15+ Freezer Recipes to Simplify Your Meal Prep

15+ Freezer Recipes to Simplify Your Meal Prep

ByCook Maniac Team Reading Time: 12 minutes

Freezer recipes are a fantastic way to simplify meal preparation and ensure you always have healthy options on hand. These recipes allow you to make meals in advance, saving time and reducing stress during busy days. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or preparing meals to share, freezer-friendly options can fit into your lifestyle.

A freezer filled with neatly organized containers of frozen meals and ingredients

By using freezer recipes, you can plan meals ahead and avoid last-minute cooking. You’ll find that having a stash of ready-to-go meals not only helps with time management but also encourages healthier eating habits. Enjoy the convenience of meals that are quick to heat and serve any day of the week!

1) Chicken Pot Pie

A steaming chicken pot pie sits on a rustic wooden table, surrounded by fresh ingredients and kitchen utensils

Chicken pot pie is a comforting meal that you can prepare ahead of time and freeze. It’s easy to make and perfect for busy days.

To start, you’ll need some shredded chicken, mixed vegetables, and a creamy sauce. You can wrap unbaked pies tightly in aluminum foil and place them in the freezer for up to 4-6 months.

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the pie covered with foil for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 30 minutes until golden brown.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 1 pound frozen mixed vegetables
  • 1 cup cream of chicken soup
  • 2 pie crusts

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix chicken, vegetables, and soup.
  3. Place the mixture in a pie crust.
  4. Cover with the second crust and seal.
  5. Wrap in foil and freeze or bake immediately.
  6. Bake for 30 minutes covered, then 30 minutes uncovered.

2) Stuffed Shells

A tray of stuffed shells being placed in a freezer

Stuffed shells are a delicious and comforting meal you can prepare ahead of time. These jumbo pasta shells are typically filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and herbs. They bake beautifully and are perfect for freezing.

To make your stuffed shells, start by cooking the pasta shells according to the package directions. Once cooked, let them cool slightly before filling them with your cheesy mixture.

Place the filled shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce. You can prepare several dishes at once and freeze the extras for later. Just remember to cover the dish tightly with foil before placing it in the freezer.

Ingredients

  • Jumbo pasta shells
  • Ricotta cheese
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh spinach
  • Italian herbs (like basil and oregano)
  • Marinara sauce

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the pasta shells according to package directions.
  3. Mix ricotta cheese, spinach, and herbs in a bowl.
  4. Fill each shell with the cheese mixture.
  5. Place filled shells in a baking dish and pour marinara sauce on top.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  7. For freezing, let the dish cool, then cover tightly and store.

3) Breakfast Casseroles

A variety of breakfast casserole dishes arranged in freezer-safe containers with labels, surrounded by fresh ingredients and kitchen utensils

Breakfast casseroles are a fantastic option for busy mornings. You can prepare them ahead of time and freeze them for later use. They can include a variety of ingredients such as eggs, meat, and vegetables.

To make a delicious breakfast casserole, start with some eggs and your favorite milk. Add in cooked sausage or bacon for extra flavor. Then, mix in diced vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.

You can freeze the casserole unbaked for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake it at 350°F (175°C) until it’s set.

Ingredients

  • 12 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 pound cooked sausage
  • 2 cups diced veggies
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, whisk eggs and milk together.
  3. Stir in cooked sausage and vegetables.
  4. Pour mixture into a greased baking dish.
  5. Bake for 30-40 minutes until set.

4) Meatballs

A freezer shelf filled with neatly arranged rows of frozen meatballs in various containers and bags

Freezer meatballs are a great option for quick meals. You can make a large batch and store them for later. They are easy to prepare and always tasty.

To freeze meatballs, first let them cool completely after cooking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once they are frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag.

You can store them in the freezer for up to 3-4 months. When you’re ready to cook, just bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup minced onion
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix all ingredients until combined.
  3. Shape into meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
  5. Let cool before freezing.

5) Lasagna

A colorful assortment of lasagna ingredients arranged on a kitchen counter, including pasta, sauce, cheese, and various vegetables

Lasagna is a delicious and hearty meal that’s perfect for freezing. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it for busy days.

To make freezer lasagna, layer pasta, cheese, meat, and sauce in a dish. Wrap it tightly and place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight and bake it.

This dish can stay fresh in the freezer for up to two months. You’ll love having a homemade meal ready to go!

