Meal Train Recipe Ideas to Bring to New Parents

At the end of a long day of feeding and diaper changes while running on only a few hours of broken sleep, what to make for dinner is usually the last thing on a new parent’s mind. And while PB&J’s and take-out have their place, there’s nothing like a home cooked meal dropped off by a friend to make you feel seen and cared for during such a big life transition. Meal trains are a beautiful thing, but it’s easy to get stuck on what to bring. Finding something simple to put together that’s filling, crowd-pleasing and also portable can be difficult–but we can’t all show up with a lasagna, right? Here are a few recipes that are sure to satisfy without taking all afternoon to make! Just be sure to check with the family regarding any potential allergies or food preferences, and confirm ahead of time if they’d like visitors or if they’d prefer a door drop off.

Easy Crockpot Carnitas 

_{(from Pinch of Yum)}

This is a CrockPot or Instant Pot friendly meal, and is great left over as well! The toppings can be prepped at any time and refrigerated until you’re ready to deliver the meal, and the meat is very hands-off. Then everyone can assemble on a tortilla with whatever they like!

Pesto Zuppa Toscana

_{(from Half Baked Harvest)}

Another Instant Pot friendly dinner, this Olive Garden inspired soup recipe is hearty and warming, and it comes together quickly with just one pot. Send along a loaf of crusty bread or a simple salad, and this dinner is complete!

Greek Chicken Wraps

_{(from Budget Bytes)}

Since this can be served warm or cold, it’s excellent as leftovers the next couple days, so this is a great option to drop off for new parents. These are build-your-own wraps so it’s all about the toppings–tzatziki, hummus, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, the works! A simple fruit salad would make for a yummy side dish to go with the wraps, and that’s all you need.

Meatball Subs

_{(from Spend with Pennies)}

A warm meatball sub is comforting and filling, and is sure to please a crowd. You can use frozen meatballs or use the included crockpot meatball recipe from the link below. Send the meatballs with extra sauce and a pack of sub buns. And don’t forget the cheese! Add in a fresh salad or some roasted broccoli to round out the meal, and you’re all set!

Freezer-Friendly Apple Crisp

_{(from Peanut Blossom)}

A dessert can be a nice addition if you’re up for it, but it’s not usually expected, so no pressure. If you have the time to prepare a homemade dessert, this apple crisp recipe is simple and it’s also freezer friendly. So you can make a few batches at once to have extras for later in the year, or you can deliver it with your meal unbaked so the family can save it for later if they have enough food on hand already. A box of brownies or a plate of chocolate chip cookies does the trick as well if you don’t have time to bake something but still want to add a sweet touch to your meal.

Baked Oatmeal

_{(from Cookie and Kate)}

If you’re looking to go above and beyond, adding in a breakfast or snack option for the next day or two would be so appreciated by a busy parent! A baked oatmeal like this one can be served warm or room temperature, and is a tasty, filling breakfast or quick snack.

Above all, parents will appreciate being thought of and cared for during such a big life transition regardless of what you make. But if you're stuck on ideas, hopefully this gives you some easy inspiration for a yummy meal train addition!