How To Freeze Meal Prep Properly
You're juggling dinners and a full calendar, so your freezer should be an ally, not a time sink. In this roundup, I stick to gear that actually survives the weekly grind—durable, easy to clean, and ready to stack in a hurry. You’ll find container setups that fit one-person meal-prep or family-sized batches, plus a glass option that stands up to the oven as well as the freezer. By the end, you’ll know which combo saves you minutes, not space, and keeps your food tasting like you just cooked it.
⚡ Quick Answer: Best Kitchen Gadgets
Best for Busy Weeknights: Seriously Good Freezer Meals: 150 Easy Recipes to Save Your Time, Money and Sanity
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Table of Contents
- Main Points
- Our Top Picks
- Seriously Good Freezer Meals: 150 Easy Recipes to Save Your Time, Money and Sanity
- Bentgo Prep - 20-Piece 1-Compartment Reusable Meal Prep Containers with Lids, PFAS & BPA Free Materials, Durable, Microwave, Freezer, & Dishwasher Safe To Go Food Storage (Mint)
- Bentgo Prep - 20-Piece 1-Compartment Reusable Meal Prep Containers with Lids, PFAS & BPA Free Materials, Durable, Microwave, Freezer, & Dishwasher Safe To Go Food Storage (Gold)
- Bentgo Prep - 20-Piece 1-Compartment Reusable Meal Prep Containers with Lids, PFAS & BPA Free Materials, Durable, Microwave, Freezer, & Dishwasher Safe To Go Food Storage (Khaki Green)
- 20-Piece (10-Pack) 16 OZ Meal Prep Containers Reusable with Lids, Sturdy Leakproof & Food Safe, Microwave, Freezer, Dishwasher Safe To Go Food Containers, Plastic Take Out Containers, Black
- Liuruiyu 8 Pack 36OZ Glass Food Storage Containers with Lids, Meal Prep Containers, Airtight Bento Boxes with Leak Proof Locking for Microwave, Oven, Freezer and Dishwasher, BPA Free
- Bentgo Prep - 20-Piece 3-Compartment Reusable Meal Prep Containers with Lids, PFAS & BPA Free Materials, Durable, Microwave, Freezer, & Dishwasher Safe To Go Food Storage (Navy Blue)
- Bentgo Prep - 20-Piece 3-Compartment Reusable Meal Prep Containers with Lids, PFAS & BPA Free Materials, Durable, Microwave, Freezer, & Dishwasher Safe To Go Food Storage (Silver)
- Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Main Points
- PFAS- and BPA-free, microwave/freezer/dishwasher-safe containers mean fewer leftovers and more durability—Bentgo sets shine, and the glass Liuruiyu options add oven-safe versatility.
- Use the right size and config: 4-cup Bentgo single-compartment or 3-compartment trays plus 16 oz options give precise portions for macros and quick lunches.
- Glass options handle big meals and stack well; Liuruiyu’s 36 oz containers are airtight, oven-safe, and dishwasher-friendly for heavy or family-style prep.
- Secure lids and airtight seals matter: opt for leak-resistant designs to prevent spills in the gym bag or freezer drawer.
- Pair your containers with a freezer-friendly plan: Seriously Good Freezer Meals offers 150 recipes to save you time, money, and sanity.
Our Top Picks
More Details on Our Top Picks
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Seriously Good Freezer Meals: 150 Easy Recipes to Save Your Time, Money and Sanity
🏆 Best For: Best for Busy Weeknights
This earns its Best for Busy Weeknights badge because Seriously Good Freezer Meals bundles 150 freezer-friendly recipes into a practical, batch-friendly system you can actually follow after a long day. You batch on Sundays, portion meals for the week, and heat up wholesome dinners in minutes when time is tight.
Key features translate to real-world gains: freezer-ready recipes with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, clear steps, and options to swap proteins or sides. You'll reduce grocery waste and drive down takeout costs by stocking a few reliable staples that reheat well. The format encourages batch prep without turning you into a full-time chef.
