appreciate. There's an art to bringing meals for new moms. Great list of healthy meals that travel well and our favorite meal train website.

30 Clever Meal Train Ideas with Recipes (1)

When Little Pea was born I was blessed with the World's Greatest Playgroup who stepped forward to bring meals for new moms in our group for SIX WHOLE WEEKS. Yes, 6 entire weeks of post-baby bliss where I could focus solely on Little Pea and some health stresses that came with her delivery and not have to give a passing thought about what would be hitting the dinner table at night.

Little Pea turns 4 this May and still those 6 weeks' worth of ladies stepping forward to show their love through casseroles and a friendly visit remains one of the most generous things I've ever experienced in my life.

I was more than pleased to participate in our group meal train and provide dinners for new moms home with their sweet babies but being on the receiving end of the dinner deliveries was humbling and heartwarming in a way I'm unable to adequately describe.

While every single crumb of food was appreciated beyond words, I also learned a thing or two on how to make sure the meals I delivered to others were the best they could be. Today I'm sharing those lessons in this "The Ultimate Meal Train Ideas List" in hopes that it makes that task easier for you and tastier for the recipient.

Does your playgroup or church have a mommy meals or meal train program? What do you call it? Seems everyone has their own special name!

Do you have a favorite meal you like to bring to new moms? Leave a note in the comments and add to the resource!

P.S. This post is dedicated to each of my dear friends in playgroup. You know who you all are. And to the ladies of my Book Club who extended those 6 weeks with another week and half with the meals you brought. And lastly to my friend Kristina, who knows way more about mommy meals than I ever wish she did. Thanks so much for your advice and help on this post.

Jump to:
  • Easy Meal Train Set Up
  • Follow the Meal Train Etiquette
  • What Makes the Best Meal Train Menu
  • Things to Consider Before You Pick a Recipe
  • 30 Meal Train Recipes for Dinner
  • Easy Meal Train Side Dishes
  • Easy Meal Train Desserts
  • Awesome Meal Train Extras
  • Meal Train Breakfast Treats
  • Meal Train Transportation
  • 💬 Comments

Easy Meal Train Set Up

Step 1: Learn how to set up a meal train to support your friend.

If you've never done a meal train before, be sure to read my helpful meal train set up tips here:

  • Easy Meal Train Set Up Tips for Helping Friends

Follow the Meal Train Etiquette

A meal train is only as successful as its members. Make sure you're following this important meal train etiquette:

  • 12 Essential Meal Train Etiquette Tips

What Makes the Best Meal Train Menu

This is the area I had the most to learn about the whole concept of mommy meals.

I used to be more concerned about:

  • food that would travels well
  • food that's easy on the recipient to get to the table

To me, the thing that fit that criteria best was ALWAYS a casserole, but then my friends arrived bearing truly creative meal train ideas.

I realized how wonderful a wide variety of dinners can be after a few too many nights of pasta-themed dishes.

The list below does feature some pasta and some casseroles, because that's just tasty stuff!

But look closely at the list of meal train dinner ideas and you'll find some great unique recipes for mixing in if you find your recipient's calendar has too many noodles.

A mix of ready to eat tonight dinners with a few meals to freeze and reheat later is a thoughtful approach to a meal train.

And don't forget you'll still have your own family to feed that evening. These big family dinner ideas are great if you want to split a big batch of food to share with a friend.

Things to Consider Before You Pick a Recipe

  1. EASY Prep: Your meal train recipient should not have to do anything more than simply reheat the food or pop a pan in the oven.
  2. Wash and Chop EVERYTHING: If you're providing a salad or fresh fruit or raw veggies, be sure to wash and chop and completely prep every single thing for easy eating.
  3. Consider Casserole Alternatives: Be that thoughtful person that brings a delicious meal that will give the family comfort without being monotonous.

These are some of our all time favorite meal train recipes, you'll spot a few casseroles but lots of creative dishes to bring to new moms or friends who need help.

30 Meal Train Recipes for Dinner

The best meal train ideas for families in need. You will find a wide mix of dinner kits to bring that cover traditional casseroles, freezer-friendly meals they can save for later, warm soups and breads to bring them comfort, and healthy dinners to mix into rotations that are too heavy on pasta.

Healthy Chicken Chili

Red Chicken Chili with No Beans

Light and healthy red chicken chili with tons of tomatoes and fresh peppers but no beans. Top it with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and serve with tortilla chips for dunking.

