This post is sponsored by Stasher. All opinions are my own.
I enjoy cooking, but I love any trick that saves time on meal prep. Over the years I’ve developed a simple weekly routine that makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. One of my favorite tools in the kitchen is Stasher. Stasher bags and bowls are reusable, food-grade silicone available in lots of colors and sizes. They’re great for storing, freezing, organizing, and even cooking—safe for the microwave, dishwasher, freezer, oven, and you can boil them too. I’ve tried many ways to use them and they’ve become a go-to. The leak-free Pinch-Loc® seal really keeps food fresh, so they’re perfect for snacks or kids’ lunches. And cleanup is easy—just toss them in the dishwasher.
I also like that they’re a more eco-friendly swap for single-use plastic bags. Unfortunately, 91% of plastic isn’t recycled, and those plastics can take about 500 years to break down in oceans and landfills. One Stasher bag can replace about 260 single-use plastic bags a year, which helps cut waste and reduce cleanup needs. Over time they also save money because you stop buying disposable bags, wraps, and containers.
Here are some of my favorite ways to use Stashers in the kitchen to save time, money, and reduce waste.
10 Ways to Use Stashers in the Kitchen to Save Time, Money and the Planet
1. Smoothie Packs
If produce is getting overripe, freeze it instead of tossing it. Use sandwich-size Stasher bags to make individual smoothie packs—add the fruit and veggies you want, freeze, then dump into the blender with liquid when you’re ready. You can also freeze veggie scraps for stock (celery tops, onion skins, carrot ends). Quick tips:
– Cut produce into similar-sized pieces and freeze on a baking sheet; once frozen, move into a Stasher.
– Or put produce straight into the bag—pieces may stick, but the bags are flexible so you can bend them to separate.
– Lay packs flat in the freezer to save space.
2. Easy On-The-Go Meals
Packing your own lunch saves time and money, and it’s healthier. The 2-cup Stasher bowls are my favorite—they’re the perfect size for a to-go meal, can be warmed, and stand up well. I make summer shrimp quinoa bowls in bulk and store them sealed in the fridge for up to 4 days. The snack and sandwich bags are great for kids’ school snacks and are a much better alternative to disposable plastic bags.
3. Store Fresh Fruit & Vegetables
Fruit and veggies last longer when cleaned and stored properly. I rinse and cut berries as soon as I get them and store them in stand-up Stasher bags in the fridge. For broccoli and cauliflower, wash and dry well before cutting, squeeze out extra air, and seal. Having things visible and ready to use helps reduce waste.
4. Steam Vegetables
Stashers are safe for the microwave, oven, and boiling, so they’re handy for steaming. To microwave steam:
– Add about 1 tablespoon of water to the veggies.
– Seal the bag about 90% (leave a small gap for steam).
– Microwave for a few minutes until vegetables reach your desired tenderness.
5. Bulk Storage
Buying in bulk cuts packaging waste and saves money. I use Stasher bags and bowls to store bulk items and keep my pantry organized. The large 8-cup bowls work well for oats and grains. For nuts, the stand-up mid bags are great because they stand on their own and have a wide seal.
6. Portion Frozen Meals
Portion leftovers into single servings and freeze for quick meals. Soups are especially good—take out a serving and reheat in a pot of boiling water or in the microwave.
7. Freeze and Store Leftover Herbs
Don’t let herbs go bad—freeze them for later:
– Wash and dry herbs.
– Chop to the size you want.
– Place in ice cube trays (don’t overpack) and cover with olive oil.
– Freeze, then transfer the cubes to a Stasher bag (store up to 6 months).
– Add directly to hot dishes; if adding to cold dishes, thaw first.
Tip: Label the matte side of the bag with a chalk or dry-erase marker.
8. Farmers Market Purchases
Skip disposable produce bags at the market—bring a Stasher bag instead.
9. Rehydrate Stale Bread
You can bring hard bread back to life in the oven using a Stasher bag. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Wet the crust lightly, place the bread in the bag, seal it with a small crack to let steam escape, and bake on a pan for 6–8 minutes. Open and enjoy.
10. Make Popcorn
You can pop popcorn in the microwave with a Stasher bag:
– Use a stand-up bag, 1/2 cup popcorn kernels, 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, and salt/seasonings.
– Put kernels and oil in the bag, close but leave a small vent, and microwave on high for 2–3 minutes until popping slows.
– Carefully remove (it will be hot), open, add salt/seasonings, close, and shake to coat.
Beyond the kitchen, Stasher bags have countless uses and are an easy, sustainable swap to reduce plastic waste. For more ideas and sustainability tips, check out Stasher’s blog.
Use code MOMMYGONEHEALTHY15 to save 15% at Stasherbag.com.