10 Make-Ahead Meal Prep Hacks That Will Make You Feel Really Good Later
#MealPrep is all the rage on Instagram and with good reason: who wouldn't love a fridge and freezer full of meals they can simply whip out and reheat on the fly? We've gathered our favorite meal prep ideas from eggy muffins to chicken freezer packs. Suddenly cooking at home doesn't seem like such a laborious chore.
Breakfast: Egg Muffins
If homemade omelets are out of the question, rely on cheesy egg muffins, which are packed with veggies and can be reheated in the microwave in seconds.
Breakfast: Oatmeal
Steel-cut oatmeal can take an hour on the stovetop before it softens up, so it's no wonder people often reach for the instant stuff. However, this technique freezes pre-cooked oatmeal in a muffin tin so you can make a big batch on Sunday and can reheat individual-sized portions throughout the week.
Breakfast: Smoothie Packs
Plan out your breakfast in advance by creating freezable smoothie packs that include everything but the liquid ingredients (and optional protein powder).
Anytime: Fruit Cups
The best way to avoid your fruit from turning into pulp at the bottom of your fridge drawers is by prepping and storing it in mini Weck or mason jars. How easy and convenient!
Anytime: Frozen Burritos
Store-bought frozen burritos can be really expensive, but the good news is you can make them homemade with all of your favorite fixings.
Lunch: Slow-Cooker Beans and Quinoa
A big batch of slow-cooker beans and steamed quinoa can go a long way for lunch. Dressed up with scallions, hot sauce, and cheddar, this lunch idea won't tire out your tastebuds. Promise.
Lunch: Mason Jar Salads
Arguably the most Instagrammed #MealPrep item, rainbow-layered mason jar salads are as enticing to the eye as they are to the palate. Just remember to layer the ingredients properly.
Anytime: Microwaveable Meals
Prep and pack microwaveable meals in tupperware or mason jars, and either cook in the container or transfer to a mug first.
Dinner: Spiralized Noodles
Get in on the veggie noodle trend without dirtying up your kitchen each day by prepping them all in advance. Spiralized sweet potato and butternut squash freeze really well, while zucchini and cucumber noodles fare better when refrigerated.
Dinner: Freezer Chicken Bags
Make these easy chicken breast freezer bags now, then bake, grill, or sauté later.