Who should buy this: busy families, roommates, or anyone starting batch cooking who wants to avoid last-minute chaos. Use it on Sundays to build a freezer stash, then rely on the plan on every weeknight when you’re juggling work, kids, and chores. It’s also a solid fit if you’re trying to save money while eating better.
Drawbacks? A few recipes need extra upfront prep, and there aren’t many glossy photos. If you crave ultra-quick (15-minute) meals, you won’t find them here. Recommendation: this book is a reliable weeknight-saver you can count on.
✅ Pros
- Batch-friendly recipes save nightly cooking time
- Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
- Clear instructions and reheating tips
❌ Cons
- Some recipes require extra prep
- Not a color photo-heavy book
- Key Ingredient: Pantry staples
- Scent Profile: Neutral; no strong odors when reheated
- Best For: Best for Busy Weeknights
- Size / Volume: 150 recipes; compact format
- Special Feature: Batch-prep friendly, freezer-ready plans
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Bentgo Prep - 20-Piece 1-Compartment Reusable Meal Prep Containers with Lids, PFAS & BPA Free Materials, Durable, Microwave, Freezer, & Dishwasher Safe To Go Food Storage (Mint)
🏆 Best For: Best for Single-Meal Prep
- #1 Brand Pick for Meal Prep Containers: Bentgo is the top pick for meal prep con
- Perfect for Portion-Control: Each container’s 4-cup capacity and embossed measur
- Durable & Reusable: Made from tough, PFAS- and BPA-free materials, these meal pr
- Microwave, Freezer & Dishwasher Safe: Easy to heat, store, and clean! Safely reh
- What You Get: 10 one-compartment trays, 10 custom-fit lids, and caring customer
Bentgo Prep earns the Best for Single-Meal Prep because each tray holds about 4 cups, delivering true single-serve portions that stay tidy in the fridge. The 20-piece set (10 trays, 10 lids) covers a full week of lunches without juggling different container sizes. It’s PFAS- and BPA-free, lightweight, and portable enough for work, school, or the gym—plus the lids snap on securely and the stacks compress for compact storage.
Key features and real-world benefits: the 4-cup capacity makes portion control simple for calories and macros. Clear, stackable lids let you see what’s inside and keep food fresh longer. Trays are microwave-safe for reheating and freezer-safe for storage, with top-shelf dishwasher-safe lids for easy cleanup; just don’t microwave the lids themselves. The set helps you cut disposable plastics and speeds up a weekly prep routine.
Who should buy this and when: ideal for busy professionals, students, and anyone who wants consistent, single-serving meals without daily reheating guesswork. If you pre-portion for the week, you’ll save time, reduce decision fatigue, and keep lunches organized for the gym, office, or classes. Great for weeklong lunch rotation or rotating post-workout meals.
Honest drawbacks or caveats: one-compartment design means no built-in food separation inside a tray, so sauces and sides mingle if you’re not careful. Lids aren’t microwave-safe, so heat only the trays and keep lids off during reheating. Tall or layered meals may not fit perfectly if you overfill. If you need partitioned trays, you’ll want a different setup. Bottom line: if you want durable, straightforward single-meal prep that travels well, this is a solid pick.
✅ Pros
- Durable, BPA-free plastic
- 4-cup portions simplify planning
- Lids are top-rack dishwasher safe
❌ Cons
- Lids require hand washing for longevity
- One-compartment design limits separation
- Key Ingredient: 4-cup capacity trays
- Scent Profile: Odor-free after proper washing
- Best For: Best for Single-Meal Prep
- Size / Volume: 4 cups per tray
- Special Feature: Embossed portion measurements
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Bentgo Prep - 20-Piece 1-Compartment Reusable Meal Prep Containers with Lids, PFAS & BPA Free Materials, Durable, Microwave, Freezer, & Dishwasher Safe To Go Food Storage (Gold)
🏆 Best For: Best for Gold Accents
- #1 Brand Pick for Meal Prep Containers: Bentgo is the top pick for meal prep con
- Perfect for Portion-Control: Each container’s 4-cup capacity and embossed measur
- Durable & Reusable: Made from tough, PFAS- and BPA-free materials, these meal pr
- Microwave, Freezer & Dishwasher Safe: Easy to heat, store, and clean! Safely reh
- What You Get: 10 one-compartment trays, 10 custom-fit lids, and caring customer
The Bentgo Prep 20-Piece set earns the Best for Gold Accents badge because the gold lids and trim instantly upgrade your fridge lineup while delivering the same rugged, user-friendly performance Bentgo is known for. You get 10 one-compartment trays and 10 lids, all PFAS- and BPA-free, built to handle weekly batch cooking without turning your kitchen into a landfill of disposable containers.