4.43 from 28 votes

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PREP TIPS:

Another big-batch recipe, this healthy chicken chili is perfect for those who don't like beans.

Also bring along:

  • A bag of tortilla chips for dunking
  • A bag of shredded cheese
  • A container of sour cream

Baked Meatball Subs

Baked Meatball Subs

This delicious and heart meatball sub recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight. You can have a hearty meal on the table in just minutes.

5 from 46 votes

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PREP TIPS:

Deliver the meatballs and sauce separately from the buns. Leave them instructions on how to toast the buns and heat up the meatballs before serving.

Also bring along:

  • A green salad with dressing
  • A bag of shredded mozzarella cheese
  • A bag of chips
  • A container of chip dip or seasoned sour cream

Chicken Gyro Wraps Kit

Chicken Gyro Pita Wrap

Love classic gyros but want a healthier spin on those tasty handhelds? Grilled chicken with a homemade tzatziki sauce wrapped in a toasted pita bread is a fantastic dinner for warmer evenings.

5 from 42 votes

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PREP TIPS:

This is an excellent meal kit for families with picky kids who can build their own dinner. Deliver all the elements for the dish in separate containers.

Bring along:

  • The cooked chicken, already cut into slices
  • Washed and cut tomatoes
  • A sliced red onion
  • A package of tzatziki sauce: Take the few minutes of extra time to make this easy homemade tzatziki sauce for gyros
  • A couple of packages of wraps (Be generous and give more than they need, young kids LOVE them.)
  • A package of washed lettuce greens, enough to build a salad for mom or dad
  • A bag of frozen french fries or potato wedges

Italian Beef Sandwiches

Crock Pot Italian Beef

This zesty shredded Italian beef gets incredibly tender with a long, slow cook in the Crockpot. Serve it on toasted buns with melted cheese and spicy peppers for a deliciously easy dinner for a crowd.

4.92 from 49 votes

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PREP TIPS:

You can cook the shredded beef at home and deliver it in a container they can reheat it in. Keep the sandwich rolls separate.

Also bring along:

  • A bag of frozen french fries or tater tots
  • A jar of pickled jalapenos
  • A package of sliced provolone or American cheese
  • A large bunch of fresh washed grapes

Stuffed Potatoes with Chicken Taco Chili

Crockpot Chicken Taco Chili

This quick and easy crockpot chicken chili is perfect for stuffing a baked potato or assembling a homemade burrito bowl with leftover rice.

5 from 1 vote

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PREP TIPS:

You can cook and prep the chicken taco chili and deliver in a disposable container.

Bring along the rest of these items to round out the meal kit:

  • Baked Potatoes (already baked)
  • A bag of frozen corn
  • A bag of shredded cheese
  • A container of sour cream
  • Already chopped fresh green onions

Lighter Chicken Pot Pie

Light Chicken Pot Pie

This quick and easy chicken pot pie is made healthier with lots of veggies and lightened sauce.

5 from 41 votes

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PREP TIPS:

Deliver the "crustless chicken pot pie" as filling in a container for them to reheat.

Also bring along:

  1. A canister of biscuit dough or baked buttermilk drop biscuits
  2. Some fresh fruit, already washed or cut

Tuscan Chicken Soup

Tuscan Chicken Soup

This tomato-based tuscan chicken soup is deceptively easy to make for a busy night dinner. Filled with healthy veggies and a shredded rotisserie chicken, it's a delicious soup for families.

4.49 from 31 votes

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PREP TIPS:

Soup is a little trickier to deliver, but if you have the right container it is such a blessing for the family to receive.

Also bring along:

  • Fresh bread from the grocery or a loaf of something homemade like thisItalian breadorfluffy focaccia
  • You could also make theseham and cheese slidersfor them to reheat if you know they need to bulk up the meal for a larger family.

Make Ahead Lasagna Roll-ups

Easy Lasagna Roll-Ups

This easy lasagna roll-up recipe is filled with a delicious spinach and cheese filling and rich meaty tomato sauce. It's the perfect make-ahead meal for busy families since you can assemble and freeze it for an easy dinner later.

5 from 49 votes

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PREP TIPS:

Far easier to make than a whole pan of lasagna, these roll-ups are freezer friendly and can be stashed away if your recipient has too much food on hand right now.

