PREP School

Class is in session! And here's the lesson: an easy-A meal plan for six make-ahead dishes built for busy days. So set aside a little Sunday time to chop, dice, and slice away, then earn high marks from your family later on.

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the homework:

SCHOOL SHOPPING: Take a glance at the ingredients for these recipes and take stock of what you may already have on hand before hitting the grocery store. Then make a list of the items you need to pick up.

LABEL LESSONS: To take out guesswork later, write the recipe name, prepped-on date and reheat instructions on bright masking tape. Place a label on each prepped recipe's container.

COOKING CLASSMATES: Make it a family activity! Kids can help pull out tools, chop veggies, and mix ingredients while your spouse stays safely stationed at the stovetop.

the school supplies:

Pull out these tools before you start prepping so all things are on hand when you need them:

Pancake & Waffle Mix

This terrific blend pairs the ease of a boxed pancake mix with the homemade goodness of light, fluffy pancakes and waffles. Both come out so tender and golden. -Deb Poitz, Fort Morgan, CO

Takes: 10 min. Makes: about 6 pancakes or 13 waffles (about 4 in.) per batch

• 8 cups all-purpose flour