5 Steps to Meal Prep: A Simple Weekly Guide for Busy Beginners
Master meal prep in 5 simple steps. Plan, shop, cook, and store safely with Aussie-friendly tips, time-savers, and templates you’ll actually use.
Ever feel like you’re always rushing to make dinner? Meal prep can fix that. With a handful of clear steps, you can have ready‑to‑eat meals all week without the stress.
Grab a notebook or open a notes app. Write down 3‑5 meals you’d actually enjoy. Aim for a mix of protein, veggies, and carbs so you don’t get bored. Check what you already have in the fridge, then add only the items you truly need. This saves money and stops you from buying random stuff.
Pick a day—Saturday or Sunday works for most people—and set a timer for two hours. Start with the protein that takes the longest, like chicken or beans. While that cooks, chop veggies and get your grains boiling. Use one‑pan recipes when possible; fewer dishes mean less cleanup. The "Meal Prep Tips: 3 Keys" post breaks this down nicely, so give it a skim for extra tricks.
Once everything is cooked, let it cool a bit before splitting into containers. Portion sizes matter: aim for a palm‑sized protein, a fist‑sized carb, and a big handful of veg. This keeps calories in check without counting every bite.
Store your meals in clear containers so you can see what’s inside. Label each with the date; most meals stay fresh for three‑four days in the fridge, and you can freeze extra portions for later.
When it’s time to eat, just grab a container, heat it up, and you’re done. No guessing, no extra grocery trips, and no last‑minute cooking panic.
Quick tip: Add a splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of hot sauce right before you eat. It brightens flavors and makes the same dish feel fresh all week.
Meal prep isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all. If you prefer different meals each day, divide a few recipes into several containers instead of making one dish for the whole week. The key is still the same—plan, cook in bulk, and store smartly.
Got leftovers? Transform them into a new meal. For example, leftover roasted veggies can become a quick stir‑fry with added protein. This cuts waste and keeps your menu interesting.
Ready to start? Pick a simple recipe tonight, write it down, and set a prep slot for the weekend. In just a couple of hours you’ll have a full week of meals ready to go. Happy prepping!
Master meal prep in 5 simple steps. Plan, shop, cook, and store safely with Aussie-friendly tips, time-savers, and templates you’ll actually use.