Also bring along:

  • Frozen garlic bread or baked crescent dinner rolls
  • A package of prewashed baby spinach and a bottle of Italian dressing

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

The perfect busy night family dinner: these delicious philly cheesesteak sloppy joes come together in a pinch and have lots of chopped veggies in the mix.

4.50 from 6 votes

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PREP TIPS:

Another easy, budget-friendly beef recipe is a prepared container of sloppy joe mix. This cheesesteak version has lots of peppers and onions inside which help increase the veggie intake for kids.

Also bring along:

  • Sliced hamburger buns they can toast
  • A package of sliced provolone cheese
  • A bag of frozen french fries or tater tots
  • A tray of raw veggies with dill dip

Homemade Chicken Soup

Homemade Chicken Soup for the Flu

This delicious homemade chicken soup is perfect for fighting the flu. It is filled with all the home remedies you'd need: roasted garlic, lemon, cayenne, and spices to get you feeling better in no time.

4.66 from 87 votes

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PREP TIPS:

If the family is struggling with illness in the home, this homemade chicken soup is our essential home remedy. Loaded with lemon and roasted garlic, it helps so much when you're under the weather.

Also bring along:

  • A container of cooked jasmine rice for them to mix into the soup as desired
  • Buttery crackers or saltines
  • A bag of oranges
  • A container of orange juice & a liter of Sprite for them to make homemade spritzers

Crockpot BBQ Chicken

BBQ Crockpot Chicken Thighs

Tender BBQ Crockpot chicken thighs make excellent pulled chicken sandwiches or an easy barbecue main dish with sides. Serve the chicken warm straight out of the slowcooker for an easy buffet entree.

4.98 from 47 votes

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PREP TIPS:

Make a batch of this shredded BBQ chicken in your crockpot and deliver it to them as part of a dinner kit.

You could pick a baked potato bar, homemade BBQ chicken sliders, or simply deliver it as a BBQ dinner with sides.

Also bring along:

  • A pan ofhomemade baked mac and cheese
  • Baked beans
  • Coleslaw or Chow Chow
  • Buttermilk Cornbread

Apricot Chicken with Herb Butter Rice

Instant Pot Apricot Chicken

This sweet and savory apricot chicken is fall-apart tender and a very easy weeknight dinner. Serve it over herb butter rice with the apricot sauce drizzled over the top.

5 from 35 votes

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PREP TIPS:

You can make the apricot chicken in advance and just deliver it in a pan with the juices. The family can easily reheat it in the microwave or on the stove top.

Also bring along:

  • Herb Butter Rice
  • Roasted Green Beans or a pan of Roasted Broccoli and Carrots

Roasted Sausages with Potatoes and Apples

Roasted Sausages, Potatoes & Apples

This fall comfort food classic is a hit with kids and parents alike. The easiest weeknight dinner with some fresh apples and spicy sausages from the market.

5 from 45 votes

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PREP TIPS:

This is a perfect meal train dinner to bring in the fall. Chop up the potatoes, onions, and peppers, season them and toss with olive oil, and bundle them in a plastic bag.

Deliver the sausages cut veggies with instructions on how to bake them.

Also bring along:

  • A jar of spicy mustard or a container ofhomemade raspberry mustard dip
  • A batch ofhomemade pretzelsor a bag of store bought crunchy ones
  • A jug of apple cider

Easy Stovetop Beef Stew

Easy Weeknight Beef Stew

This easy beef stew only takes a few minutes of hands-on time to cook and can easily be frozen for busy weeknights.

5 from 47 votes

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PREP TIPS:

Most meal trains are an endless line of chicken, surprise them with a hearty beef stew that uses budget-friendly cut of sliced beef stew meat.

Also bring along at least one of these starches:

  • Plenty of fresh bread or biscuits
  • A container of prepared mashed potatoes
  • A container of prepared rice

Slowcooker Turkey and Gravy

Open Face Turkey Sandwich

These open face turkey sandwiches with gravy are the perfect way to use up leftover turkey breast and Thanksgiving gravy but also make a delicious and easy dinner any night of the year.

5 from 32 votes

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PREP TIPS:

Make a batch of my easy slowcooker turkey and gravy, you can have it cooking with just minutes of hands on time. Then deliver the turkey and gravy in a pan and let the family make open face sandwiches or enjoy it over mashed potatoes.

