Stay on track with healthy eating by planning, prepping and packing your weekly meals in advance. (Getty Images)
Meal prep containers might not be the most exciting kitchen purchase, but if you're serious about preplanning and prepping your meals to take the guesswork out of eating healthier, they're an essential tool. The best meal prep containers help you portion out lunches, stash freezer-friendly dinners and organize snacks to make eating healthier a no-brainer.
Meal prepping takes some effort, but once you get the hang of the habit, it carries real health benefits. "When you wait until you're hungry to figure out what you're making for dinner, you go for what's quick rather than what is the most nutritious," says Sarah Alsing, sports dietitian and meal prep recipe creator for Delightfully Fueled. Planning meals ahead of time reduces decision fatigue and gives you more control over what — and how much — you're eating, adds Jayme Limbaugh, registered dietitian and clinical exercise physiologist. It can also support portion control, make it easier to log meals if you're tracking intake and help reduce the stress around mealtime.
The right container can also preserve freshness and extend the life of your food. That means fewer midweek grocery runs and less food waste, which could ultimately save you money.
To find the best meal prep containers, I researched dozens of options and tested 14 different sets across materials, sizes and styles, from sleek bento boxes to freezer-friendly silicone trays. I evaluated each one for durability, portability, leak resistance, ease of use and ease of cleaning (including whether they could survive a trip through the dishwasher without warping or cracking). I also spoke with three nutrition and meal-prepping experts to get their input on which features matter most when it comes to making weekly meal prep a habit.
Ready to level up your meal prep game and get a handle on your weekly food intake? Read on for our picks for the best meal prep containers in 2025.
Material: Tempered glass with Tritan plastic lids | Size: 3.2 cups (8.13 x 5.36 x 2.619 in.) | Special features: Airtight seal, vented lid, stackable design, microwave- and oven-safe
Rubbermaid Brilliance containers are hard to beat. I tested both the glass and plastic versions, and while the plastic ones were impressively lightweight and travel-friendly, the glass containers took the lead for their versatility and long-term value. They're made with thick, high-quality glass that's oven-safe up to 450°F, so you can reheat or even bake directly in them without switching dishes, making prepping balanced dinners ahead of time a breeze. They come in three sizes, though I found the 3.2-cup perfect for meal prep.
What really sets these apart, though, is the lid design. The Tritan plastic lids lock in place with a satisfying snap, and the silicone gasket creates a supertight seal that held up well in my leak tests — I even filled them with soup and stored them sideways in my fridge. They're also microwavable with the lid on, as long as you pop the vents on the snaps. This makes cleanup super easy since it helps prevent splatter. I also loved how neatly they stack — they're one of the few sets that actually stay organized in a crowded drawer.
If you're worried about glass being too fragile or heavy (especially if you're planning to take your preprepped meals with you to work), it's worth noting that these feel solid without being overly bulky. I dropped one from counter height (accidentally!) and it didn't chip or crack. For anyone looking to invest in a long-lasting, do-it-all set of meal prep containers, this is the one I'd reach for first.
It's also worth noting that the Yahoo Home team did extensive testing on general food storage containers (not specific to meal prepping), and this set came out on top there too.
Material: Heatproof glass with BPA-free plastic lid | Size: (Rectangle container) 34 oz. (8 x 6 x 3 in.) | Special features: Oven- and microwave-safe, modular stacking design, sold individually
IKEA's 365+ series proves you don't have to stretch your wallet to get a solid set of glass meal prep containers. The containers are made of durable tempered glass that's oven-, microwave- and dishwasher-safe, and while they're not quite as thick or premium-feeling as some other brands I tested (like our top overall pick), they still hold up well to everyday use.
Compared to higher-end glass sets, the IKEA 365+ containers offer excellent value — especially if you're just beginning your meal prep journey. You can buy them individually, mixing and matching from a range of shapes and sizes, which makes it easy to customize your meal storage without committing to a full set right away.
