When a loved one is in need, we utilize these meal train recipes to take a big to-do off their list—prepping meals!
New parents, friends who’ve experienced losses, loved ones going through hard times—they could all use a break from some of the day-to-day stressors so they can focus on the important things. While organizing a meal train can take some schedule coordination work, coming up with meal train recipes shouldn’t be difficult! That’s where we can help.
Before we get to the meal train meal ideas, let’s talk about meal train etiquette.
Always Include Reheating Instructions
Not all meals are eaten right away—oftentimes they spend a little time in the refrigerator or freezer first. When that’s the case, nobody likes guessing how long that lasagna may take to reheat, and nobody wants to eat lasagna with burned cheese on top and a cold center! Include easy instructions on heating time & temperature.
Put Food In Dishes They Can Keep Or Toss
Don’t heap the stress back on by requiring them to give your dishes & utensils back. Opt for foil or cheap plastic containers. Tell them that it can be kept or trashed just so they have extra peace of mind.
Include Toppings, Disposable Utensils, And Drinks
If you normally serve your dish with certain fixings, send those along with your dish! For example, if the casserole should be topped with cheese for the last 5 minutes of baking, give them a baggie of cheese. Send some juice boxes or a bottle of wine. Drop off disposable silverware to give them a break from the dishes.
Play It Safe With Your Meal Train Recipes
Unless you know they are adventurous eaters, keep the foods family-friendly to account for different ages & taste preferences. Take it easy on the spice level and stick with tried-and-true recipes.
Now that you know the basics of meal train etiquette, let’s get to the good stuff. From pasta bakes to enchiladas, quiches to casseroles, pizzas to pot pies, you’ll find plenty of meal train recipe ideas here.
Did we miss any meal train rules? Share in the comments below! Have some beloved meal train recipes? Share those too!