Also bring along one of:

  • Fresh sliced Italian bread: You can make it from scratch in a bread machine or get a nice loaf at the bakery.
  • Mashed Potatoes: You can buy a container in the refridgerated section of the grocery store or pop a batch of these Crockpot mashed potatoes in at the same time you make the turkey.
  • Sweet Potato Casserole: My make ahead sweet potato casserole can be frozen.

A batch of my homemade microwave applesauce would also make a lovely side. It takes just 5 minutes.

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Prep this honey garlic chicken in 5 minutes for an easy oven baked dinner your family will love. Serve over rice or peanut butter noodles for a special treat.

4.98 from 47 votes

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PREP TIPS:

You can bake these chicken thighs before delivering, or simply prepare the marinade and deliver the raw chicken with instructions on how to bake. This lets them freeze the meal if necessary.

Also bring along:

  • A container of cooked jasmine rice
  • A container of fresh chopped green onions
  • A steam-in-bag green veggie like asparagus, broccoli, or pea pods

Chinese Noodles with Pork and Spicy Peanut Sauce

Spicy Peanut Butter Noodles with Pork

This super easy 20-min meal is perfect for a busy weeknight. The creamy Chinese pork with spicy peanut butter noodles is delicious with rice noodles or regular pasta. Whatever you have on hand!

4.39 from 21 votes

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PREP TIPS:

Prepare the ground pork sauce but leave the boiling of the pasta to the dinner recipient. This allows them to freeze the meal and enjoy it fresh when they are ready. They simply have to boil the pasta and toss with reheated sauce.

Also bring along:

  • A bag of prewashed broccoli florets
  • A bag of clementine oranges
  • A container of chopped fresh green onions

Chicken Fried Rice

Easy Chicken Fried Rice

This easy stove-top fried rice recipe is perfect for using up leftover chicken with a bag of frozen veggies. Quick enough for a busy weeknight dinner, kids will gobble it right up!

5 from 3 votes

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PREP TIPS:

This kid-friendly chicken fried rice reheats very well. It would be a healthier version of take-out for the family.

Also bring along:

  • A frozen bag of potstickers or egg rolls
  • A mandarin orange and lettuce greens salad with sliced almonds

Shredded Chicken Tacos Kit

Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken

This easy Mexican shredded chicken taco recipe is so ridiculously easy to make, even your kids could cook it! Dump everything in the Instant Pot (or slow cooker / crockpot) and you're ready to go. Leftovers freeze well, so be sure to make a big batch.

4.50 from 2 votes

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PREP TIPS:

Even easier than the enchiladas, this chicken taco mix is my kids' favorite. You could also spoil them with a pan of my Mexican pulled pork carnitas if they've had too much chicken.

Also bring along:

  • A large package of tortillas
  • A bag of shredded cheese
  • A container of sour cream
  • A container of hot sauce or taco sauce
  • Freshly chopped cilantro, packaged separately in case some don't prefer it
  • A bag of frozen corn
  • A batch ofMexican rice
  • Chips and salsa

Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

This warm and delicious chicken wild rice casserole has tender chunks of chicken breast in a creamy herb sauce mixed with wild rice and Monterey Jack cheese. Top the baked casserole with crispy bread crumbs and sliced almonds for crunch. You can make it ahead and freeze for a special family dinner down the road.

5 from 1 vote

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PREP TIPS:

This big batch casserole recipe will give you one really large pan to feed a crowd or you can split it in half into two dishes. This lets you make dinner for your own family AND the family you're helping!

You may also want to leave the almonds off the top and deliver them in a separate container. Let the family decide whether or not to use them.

Also bring along:

  • A green vegetable to go with it, I recommend green beans or broccoli and carrots
  • A package of dinner rolls or biscuits

Chicken Enchiladas

Easy Chicken Enchiladas

Chicken enchiladas are always a hit with kids who love Mexican food but they usually take a lot of time to prepare. This fast and easy recipe comes together quickly with several busy-parent shortcuts.

4.99 from 50 votes

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PREP TIPS:

This casserole is a nice twist instead of another pasta dish. My shortcuts make it easy to prepare for you and it is freezer friendly for them.

Also bring along:

  • A container of sour cream
  • Freshly chopped cilantro, packaged separately in case some don't prefer it
  • A batch ofMexican rice
  • Chips and salsa

Freezer-Friendly Sausage Pasta Casserole

Italian Sausage Pasta Casserole

This delicious Italian sausage pasta casserole mixes Jimmy Dean bulk sausage with fresh spinach for a perfect make-ahead dinner.