Storagewise, they're compact and stackable, meaning they don't take up too much room. The one downside is that the plastic lids aren't fully leakproof, so I wouldn't trust them with soup or anything super saucy unless they're staying upright. If you're meal prepping to have quick at-home lunches or you're prepacking meal prep classics like chicken, broccoli and rice (nothing saucy there!), these are a dependable and affordable choice that performs better than you'd expect given the price.
Material: Glass | Size: 41 oz. (8.7 x 6.3 x 2.6 in.) | Special features: Microwave-safe, oven-safe, dishwasher-safe, freezer-safe
If you're looking for easy portion control (especially if you don't like your foods to touch), the Bentgo Glass Lunch Container is a must-have — in fact, it earned the title as best overall bento-style lunch box after being tested against 14 other top-tier options.
The container is made from thick, durable glass and features three compartments, including one large section (3 cups) and two smaller sections (1 cup each). Our tester noted that the larger compartment was perfect for the main star of your meal, such as a lean protein, sandwich or salad, while the two smaller sections work well for veggies, fruits, brown rice and other fiber-rich sides.
While she liked several other containers, this one came out on top thanks to its relatively affordable price and glass material. "Eating out of a glass container made the whole experience more enjoyable. It felt more like a proper meal compared to plastic or stainless steel — but maybe that's just me. Glass is also the safest option for reheating food, as plastic containers, even microwave-safe ones, may leach plastic particles when heated."
The biggest drawback is that you can't adjust the size of the compartments. This also means that the container isn't ideal for storing hot and cold foods together.
Material: BPA-free plastic | Size: 3 cups (8.5 x 5.7 x 2.2 in.) | Special features: Microwave- and dishwasher-safe, stackable design, snap-tight lids
If you're looking for a full set of no-fuss, affordable meal prep containers that make it easy to prep a whole week of meals in advance, the Bentgo 20-Piece Set is a fantastic pick. This budget-friendly option comes with 10 lightweight containers and 10 matching lids, all of which are microwave- and dishwasher-safe, making them a solid choice for everyday use or for anyone getting serious about weekly meal prep.
The snap-tight lids do a decent job of keeping things secure during transport, and I didn't have any issues with them popping open in the fridge or my bag. That said, these containers aren't leakproof, so I wouldn't trust them with soups, stews or saucy meals. For dry or solid foods — think proteins, grain bowls, salads, roasted veggies or preportioned snacks — they work just fine.
One of the things I appreciated most about the Bentgo set is how space-efficient it is. The containers stack neatly when they're full and nest together when empty, which makes them super easy to store. They also take up very little room in a lunch bag or tote, which is nice if you're commuting or packing multiple meals at once.
The trade-off, of course, is durability. These aren't built to last forever, and after a few months of regular use, the lids felt a little looser and one even cracked at the corner. But considering the price (you're paying less than $2 per container), the value is hard to beat — especially if you're meal prepping for the week or packing food for multiple people.
Material: Food-grade silicone and BPA-free plastic lids | Size: (Square dish) 2 cups (5 x 5 x 5 in.) | Special features: Built-in measurement markings, stackable design, microwave- and oven-safe, comes with ceramic baking dishes
Making foods in bulk — and freezing them — is one of the best ways to ensure you always have a nutritious meal or snack on hand. Whether you're freezing soup, chili or spinach (hello, easy green smoothies!), Souper Cubes is our top pick. The flexible silicone makes it easy to pop out frozen portions — no wrestling with stuck lids or running hot water around the edges. Each tray also has built-in measurement markings, which makes it easy to portion out exactly 1- or 2-cup servings. I loved being able to prep precise portions and then go straight from the freezer to the microwave or oven with the included ceramic heating dishes.
The stackable design also kept my freezer organized, even when I had multiple meals going at once. The trays do take up a bit more space than some containers, but the payoff in convenience and portion control is worth it. They're also super easy to clean — just pop them in the dishwasher and you're good to go.
The main drawback is the price and relative lack of versatility. While you could use them for portioning snacks in the fridge or pantry, they aren't ideal for prepping lunches or dinners. That said, if you freeze meals regularly or like to prep in big batches, Souper Cubes are a total game changer.
