Batch Cooking Guide

Spend 2 hours on Sunday, save 10 hours during the week

What is Batch Cooking?

Batch cooking means preparing multiple meals or meal components at once, usually on a weekend, to simplify weeknight dinners. Instead of cooking from scratch every night, you reheat or quickly assemble pre-cooked components.

This isn't about eating the same meal seven times. It's about preparing versatile ingredients and components that can be mixed and matched throughout the week for variety without daily cooking marathons.

1

Plan Your Week

Choose 3-4 meals you want to eat this week. Look for recipes that share ingredients or cooking methods. Consider your schedule—which nights need super-quick assembly versus nights with more time?

2

Shop Strategically

Create one comprehensive shopping list. Buying in bulk for batch cooking saves money. Focus on items that cook and store well—proteins, grains, roasted vegetables, and sturdy greens.

3

Prep Components

Dedicate 2-3 hours to batch cooking. Use your oven, stovetop, and slow cooker simultaneously. Cook proteins, prepare grains, roast vegetables, chop produce, and make sauces all at once.

4

Store Properly

Cool food completely before storing. Use clear containers labeled with contents and dates. Store items you'll use first in front. Freeze portions you won't eat within 3-4 days.

5

Mix and Match

Throughout the week, combine components in different ways. Grilled chicken can be used in salads, wraps, pasta, or rice bowls. Roasted vegetables work as sides, in grain bowls, or blended into soup.

Batch Cooking Ideas

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Proteins

  • Roasted whole chicken
  • Grilled chicken breasts
  • Ground beef or turkey
  • Baked salmon
  • Hard-boiled eggs
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Grains

  • Brown rice
  • Quinoa
  • Pasta
  • Couscous
  • Farro
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Vegetables

  • Roasted root vegetables
  • Steamed broccoli
  • Sautéed spinach
  • Roasted bell peppers
  • Caramelized onions
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Legumes

  • Black beans
  • Chickpeas
  • Lentils
  • White beans
  • Kidney beans
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Sauces

  • Marinara sauce
  • Pesto
  • Salad dressings
  • Stir-fry sauce
  • Taco seasoning mix
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Complete Meals

  • Chili
  • Soup
  • Casseroles
  • Stews
  • Burrito bowls