Fast Food Meal Prepping? It’s More Real Than You Think
Meal prepping usually conjures images of Tupperware filled with grilled chicken and quinoa. But if you’re a busy student, commuter, or burger fan on a budget, there’s a new twist: fast food meal prepping. While it might sound ironic, buying in bulk from fast food chains, storing strategically, and reheating smartly can help you save money and eat on your schedule—all without giving up your favorite flavors.
What Is Fast Food Meal Prepping?
It’s the idea of purchasing multiple meals at once—often when promotions are active or prices are low—and storing them to enjoy later. For the right type of eater, it offers:
- Portion control
- Time savings
- Cost efficiency
- Built-in convenience
This method works best with sandwiches, burgers, and sides that reheat well or hold up cold (yes, some fries are better cold—looking at you, crinkle cuts).
Best Fast Food Items for Prepping Ahead
Certain items stay surprisingly solid when stored or reheated:
- Double Cheeseburgers (no lettuce): Less wilt = more shelf life
- Grilled chicken wraps: Protein-rich and easy to refrigerate
- Hash browns or breakfast sandwiches: Microwave-friendly and freezer-safe
- Cheese quesadillas or burritos: Great for freezing and reheating
- Crinkle or waffle fries: These reheat better in an air fryer or toaster oven
Worst Items to Prep:
- Soft-shell tacos (get soggy)
- Mayo-loaded burgers (condiments separate quickly)
- Salads with dressing added (always store dressing separately)
How to Store Fast Food for Later
- Keep it wrapped: Use the original wrapper, then add foil or a ziplock for freshness
- Fridge, not freezer: For anything you’ll eat within 48 hours
- Freeze right: If prepping for more than 3 days, freeze sandwiches individually with wax paper
- Reheat properly: Air fryers are your best friend. Avoid microwaving anything with buns unless you add a damp paper towel on top
Chains That Make Meal Prepping Easy
- McDonald’s: Their two-for deals and small burger sizes make them easy to buy and stash
- Taco Bell: Mini burritos and quesadillas store well for next-day meals
- Wendy’s: Junior Bacon Cheeseburgers are compact and still solid after a reheat
Stack the Savings While You’re At It
Buying in bulk? You should also be earning on each order. Use Fluz to buy Wendy’s gift cards with cashback, order Shake Shack with rewards, or grab Burger King gift cards online before checkout. That way, you’re saving upfront and getting rewards—no matter when you eat.
Final Thoughts: Prepping with Flavor, Not Just Function
Fast food meal prep isn’t just about survival eating—it’s a practical way to enjoy your favorites with a side of convenience. Whether you’re stacking burgers for finals week or freezing burritos for a late shift, this offbeat meal prep method might just become your next life hack.
