Lately, I have been falling behind on my house work and meal planning. Holidays tend to throw me off and this last round was no exception! In an effort to streamline my kitchen efforts and get more organized, I decided it was time for a bulk cooking day. It is such a huge help to have things made ahead!

I started by making 2 batches of meatballs—one for tonight’s dinner and the other to freeze. This can be incorporated into an Italian pasta meal or delicious subs.

While the meatballs were cooking, I cleaned and sliced all of the fresh veggies I bought at the store. Having onions, celery, broccoli, carrots, string beans, and asparagus all ready to cook will be a godsend during the evening rush!

Once the meatballs finished, I baked a family pack of split chicken breasts. (After it cools, I shred the meat for upcoming meals.) This week, I’m planning on chicken and rice, fajitas, and chicken salad. I keep it in a gallon-sized Ziploc and take out only what is needed. I find that less meat is used this way.

That took care of some dinners and lunches, but what about breakfast? I had a few overripe bananas and some Hungry Jack Buttermilk mix on hand which I decided to turn into pancakes. I always use my beloved Good Cook 3-piece pancake set that includes a huge spatula, batter bowl with pour spout and square griddle pan. My set is no longer made, but there is a similar one available here.

If you’ve never made banana pancakes, it’s very easy. Just puree the fruit and mix it into the batter before cooking. I like to sneak in extra fruits and veggies wherever I can (try this if you are feeding produce haters).

Another item I enjoy making ahead is iced tea. Homemade tea is far superior to the prepared kind! I don’t want extra sugar in my drinks. Any type of tea is good iced, but I love iced green tea the most. Having a pitcher of cold tea on hand helps me to avoid a Starbucks craving.

My bulk cooking day took approximately 3 hours and it will surely save me double that amount of time in the future. Pretty good return for my investment!

Do you ever bulk cook?