Walmart Deals & Food Storage Recipes: Mastering Meal Prep on a Budget

Are you looking to eat healthier, save time, and stick to a budget? Meal prepping is the answer! And with Walmart’s amazing deals on food storage containers, it’s never been easier or more affordable to get organized in the kitchen. This guide will not only show you how to snag the best Walmart food storage deals but also provide you with delicious and easy recipes perfectly suited for meal prepping in those very containers.

## Why Meal Prep and Why Walmart?

Meal prepping involves planning and preparing your meals in advance, typically for the week ahead. This can save you time during busy weekdays, help you control portion sizes, and reduce the temptation to order unhealthy takeout. Meal prepping offers a multitude of benefits, including:

* **Time Savings:** Cook once, eat all week!
* **Healthier Eating:** Control ingredients and portion sizes.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Avoid impulse buys and takeout.
* **Reduced Food Waste:** Plan your meals around what you have on hand.

So, why Walmart for food storage? Walmart consistently offers competitive prices on a wide variety of food storage containers, from basic plastic containers to more durable glass options. They frequently have sales and rollbacks, making it easy to find high-quality containers at affordable prices. Plus, the convenience of shopping online or in-store makes stocking up a breeze.

## Finding the Best Walmart Food Storage Deals

Here’s how to maximize your savings when shopping for food storage containers at Walmart:

* **Check Weekly Ads:** Walmart’s weekly ads often feature discounted food storage containers. Look for these ads online or in your local newspaper.
* **Browse Online:** Walmart’s website has a dedicated section for food storage. Filter by price, material (plastic, glass, etc.), and brand to find the best deals.
* **Clearance Sections:** Don’t overlook the clearance sections in your local Walmart store. You might find hidden gems at incredibly low prices.
* **Rollback Prices:** Keep an eye out for “Rollback” prices, which indicate temporary price reductions on specific items.
* **Compare Prices:** Use price comparison apps or websites to ensure you’re getting the best deal on the containers you want.
* **Consider Bundles:** Look for bundled sets of food storage containers, which often offer a lower price per container compared to buying them individually.
* **Read Reviews:** Before purchasing, read customer reviews to get an idea of the quality and durability of the containers.
* **Think About Your Needs:** Consider the types of meals you’ll be prepping and the sizes of containers you’ll need. Do you need individual portion containers or larger containers for family-style meals? Do you need microwave-safe or oven-safe containers?
* **Material Matters:** Decide whether you prefer plastic or glass containers. Plastic is typically more affordable and lightweight, while glass is more durable, stain-resistant, and can be used in the oven.

## Must-Have Food Storage Containers for Meal Prepping

Here’s a list of essential food storage containers to consider adding to your meal prepping arsenal:

* **Individual Portion Containers (1-2 cups):** Perfect for packing lunches, snacks, and individual servings of meals.
* **Medium-Sized Containers (3-5 cups):** Ideal for storing leftovers, side dishes, and larger portions of meals.
* **Large Containers (6+ cups):** Great for storing soups, stews, and family-sized meals.
* **Salad Containers with Dressing Compartments:** Keep your salads fresh and prevent soggy greens by storing dressing separately.
* **Soup Containers:** Designed to prevent leaks and spills when transporting soups and stews.
* **Snack Containers:** Small containers for packing nuts, seeds, fruits, and other snacks.
* **Freezer-Safe Containers:** Essential for storing meals in the freezer for longer periods of time.
* **Microwave-Safe Containers:** Convenient for reheating meals directly in the container.
* **Oven-Safe Containers (Glass):** Versatile containers that can be used for baking and reheating.

## Delicious and Easy Meal Prep Recipes for Your Walmart Food Storage

Now that you’re stocked up on food storage containers, let’s get to the fun part: the recipes! These recipes are designed to be easy to prepare in large batches and store well in your Walmart containers.

**Recipe 1: Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables and Feta**

This vibrant and healthy salad is packed with nutrients and flavor. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
* 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
* 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 zucchini, chopped
* 1 red onion, chopped
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* **Dressing:**
* 3 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1 tablespoon honey
* 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Cook the Quinoa:** In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
2. **Roast the Vegetables:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss sweet potato, bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. **Make the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, feta cheese, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
6. **Portion into Containers:** Divide the salad into individual portion containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

**Recipe 2: Chicken and Black Bean Burrito Bowls**

These burrito bowls are a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. They’re also packed with protein and fiber.

