I'm so happy that you've decided to dive into the world of meal prepping! One of the most essential tools for successful meal prepping is high quality meal prep containers.
In this blog post, we'll talk about the best rated meal prep containers on Amazon, focusing on glass, plastic, and stainless steel options. No matter where you're at in your meal prepping journey, these containers will help you stay organized and keep your food fresh.
- Best Glass Containers for Meal Prep: S Salient Glass Food Storage Containers
- Best Plastic Containers for Meal Prep: Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers
- Best Stainless Steel Containers for Meal Prep: Everusely Stainless Steel Containers with Lids
- Best Bentgo Containers for Meal Prep: Bentgo Meal Prep Kit
- Best Overnight Oats Meal Prep Containers: DRKIO Overnight Oats Containers
- Best Meal Prep Containers Under $20: Freshware Meal Prep Containers
- Best Salad Meal Prep Containers: CherrySea Salad Lunch Container
The Best Containers for Meal Prep and Why You Should Invest In Them
Convenience and Efficiency
Good meal prep containers simplify the process of preparing and storing meals. They allow you to portion out your meals for the week, making it easy to grab and go, especially on busy days.
Imagine having all your nutritious meals lined up in perfect portions—no more last-minute decisions or grabbing unhealthy snacks!
Health Benefits
Using meal prep containers can help with portion control and ensure you're eating balanced meals. Especially the portion divided ones!
They also make it easier to stick to a healthy eating plan by having meals ready to go.
Plus, seeing your meals all prepped and ready can be super motivating to stay on track.
Cost Effectiveness
This was a huge bonus for me when I started meal prepping.
Meal prepping can save you money by reducing the need for eating out or buying pre-made meals. Investing in durable, reusable containers further enhances these savings.
Think about all the cash you can save by not grabbing that overpriced lunch at work!
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Key Features to Look for in Meal Prep Containers
Material
The material you choose for your meal prep containers is super important! Different materials have unique qualities like whether they can or can't withstand oven safe baking, microwaving and dishwashers.
Glass
Durable and safe for microwave and oven use. Glass containers, especially those made from borosilicate glass, can withstand significant temperature changes and are perfect for various types of food storage.
Glass storage containers are great because they don't retain smells or stains! I love to use mine to reheat foods like broccoli and zucchini noodle spaghetti!
Plastic
Lightweight and often more affordable. Plastic containers are great for their lightweight design and ease of handling, making them a popular choice for many meal preppers.
You can toss them in a gym bag or lunch sack and know they won't break.
Just make sure they’re BPA-free!
Stainless Steel
Extremely durable and great for keeping food fresh. Stainless steel containers are a great option for those who want a long-lasting, durable material for their meal prep needs. They’re also super sleek and modern looking.
Size and Capacity
Choose containers that fit your meal portions and storage space. A variety of sizes can help accommodate different types of meals.
Having both small containers and larger ones can be very beneficial for meal preppers who need to store different portions and meal types.
Different sizes are key to making your weekly meal prep a breeze!
I have so many different sizes and I always end up using them all. Organization is key!
Try something like this food storage organizer from Amazon!
Durability
Look for containers that can withstand daily use, including frequent washing and temperature changes.
Durable materials ensure that your containers will last a long time, providing excellent value for your investment.
Which we all want, right?! 🙂
Leak-Proof and Airtight
Ensuring your containers are leak-proof and airtight is crucial for keeping food fresh and preventing spills.
This feature is especially important for storing liquids like salad dressings and tomato sauce.
No one wants a leaky mess in their lunch bag!
Microwave, Dishwasher, and Freezer Safe
Versatile containers save time and effort by being safe to use in the microwave, dishwasher, and freezer.
This makes meal prepping easier and more efficient, allowing you to reheat and store food with ease.
Easy storage and easy cleaning? Yes, please!
Top Rated Containers for Meal Prep on Amazon
Best Glass Meal Prep Container: S Salient 18 Piece Glass Storage Food Containers with Lids
Key Features
This 18-Piece Assorted Oven-Safe Container Set is perfect for those who prefer glass containers.
They are durable, handle temperature changes well, and come with snap-tight lids that are leak-proof and airtight.
They are the best meal prep containers for those who love the clarity and purity of glass.
Best Plastic Meal Prep Container: Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers
Key Features
The Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers are a top pick for plastic containers.