Portion control is straightforward with each tray's 4-cup capacity and embossed measurements, which makes planning lean lunches painless. The clear, stackable lids let you see contents at a glance and stack compactly in your fridge or freezer. It’s lightweight enough to grab for work or school, and the trays heat safely in the microwave while freezing for long-term storage. Cleanup is simple too—top-shelf dishwasher safe, with lids enjoying a bit more TLC by hand washing for best results.
This set is ideal if you batch cook weekly, feed a family, or swap meals with roommates and gym buddies. The gold accents help your containers look put-together on the shelf, which makes you more likely to actually stick with a meal-prep routine. If durability, ease of use, and a tidy, color-coordinated storage system are priorities, this is a smart upgrade from disposables.
Drawbacks? The single-compartment trays limit multi-item meals in one container, so you may want a few multi-compartment options if you pack diverse sides. Also, lids aren’t designed for full top-rack dishwasher use; for longevity, plan to hand-wash lids and let the trays go through the dishwasher. Still, for gold-accented durability and reliable weekly prep, this set is a solid buy.
✅ Pros
- Gold accents look premium and organized
- Durable PFAS- and BPA-free material
- 4-cup portions with embossed measurements
❌ Cons
- Single-compartment trays limit variety
- Lids require hand-washing for longevity
- Key Ingredient: BPA-free polymer
- Scent Profile: No odor
- Best For: Best for Gold Accents
- Size / Volume: 4-cup trays, 20-piece set
- Special Feature: Embossed portion measurements
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Bentgo Prep - 20-Piece 1-Compartment Reusable Meal Prep Containers with Lids, PFAS & BPA Free Materials, Durable, Microwave, Freezer, & Dishwasher Safe To Go Food Storage (Khaki Green)
🏆 Best For: Best for Neutral Kitchens
- #1 Brand Pick for Meal Prep Containers: Bentgo is the top pick for meal prep con
- Perfect for Portion-Control: Each container’s 4-cup capacity and embossed measur
- Durable & Reusable: Made from tough, PFAS- and BPA-free materials, these meal pr
- Microwave, Freezer & Dishwasher Safe: Easy to heat, store, and clean! Safely reh
- What You Get: 10 one-compartment trays, 10 custom-fit lids, and caring customer
This set earns the Best for Neutral Kitchens badge by staying out of your way with a neutral khaki-green look and a simple, uniform design. The 4-cup portions give you repeatable blocks to hit daily nutrition goals without guesswork or extra gadgets.
Real-world time savings come from 20 trays and 10 lids that let you batch a week of lunches in one pass. Embossed measurements make portioning fast, while clear lids keep food visible and organized in the fridge. Durable, PFAS- and BPA-free plastic makes the set a long-lasting swap for disposable containers, and the trays are microwave, freezer, and top-shelf dishwasher safe; lids are best washed by hand for longevity.
Who should buy this? Busy families, meal-preppers, office lunchers, and gym-goers who want a simple, neutral set that won’t clash with your kitchen. If you’re replacing single-use plastics and value quick reheats and easy cleanup, this is a dependable workhorse. It’s a cost-effective way to standardize portions without fuss.
Honest caveats: you get single-compartment trays, which isn’t ideal for multi-component meals. Lids should be hand-washed for longevity, so you won’t toss them in the top rack. If you crave compartments or ultra-long lid life, you might outgrow this set—but for reliable, no-friction meal prep, it’s a solid neutral-kitchen pick.
