The Weekly Workflow Lab

Master the art of efficient meal preparation with our comprehensive planning tools, templates, and step-by-step guides.

Natural photography of batch cooking preparation

The Sunday 3-Hour Prep Routine

Transform your Sunday into a productive meal preparation day with our proven 3-hour routine. This systematic approach breaks down your weekly cooking into manageable steps.

Start by organizing your workspace and gathering all necessary ingredients. The key to success is preparation before you begin cooking.

Hour 1: Preparation & Planning

  • Review your weekly meal plan
  • Create a detailed shopping list
  • Organize storage containers
  • Wash and prep vegetables

Hour 2: Core Cooking

  • Cook grains and proteins
  • Prepare sauces and dressings
  • Roast or steam vegetables
  • Begin assembly process

Hour 3: Assembly & Storage

Complete the final assembly of your meals, ensuring proper portioning and labeling. Store everything according to our ingredient longevity guidelines for maximum freshness.

The 5 Core Components System

Every successful batch cooking plan is built on five essential components. Understanding and mastering these elements will transform your meal preparation efficiency.

Grains

The foundation of many meals. Learn to prepare rice, quinoa, pasta, and other grains in large batches while maintaining texture and flavor.

Proteins

Essential for balanced nutrition. Master techniques for cooking chicken, beans, tofu, and other proteins that store well and reheat perfectly.

Sauces

The flavor enhancers. Create versatile sauces and dressings that can transform simple ingredients into exciting meals throughout the week.

Vegetables

Fresh, colorful, and nutritious. Learn which vegetables work best for batch cooking and how to prepare them to maintain texture and nutrients.

Assembly

The final step that brings everything together. Discover efficient methods for combining components into complete, ready-to-eat meals.

Freezer Safety & Organization

Proper freezer organization is crucial for maintaining food quality and preventing waste. Our guidelines help you maximize your freezer space while ensuring food safety.

Learn about optimal storage temperatures, container selection, labeling systems, and how to create an inventory that makes finding meals quick and easy.

Understanding freezer burn prevention and proper thawing techniques will ensure your batch-cooked meals taste as fresh as the day you prepared them.

Downloadable Templates

Access our collection of printable and digital templates designed to streamline your batch cooking workflow. These tools help you plan, track, and organize your meal preparation.

Available templates include weekly meal planners, shopping lists, prep checklists, and storage inventory sheets. All templates are designed to be flexible and adaptable to your specific needs.