Meal prepping tips

Meal prepping can be a total game-changer when it comes to saving time, money, and a whole lot of stress during your busy week. It’s all about taking a little extra time on the weekend—or whenever works for you—to plan out your meals, cook in bulk, and portion everything into handy containers. This way, when the week gets hectic, you already have delicious, home-cooked meals waiting for you.

One of my favorite things about meal prepping is how customizable it is. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Plan Your Menu

Spend a bit of time each week planning out your meals. Choose recipes that use similar ingredients so you can shop more efficiently, and consider dishes that store well. Keep a list of your go-to recipes so you always have a backup when life gets busy.

2. Invest in Quality Containers

Good storage containers are a meal prep must-have. Look for ones that are microwave and freezer safe so you can easily reheat your meals. Clear containers are great because they let you see what’s inside, which makes your weekly routine even smoother

3. Batch Cooking is Your Best Friend

Cook big portions of versatile ingredients like rice, quinoa, or roasted veggies that you can mix and match throughout the week. Batch cooking not only saves time but also gives you the flexibility to whip up different meals without having to start from scratch every day.

4. Keep It Simple

Not every meal needs to be a culinary masterpiece. Stick with simple recipes that you know you enjoy. As you get more comfortable with meal prepping, you can experiment with new flavors and techniques, but starting with familiar dishes helps build confidence.

5. Embrace Versatile Ingredients

Choose ingredients that work in multiple recipes. For instance, grilled chicken can be used in salads, wraps, or pasta dishes. This strategy not only saves you money but also reduces food waste

6. Make Use of Your Freezer

Sometimes, the best meal prep strategy is to cook double. Enjoy a fresh meal for dinner and pack the leftovers into a container for another day. Freezing meals is a great way to extend the life of your home-cooked dishes and have a ready-to-go dinner when you need it.

And here’s my personal favorite tip to wrap up your meal prepping routine:

7. Prepare casserole dishes

Casseroles are perfect for meal prepping because they’re super versatile, easy to assemble, and can be baked ahead of time. Whether it’s a hearty chicken and rice casserole or a veggie-packed pasta bake, casseroles can be divided into individual servings and stored in the fridge or freezer. When you’re ready for dinner, just pop them in the oven, and you’re set for a warm, comforting meal with minimal fuss. Here are a few of my favorites!

So, if you’re looking to simplify your week and enjoy a variety of delicious dinners without the daily hassle, give these meal prepping strategies a try!