They are stain-resistant, airtight, and come in a range of sizes, making them perfect for meal prepping.
These plastic containers are super lightweight, making them great for transporting your meals.
Best Stainless Steel Meal Prep Container: Everusely Stainless Steel Containers with Lids
Key Features
For those who prefer stainless steel, the Everusely Prep Meal Prep Kit offers durability and compartmentalized containers perfect for portion control.
These containers are great for keeping food fresh and organized.
Stainless steel containers are the way to go for long-term use and eco-friendliness.
Comparison Chart
|
Best Glass
|
Best Plastic
|
Best Stainless Steel
|
|
Primary Rating:
4.5
|
Primary Rating:
4.7
|
Primary Rating:
4.7
|
|
$33.99
|
$37.25
|
$32.99
|
|
Material:
Borosilicate Glass
|
Material:
BPA-free Plastic
|
Material:
Stainless Steel
|
|
Size:
Multiple Sizes
|
Size:
Multiple Sizes
|
Size:
Multiple Compartment Styles
|
|
Durability:
High
|
Durability:
High
|
Durability:
Very High
|
|
Leak-Proof:
Yes
|
Leak-Proof:
Yes
|
Leak-Proof:
Yes
|
|
Microwave Safe:
Yes
|
Microwave Safe:
Yes
|
Microwave Safe:
No
|
|
Dishwasher Safe:
Yes
|
Dishwasher Safe:
Yes
|
Dishwasher Safe:
Yes
|
|
Oven Safe:
Yes
|
Oven Safe:
Yes
|
Oven Safe:
No
|
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Tips for Effective Meal Prepping
Planning Your Meals
Planning your meals ahead of time is a great idea to streamline the meal prepping process.
Create a list of recipes and ingredients you need for the week.
This not only saves time but also ensures you have nutritious meals ready to go.
Weekly meal prep sessions can be a fun weekend activity that sets you up for success!
Proper Storage
Store your meals in portioned containers immediately after cooking to keep them fresh and organized.
Label them with the date and contents for easy identification.
Using a variety of sizes and shapes can help maximize your storage space and keep everything neatly organized.
Cleaning and Maintenance
To extend the lifespan of your meal prep containers, follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning.
Avoid overfilling to prevent spills and make cleaning easier. This was a mistake I made in the beginning, lol.
Choosing containers with easy cleaning features, such as dishwasher-safe options or those with removable silicone gaskets, can save time and effort.
Make-Ahead Meals and Meal Prep Tips
Meal prepping is all about preparing your meals in advance so you can save time and eat healthy throughout the week. Here are some tips to get you started:
Plan Your Menu
Start by planning your menu for the week. Choose recipes that you enjoy and that will keep well in the fridge or freezer.
Make ahead meals can save a lot of time during the week, so having a plan is essential.
Shop Smart
Once you have your menu, create a shopping list.
I am so bad at just sticking to the list but it's best to avoid unnecessary purchases and ensure you have everything you need for your prepped meals.
This helps in managing your budget and avoiding food waste.
Batch Cooking
Batch cooking is a great way to prepare multiple meals at once.
Cook larger portions of proteins like chicken or beef, grains like rice or quinoa, and vegetables.
Divide them into your meal prep containers for easy storage.
Label Everything
Labeling your containers with the date and contents can help you keep track of what you have and ensure you're eating the oldest meals first.
I try to put the "needs to eat first" towards the front of the fridge!
This practice helps in maintaining the freshness of your meals and avoids confusion.
Use a Variety of Containers
Using different types of containers can help keep your meals interesting and fresh.
Glass containers are great for reheating.
Plastic containers are lightweight and easy to transport.
And stainless steel containers are durable and eco-friendly. Having a mix of these can make your meal prep routine more versatile.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best containers for meal prep?
The best containers for meal prep include glass, plastic, and stainless steel options.
The three meal prep kits I covered in detail are all excellent choices. These containers come in different sizes to accommodate various meal types.
Why is it important to use leak-proof containers?
Leak-proof containers are essential to prevent spills and keep food fresh. Nothing's more aggravating than opening up your lunch box to find spilled salad dressing all over everything!
Can I use glass containers in the microwave?
Yes, glass containers, especially those made from borosilicate glass, are safe to use in the microwave.
Just be sure to remove the lids before heating.
Glass storage containers are perfect for reheating meals without worrying about harmful chemicals.
