Pyrex & Rubbermaid Meal Prep Magic: Delicious Recipes and Walmart Deal Savings!
Meal prepping has revolutionized how we approach healthy eating, saving time and money while ensuring we have nutritious meals readily available. And what better way to meal prep than with reliable and versatile containers from Pyrex and Rubbermaid? Keep an eye out for Walmart deals and sales to maximize your savings while stocking up on essential meal prep tools. This article explores fantastic recipes perfect for Pyrex and Rubbermaid containers, along with tips on how to snag those coveted Walmart deals.
## Why Pyrex and Rubbermaid are Meal Prep Champions
Before diving into recipes, let’s appreciate why Pyrex and Rubbermaid are staples in meal prep enthusiasts’ kitchens:
* **Durability:** Pyrex glass is oven-safe (check temperature limits) and resistant to thermal shock, making it perfect for baking, storing, and reheating. Rubbermaid, especially their Premier line, offers durable plastic containers that can withstand the rigors of daily use.
* **Safety:** Both brands offer BPA-free options, ensuring your food remains free from harmful chemicals.
* **Versatility:** From small snack containers to large baking dishes, Pyrex and Rubbermaid offer a variety of sizes and shapes to accommodate any meal prep need.
* **Easy to Clean:** Most Pyrex and Rubbermaid containers are dishwasher-safe, simplifying cleanup after a busy week of meal prepping.
* **Walmart Deals & Sales:** Walmart frequently offers competitive prices and sales on Pyrex and Rubbermaid products. Keep an eye out for rollbacks, clearance events, and holiday sales to stock up on your meal prep essentials without breaking the bank.
## Snagging the Best Pyrex & Rubbermaid Deals at Walmart
Here’s how to become a savvy shopper and maximize your savings on Pyrex and Rubbermaid at Walmart:
* **Check Walmart’s Website and App Regularly:** Walmart’s website and app are updated frequently with new deals and promotions. Browse the kitchenware section and filter by brand to find Pyrex and Rubbermaid products. Look for “Rollback” prices, clearance items, and special online-only offers.
* **Sign Up for Walmart’s Email List:** Subscribe to Walmart’s email list to receive notifications about upcoming sales events and exclusive discounts. You might also receive personalized offers based on your shopping history.
* **Use Price Comparison Tools:** Several websites and apps allow you to compare prices across different retailers. Use these tools to ensure you’re getting the best deal on Pyrex and Rubbermaid at Walmart.
* **Look for Bundled Sets:** Walmart often offers bundled sets of Pyrex and Rubbermaid containers at discounted prices. These sets can be a great value if you need a variety of sizes and shapes.
* **Shop During Holiday Sales:** Major holidays like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Memorial Day are prime times to find significant discounts on kitchenware, including Pyrex and Rubbermaid. Plan your purchases accordingly.
* **Clearance Aisle:** Check the clearance aisle in your local Walmart store. You might find discontinued or overstocked Pyrex and Rubbermaid items at drastically reduced prices. Be aware that clearance items are often limited in quantity, so act fast when you find a good deal.
* **Walmart+ Membership:** Consider a Walmart+ membership for benefits like free shipping on online orders (without minimum purchase requirements), early access to sales events, and exclusive discounts. This can be especially beneficial if you frequently shop online at Walmart.
* **Check for Coupons:** Before making a purchase, search online for coupons or promo codes that can be applied to your Walmart order. Several websites and apps aggregate coupons from various retailers, making it easy to find potential savings.
* **Read Reviews:** Before committing to a purchase, read reviews from other customers to get an idea of the product’s quality and durability. This can help you make an informed decision and avoid buying items that are likely to break or wear out quickly.
* **Consider Refurbished Options:** While less common for Pyrex and Rubbermaid, Walmart sometimes offers refurbished kitchenware items at discounted prices. These items have been inspected and repaired to like-new condition and come with a warranty, making them a potentially worthwhile option if you’re on a tight budget.
## Delicious and Easy Meal Prep Recipes for Pyrex and Rubbermaid
Here are some delicious and easy meal prep recipes perfectly suited for your Pyrex and Rubbermaid containers:
### 1. Mediterranean Quinoa Bowls
This recipe is packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal prep option. It’s also incredibly versatile – feel free to swap out the vegetables or add your favorite protein.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
* 2 cups vegetable broth
* 1 cucumber, diced
* 1 red bell pepper, diced
* 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
* 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
* 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
* 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
* 1/4 cup lemon juice
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or falafel for added protein
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the quinoa:** In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
2. **Prepare the vegetables:** While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, halve the Kalamata olives, crumble the feta cheese, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the fresh parsley.
3. **Make the dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. **Assemble the bowls:** Divide the cooked quinoa among your Pyrex or Rubbermaid containers. Top with the cucumber, red bell pepper, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, red onion, and parsley. Drizzle with the dressing.
