CiteSpace software was used to conduct a visual metrological analysis of 310 pieces of research literature on prepared dishes in the China Knowledge Network (CNKI) database from 2014 to 2024. Through in-depth analysis of the basic characteristics of the research literature on prepared dishes and the hot areas of research, the dynamic trend of the field was revealed. It was found that the number of literature published within the field of prepared dishes have increased year by year, and the network density of author collaboration and institutional collaboration was low (0.015 2 and 0.004 9, respectively, less than 0.1), indicating that most of the authors were independent in their research, and inter-institutional collaboration was limited. Research hotspots and trends revolve were around prepared dishes, industrial status and development, food safety, rural revitalization, etc. However, there are still deficiencies in the existing research areas, and future research can explore in-depth hotspot issues, such as consumer perceptions and consumption willingness.