✅ Pros
- Clear, stackable lids for quick visibility
- 4-cup portions simplify meal planning
- Trays are top-shelf dishwasher safe
❌ Cons
- Lids should be hand-washed for longevity
- Only 1-compartment trays limit meal variety
- Key Ingredient: PFAS- and BPA-free plastic
- Scent Profile: Odor-resistant material
- Best For: Best for Neutral Kitchens
- Size / Volume: 4-cup capacity per tray
- Special Feature: Clear lids for visibility
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20-Piece (10-Pack) 16 OZ Meal Prep Containers Reusable with Lids, Sturdy Leakproof & Food Safe, Microwave, Freezer, Dishwasher Safe To Go Food Containers, Plastic Take Out Containers, Black
🏆 Best For: Best Budget Bulk Pack
- 【PORTION CONTROL & HEALTHY LIVING】Your Partner in Fitness: The 16oz gold-standar
- 【DURABLE & ECO-FRIENDLY DESIGN】Built to Last, Not Just for One-Time Use: Crafted
- 【LEAK-RESISTANT & AIRTIGHT FRESHNESS】Lock in Flavor, Worry-Free: Featuring snap-
- 【MICROWAVE, FREEZER & DISHWASHER SAFE】Ultimate Kitchen Convenience: Seamlessly t
- 【STACKABLE & SPACE-SAVING STORAGE】Organize Like a Pro: With a sleek, minimalist
This is the Best Budget Bulk Pack because you get 10 16 oz containers with 10 lids—20 pieces total—to fuel a full week of meals without hunting for mismatched lids. The set is built for real life: sturdy, leak-resistant, and ready to ride in your gym bag or tote.
Key features translate to real-world wins for you: leakproof snap-tight lids lock in flavor, you won’t worry about leaks in your bag, the BPA-free plastic resists cracks, and they go from freezer to microwave without warping. They stack neatly in the fridge and dishwasher rack, saving space and speeding cleanup.
Who should buy this? Busy professionals, gym-goers, and parents who pack kid lunches every day will benefit most. It’s ideal when you meal-prep a week at a time and need containers that survive daily use, microwaving, and transport.
Drawbacks? The lids can feel a bit stiff at first, and plastic may stain or hold odors with strong sauces after repeated use. If you prefer glass for long-term repurposing or you plan to freeze bulky foods, you might want to consider other options. Bottom line: for weekly meal prep, this is the move—buy the Best Budget Bulk Pack.
✅ Pros
- Leakproof lids prevent spills in bags
- Sturdy, BPA-free plastic lasts weeks
- Nestable design saves fridge and pantry space
❌ Cons
- Lid fit can be finicky at first
- Plastic may stain or retain odors
- Best For: Best Budget Bulk Pack
- Capacity: 16 oz per container
- Material: BPA-free plastic
- Durability: Lids are 30% more flexible
- Care: Microwave, freezer, dishwasher safe
- Storage: Stackable/nestable design
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Liuruiyu 8 Pack 36OZ Glass Food Storage Containers with Lids, Meal Prep Containers, Airtight Bento Boxes with Leak Proof Locking for Microwave, Oven, Freezer and Dishwasher, BPA Free
🏆 Best For: Best for Glass Storage
- Large-capacity containers:Each one holds 36 oz (1065 ml), making them the ideal
- Oven/Microwave/Freezer/Dishwasher Safe: These glass food storage containers are
- Secure Airtight Seals: Each container features leak-proof locking lids that crea
- BPA FREE: Made from high-quality, BPA-free materials, these storage containers e
- Versatile and Food-Safe: Perfect for meal prepping, portion control, or storing
This Liuruiyu 8 Pack 36OZ Glass Food Storage Containers earns the Best for Glass Storage badge because they give you durable borosilicate glass, airtight lids, and consistent 36-ounce portions that survive fridge, freezer, and oven without drama.
Each container holds 36 oz (1065 ml), perfect for hearty meals or family-style sides. They’re designed to handle oven, microwave, freezer, and dishwasher use, and the leak-proof locking lids keep leftovers fresh and mess-free. You get BPA-free, non-reactive glass, plus an 8-pack that takes the guesswork out of portioning and stacking—great for predictable meal prep and easy fridge organization.
