For as long as I can remember, I’ve been doubling meals and freezing them for nights when I don’t feel like cooking. I tuck leftovers into the freezer on a regular basis to see how they handle being reheated after freezing. If a meal reheats nicely and tastes as good as the day I first made it, it is on this list.
Soups are a staple in my freezer. I regularly keep at least a dozen portion-sized containers of soup in the freezer, so that I can toss one in my husband’s lunch on days when there aren’t enough leftovers from dinner the previous night.
One thing that I frequently receive requests for is for meals that can be made in advance. Whether the meal is for a special occasion, to take to a friend, for while you are under the weather or just to get everyone fed while you run kids all over town at night; having some meals stashed in the freezer for those busy nights helps keep dinner time easy and stress free.
I’ve added freezer tips to the bottom of every recipe in this list. Some of the meals below are cooked first and then frozen, some are frozen first and then cooked. However you make them, hopefully these recipes will make meal planning easier.
These are all meals that I’ve made repeatedly and they all qualify as kid-approved favorites in our house.
MAIN DISHES
BREAKFASTS
Magnolia Verandah says
I just love having my freezer full of leftovers which are just perfect for work lunches- great idea to have a whole list.
Sherri @ The Well Floured Kitchen says
What a great list! I love having food in the freezer, it's like gold once the busy fall schedule starts.
Big Dude says
As I commented before, I think this is a great idea and we will study the list for things to take when we travel.
motherrimmy says
Wow! This is an incredible resource for families with school coming up and time at a premium. I know how much work went into this post. I can't wait to share it.
Joshua Hampton (Cooking Classes San Diego) says
This list is exactly what I need right now. I'm running out of ideas for make-ahead freezer meals, and these recipes are great! Thanks!
Gramma Florie says
This is one "gift" of a post. Thanks so very much. I will share this with so many folks.
Anonymous says
Very handy! Thanks for your efforts!
Lise Grigsbys says
thank you so muchi love freezing things but they get lost we never remember to use them
Anonymous says
RECIPES SOUND GREAT! CAN'T WAIT TO TRY THEM; THANKS SO MUCH!