BEST Containers to Freeze Leftovers: Top 10 Picks!

The best containers to freeze leftovers are essential for preserving your delicious meals and reducing food waste, ensuring your culinary creations remain as fresh as the day you made them. These solutions are perfect for busy individuals and families looking to save time and money. However, not all containers perform equally.

Variations in material, lid security, and size can significantly impact food quality and freezer space. Choosing poorly can lead to freezer burn, leaks, and ultimately, wasted food and frustration, diminishing the convenience they’re meant to provide.

Factors like BPA-free materials, stackability, and ease of cleaning are crucial considerations. To help you navigate the options and find storage that truly stands the test of time and temperature, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 contenders.

For freezing leftovers, consider durable plastic containers like Rubbermaid Brilliance or BiuLeon in sizes around 17-24 oz for versatility, or silicone trays such as Xomoo for portion-controlled servings of liquids like soups. The best containers to freeze leftovers often feature leak-proof seals and are made from stain and odor-resistant materials for easy use and clarity.

Best Containers to Freeze Leftovers: At a Glance

Image	Product	Buy
Best Pick 1	Bentgo Prep – 20-Piece 1-Compartment Reusable Meal Prep Containers with Best for: Beginner meal preppers	Check Price
Best Pick 2	Rubbermaid Brilliance Tritan Plastic Food Storage Containers BPA Free Airtight Best for: Clear food visibility	Check Price
Best Pick 3	BiuLeon 6 Pack-17oz Freezer Storage Containers, Plastic Food Storage Containers Best for: Individual portions	Check Price
Best Pick 4	Xomoo 2 Cup Silicone Freezer Trays with Lids, Silicone Soup Best for: Portionable frozen cubes	Check Price
Best Pick 5	Dealusy 50 Pack (100-Piece) 24 oz Meal Prep Containers Reusable Best for: Bulk meal preppers	Check Price

How We Picked

To determine the best containers to freeze leftovers, we prioritized build quality, real-world performance, safety, and durability. We assessed each product based on its construction materials, leak-proof capabilities, and resistance to stains and odors, referencing features like BPA-free plastics and sturdy designs. Exceptional features such as airtight screw lids on the Tafura containers and the versatile silicone trays from XOMOO also played a significant role.

We ruled out options where durability or practical freezing performance was questionable, ensuring our final selections offer lasting value and reliable food preservation.

What Most Buyers Get Wrong

Airtight Seals for Freezer Burn Prevention

When freezing leftovers, an airtight seal is paramount to prevent freezer burn, which dries out food and affects its texture and flavor. Look for containers with secure, leak-proof latches and lids that create a tight seal. Rubbermaid Brilliance containers are explicitly designed with this in mind, boasting a 100% Leak-proof guarantee, while Tafura containers feature LEAKPROOF SCREW LIDS for an equally secure closure.

This feature is crucial for maintaining the quality of your stored meals.

Material Matters for Freeze-Thaw Cycles

The materials used in your freezer containers significantly impact their durability and safety when subjected to extreme temperatures. Opt for BPA-free plastics that are designed to withstand freezing without becoming brittle. Tritan plastic, as seen in Rubbermaid Brilliance, is known for its stain and odor resistance, ensuring your containers stay clear and fresh.

Silicone, like that used in Xomoo’s freezer trays, offers excellent flexibility even at sub-zero temperatures, making it ideal for portioning and easy release of frozen items.

1. Bentgo Prep – 20-Piece 1-Compartment Reusable Meal Prep Containers with

Best for: Generous capacity meal preppers and portion controllers.

Ten 4-cup capacity containers with embossed measurements enable precise portioning for balanced meals.

This 20-piece set includes ten 1-compartment containers, each measuring 8.7″L x 6″W x 2.3″H. The clear BPA-free polypropylene construction allows easy identification of contents, and stackable clear lids keep food fresh.

Pros

• Ten 4-cup containers facilitate large batch meal prep.
• Embossed measurements support accurate portion control.
• BPA-free polypropylene is food-safe for freezing.
• Stackable design maximizes refrigerator space.

Cons

• Each container is a single compartment, limiting meal variety within one unit.

Ideal for individuals focused on consistent portion-controlled meals. These containers let you prep days of balanced meals in advance.

2. Rubbermaid Brilliance Tritan Plastic Food Storage Containers BPA Free Airtight

Best for: Airtight seal for busy individuals on the go.

Five 3.2-cup containers with 100% leak-proof guarantees prevent spills during transport and storage.

Constructed from crystal-clear, stain-resistant Tritan plastic, these containers measure 10.2″L x 8.19″W x 5.67″H. Built-in vents allow for steam release during microwave heating without removing the lid.