5. **Store:** Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
**Pyrex/Rubbermaid Recommendation:** Use rectangular glass containers (Pyrex) or Premier containers (Rubbermaid) for optimal storage and stacking.
### 2. Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
Sheet pan meals are a lifesaver for busy weeknights. This recipe requires minimal cleanup and delivers flavorful fajitas perfect for meal prepping.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
* 1 red bell pepper, sliced
* 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
* 1 onion, sliced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 packet fajita seasoning
* Tortillas, for serving
* Optional toppings: Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, shredded cheese
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare the chicken and vegetables:** In a large bowl, combine the sliced chicken, bell peppers, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fajita seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.
3. **Roast:** Spread the chicken and vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
4. **Assemble the fajitas:** Warm the tortillas according to package instructions. Fill each tortilla with the chicken and vegetable mixture and your desired toppings.
5. **Meal Prep:** Divide the cooked chicken and vegetables among your Pyrex or Rubbermaid containers. Store tortillas separately, or assemble the fajitas right before eating to prevent soggy tortillas.
**Pyrex/Rubbermaid Recommendation:** Use a large rectangular baking dish (Pyrex) for roasting. Smaller containers (Pyrex or Rubbermaid) can be used for individual meal portions.
### 3. Overnight Oats
Overnight oats are a quick and easy breakfast option that can be prepared in advance. This recipe is customizable – add your favorite fruits, nuts, and seeds for a personalized breakfast.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/2 cup rolled oats
* 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* 1 tablespoon chia seeds
* 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
* 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Optional toppings: Berries, sliced bananas, nuts, seeds, shredded coconut
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine ingredients:** In a Pyrex or Rubbermaid container, combine the rolled oats, milk, chia seeds, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract. Stir well.
2. **Refrigerate:** Cover the container and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 2 hours.
3. **Add toppings:** In the morning, stir the overnight oats and add your desired toppings.
4. **Enjoy:** Eat cold straight from the container.
**Pyrex/Rubbermaid Recommendation:** Use individual-sized glass jars (Pyrex) or small containers (Rubbermaid) for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.
### 4. Mason Jar Salads
Mason jar salads are a visually appealing and practical way to meal prep salads. The layering technique prevents the lettuce from getting soggy.
**Ingredients:**
* Salad dressing of your choice
* Hearty vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers)
* Protein (grilled chicken, chickpeas, hard-boiled eggs)
* Grains (quinoa, brown rice)
* Lettuce or mixed greens
**Instructions:**
1. **Layer the ingredients:** Start by pouring the salad dressing into the bottom of the mason jar. This prevents the lettuce from getting soggy. Layer the remaining ingredients in the following order: hearty vegetables, protein, grains, and finally, lettuce or mixed greens.
2. **Seal and refrigerate:** Seal the mason jar tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
3. **Shake and enjoy:** When ready to eat, shake the mason jar well to distribute the dressing. Pour the salad into a bowl or eat directly from the jar.
**Pyrex/Rubbermaid Recommendation:** Wide-mouth mason jars (Pyrex also makes similar glass containers) are ideal for layering and easy access. Taller Rubbermaid containers can also work well.
### 5. Chicken and Veggie Skewers
These skewers are fun to eat and can be grilled, baked, or pan-fried. They are also easy to customize with your favorite vegetables.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Marinate the chicken:** In a bowl, combine the chicken cubes, olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. **Assemble the skewers:** Thread the chicken and vegetables onto skewers, alternating between chicken and vegetables.
3. **Cook:** Grill, bake, or pan-fry the skewers until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. If grilling, cook over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. If baking, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes. If pan-frying, cook over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.
4. **Meal Prep:** Once cooled, remove the cooked chicken and vegetables from the skewers and divide them among your Pyrex or Rubbermaid containers. Alternatively, store the assembled (but uncooked) skewers in your containers for cooking later (ensure proper refrigeration).
**Pyrex/Rubbermaid Recommendation:** Rectangular containers (Pyrex or Rubbermaid) are ideal for storing the cooked skewers or the ingredients before cooking.
### 6. Chili
Chili is a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for meal prepping. It’s also freezer-friendly, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it for weeks to come.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground beef or turkey
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 tablespoon chili powder
* 1 teaspoon cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon oregano
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions
**Instructions:**
1. **Brown the meat:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. **Add vegetables:** Add the chopped onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. **Add remaining ingredients:** Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. **Meal Prep:** Let the chili cool completely before dividing it among your Pyrex or Rubbermaid containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
**Pyrex/Rubbermaid Recommendation:** Use large containers (Pyrex or Rubbermaid) for storing the chili. Individual-sized containers are also great for portioning out single servings.