Ingredients

  • Lasagna noodles
  • Ricotta cheese
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Ground beef or sausage
  • Marinara sauce
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion

Cooking Instructions

  1. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions.
  2. Brown the meat in a skillet.
  3. Mix the ricotta, mozzarella, and seasonings in a bowl.
  4. Layer noodles, meat, and cheese mixture in a pan.
  5. Top with marinara sauce and more cheese.
  6. Cover tightly and freeze if not baking right away.
  7. To bake, thaw overnight, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes.

6) Shepherd’s Pie

A freezer stocked with neatly labeled containers of shepherd's pie, surrounded by bags of frozen vegetables and trays of minced meat

Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting dish perfect for the freezer. It’s made with ground beef or lamb, mixed with vegetables and topped with creamy mashed potatoes.

This dish is great to prepare ahead of time. You can assemble it, freeze it, and then bake it when you’re ready for a hearty meal.

To make it, simply cook the meat and veggies, place them in a baking dish, cover with mashed potatoes, and freeze. When you want to enjoy it, just bake at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef or lamb
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cups mashed potatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, cook the onion until soft.
  3. Add the ground meat and cook until browned.
  4. Stir in mixed vegetables and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and spread mashed potatoes on top.
  6. Cover and freeze or bake immediately for about 25-30 minutes.

7) Chili

A freezer filled with containers of homemade chili, labeled and stacked neatly

Chili is a great freezer recipe because it stays tasty after freezing. You can make it in big batches, which means fewer cooking days for you. It’s hearty and filling, perfect for busy nights.

For a simple chili, start with ground beef, beans, and your favorite spices. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers and onions for extra flavor.

Chili freezes well, so make sure it cools completely before putting it in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs. ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 bell peppers, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (19 oz.) kidney beans
  • 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes
  • 2 Tbsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
  2. Add the chopped onion, diced bell peppers, and minced garlic. Cook until soft.
  3. Stir in the kidney beans and diced tomatoes.
  4. Add chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes.
  5. Let the chili cool before transferring it to containers for freezing.

8) Burritos

A freezer filled with neatly wrapped burritos, surrounded by various ingredients and recipe cards

Burritos are a great choice for freezer meals. You can fill them with a variety of ingredients, making them both tasty and versatile. A popular option is to use ground beef or turkey, beans, rice, and cheese.

To start, prepare your filling and lay it on a tortilla. Roll tightly and wrap each burrito in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag for easy storage.

When you’re ready to eat, simply remove a burrito from the freezer. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven. For the oven, heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 25 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 1 can pinto beans
  • Large tortillas

Cooking Instructions

  1. Cook the ground beef or turkey with onions until browned.
  2. Mix in beans and cooked rice.
  3. Spoon filling onto each tortilla and add cheese.
  4. Roll tortillas tightly and wrap in plastic.
  5. Place in a freezer-safe bag and store in the freezer.

9) Enchilada Fillings

A colorful array of ingredients, including shredded chicken, cheese, diced vegetables, and spices, neatly organized in labeled containers in a freezer

When it comes to enchilada fillings, the options are endless. You can use beef, chicken, or even beans for a tasty vegetarian option. Adding cheese brings extra flavor and gooeyness.

For a twist, consider using shredded pork or sautéed vegetables. Ingredients like spinach and mushrooms work well too. Season your filling with spices to enhance the taste.

You can freeze your enchiladas before baking. This makes a quick meal on busy nights. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking.

Ingredients

  • Corn tortillas
  • 2 cups cooked meat (beef, chicken, or pork)
  • 1 cup beans (black or pinto)
  • 1 cup cheese (shredded)
  • 1 cup vegetables (optional)
  • 1 cup enchilada sauce
  • Spices (cumin, chili powder)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare your filling by mixing ingredients together in a bowl.
  3. Place filling in tortillas and roll them up.
  4. Place enchiladas in a baking dish.
  5. Pour enchilada sauce over rolled tortillas.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.

10) Pasta Sauce

A freezer filled with jars of homemade pasta sauce, labeled and neatly organized on the shelves

Making pasta sauce for the freezer is a great way to save time on busy nights. You can whip up a big batch and have it ready whenever you need it.

Start with basic ingredients like chopped tomatoes, onions, and garlic. You can also add your favorite herbs and spices to make it your own.

When cooking, let the sauce simmer for at least two hours. This helps all the flavors blend nicely. Once it’s cooled, you can pour it into containers for freezing.