**Ingredients:**

* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 cup cooked rice
* 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
* 1/2 cup salsa
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* Optional toppings: avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream

**Instructions:**

1. **Cook the Chicken:** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and season with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Shred the chicken with two forks.
3. **Assemble the Bowls:** Divide rice, black beans, corn, and shredded chicken into individual portion containers. Top with salsa and cilantro.
4. **Add Optional Toppings:** If desired, add avocado, shredded cheese, or sour cream just before serving.
5. **Store in the Refrigerator:** Store the burrito bowls in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

**Recipe 3: Overnight Oats with Berries and Chia Seeds**

These overnight oats are a quick and easy breakfast that you can prepare the night before. They’re packed with fiber, protein, and antioxidants.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup rolled oats
* 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional)
* 2 tablespoons chia seeds
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)

**Instructions:**

1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt (if using), chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. **Add Berries:** Divide the oat mixture into individual portion containers. Top with mixed berries.
4. **Refrigerate Overnight:** Cover the containers and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 2 hours.
5. **Enjoy:** In the morning, grab a container and enjoy your overnight oats cold. You can also add additional toppings, such as nuts, seeds, or granola.

**Recipe 4: Turkey Meatloaf Muffins with Roasted Broccoli**

These mini meatloaves are a fun and healthy take on a classic comfort food. Paired with roasted broccoli, they make a complete and satisfying meal.

**Ingredients:**

* **Meatloaf Muffins:**
* 1 lb ground turkey
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 1 egg, lightly beaten
* 2 tablespoons ketchup
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* **Roasted Broccoli:**
* 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare Meatloaf Mixture:** In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. **Shape into Muffins:** Divide the meatloaf mixture evenly among 12 muffin cups.
3. **Bake the Muffins:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf muffins are cooked through.
4. **Roast the Broccoli:** While the meatloaf muffins are baking, toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and slightly browned.
6. **Portion into Containers:** Divide the meatloaf muffins and roasted broccoli into individual portion containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

**Recipe 5: Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice**

This simple and flavorful chicken and rice dish is a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal prep lunch or dinner.

**Ingredients:**

* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 lemon, juiced and zested
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 cup cooked rice
* 1 cup steamed green beans

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare Chicken:** In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or longer for more flavor).
2. **Cook Chicken:** Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. **Slice Chicken:** Slice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
4. **Assemble Containers:** Divide cooked rice, green beans, and sliced chicken into individual meal prep containers.
5. **Store:** Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

## Tips for Successful Meal Prepping

* **Plan Your Meals:** Before you start cooking, plan out your meals for the week. Consider your schedule, dietary needs, and preferences.
* **Make a Shopping List:** Once you have your meal plan, create a detailed shopping list to ensure you have all the necessary ingredients.
* **Prep Ingredients in Advance:** Chop vegetables, cook grains, and marinate meats ahead of time to save time during the week.
* **Cook in Bulk:** Prepare large batches of your favorite recipes to maximize your meal prepping efforts.
* **Use Proper Storage Containers:** Invest in high-quality food storage containers that are airtight and leak-proof to keep your meals fresh.
* **Label Your Containers:** Label each container with the name of the meal and the date it was prepared to ensure you eat your meals in a timely manner.
* **Store Meals Properly:** Store meals in the refrigerator at a temperature below 40°F (4°C) to prevent bacterial growth.
* **Reheat Meals Safely:** Reheat meals thoroughly before eating, ensuring that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment:** Try new recipes and flavors to keep your meal prepping routine interesting and enjoyable.
* **Clean as You Go:** Cleaning up as you cook helps minimize the mess and makes the entire process less overwhelming.

## Maximizing Food Storage Container Lifespan

Taking proper care of your food storage containers will help them last longer and keep your food fresher.

* **Wash Thoroughly:** Wash your containers thoroughly with soap and hot water after each use. For stubborn stains or odors, try using a paste of baking soda and water.
* **Dry Completely:** Ensure that your containers are completely dry before storing them to prevent mold and mildew growth.
* **Avoid Abrasive Cleaners:** Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, which can scratch the surface of your containers.
* **Don’t Overfill:** Avoid overfilling your containers, as this can cause them to leak or crack.
* **Store Properly:** Store your containers in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
* **Check for Damage:** Regularly check your containers for cracks, chips, or other damage. Replace any damaged containers to prevent food spoilage.
* **Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions:** Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and caring for your food storage containers.

## Conclusion

Meal prepping can be a game-changer for your health, budget, and time management. By taking advantage of Walmart’s deals on food storage containers and following these delicious recipes, you can easily create healthy and affordable meals for the entire week. So, grab your containers, head to Walmart (or shop online!), and start your meal prepping journey today!