Hi reader,
One of the most common questions I get about meal prep is:
"What containers should I use?"
And honestly, it's a great question! The right food storage containers can make all the difference in keeping your meals fresh, organized, and easy to grab all week long.
But before I dive into my favorite containers, I want to say this…
Don't let purchasing new containers become a roadblock to starting meal prep. Start with what you have.
When I first started, I used whatever plastic containers I had in my kitchen. Over time, I built up a collection of meal prep-friendly containers that made my life easier.
If you're just getting started, use what you've got. And if you're ready to upgrade, here are my top recommendations.
My Favorite Meal Prep Containers & How I Use Them
Mason Jars (16 oz & 32 oz) – If I had to choose one meal prep container, this would be it.
- Best for: Mason jar salads, overnight oats, smoothies, homemade granola, soups, broths, and portion control
- Pro tip: Get plastic mason jar lids—they won't rust like the metal ones.
| | Shopping Tips You can purchase 16-ounce and 32-ounce mason jars at Target, Walmart, and most grocery stores for an affordable price. You can also find them on Amazon, though they are sometimes a bit pricier. |
Pyrex Simply Store Glass Containers – A must-have for storing prepared meals and ingredients.
- Best for: Leftovers, casseroles, cooked grains, and marinating meats
- Pro tip: These last forever—I've had mine for over seven years.
| | Shopping Tips You can find Pyrex Simply Store at Target, Walmart, and I've also seen them at Kohl's. However, you can get the whole set and replacement lids on Amazon. |
Snap-Lid Glass Containers (One Compartment) – Perfect for on-the-go meals with leakproof lids.
- Best for: Transporting food in coolers or bringing lunch to work
- Pro tip: Ideal for salads, grain bowls, and hearty lunches.
| | Shopping Tips I've only purchased the one-compartment snap-lid containers on Amazon, where they offer great prices. |
Snap-Lid Glass Containers (Two or Three Compartments) – Great for bento-style meals and portion control.
- Best for: Pre-portioned meals, snack boxes, and keeping ingredients separate
- Pro tip: Great for kids' lunches or travel meals.
| | Shopping Tips I've only found these two or three-compartment snap-lid containers on Amazon, where they offer great prices. |
Reusable or Plastic Bags – A simple and affordable way to portion out snacks and prep ingredients.
- Best for: Nuts, crackers, portioned rice, marinated meats, and slow cooker ingredients
- Pro tip: Keep a stash of snack-size bags for easy grab-and-go snacks.
| | Shopping Tips You can find plastic and reusable bags at Target, Walmart, Whole Foods, and online at Amazon. |
The key to meal prep success? Have your containers ready before you start prepping. There's nothing more frustrating than searching for lids when your food is already made.
If you have any questions or need more recommendations, reply and ask. I'm happy to help.
Talk soon,
Tammy 💕
| | xo Tammy Overhoff Owner, Reset & Flourish & Organize Yourself Skinny. 🔥 Est. 2011 | Over 7000 students! 💕 In love with my big blended family! 🍫 Equally loves smoothies, mason jar salads, and chocolate. 📣 Cheer mom, volleyball mom, dog mom. ☕️ Needs a lot of coffee and a little RHONJ daily to stay sane. |
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