Pros

• Guaranteed 100% leak-proof seal ensures no spills.
• Crystal-clear Tritan plastic is stain and odor resistant.
• Built-in vents permit microwave heating with the lid on.
• Stackable design enhances pantry and fridge organization.

Cons

• Individual container capacity is limited to 3.2 cups, suitable for single servings or smaller portions.

Perfect for professionals needing secure, portable meal solutions. Travelers and office workers can confidently pack liquids and messy foods.

3. BiuLeon 6 Pack-17oz Freezer Storage Containers, Plastic Food Storage Containers

Best for: Compact liquid and stew storage.

Six 17 oz containers with leakproof twist-top lids are designed for storing liquids and messy foods.

Each container holds 17 oz (approx. 500ml) and is made from BPA-free polypropylene, safe for freezer and microwave use (lids removed for microwave). Dimensions are 4″L x 4″W x 8″H.

Pros

• Leakproof twist-top lids secure liquids effectively.
• 17 oz capacity is ideal for individual servings of soup or sauces.
• BPA-free polypropylene is freezer and microwave safe.
• Set of six provides ample storage for multiple small batches.

Cons

• The 4″x4″ base might limit stacking stability with larger loads in the freezer.

Suited for home cooks who frequently freeze small batches of sauces or single-serving soups. These containers offer a compact solution for liquid food preservation.

4. Xomoo 2 Cup Silicone Freezer Trays with Lids, Silicone Soup

Best for: Portion-controlled freezing of liquids.

Four 2-cup silicone trays with included lids make freezing and portioning liquids like broth easy.

Made from BPA-free, food-grade platinum silicone, each tray holds 473.18 ml. The interior features 250ml/8oz and 500ml/16oz fill marks for precise portion control. Tray dimensions are 5.71″L x 4.45″W x 2.36″H.

Pros

• Each compartment holds a precise 2 cups (approx. 500ml).
• Internal volume markings simplify filling and portioning.
• Platinum silicone is durable and oven, microwave, freezer safe.
• Included lids prevent freezer burn and odor absorption.

Cons

• Silicone trays lack rigid sides, requiring careful handling when full and frozen.

Excellent for individuals dedicated to freezing bone broth or making individual frozen soup portions. These trays offer a clean and reusable way to store liquid meal components.

5. Dealusy 50 Pack (100-Piece) 24 oz Meal Prep Containers Reusable

Best for: Large quantity bulk storage and reuse.

Fifty durable, reusable 24 oz meal prep containers with tight sealed lids are perfect for bulk freezing.

Each container measures 7.4″L x 5″W x 2″H and is constructed from thick, food-grade plastic, safe for microwave and freezer. The 50-pack allows for extensive meal preparation and storage.

Pros

• Fifty containers offer significant bulk storage capacity.
• 24 oz volume suits larger freezer portions.
• Tight sealed lids ensure leakproof stacking.
• Reusable and dishwasher-safe for economical use.

Cons

• Requires hand washing for best longevity, despite being top-rack dishwasher safe.

Designed for families or serious meal preppers stocking up large quantities. These containers are ideal for freezing individual meals or family-sized portions of stews and casseroles.

6. Tafura 10 Pack 32 Oz Freezer Storage Containers Leak-Proof –

Best for: Large volume liquid freezing with secure sealing.

Ten 32 oz containers featuring durable twist-top lids create an airtight seal to prevent leaks during freezing.

Each container holds 1 liter (approx. 32 oz or 2 pounds) and measures 4.5″L x 4.5″W x 6″H. The robust seal is designed for reliable performance in the fridge, freezer, or during transport.

Pros

• 1-liter capacity is suitable for generous portions.
• Airtight screw-top lids prevent any leakage.
• Tough construction withstands repeated freezer use.
• Ten containers provide ample storage for stews and broths.

Cons

• The round shape may not stack as efficiently as square containers in some freezers.

Best for those who freeze large batches of soups, stocks, or sauces. These containers ensure liquid foods remain contained and fresh in sub-zero temperatures.

7. BiuLeon 6 Pack-24 oz Freezer Storage Containers, Plastic Food Storage

Best for: Versatile mid-size freezer storage.

Six 24 oz BPA-free food storage containers are constructed from high-quality, food-grade material for safe freezing.

Each container measures 4.2″L x 9″W x 4″H and holds 24 fluid ounces. They are suitable for freezing, microwaving, and dishwashing (lids removed for microwave).

Pros

• 24 oz volume is substantial for various leftovers.
• BPA-free, food-grade material ensures safety.
• Dishwasher and microwave safe for convenience.
• Six-pack provides a good quantity for typical households.

Cons

• The set contains only six containers, which may be insufficient for extensive meal prepping.