4.60 from 45 votes

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PREP TIPS:

This casserole is so delicious, we sometimes serve it at Christmas time. Sausage, spinach, and pasta in a delicious sauce.

Also bring along:

  • Fresh pineapple -- this is ESSENTIAL, it pairs so well with this dish for some reason
  • Fresh bread
  • A simple green salad

Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole

Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole

This comfort food classic is a big hit with kids who love the rich and creamy chicken Alfredo rice. Adults will love the Italian spin on an American casserole. Perfect for a cold and blustery winter night.

4.75 from 4 votes

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PREP TIPS:

This creamy rice casserole is perfect for an all-in-one dinner. Assemble it but let them bake it. They'll love the freshly browned bread crumbs on top.

Also bring along:

  • A package of dinner rolls or frozen garlic bread
  • A Caesar salad kit

Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole

Minnesota Tater Tot Hotdish

This old fashioned hamburger tater tot casserole has been a family favorite in Minnesota for generations because it is so easy to prep and is a hearty dinner for a cold night. You can make it ahead and freeze it to get prepared for a busy night.

4.96 from 44 votes

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PREP TIPS:

This easy casserole recipe can be prepared in advance and frozen. Deliver it completely frozen with the easy baking instructions.

This is a perfect recipe for the family to just stash in their freezer if they have too much food on hand right now.

Also bring along:

  • Homemade applesauce: they can warm it up in the microwave but it also freezes well.
  • Cranberry orange muffins: A nice alternative to bread and they can also be frozen for later.

Lemony Orzo and Tomato Salad

Lemon Orzo Salad with Tomatoes & Dill

This simple Greek orzo pasta salad made with fresh tomatoes and feta is bright and zesty from the fresh squeezed lemon juice. Serve it warm or chilled with shrimp or chicken.

5 from 2 votes

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PREP TIPS:

This is a great dish to bring during a warm weather month. Cook a batch offrozen shrimpor broiled chicken tenderloins to add as a protein to this lemony pasta salad. The whole thing can be delivered chilled.

Also bring along:

  • A simple green salad with dressing OR prepared asparagus for roasting
  • Fresh strawberries or cantaloupe, already washed and cut

Asian Chicken Pasta Salad

Asian Chicken Pasta Salad

This refreshing chicken pasta salad is loaded with raw veggies and a delicious savory Asian marinade. Make a batch for easy work week lunches or for serving at a party.

4.67 from 3 votes

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PREP TIPS:

Another perfect warm weather meal, this cold chicken salad has lots of fresh veggies to bulk it up.

Deliver the pasta mix and chicken separately in case the family prefers the chicken to be warm and wants to heat it up.

Also bring along:

  • Prepared and cut fresh pineapple

Creamy Pesto Chicken Casserole

Pesto Chicken Casserole

This rich and creamy pesto chicken casserole can be prepared in just 20 minutes for an easy weeknight dinner. Simple enough for a weeknight, but festive enough to serve for the holidays.

4.56 from 29 votes

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PREP TIPS:

For the families that really need some rich comfort food, this casserole is absolutely delicious. You'll definitely want to bring along some fresher sides to balance it out.

Also bring along:

  • A simple green salad
  • Fresh tomatoes, washed and sliced or these easy marinated tomatoes
  • Fresh cantaloupe, pineapple, or strawberries, already washed and cut

Freezer-Friendly Chicken Spaghetti

Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

This make-ahead chicken spaghetti casserole is perfect for stashing in your freezer for a busy night. Split the dish into two 8x8-in pans for a small serving dinner or easy side dish.

5 from 1 vote

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PREP TIPS:

A huge hit with kids, this is one of the easiest casseroles to prepare. It's perfect if you know there are some pickier eaters in the family.

Also bring along:

  • A tray of fresh veggies with dip

Oven Baked Salmon

Oven Baked Salmon

This simple oven baked salmon is perfect for beginner cooks or for a busy weeknight. Just 3 ingredients and 15 minutes to a delicious and healthy dinner.

5 from 39 votes

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PREP TIPS:

After a long meal train filled with pasta, it is very possible your friend is craving something extra-healthy. Buy the salmon fresh the day you plan to deliver it, but prepare it in a disposable baking dish by melting the butter and seasoning it so they only have to pop it into the oven and bake.

