Stack Your Way to Easier Meals
If the phrase “meal prep” makes you think of spending hours in the kitchen every Sunday, you’re not alone. But here’s the thing—meal prep doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. One of the most effective (and realistic!) ways to ease the dinner rush is by using what I call a meal prep stack.
This method isn’t about prepping every single meal ahead of time. It’s about layering small prep steps—when you have a few spare minutes—so meals come together faster and with less stress all week long.
What Is a Meal Prep Stack?
A meal prep stack is a flexible, low-pressure way to prep ingredients in layers throughout the week. Instead of blocking out hours on the weekend, you build a “stack” of staples one by one—whenever time allows.
Think:
Roasting a tray of veggies while dinner cooks
Chopping extra onions when you’re already slicing one
Making a pot of rice while packing lunches
Each of these tasks becomes a layer in your stack. Before you know it, you have building blocks for multiple meals—without ever doing a massive prep session.
Why It Works (Especially for Busy Moms)
🕒 It’s realistic. You’re already in the kitchen—why not add one simple task?
🍽️ It adds up. Small actions = big results at dinnertime.
🧠 It reduces mental load. With a few staples on hand, dinner feels less like starting from scratch.
🌱 It supports nourishing meals. Whole ingredients at the ready make balanced meals easier.
A Meal Prep Stack in Action
Here’s a peek at what a simple stack might look like over the course of a few days:
Monday: Roast sweet potatoes + hard boil some eggs
Tuesday: Make a batch of quinoa while cooking dinner
Wednesday: Chop a few extra veggies (cucumbers, carrots, bell peppers), this is on frequent rotation in our house for ease of packing lunches
Thursday: Prep a protein (shredded chicken or cook some ground beef for the freezer stash)
Friday: Mix up a quick sauce (like tahini dressing or a vinaigrette)
By the weekend, you have everything you need to throw together bowls, wraps, salads, and more—without cooking from scratch.
Tips to Start Your Own Stack
Start small – One task today is better than none.
Think in categories – Grains, proteins, veggies, sauces.
Use your edge time – Waiting for water to boil? Slice cucumbers. Oven’s on? Roast an extra tray of veggies.
Build with versatility – Pick ingredients that work in multiple meals.
Final Thoughts
Meal prep doesn’t have to be complicated. You don’t need a five-day plan or matching containers. What you need is a system that fits your life—and your energy. That’s what the meal prep stack is all about.
Ready to simplify your meals this week? Start with one layer—and stack from there.
Chopped veggies and washed fruits ready—thank yourself later.