Suitable for households needing flexible freezer storage for both solid leftovers and semi-liquids. These containers offer a reliable option for preserving mid-sized portions.

8. XOMOO Silicone Freezer Tray With Lid – Soup Freezer Container

Best for: Portion-controlled single servings in silicone.

One 1-cup silicone freezer mold with a lid is designed for precise freezing of individual servings.

Each compartment measures 250ml/8oz and 125ml/4oz, facilitating exact portion control for ingredients or meals. The silicone withstands temperatures from -8 to 428°F, allowing freezer and oven use.

Pros

• 1-cup compartments provide exact single servings.
• Volume markings assist in accurate filling.
• Platinum silicone is non-stick and oven-safe.
• Lid prevents freezer burn and cross-contamination.

Cons

• Only one mold is included, limiting the quantity that can be frozen at once.

Ideal for individuals meticulously tracking their intake or freezing small amounts of specific ingredients. This mold is perfect for freezing individual portions of sauces, baby food, or flavored ice cubes.

9. Freshware Meal Prep Containers [50 Pack] 1 Compartment with Lids,

Best for: Large quantity, single-compartment meal prep.

Fifty 1-compartment bento boxes, each holding 28oz, provide ample space for large, individually portioned frozen meals.

These meal prep containers, measuring 28oz capacity, come in a pack of 50 and are designed for secure stacking. They are made of plastic suitable for freezer and microwave use.

Pros

• 50-pack quantity is ideal for batch meal prepping.
• 28oz capacity accommodates generous meal sizes.
• Single compartment simplifies storage of main dishes.
• Stackable design aids in efficient organization.

Cons

• The plastic material may become brittle if frozen for extended periods at very low temperatures.

Perfect for those who prepare entire weeks of single-dish meals to freeze. These large-capacity containers are great for freezing chili, pasta dishes, or stir-fries for easy reheating.

10. Kitch’nMore 38oz Meal Prep Containers, Extra Large &Thick Food Storage

Best for: Extra-large capacity for family-sized leftovers.

Thirty 38oz extra-large and thick food storage containers are built for substantial family-sized leftovers.

Each container in this 30-count pack holds 38 fluid ounces (2.4 pounds) and measures 8.9″L x 6.1″W x 2″H. They are designed for safe use in the fridge, freezer, and microwave.

Pros

• 38oz volume is exceptionally large for family portions.
• Thick plastic construction ensures durability.
• Freezer-safe material prevents cracking.
• 30-pack provides extensive storage for multiple meals.

Cons

• The large size may not fit easily into smaller lunch bags or briefcases.

Designed for families or individuals who consistently have large amounts of leftovers to freeze. These containers are excellent for storing entire casserole dishes or multiple servings of hearty stews.

Freezer Containers: Airtight Seals Beat Volume

When selecting best containers to freeze leftovers, the paramount consideration is the integrity of the seal. Far too many consumers fixate on sheer volume or stackability, overlooking the fundamental role of an airtight closure in preserving food quality and preventing freezer burn. This single feature dictates the longevity and palatability of your stored meals, making it the non-negotiable standard against which all options should be measured.

Consider the difference between the twist-top lids found on units like the Tafura 10 Pack 32 Oz Freezer Storage Containers Leak-Proof and the latching systems on others. While latching mechanisms can provide a satisfying click, a well-engineered screw-top lid, as offered by Tafura, often creates a more robust, consistent seal, crucial for preventing air ingress. This is the difference between finding a meal perfectly preserved and discovering a layer of ice crystals and stale odors.

The Xomoo 2 Cup Silicone Freezer Trays with Lids and XOMOO Silicone Freezer Tray With Lid, for example, excel at portion control and the initial freezing of liquids, but their lids, while functional, are typically designed for containment during freezing rather than long-term, deep-freeze, airtight storage. For extended preservation, robust, dedicated sealing mechanisms are paramount. This is why containers that prioritize an uncompromising airtight seal, even if it means a slightly less intuitive opening or closing process, should always be favored.

Materials also play a supporting role, but secondary to the seal. The crystal-clear Tritan plastic of Rubbermaid Brilliance Tritan Plastic Food Storage Containers BPA Free Airtight offers excellent visibility and resistance to staining and odor, which is beneficial for identifying contents. However, even the most stain-resistant material is rendered moot if the seal fails, allowing external freezer air to degrade the food within.

Ultimately, buyers often err by prioritizing convenience features like stackability or the illusion of vast capacity offered by sets like the Dealusy 50 Pack (100-Piece) 24 oz Meal Prep Containers Reusable. These aspects are secondary to the primary function: keeping air out. For those prioritizing true food preservation, the Tafura 10 Pack 32 Oz Freezer Storage Containers Leak-Proof stands out due to its screw-top lid design, which offers a superior seal for freezer longevity.