Material: Soft-touch, BPA-free plastic | Size: 4 cups (8.5 x 7.2 x 3.2 in.) | Special features: Modular design with 3 separate compartments, removable tray, adjustable divider, strap closure
The W&P Bento Box is a well-designed option for packing healthy meals on the go, though it's not without a few trade-offs. The sleek, minimalist design is definitely a plus. The container fit easily into my bag thanks to its snap-free design and was incredibly lightweight, making it ideal for commuting or travel. It's also made of a grippy, soft-touch plastic that was easy to hold and didn't slip out of my hands. The soft-touch finish gave it a premium feel, but it does come at a premium price.
For extra security, there's a silicone strap that wraps around the bottom of the container and tightly secures the lid. I didn't have any problems with leaks, even when storing it sideways. Still, it's not entirely leakproof, so I wouldn't trust it with soups or especially saucy dishes without a backup container.
Aside from its travel-friendly features, it's divided into three compartments to keep foods separate. These compartments also serve as handy reminders to pack a balanced lunch, rather than just a solo PB&J. The inner divider is adjustable, which is convenient when the contents and portion size of meals change from one day to the next. The size is generous too — it's especially great for larger lunches but can be a bit bulky if you're packing light. Because it's microwave- and dishwasher-safe, it's convenient for reheating meals and easy to clean. The flat lid is also a nice touch, allowing you to neatly stack multiple containers. However, the containers don't nest and take up a bit more storage space than some others on our list.
Overall, this is a stylish and mostly practical meal prep container that works well for everyday use, as long as spills aren't a concern.
Material: Stainless steel with plastic lid | Size: (Medium) 30 oz. (7.5 x 5.7 x 2.9 in.) | Special features: Microwave-safe steel, vented lid, nesting design
There are many stainless steel options, but we chose this Black+Blum stainless steel set as the winner for several reasons. First, these containers are surprisingly lightweight for stainless steel, which makes them great for meal prep or taking food on the go. And unlike most metal containers, they're actually microwave-safe. They're also safe for the oven and freezer, making them impressively versatile. That said, perhaps my favorite use for these was housing a protein-packed lunch salad — there's just something about eating a salad out of stainless steel, rather than plastic, that makes the experience more satisfying.
I also really liked the clean, minimal design. The containers nest inside each other when not in use, which is great for saving space. That said, the lid system isn't perfect. There are no snaps or straps, and while Black+Blum says they're 100% leakproof (and I didn't see any leaking when testing them upside down in the sink), I'd still be hesitant to toss one into a bag with something saucy or liquid-heavy.
The set includes five containers and comes in three different sizes, so you can find the one that suits your meal prep needs. I personally like the medium (which holds 30 fluid ounces) for everyday meal prep, but the small or large may be a better fit depending on the types and portions of foods you're looking to store.
These definitely aren't cheap, but the build quality feels solid. Plus, they don't absorb stains or smells and feel like they'll hold up well with regular use, making them a worthwhile investment if you treat them right. I haven't had them long enough to vouch for longevity, but so far, they've made a good impression.
Material: Glass with BPA-free lids | Size: 1.5 cups (4.06 x 3.39 in.) | Special features: Microwave-safe, measurement markings, dishwasher-safe
When it comes to prepping meals like overnight oats, chia pudding or yogurt parfaits, the S'well Glass Prep Bowl Set is my go-to. I tested the 12-ounce (1.5-cup) bowls over a few weeks, and they quickly became a favorite for portion-controlled breakfasts (though they'd work well for soups and other meals too). The glass feels sturdy and premium, and the airtight silicone seal kept my food fresh without any leaks. One thing to note is that the lid requires a little finagling to make sure it's aligned correctly, but once it's on, it's secure and leakproof.
While S'well does make a plastic version of these bowls, I personally prefer the glass. It's a bit heavier, but I think it's worth it for durability and not having to worry about staining or chemicals leaching when microwaved. Speaking of which, the glass is microwave-safe for easy reheating. These containers are dishwasher-safe too, so cleanup is a breeze.