How do I choose the right container size for my meals?
It depends on if you like your food to touch! Lol. I typically HATE when my food touches. But when it's something like chicken, broccoli and rice... I don't mind packing them tightly into one deep container.
Choose containers that fit your meal portions and fridge/lunch box space.
Are stainless steel containers a good option for meal prep?
Yes, stainless steel containers are an excellent option for meal prep. They are extremely durable, eco-friendly, and keep food fresh for a long time.
Stainless steel containers are perfect for those who want a long-lasting and reliable solution for their meal prepping needs. They can withstand frequent washing and temperature changes without losing their integrity.
Additionally, they are free from harmful chemicals that can sometimes be found in plastic containers.
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Can I use plastic meal prep containers safely?
Yes, you can use plastic meal prep containers safely, especially if they are BPA-free.
BPA (Bisphenol A) is a chemical that can seep into food and beverages from containers made with it, which may pose health risks.
BPA-free plastic containers are designed to avoid this issue, making them a safer choice for storing food.
They are lightweight, affordable, and come in a variety of sizes, which is great for portion control and easy transportation.
Just remember to avoid microwaving plastic containers unless they are labeled as microwave-safe.
How do I clean my meal prep containers effectively?
To clean your meal prep containers effectively, follow these tips:
- Dishwasher Safe: Many meal prep containers are dishwasher safe, making them easy to clean. Place them on the top rack to avoid warping and ensure a thorough clean.
- Hand Washing: If your containers or lids are not dishwasher safe, hand wash them with warm, soapy water. Use a soft sponge to avoid scratching the surfaces.
- Remove Odors: To remove stubborn odors, you can use baking soda. Sprinkle some baking soda into the container, add warm water, and let it sit for a few hours before rinsing thoroughly.
- Avoid Stains: To prevent staining, rinse your containers immediately after use, especially if they held foods with strong colors like tomato sauce.
How do I prevent my meal prep containers from leaking?
To prevent your meal prep containers from leaking, ensure they are properly sealed and have secure lids.
Look for containers with silicone gaskets or snap-tight lids, as these features provide an airtight and leak-proof seal.
Additionally, avoid overfilling the containers, and ensure the lids are properly aligned before sealing.
What are some tips for maintaining the freshness of my prepped meals?
To maintain the freshness of your prepped meals:
- Store Properly: Use airtight and leak-proof containers to keep air out and prevent spoilage.
- Label and Date: Label your containers with the date they were prepared to keep track of their freshness.
- Proper Refrigeration: Store your meals in the refrigerator as soon as they are prepared to keep them fresh.
- Freeze When Needed: For meals that won’t be consumed within a few days, freeze them to extend their shelf life. Make sure your containers are freezer-safe.
Can I freeze my meal prep containers?
Yes, many meal prep containers are freezer-safe, making it easy to store meals for extended periods.
Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the container before freezing, as food expands when frozen.
Label your containers with the contents and date to keep track of what’s in your freezer and ensure you're eating the oldest ones first.
What are some good recipes for meal prepping?
Some good recipes for meal prepping include:
- Chicken and Veggie Stir-Fry: A healthy and easy to make meal that can be portioned out for several days.
- Overnight Oats: A great option for breakfast, which can be customized with your favorite fruits and nuts.
- Quinoa Salad: A nutritious and versatile dish that can be served cold or warm.
- Turkey Chili: A hearty and filling meal that freezes well for future use.
These recipes are easy to prepare in bulk and store well in meal prep containers, ensuring you have delicious and healthy meals ready to go throughout the week.
Conclusion
Investing in the best containers for meal prep can significantly enhance your meal prepping experience.
Whether you prefer glass, plastic, or stainless steel, there are high-quality options available to suit your needs.
Being on a meal prepping journey is so much fun and having amazing meal prep containers to go along with it, just makes it that much better!
Don't forget to share your experiences and favorite meal prep containers in the comments below!
Happy meal prepping!!
xoxo,
*Disclaimer: The suggestions provided in this blog post are for informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routines. I am not a doctor and the information presented is based on research and personal experience. Individual results may vary, and any actions taken based on the information in this blog post are done at your own risk. It's essential to consult a healthcare expert for personalized guidance tailored to your specific health needs and circumstances. Your health and well-being should always be a top priority, and professional medical guidance is crucial for making informed decisions about your health.
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