Also bring along:

  • Washed and prepared asparagus that can bake for the same amount of time as the salmon.
  • Copycat Cheddar Bay Biscuits
  • A simple rice side dish, my sticky butter rice or herb butter rice would be perfect.
  • Thissunny citrus salad

Tandoori Chicken

Tandoori Chicken in the Air Fryer

Tender and juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a spicy yogurt sauce and then roasted to perfection in just minutes with your air fryer. Serve this savory chicken with spiced vegetables, a simple green salad, and some warmed naan bread.

5 from 3 votes

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PREP TIPS:

You could bake this tandoori chicken in your own air fryer and let the family simply reheat it. It makes amazing wrap sandwiches with pitas or used as a topper for a salad.

Also bring along:

  • A bag of pita wraps
  • A greek yogurt based dip from the grocery store
  • Fresh tomatoes, washed and sliced
  • Thisroasted carrot and wild rice salad

Saucy Pork and Noodle Bake

Saucy Pork and Noodle Bake

Kid-friendly comfort food at it's best! Cheesy noodles mixed with corn and leftover pork, it's the perfect casserole to make ahead and keep prepped in your freezer. This recipe is older than dirt, provided by my mom!

4.41 from 278 votes

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PREP TIPS:

One of my husband's all-time favorite meals, this casserole uses cooked pork as the protein. It is comfort food in a pan.

Also bring along:

  • A simple green salad
  • Any prepared fresh fruit

Ham Slab Pot Pie

Ham Pot Pie with Buttery Crust

This easy ham and veggie slab pie is the perfect make ahead recipe for a special dinner with your family. Break the prep work down into simple steps and have an amazing pot pie to toss in the oven at the last minute.

5 from 2 votes

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PREP TIPS:

A nice change of pace from chicken, this ham pot pie has a wonderful flaky crust. You can either bake it and let them reheat, or deliver it ready for the oven and let them bake it fresh.

Also bring along:

  • Baked biscuits
  • A simple green salad
  • Some prepared fresh fruit

Breakfast for Dinner Burritos

Make-Ahead Breakfast Burritos

This big batch of spicy egg and sausage breakfast burritos are perfect for feeding a crowd or keeping on hand for busy weekday mornings.

4.49 from 127 votes

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PREP TIPS:

Surprise the family with a breakfast for dinner night. These breakfast burritos are baked and can be frozen. This is perfect because the family could freeze leftovers for a hearty grab-and-go breakfast for the kids later.

Also bring along:

  • A jar of hot sauce
  • Thisstrawberry mango salsawith cinnamon pita chips

Spicy Sausage Lentil Soup

Spicy Sausage and Lentil Soup

This hot and spicy sausage and lentil soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. Freezer friendly, kid friendly, perfect for a big crowd with a big appetite.

5 from 2 votes

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PREP TIPS:

This soup makes a very large batch which is perfect if you want to cook for your own family and have enough to share with your friend. Or, if they have a large family the whole batch can be for them knowing they can easily freeze leftovers.

Also bring along at least one of these starches:

  • Fresh bread
  • Buttery crackers
  • A can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls

Easy Meal Train Side Dishes

Guaranteed: Your meal train recipient is going to be swimming in prepared bags of salad before this is over.

Side dishes are a perfect opportunity to make your meal train delivery shine.

With just a tiny bit of extra effort, this dish gives you the chance to show you really cared enough about the details of the meal to make it tasty.

To encourage kids in the family to eat more fruit, prepare one of these dips and deliver it along with freshly washed and sliced apples, strawberries, pineapple, cantaloupe, or another seasonal fruit:

  • Creamy Piña Colada Fruit Dip
  • Creamy Peanut Butter Apple Dip
  • Strawberry Mango Salsa
  • Fresh Strawberry Bruschetta

To encourage kids in the family to eat more vegetables, consider making one of these savory dips and delivering it along with washed and prepared raw veggies like baby carrots, celery, bell peppers, broccoli, or pea pods.

  • Cold Spinach Dip
  • Dill Dip for Veggies
  • Cilantro Lime Ranch Dressing
  • 5 Easy Homemade Salsa Recipes

Easy Meal Train Desserts

Unless you are famous for your cookies or brownies, I really recommend surprising the family with something more unique for your meal train dessert.

