The Best Meal Prep Containers (2026)
As a private chef meal prepping for several families and individuals in NYC, I have been to the kitchens of many homes, and have surprisingly learned a lot about food storage containers.
The way I meal prep is family style. It’s easier to prep, and there’s also the freedom in picking and choosing what to eat and pack. So no compartmentalized containers for me, unless it’s just one for lunch!
So what works, and what doesn’t? And why? Here is my list of the best meal prep containers:
1. Glass containers with snap lids
Glass containers are naturally BPA-free, and often come with lids that are BPA-free. Glass containers are see-through, durable, dishwasher and microwave safe, and are easy to hand wash as well.
You can store all sorts of dishes and ingredients in these containers. Snapware by Pyrex is an obvious popular choice, but there are so many other brands out there that have practical and beautiful glass containers!
2. Baking dishes with lids
I wouldn’t think that baking dishes with lids would make excellent storage containers - but they do! What I love about them is that you can create and combine more than 1 dish in a baking dish container. For example, roasted veggies on one side, and chicken Alfredo pasta on the other side. Stir fried veggies on one side, and sweet & sour pork on the other side.
Baking dishes with lids are perfect for families. You can serve with them, then put the leftovers in the fridge - simple as that. Everyone in your household will know what to eat with what, as a full meal can be stored in one baking dish!
And of course, Pyrex has a large variety of baking dishes with lids.
3. Mason jars
Mason jars are so cute, aren’t they? Aside from their vintage aesthetic, I like using Mason jars for soups, stews and sauces. They hold well in jars and liquids are easier to clean as well.
Other meal prep dishes that work well in Mason jars are overnight oats (or anything similar), and veggies and dip.
4. Reusable storage bags
Reusable storage bags come in handy when meal prepping snacks and small bites, such as granola, cookies, fruit, etc. Of course, regular plastic bags like Ziploc are strong and durable too, but if you want an eco-friendly option, reusable storage bags do the job well.
Try to find a variety pack. Different sizes help with whatever you’re meal prepping!
We are still early in the year - even though we thought about our New Year’s resolutions last month, you can still incorporate healthy eating to your daily routine. These storage containers can help you kick start healthy meal prep at home!
Live in NYC and still need meal prep help? Contact us here!
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Photos from Pyrex, College Inn, Epicurious