If you’re a busy family, a weekly meal-prep pro, or someone who wants to swap plastic for glass, these containers are a solid fit. They shine when you batch-cook on Sundays, reheat directly in the oven or microwave (lid off when reheating), and then drop them back in the fridge or freezer for later. In short, they simplify portion control and reduce plastic waste without sacrificing performance.
Honest caveats: they’re heavier to lift than plastic options, which matters when you’re juggling multiple containers. Lids can stain with strong tomato sauces and may need a bit more care to keep the seal pristine over time.
✅ Pros
- Large 36 oz capacity per container
- Leak-proof, airtight locking lids
- Oven/microwave/freezer/dishwasher safe
❌ Cons
- Heavier to lift and move
- Lids may stain with strong sauces
- Key Ingredient: Borosilicate glass
- Scent Profile: Odor resistant and easy to wipe clean
- Best For: Best for Glass Storage
- Size / Volume: 36 oz (1065 ml) per container; 8-pack
- Special Feature: Airtight, leak-proof lids; oven/microwave/freezer/dishwasher safe
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Bentgo Prep - 20-Piece 3-Compartment Reusable Meal Prep Containers with Lids, PFAS & BPA Free Materials, Durable, Microwave, Freezer, & Dishwasher Safe To Go Food Storage (Navy Blue)
🏆 Best For: Best for Portion Control
- #1 Brand Pick for Meal Prep Containers: Bentgo is the top pick for meal prep con
- Perfect for Portion-Control: Each container’s 4-cup capacity and embossed measur
- Durable & Reusable: Made from tough, PFAS- and BPA-free materials, these meal pr
- Microwave, Freezer & Dishwasher Safe: Easy to heat, store, and clean! Safely reh
- What You Get: 10 three-compartment trays, 10 custom-fit lids, and caring custome
This set earns the “Best for Portion Control” badge because every tray is a 4-cup portion with embossed measurements, so you can eyeball balanced meals without pulling out a scale. The 3-compartment design keeps protein, starch, and veggies neatly separated, making grab-and-go lunches easy and mess-free.
Here’s what you actually get: 10 three-compartment trays and 10 custom-fit lids. The containers are PFAS- and BPA-free, durable enough to survive weekly batch cooking, and they stack compactly in the fridge or freezer. You can heat the trays in the microwave for reheating (lid off), and the lids are top-shelf dishwasher safe for easy cleanup, though for best seal you should hand-wash the lids.
Who should buy this? Busy families, gym-goers, students—anyone who wants quick, controlled portions without extra steps. If you batch cook on Sundays and want to reheat directly from the fridge to the table, this set makes that routine fast and predictable, not fiddly.
Honest caveats: the full 20-piece set can take up a lot of fridge/freezer space, and the lids benefit from hand-washing to maintain the seal over time. If you’re short on storage or hate extra cleaning steps, you’ll want to factor that in before buying.
✅ Pros
- Durable, PFAS/BPA-free material
- Clear, stackable lids seal in freshness
- 4-cup portions simplify meal planning
❌ Cons
- Lids require hand-washing for best results
- 20-piece set can crowd fridge/freezer space
- Key Ingredient: PFAS- and BPA-free plastic
- Scent Profile: Minimal odor after washing
- Best For: Portion Control
- Size / Volume: 4-cup per tray
- Special Feature: Embossed measurements for easy portioning
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Bentgo Prep - 20-Piece 3-Compartment Reusable Meal Prep Containers with Lids, PFAS & BPA Free Materials, Durable, Microwave, Freezer, & Dishwasher Safe To Go Food Storage (Silver)
🏆 Best For: Best for Modern Kitchen
- #1 Brand Pick for Meal Prep Containers: Bentgo is the top pick for meal prep con
- Perfect for Portion-Control: Each container’s 4-cup capacity and embossed measur
- Durable & Reusable: Made from tough, PFAS- and BPA-free materials, these meal pr
- Microwave, Freezer & Dishwasher Safe: Easy to heat, store, and clean! Safely reh
- What You Get: 10 three-compartment trays, 10 custom-fit lids, and caring custome
This is the Best for Modern Kitchen pick because it truly fits a busy, efficiency-first flow: 20-piece set, ten three-compartment trays, ten lids that seal cleanly, and a clear, stackable design that makes fridge organization painless. It uses PFAS- and BPA-free materials, so you heat or freeze with confidence, and the embossed 4-cup portions take the guesswork out of balanced meals. It’s a lightweight, durable option that replaces a drawer full of single-use containers and keeps your prep area tidy.