Bonus points for a dessert that can be frozen and enjoyed in the future if they have too much on hand now.

  • Freezer Friendly Apple Crisp
  • The Best Fresh Cherry Crisp
  • Easy Ice Cream Sandwich Cake
  • Shortbread Pecan Pie Bars

Awesome Meal Train Extras

The single most memorable thing one of my friends brought on top of her meal was homemade strawberry scones, raw and ready to be baked or stuck in the freezer for the future.

Having something fresh and homemade out of my oven for breakfast with none of the kitchen mess was such a blessing. She also brought a jar of homemade strawberry freezer jam which was the trigger for my passion for making it myself every year since.

These extras are totally optional but for a friend who needs just a little extra special something, consider adding one of these crunchy snack mixes for them to enjoy over a few days:

  • Honey Sriracha Chex Mix
  • Sweet and Salty Chex Mix
  • Birthday Cake Popcorn
  • Apple Cinnamon Chex Mix

Meal Train Breakfast Treats

Yes, you're agreeing to bring dinner. But if the family you're serving is going through an especially difficult time, it is an amazingly thoughtful touch to bring something easy for a delicious breakfast the next morning, too.

You could bake up one of these simple breakfast treats so they have something sweet to look forward to at the start of a really difficult day.

My lemon blueberry baked oatmeal is prepped the night before and then baked in the morning. You could deliver it ready to be put in the fridge and they just bake it when they wake up. It lasts for several days.

A batch of homemade granola can be used to snack on or to make yogurt parfaits with fresh fruit. (Bring the yogurt and pre-washed fruit!)

Any of these easy breakfast treats could be used for a mini meal all day long.

  • Lemon Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
  • Classic Homemade Granola
  • Homemade Peanut Butter Granola Bars
  • Banana Zucchini Bread
  • Cherry Almond Streusel Coffee Cake
  • Easy Blueberry Scones
  • Cranberry Orange Muffins with Streusel Topping
  • Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Meal Train Transportation

30 Clever Meal Train Ideas with Recipes (62)

Knowing I'd be making a steady stream of these Mommy Meals for my playgroup meal train, I got into the habit of keeping these disposable kitchen supplies on hand at all times:

  • Aluminum casserole pans, bought in bulk at Costco: I use them for baking the casseroles and as a delivery system for meals with lots of pieces
  • Disposable storage containers in various sizes
  • Zip-top baggies
  • A roll of masking tape: for marking food with baking instructions, storage tips, and the date so the recipient can figure out the expiration date
  • Sharpie

The most important tip is to deliver your meal train dinner in 100% disposable containers. The last thing you want to do is burden your recipient with worrying about returning a special dish to the proper giver.

Extra thoughtful touch: If you know the family is going through an especially trying time, you might even consider delivering a pretty package of disposable plates and utensils to give them a night off from dishes.

Have a great suggestion for me to add to the list of meal ideas? Leave me a note in the comments and add to this resource!

30 Clever Meal Train Ideas with Recipes (63)
30 Clever Meal Train Ideas with Recipes (64)
30 Clever Meal Train Ideas with Recipes (65)
30 Clever Meal Train Ideas with Recipes (66)
30 Clever Meal Train Ideas with Recipes (2024)

FAQs

What is a good meal to make for a meal train? ›

  • Cheeseburger Stuffed Pasta Shells. White Pesto Spinach Lasagna. ...
  • White Chicken Chili. Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons. ...
  • Cheeseburger Sliders. Pulled Pork Sandwich. ...
  • Spaghetti Squash Meatball Casserole. Grilled Chicken Salad Recipe. ...
  • Beef Enchilada Casserole. Baked Spicy Chicken Tacos. ...
  • Western Ham and Egg Casserole.
Apr 7, 2022

What to write for a meal train? ›

Example Meal Train Invite Wording #1

Our dear friend [Name] could use our support right now. I've set up a meal train to help make their life a little easier during this challenging time. If you can participate, please sign up for a date to drop off a meal. Every bit of love and support means the world!”

What food to drop off for grieving family? ›

Instead of bringing a meal for lunch or dinner, think about dropping off breakfast foods like an egg dish, bagels and cream cheese, or pastries (purchased or homemade).