According to S'well, the bowls are stackable, but I didn't feel totally comfortable doing that. Because they're not flat, they teetered a little bit, so I felt better resting them side by side. Another consideration is they don't nest, so they take up a decent amount of space in the cabinet. These minor inconveniences aside, if you want a reliable, easy-to-clean option for prepping your breakfasts (or snacks) ahead of time, these glass bowls are tough to beat.
Whether you're embarking on a new diet or simply trying to make eating healthy more convenient, it's important to balance convenience, function and durability when shopping for meal prep containers. According to registered dietitians and experienced meal preppers, the right container doesn't just make meal prep easier — it can support consistency, reduce stress around mealtime and help you stay on track with your nutrition and budget goals. Here are the key factors to consider before making your purchase.
The material of the container is one of the most important factors to consider. Meal prep containers come in various materials, including glass, plastic, stainless steel and silicone.
Glass: Across the board, experts recommend glass as the top choice for long-term use. It's microwave- and oven-safe, easy to clean and won't stain or absorb odors. Most importantly, glass doesn't leach chemicals into your food — something Limbaugh often flags for clients concerned about hormone health, since plastics may be endocrine-disrupting. Lauren Sampson, meal prep expert and founder of Athlete Lunchbox, adds that glass "just feels cleaner" and holds up well over time.
Plastic: While typically more affordable and lightweight, plastic containers tend to discolor and retain odors, especially after multiple reheats. Still, they can be great for freezing since they're less prone to cracking than glass, and are often more travel-friendly.
Stainless steel: This material is another durable option, offering longevity and sturdiness. However, stainless steel containers are not always microwave-safe, which may be a deal-breaker if you don't want to transfer your food to a bowl or plate to reheat.
Silicone: These lightweight containers, especially the collapsible kind, are great space savers and travel companions, though they're better suited for snacks or smaller meals.
Meal prep containers come in a variety of sizes, and choosing the right size(s) for your needs can make all the difference. Alsing recommends a 32-ounce container for most meals: It's large enough to hold everything without overcrowding, and gives you room to stir or mix. Sampson also prefers this size for entrées but suggests having a set of smaller jars for breakfasts like overnight oats. If you eat multiple small meals throughout the day, keeping a range of sizes on hand allows for flexibility.
As for compartments, they're a personal preference. If you don't like your food touching — or want to separate sauces or sides from mains — they're handy. Alsing points out that divided containers are especially useful for keeping textures and flavors distinct throughout the day. Some people also find bento-style lunch boxes handy for portion control and encouraging more balanced meals.
When shopping for a meal prep container, make sure whatever you choose is compatible with your preferred cooking and storage methods.
Glass and microwave-safe plastic containers are ideal if you frequently reheat meals. Sampson points out that she uses glass for microwave and oven use but switches to plastic when freezing to avoid cracking from sudden temperature changes. Silicone is also a good option for freezer storage.
While price is important, you'll want a container that can withstand regular use. Glass containers may be a little more expensive, but all three experts I spoke to agree they're worth the investment.
Plastic containers, on the other hand, are prone to stains and may crack or warp over time, especially with repeated heating or dishwashing. While they might be less expensive up front, you may have to replace them more often. Stainless steel can be a durable option but might be prone to scratches and dents with repeated use.
Leakproof containers are nonnegotiable for anyone taking meals to work or school. Look for lids with silicone seals and locking tabs. Both Alsing and Sampson emphasize that airtight lids not only prevent messes but also help keep food fresher longer.
Sampson prefers lids with silicone edges for ease of use, but keep in mind, not all leakproof containers are created equal. If leak resistance is important to you, be sure to check product reviews for real-life test results instead of taking the manufacturer's word for it. If you want extra security, some containers, like the W&P Bento Box, even come with straps or clamps to prevent leaking.
Meal prep can be time-consuming, so you don't want to spend extra time cleaning stubborn stains on containers. If you dislike washing dishes by hand, look for meal prep containers that are dishwasher-safe, though be aware that plastic and silicone containers wear down quickly when washed frequently in the dishwasher. Glass containers are often easier to clean and won't absorb stains or odors like plastic can.
Meal prep containers range in price, but you don't need to splurge to get a quality set. While glass containers generally cost more, they often last longer, so they can be a worthwhile investment.