Key features pay off in real cooking: 4-cup compartments keep portions consistent; the three sections keep protein, starch, and veg separate without mixing. Lids are clear and predictable, which speeds packing and labeling at a glance. You can heat the trays in the microwave and freeze them for longer storage, then run the set through a top-shelf dishwasher for quick cleanup. All of this translates to fewer decisions, more meals prepped, and less time spent washing dishes.
Who should buy? You’re a busy person who wants neat portions, less waste, and a simple reheating routine. Perfect for weekly meal prep, school lunches, gym meals, or family dinners on the go. It shines when you batch-cook on Sunday and pull property balanced meals out of the fridge each day—no guessing, no rummaging through mismatched containers.
Two caveats: lids are best hand-washed for longevity, and the trays aren’t ideal for liquids like soups. But if you want a durable, easy-to-clean, portion-ready system that actually speeds up your week, this is the move. Recommendation: buy Bentgo Prep 20-piece for a modern, efficient kitchen and truly faster meal prep.
✅ Pros
- 4-cup portions simplify planning
- Three-compartment design speeds packing
- Dishwasher-safe on top shelf
❌ Cons
- Lids can be fiddly to seal
- Not ideal for liquids; avoid soups
- Key Ingredient: BPA- and PFAS-free materials
- Scent Profile: Odor-resistant design; easy cleanup
- Best For: Best for Modern Kitchen
- Size / Volume: 20 trays; 4-cup capacity each
- Special Feature: 3-compartment design with seal-tight lids
Factors to Consider
Frequently Asked Questions
What containers are best for freezing meals?
Choose freezer-safe, leak-proof containers made of BPA-free plastic or glass. Opt for portion-sized options so you can thaw exactly what you need and avoid waste. Pick lids that seal tightly to prevent spills and keep flavors intact.
Should I use freezer bags or silicone bags?
Silicone bags are durable and easy to clean, but thick bags cost more. Freezer-grade plastic bags are cheaper and fast for portioning, but you’ll replace them more often. If you freeze liquids, bags prevent leaks best, but always lay flat to save space.
How do I prevent freezer burn and keep flavor?
Cool foods completely before sealing, and remove as much air as possible if you’re not using a vacuum sealer. Use airtight containers or seal bags tightly and lay flat. For long freezes, consider vacuum sealing or double-bagging for extra protection.
How long can I keep meals in the freezer?
Most cooked meals stay good for 2-3 months, with soups and stews up to 3-4 months if sealed well. Texture and flavor can degrade after long freezes, so labeling dates is essential. Use first-in, first-out rotation to keep meals fresh.
Is it safe to refreeze thawed meals?
Only if they thaw in the fridge and haven’t been out at room temperature for more than two hours. Refreezing can change texture, but it’s safer than leaving food out. If you’re unsure, thaw in fridge and cook before refreezing small portions.
Do I need a vacuum sealer for freezing?
No, not always. A vacuum sealer helps prevent freezer burn and saves space, but good bags or containers can do the job. If you freeze a lot of liquids or sensitive meals, it’s worth the investment; otherwise start with heavy-duty bags and see how you like it.
How should I label and organize frozen meals?
Label with dish, date, and reheating steps. Use a simple code or color-coded marker on containers or bags to identify protein or day-of-week meals. Keep a running list on your phone or a whiteboard so you know what’s in the freezer without digging.
Conclusion
With the right containers, bags, and a simple labeling system, your weekly prep time drops and freezer chaos fades. Recommendation: start with a solid set of freezer-safe containers and a simple labeling system; you’ll save time, cut waste, and cook smarter every week. If you want to take it up a notch, add a vacuum sealer later for maximum freshness.