### 7. Egg Bites
These protein-packed egg bites are a great breakfast or snack option. They are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite fillings.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 eggs
* 1/4 cup milk or cream
* 1/4 cup shredded cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped vegetables (spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers)
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Whisk the eggs:** In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, shredded cheese, chopped vegetables, salt, and pepper.
3. **Pour into muffin tin:** Grease a muffin tin and pour the egg mixture into each cup.
4. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the egg bites are set.
5. **Meal Prep:** Let the egg bites cool completely before removing them from the muffin tin. Divide them among your Pyrex or Rubbermaid containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
**Pyrex/Rubbermaid Recommendation:** Store the egg bites in small, stackable containers (Pyrex or Rubbermaid) for easy storage and portability.
### 8. Pasta Salad
A versatile and customizable dish perfect for lunches or light dinners. You can add any vegetables, cheeses, or meats you like.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle work well)
* 1/2 cup Italian dressing
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
* 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
* 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
* 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
* 1/4 cup pepperoni, chopped (optional)
* 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the pasta:** Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. **Make the dressing:** In a large bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing and mayonnaise.
3. **Add ingredients:** Add the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, black olives, red onion, pepperoni (if using), and mozzarella cheese (if using) to the bowl. Toss to coat evenly.
4. **Meal Prep:** Divide the pasta salad among your Pyrex or Rubbermaid containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
**Pyrex/Rubbermaid Recommendation:** Large bowls (Pyrex) are great for mixing. Store individual portions in smaller containers (Pyrex or Rubbermaid).
### 9. Burrito Bowls
Deconstructed burritos offer all the flavors without the wrap, making them easy to customize and meal prep.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup cooked rice (brown or white)
* 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 cup cooked chicken, beef, or tofu, seasoned with taco seasoning
* 1/2 cup corn
* 1/2 cup salsa
* 1/4 cup shredded cheese
* 1/4 cup guacamole (optional)
* Sour cream (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Assemble the bowls:** Divide the cooked rice among your Pyrex or Rubbermaid containers. Top with black beans, seasoned chicken, beef, or tofu, corn, salsa, shredded cheese, and guacamole and sour cream (if using).
2. **Meal Prep:** Store the burrito bowls in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
**Pyrex/Rubbermaid Recommendation:** Containers with dividers (Rubbermaid Brilliance) can be helpful to keep ingredients separate until ready to eat.
### 10. Roasted Vegetables
A simple and healthy side dish that can be added to any meal. Experiment with different vegetables and seasonings.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare the vegetables:** Chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. **Roast:** Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly browned.
4. **Meal Prep:** Divide the roasted vegetables among your Pyrex or Rubbermaid containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
**Pyrex/Rubbermaid Recommendation:** A large baking dish (Pyrex) is perfect for roasting. Use smaller containers (Pyrex or Rubbermaid) to store individual portions.
## Tips for Successful Meal Prepping with Pyrex & Rubbermaid
* **Plan Your Meals:** Before you start meal prepping, plan out your meals for the week. This will help you create a shopping list and ensure you have all the ingredients you need.
* **Cook in Bulk:** Cook large batches of your favorite recipes to save time and effort.
* **Cool Food Completely:** Allow food to cool completely before storing it in Pyrex or Rubbermaid containers. This will prevent condensation from forming and keep your food fresher for longer.
* **Label Your Containers:** Label your containers with the name of the dish and the date it was prepared. This will help you keep track of what you have and when it needs to be eaten.
* **Use Proper Storage Techniques:** Store food at the correct temperature to prevent spoilage. Generally, cooked food should be stored in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Freeze:** Many dishes can be frozen for longer storage. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers (Pyrex and some Rubbermaid lines offer freezer-safe options) and label them with the date.
* **Wash Containers Thoroughly:** Wash your Pyrex and Rubbermaid containers thoroughly after each use to prevent bacteria from growing.
* **Invest in Quality Containers:** While cheaper alternatives may be tempting, investing in high-quality Pyrex and Rubbermaid containers will save you money in the long run by preventing leaks and ensuring your food stays fresh.
* **Utilize Different Sizes:** Have a variety of container sizes to accommodate different portion sizes and types of meals.
* **Consider Container Shape:** Rectangular and square containers maximize space in your refrigerator and are easier to stack.
* **Microwave-Safe Options:** If you plan to reheat your meals in the microwave, ensure your containers are microwave-safe. Pyrex glass is generally microwave-safe (check guidelines), but some Rubbermaid plastics are not.
## Conclusion
With reliable Pyrex and Rubbermaid containers and a little planning, meal prepping can become a seamless part of your routine. Keep an eye out for Walmart deals and sales to stock up on these essential tools without breaking the bank. By following the recipes and tips outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying healthy, delicious, and convenient meals every day of the week!