Ingredients

  • 16 cups chopped tomatoes
  • 4 onions, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • Your choice of herbs (like basil and oregano)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a large pot, add chopped tomatoes, onions, garlic, and bell pepper.
  2. Stir in vegetable oil, herbs, salt, and pepper.
  3. Cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring frequently.
  4. Let the sauce cool completely before storing in containers.
  5. Freeze for up to three months.

11) Curries

A freezer filled with labeled containers of various curries and ingredients

Curries are a fantastic option for freezer meals. They are tasty, filling, and easy to make in large batches. You can freeze them for later, making weeknight dinners simple.

Chicken curry is popular and freezes well. You can also try beef curry, which adds a rich flavor. Vegetarian options like chickpea curry or vegetable korma are great too!

When you’re ready to eat, just thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450g) chicken or beef, cubed
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped vegetables (like peas or carrots)

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a pot, sauté onions and garlic until soft.
  2. Add meat and cook until browned.
  3. Stir in curry powder, then add coconut milk.
  4. Simmer until meat is cooked through.
  5. Let it cool, then transfer to freezer-safe containers.

12) Carrot and Lentil Soup

A pot of carrot and lentil soup simmering on a stove, surrounded by fresh vegetables and herbs

Carrot and lentil soup is a simple and healthy dish you can make and freeze for later. It’s packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a great option for any meal.

This soup comes together quickly, often in under 30 minutes. You can use basic pantry ingredients, so it’s easy to whip up anytime.

You can freeze leftovers in individual portions, making it a convenient choice for busy days. Just thaw and heat when you’re ready to enjoy it.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup lentils (any type)
  • 2 large carrots, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and garlic. Sauté until soft.
  3. Stir in carrots and cook for 5 minutes.
  4. Add lentils, broth, and cumin.
  5. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.
  6. Season with salt and pepper. Blend if desired.

13) Broccoli and Stilton Soup

A pot of creamy broccoli and Stilton soup simmers on the stove, surrounded by fresh vegetables and herbs. An open recipe book sits nearby, with ingredients scattered across the kitchen counter

Broccoli and Stilton soup is a cozy and delicious choice for your freezer meals. This puréed soup is creamy and full of flavor, making it a great dish for any day. You can prepare it with just a few simple ingredients.

You can freeze this soup easily. Once it cools, store it in an airtight container. It will last for up to three months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove until warm, and it should come together nicely.

Ingredients

  • 1 large head of broccoli
  • 2 medium potatoes
  • 1 onion
  • 1 liter vegetable broth
  • 200g Stilton cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil

Cooking Instructions

  1. Chop the broccoli, potatoes, and onion.
  2. In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté the onion until soft.
  3. Add the broccoli and potatoes. Cook for 5 minutes.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth and simmer until the veggies are tender.
  5. Blend until smooth, then stir in the Stilton cheese.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy!

14) Baked Beef Ravioli

A batch of baked beef ravioli sits on a wooden cutting board, surrounded by scattered herbs and spices, next to an open freezer

Baked beef ravioli is a delicious and easy meal to prepare. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without the fuss. You can make it ahead and store it in the freezer for later.

For this recipe, you will need ground beef, cheese ravioli, and spaghetti sauce. Layer them in a baking dish for a comforting and filling dinner. It’s also family-friendly and a hit with kids!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • ½ (25 ounce) package frozen cheese ravioli
  • 1 (14 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (optional)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  3. In a baking dish, layer half of the ravioli, followed by half of the meat, and half of the spaghetti sauce.
  4. Repeat the layers and top with mozzarella cheese.
  5. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Enjoy!

15) Burrito Pie

A freezer shelf filled with neatly stacked containers of burrito pie, surrounded by bags of frozen vegetables and pre-made pastry dough

Burrito Pie is a fun and easy dish to prepare. It combines the flavors of a traditional burrito in a layer of pie form. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

To start, use ingredients you enjoy, like ground beef, refried beans, and cheese. You can customize it with your favorite toppings such as salsa and sour cream. It freezes well, making it a great choice for meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 2 cups (480 ml) refried beans
  • 2 cups (240 g) shredded cheese
  • 1 can (7 oz or 198 g) green chilies
  • Tortillas

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the ground beef in a skillet, and drain any excess fat.
  3. Layer tortillas, beef, refried beans, and cheese in a baking dish.
  4. Repeat the layers until you use up all the ingredients.
  5. Bake for about 30 minutes until it’s heated through and the cheese is bubbling.

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