Mason Jar Noodle Meal Prep (Print Version)

Layered noodles with fresh vegetables and protein in mason jars. Customizable, convenient, and ready in 30 minutes for on-the-go meals.

# What You Need:

→ Noodles

01 - 7 oz dried ramen or rice noodles

→ Protein

02 - 7 oz cooked chicken breast, tofu, or cooked shrimp, diced

→ Vegetables

03 - 1 cup shredded carrots
04 - 1 cup thinly sliced bell peppers (red or yellow)
05 - 1 cup baby spinach or kale
06 - 1/2 cup thinly sliced scallions
07 - 1/2 cup bean sprouts

→ Sauce

08 - 4 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
09 - 2 tbsp rice vinegar
10 - 2 tbsp sesame oil
11 - 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
12 - 2 tsp Sriracha or chili sauce (optional)
13 - 1 clove garlic, minced
14 - 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

→ Toppings

15 - 2 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional)
16 - 2 tbsp roasted peanuts or cashews, chopped (optional)
17 - 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
18 - Lime wedges (optional)

# How-To Steps:

01 - Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, Sriracha (if using), garlic, and ginger until well combined.
03 - Divide the sauce evenly among four large mason jars (about 750 ml each).
04 - Layer the ingredients in each jar in the following order: First, add the diced protein (chicken, tofu, or shrimp) on top of the sauce. Next, add the carrots, bell peppers, spinach or kale, scallions, and bean sprouts. Finally, add the cooked noodles as the top layer.
05 - Seal the jars tightly and refrigerate until ready to eat.
06 - To serve, remove the lid, add toppings as desired, and pour hot water (about 1/2 cup) into the jar. Let sit for 2-3 minutes, then mix well and enjoy directly from the jar or transfer to a bowl.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Everything stays crisp and separate until you're ready to eat, no soggy lunch syndrome.
  • You can see exactly what you're getting, which somehow makes healthy eating feel less like a chore.
  • One prep session gives you four grab and go meals that actually taste homemade.
  • The jars stack beautifully in the fridge and make you feel organized even when you're not.
02 -
  • If you put the noodles on the bottom, they'll absorb all the sauce and turn into a mushy clump by day two.
  • Hot water is crucial, cold water won't soften the vegetables or warm the protein properly.
  • Don't add crunchy toppings like nuts or seeds until right before eating or they'll go soft.
03 -
  • Use wide mouth mason jars so you can actually stir everything without making a mess.
  • If you don't have hot water at work, microwave the jar without the lid for two minutes instead.
  • Double the sauce recipe and keep extra in the fridge for quick stir fries or grain bowls.
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