What is the best food to eat in train? ›

Here's a compilation of 15 healthy dishes you can order during your train journey:
  • Plain Dosa. It is also called the staple of South India and is considered a healthy meal on train alternatives. ...
  • Mixed Khichdi. ...
  • Chicken Roll. ...
  • Poha. ...
  • Upma/Halwa. ...
  • Roti, Curry, and Rice (Combo Meal) ...
  • Aloo Gobi with Roti. ...
  • Vegetable Thali.

How many days should a Meal Train last? ›

As for length and frequency of the meal train, four to six weeks long is a generous rule of thumb, and dropping food off two or three times a week is another helpful guideline. Again, though, don't be afraid to ask the parents what would help them most!

How to coordinate a Meal Train? ›

10 Tips for Organizing a Meal Train
  1. Do your Homework. The foremost thing you need to know is who is in need of food. ...
  2. Extra Attention for Kids. ...
  3. Use Disposable Dishes. ...
  4. Decide a Drop-off Time. ...
  5. Occasional Gift Cards. ...
  6. Keep a Diverse Menu. ...
  7. Label your Dishes. ...
  8. Fresh and Frozen Meals.
Jul 29, 2022

How much money do you give for a Meal Train? ›

Is there a minimum contribution? When donating to a meal train wallet there is no minimum and most participants donate between $20 and $50 dollars. It's really up to you and what you'd like to provide for the person in need. How will the recipient know I contributed to their wallet?

What information do I need to set up a Meal Train? ›

How to set up a free Meal Train® page
  • Step 1: Meal Train Recipient Info.
  • Step 2: Drop Off Location.
  • Step 3: Select Dates.
  • Step 4: Preferences.
  • Step 5: Activate Donations.
  • Step 6: Tell the Story and Add a Photo.
  • Step 7: Share. Click the Share button to include participants. Learn more about sharing. mealtrain.com.

What food eases sorrow? ›

FOODS That are helpful
  • Dark Leafy Greens. Leafy greens fight all kinds of inflammation in the body, including that of brain inflammation that can cause depression and anxiety symptoms. ...
  • Walnuts. Why? " ...
  • Avocados. ...
  • Berries. ...
  • Mushrooms. ...
  • Brothy Soups.
Jan 12, 2024

What is an easy meal for someone grieving? ›

Forget comfort recipes... here are quick recipe ideas for the grieving.
  • Black Bean Quesadilla's. ...
  • Microwave Recipe: Baked sweet potatoes with warm black bean salad. ...
  • Easy Yogurt Parfaits. ...
  • Pasta Alfredo with Chicken. ...
  • Garden Salads. ...
  • Canned Chili. ...
  • Veggie Scramble. ...
  • Overnight Oats.
Jan 9, 2019

What is the best mourning food? ›

A warm, cheesy helping of lasagna boosts your brain's serotonin uptake, making you feel satisfied and calmer, at least in the short term. Another bonus: these meals can be frozen and reheated for another night. Sugary foods, like cakes, cookies, and pies, are also comforting and popular as sympathy foods.

What do you say on a Meal Train? ›

Ask the recipient which meals they would prefer to receive, favorite restaurants, any dietary restrictions the family may have, and the best drop off time. Include all this information in their Meal Train profile. Four to six weeks is a generous amount of time for a meal train for a new mom.

How much of a cut does Meal Train take? ›

MealTrain.com will automatically deduct a 5% platform fee from each donation received. In addition, for each donation, a financial transaction/credit card processing fee of 2.9% and $0.30 per transaction will apply.

Who sets up the Meal Train? ›

Meal Train® is a system for friends and family members to easily create a schedule for preparing and delivering meals to someone in need of additional help. This support can last for 1-2 weeks or more if the recipient needs longer-term assistance.

What is the best meal for gym? ›

Smoothie
  • An energy bar.
  • A banana, an apple or other fresh fruit.
  • Yogurt.
  • A fruit smoothie.
  • A whole-grain bagel or crackers.
  • A low-fat granola bar.
  • A peanut butter sandwich.
  • Sports drink or diluted juice.
Dec 21, 2023

How much money do you give for a meal train? ›

Is there a minimum contribution? When donating to a meal train wallet there is no minimum and most participants donate between $20 and $50 dollars. It's really up to you and what you'd like to provide for the person in need. How will the recipient know I contributed to their wallet?

How much of a cut does meal train take? ›

MealTrain.com will automatically deduct a 5% platform fee from each donation received. In addition, for each donation, a financial transaction/credit card processing fee of 2.9% and $0.30 per transaction will apply.

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