Being a Mom Doesn’t Mean Giving Up on Healthy Eating
Between diaper changes, nap schedules, and endless laundry, finding time to cook can feel impossible. But with a few smart meal prep hacks, you can save hours each week — and still serve your family healthy, homemade food.
Whether you’re a new mom or juggling a toddler and work, these tips will help you simplify your kitchen routine and actually enjoy mealtime again.
🧺 1. Plan Before You Shop
Set aside 10–15 minutes once a week to plan your meals.
Make a short list of family favorites and baby-friendly options that can share the same ingredients — like oatmeal, sweet potato, or lentils.
➡️ Tip: Use your phone’s notes app or a meal planning template to jot down meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Bonus idea: Check out my Beginner’s Guide to Baby Meal Planning
🍲 2. Batch Cook and Freeze
When you’re already cooking, make double and freeze half.
Steamed carrots, mashed sweet potato, and blended soups freeze beautifully — perfect for baby purees or quick lunches.
Store in small silicone freezer trays or reusable glass containers (affiliate link idea: Amazon silicone baby food trays).
➡️ Smol Eats Tip: Label each container with the date and contents to avoid mystery meals later!
🧄 3. Prep Ingredients, Not Full Meals
If full meal prep sounds overwhelming, start small.
Chop veggies, cook grains, or marinate protein ahead of time.
That way, when it’s dinner time, half the work is already done.
Keep prepped items in clear containers so you can see what’s ready to go.
🥣 4. Cook Once, Eat Twice (or Three Times!)
Choose versatile foods that can turn into multiple meals.
For example:
- Roasted sweet potatoes → baby mash, mom’s salad topping, or side for dinner.
- Boiled eggs → snack, sandwich filling, or quick protein boost.
- Lentils → puree for baby, taco filling for mom.
This strategy keeps things fresh without extra cooking time.
🫙 5. Use Your Slow Cooker or Instant Pot
These kitchen helpers are lifesavers. Toss in your ingredients in the morning and come back to a ready meal.
Try:
- Overnight oatmeal for baby breakfasts
- Chicken stew for the whole family
- Veggie soups that freeze perfectly
Instant Pot IP-DUO60 Programmable 7-in-1
🔗 Amazon EU | Amazon UK | Amazon USA
🥑 6. Choose Easy, Nutrient-Dense Foods
When you’re short on time, go for foods that require minimal prep but pack a punch in nutrition:
- Avocado
- Bananas
- Greek yogurt
- Steamed veggies
- Oatmeal
These are quick to prepare, gentle for babies, and nourishing for moms too.
➡️ For ideas, read my post on Top 10 Recipes For Baby Food
🧃 7. Prep Snacks for You, Too
Moms often forget to feed themselves!
Keep energy-boosting snacks ready to grab:
- Trail mix
- Cut fruit
- Yogurt cups
- Whole-grain muffins
- Boiled eggs
Put them in snack-size containers so you can grab and go — even with one hand full of baby gear.
🕒 8. Keep It Realistic
You don’t need to prep seven perfect meals a week.
Even one or two prepped items can make a huge difference.
Meal prep isn’t about perfection — it’s about making your week smoother and less stressful. Small steps count, mama 💛
💡 Final Thought: Simplify, Don’t Overwhelm Yourself
Meal prep isn’t about cooking all weekend — it’s about making tiny habits that save you time later.
Start small, stay flexible, and celebrate every little win (even if it’s just having tomorrow’s oatmeal ready).
You’re doing amazing — and your family is lucky to have you.