How to Choose the Best Containers to Freeze Leftovers

Material matters for freezer storage

For superior durability and nonreactivity, borosilicate glass is your best bet for freezing leftovers, resisting thermal shock and odors. Opt for thicker glass containers with well-fitting lids to prevent freezer burn. BPA-free plastic containers offer a lightweight and shatter-resistant alternative, ideal for transporting meals; seek out those labeled freezer-safe and BPA-free with robust construction.

Stainless steel excels in robustness for long-term preservation, especially for dense or liquid foods, but often lacks transparency. Choose glass for everyday use and plastic for portability and budget.

Capacity and shape for your needs

Select container capacity based directly on your typical portioning habits. For individuals, 8 to 12-ounce containers are perfect for single servings, minimizing waste. Family-sized meals benefit from 32 to 64-ounce options, reducing the number of containers needed.

Stackable designs are crucial for maximizing freezer space, ensuring efficient organization and easy access. Rectangular containers generally utilize freezer space more effectively than round ones, fitting neatly side-by-side.

Prioritize stackable rectangular containers for efficient storage.

Lid security and seal quality

Lid security is paramount to prevent leaks and freezer burn. Airtight screw-on lids offer the most reliable seal, preventing any liquid spillage and locking out air. Snapon lids with silicone seals are excellent for moisture retention, keeping food fresh.

For maximum protection, look for freezersafe locking mechanisms that firmly secure the lid and prevent accidental opening, especially when the container is heavy or full of liquid. Always choose containers with a demonstrably tight seal to safeguard your food.

Ease of use and maintenance

Ease of use means choosing containers that simplify both storage and cleanup. Dishwasher-safe materials are essential for effortless maintenance, saving you time and effort. Microwavable glass allows for direct reheating without the need to transfer food, streamlining meal preparation.

For ultimate versatility, select containers that are freezersafe, ovensafe, and microwavable, enabling them to go from freezer to oven or microwave. Prioritize glass containers with these multi-functional capabilities for the most convenient experience.

Which Should You Choose?

• If you frequently pack lunches or portion meals for the week, choose sturdy, reusable containers with multiple compartments to keep items separate.
• If you often freeze large batches of soups, stews, or sauces, choose containers with secure, leak-proof lids, especially screw-top ones, and consider larger capacities.
• If you need to store liquids and messy foods with confidence, choose clear, stain-resistant containers with reliable airtight seals.
• If you’re looking for portion-controlled options for single servings of broths or purees, consider flexible silicone trays with lids.

Quick Best Containers To Freeze Leftovers Buying Checklist

• Durable Materials: Opt for glass, stainless steel, or BPA-free plastic built to withstand freezing temperatures.
• Airtight Seals: Ensure lids create a secure closure to prevent freezer burn and leaks.
• Appropriate Capacity: Select sizes that match your typical portion needs, from single meals to family servings.
• Stackable Design: Choose containers that neatly stack to maximize freezer space and organization.
• Freezer-to-Table Functionality: Look for microwave-safe or oven-safe options for convenient reheating.
• Easy Cleaning: Prioritize dishwasher-safe materials to simplify post-meal cleanup.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Best Materials For Containers To Freeze Leftovers?

Borosilicate glass and BPA-free plastic are excellent choices for containers to freeze leftovers, offering durability and safety. Borosilicate glass notably resists thermal shock and won’t absorb odors, while BPA-free plastics are lightweight and less prone to breakage in freezing conditions.

How Important Is An Airtight Seal For Freezer Containers?

An airtight seal is crucial for containers to freeze leftovers, as it significantly prevents freezer burn by keeping air out. This tight closure also stops moisture from escaping, maintaining the food’s original texture and flavor for longer periods.

Should I Prioritize Stackable Containers For Freezing?

Yes, stackable containers are highly efficient when storing the best containers to freeze leftovers, maximizing limited freezer space. Their design allows for organized rows, making it easier to access items without disturbing other frozen goods.

Can I Reheat Food Directly In Freezing Containers?

Many containers designed for freezing leftovers allow for direct reheating, especially glass options that are microwave and oven-safe. Always check product specifications for temperature limits and reheating instructions to ensure safety and prevent damage.

What Size Containers Are Best For Freezing Single Meals?

Containers around 8 to 16 ounces are typically ideal for freezing single meals, offering appropriate capacity for one person’s portion. This size also freezes relatively quickly and is convenient for reheating individual servings.

Final Words

Investing in the best containers to freeze leftovers is a smart move for reducing food waste and saving money. With options ranging from durable glass to space-saving stackable designs, you can efficiently preserve meals. Embrace organized freezing to enjoy delicious homemade food anytime.