How to Time Block for Meal Prep
Streamline meal preparation with time blocking strategies for efficient batch cooking.
Overview
Meal prep can feel overwhelming, but time blocking breaks it down into manageable steps. This guide shows you how to prep a week's worth of meals efficiently.
Step-by-Step Guide
Plan Your Meals
Block 15-20 minutes to plan meals for the week, create shopping lists, and review recipes. This prevents decision fatigue later.
Pro Tips:
- Choose 3-5 recipes for the week
- Create a shopping list organized by store section
- Consider meals that use similar ingredients
Schedule Shopping Time
Block 30-60 minutes for grocery shopping. Do this on a day when you have time, not when you're rushed.
Pro Tips:
- Shop when stores are less crowded
- Stick to your list to save time
- Consider online grocery delivery to save time
Batch Prep Work
Block 30-45 minutes for all prep work: washing, chopping, marinating. Group similar tasks together for efficiency.
Pro Tips:
- Prep all vegetables at once
- Marinate proteins while prepping vegetables
- Use food processor for large batches
Cook in Batches
Block 60-90 minutes for cooking. Use multiple cooking methods simultaneously: oven, stovetop, slow cooker, instant pot.
Pro Tips:
- Start with longest-cooking items first
- Use oven and stovetop simultaneously
- Cook proteins and grains at the same time
Portion and Store
Block 20-30 minutes for portioning meals into containers, labeling, and storing. This final step ensures meals are ready for the week.
Pro Tips:
- Use portion control containers
- Label containers with contents and date
- Store properly to maintain freshness
Ready to follow this guide?
Download DayZen to implement these steps with visual time blocking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Trying to prep everything in one day
Not planning meals in advance
Prepping as you cook (inefficient)
Not accounting for cleanup time
Over-prepping and wasting food
Additional Tips
Start with 2-3 meals per week
Prep on Sunday for the week ahead
Use time blocks to break down the process
Clean as you go to save time
Freeze portions for later weeks
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does meal prep take?
Most people can prep a week's worth of meals in 2-3 hours total: 20 min planning, 30 min shopping, 60-90 min prep/cooking, 30 min storage.
What's the best day for meal prep?
Sunday afternoon is popular, but choose what works for your schedule. Some people prefer splitting prep across two days: Sunday for planning/shopping, Monday for cooking.
How do I make meal prep less overwhelming?
Start small with 2-3 meals per week. Use time blocks to break the process into manageable steps. Focus on simple recipes initially.
Can I meal prep if I'm a beginner cook?
Yes! Start with simple recipes: roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, rice or quinoa. As you get comfortable, add more complex dishes.
Related Guides
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How to Plan Your Week with Time Blocking
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Time Blocking for ADHD: Visual Strategies
Specialized time blocking techniques designed for people with ADHD to overcome time blindness and improve focus.
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