Sampson recommends starting with what you have and upgrading over time, highlighting IKEA's line of glass containers as an affordable, long-lasting option. Some brands also offer bulk sets, which can provide a more affordable per-container price. Whether you're spending $5 or $15 per container, look for a balance of value and longevity, especially if you plan to use them regularly.
To find the best meal prep containers, I spoke with three food experts: two registered dietitians and a meal-prepping expert who has been meal prepping for over a decade. I asked them about which materials are safest for food storage, what features make meal prep easier and how to choose the best meal prep containers.
From there, I researched dozens of options online and compared hundreds of customer reviews to see how these containers performed for others over time. I narrowed down the options to those with the highest ratings. I personally tested more than a dozen containers over several months, using them in real-life scenarios: prepping breakfasts, lunches and dinners; freezing leftovers; tossing containers into bags; and reheating food in both the microwave and the oven. I paid close attention to how easy each one was to use and clean, how well they stacked and stored and whether they kept food fresh without leaking or warping over time.
As a certified functional nutritionist and the author of several meal prep cookbooks, including The Everything Low-Carb Meal Prep Cookbook, I've spent years helping people build sustainable, healthy eating habits. I know how big of a difference the right container can make. With that in mind, I approached testing as both a professional and a home cook, focusing on options that are practical, safe and actually enjoyable to use.
While the following meal prep containers didn't make our final list, they might still be a good fit for your meal prep needs. Here's a quick look at the other contenders — and if you're looking for more options, be sure to check out our editorial team's roundups of the best food storage containers and best nontoxic food storage containers.
Pyrex Freshlock Glass Storage Containers: While Pyrex is known for its durability and reliable airtight seals, I found these containers heavy and bulky, making them less convenient if you have limited storage space.
S'well Food Canister Set: I loved these containers, but they felt more niche. They're better suited for snacks or single-serving meals than for full meal prep. The insulation was a plus, though.
Prep Naturals: These containers are a budget-friendly glass option, but they didn't hold up as well as some of the others. One of the flaps on the lid cracked off within a few weeks, and while it's still usable, it's no longer leakproof.
Oxo Smart Seal Food Containers: The lids on these sealed well and felt very sturdy. I also appreciated the clear labeling and stackable design. That said, they took up more storage space than I'd like, and the glass felt heavier and more breakable than some others I tested.
W&P Seal Tight Glass Bowls: These were super sleek and great for minimalist lunch packing. I loved the modern design and silicone-wrapped glass, but the tall, jarlike shape made them less versatile than other options.
IKEA 365+ Stainless Steel Container With Lid: Looks-wise, these were one of my favorite containers. They stacked nicely, and the lids stayed put. However, they aren't totally leakproof and can't go in the microwave — only the oven — which may be a deal-breaker for some.
Our experts agree that glass is best. It's durable, won't stain or absorb odors and is safe for the microwave, oven and freezer. It also doesn't leach microplastics like some plastic containers can. However, if you're freezing food, plastic may be more practical, while stainless steel works well if you don't need to reheat.
The ideal size depends on your meals, but many experts recommend 32-ounce (4-cup) containers for full meals. This size offers plenty of space without being bulky. That said, smaller containers are great for breakfasts or snacks, and having a variety of sizes can help you stay flexible and organized.
Heatproof tempered glass containers are often considered the best-quality meal prep containers. After testing, the glass Rubbermaid Brilliance containers stood out as the highest quality.
Experts recommend handwashing when possible, especially for plastic containers, as the dishwasher can degrade them over time. If you do use the dishwasher, place lids on the top rack to avoid warping. Limbaugh also advises soaking glass containers after use to avoid stains, and Sampson suggests cleaning right after meals to prevent mold buildup. For stubborn odors or stains, soaking in baking soda and vinegar can help, especially for glass containers.
Jayme Limbaugh, RD, clinical exercise physiologist and founder of Crystal Coast Wellness in North Carolina
Sarah Alsing, RD, sports dietitian and meal prep recipe creator for Delightfully Fueled
Lauren Sampson, meal prep expert and founder of Athlete Lunchbox
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
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