Skip to Content

20 Easy Make Ahead Freezer Meal Prep Recipes

When life gets hectic, pre-cooking and freezing meals can be a game-changer. By preparing meals ahead of time, you can maintain the quality of your food even when your schedule is packed. In fact, having 20 make-ahead freezer meals at your disposal can be a lifesaver on busy days. These meals not only save time but also ensure you’re eating well without the daily hassle of cooking.

Whether it’s a weekend project or a mid-week rush, prepping and freezing meals provides the perfect solution for quick, tasty, homemade meals on demand.

Healthy and Easy Cheeseburger Skillet Recipe

Healthy and Easy Cheeseburger Skillet Recipe

Indulge in the flavors of a classic cheeseburger without the bun with this Keto Cheeseburger Skillet Recipe, an excellent choice for anyone seeking a hearty, low-carb meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for those following a ketogenic or gluten-free diet, this dish is a game-changer, offering a rich culinary experience that’s both indulgent and diet-friendly.

Not only does this skillet meal deliver on flavor, but it also offers the added convenience of being fully prepable and freezer-friendly. Simply cook the skillet to completion, let it cool, and then portion it into individual meals for a quick reheat whenever needed. With its 3-4 day refrigerator lifespan, you can rest assured that this meal will remain fresh and ready to go.

Serve this Keto Cheeseburger Skillet on its own or paired with a crisp mixed green salad for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to please both adults and children alike. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering, this versatile dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. And the best part? It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly remarkable, offering a comforting and familiar culinary experience that’s anything but ordinary.

Healthy Meatloaf Recipe (Low Carb, Keto)

Healthy Meatloaf Recipe (Low Carb, Keto)

For families looking for a comforting meal that adheres to their low-carb or ketogenic diet, this meatloaf recipe is an excellent choice. By assembling the mixture in advance, home cooks can simplify their meal prep and accommodate busy schedules. When storing the uncooked mix in the fridge, ensure it’s tightly covered with plastic wrap to prevent oxidation and maintain freshness.

For longer storage, place the uncooked meatloaf in the freezer and secure the wrapping to protect against freezer burn and preserve quality. Not only is this keto meatloaf easy to prepare, but it also delivers delightfully tasty and moist results, making it a crowd-pleaser for both everyday dinners and special occasions. With its simplicity and deliciousness, this low-carb comfort food is perfectly suited to meet the dietary needs of those who follow a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle.

Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup

Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup

Savoring a warm bowl of Easy Chicken Noodle Soup on a chilly day is a quintessential experience. With this recipe, you can indulge in the comforting flavors of homemade soup without breaking a sweat, thanks to clever shortcuts like using rotisserie chicken that cuts preparation time in half while maintaining its rich taste. To elevate the meal, pair it with buttermilk biscuits, 3-ingredient sour cream muffins, or crusty bread, making it an ideal choice for cozying up on any day.

If you’re left with leftovers, rest assured that the soup will keep fresh in the refrigerator for three to four days and can even be frozen for up to a month. Just note that cooked noodles might lose their texture when reheated from frozen, so consider adding fresh noodles when you’re ready to enjoy it again. This way, you’ll always have a quick and satisfying meal at your fingertips, blending convenience with comfort in every spoonful.

Make Crockpot Pulled Pork with Apricot Preserves

Make Crockpot Pulled Pork with Apricot Preserves

The Crock Pot pulled pork with apricot preserves and apple cider vinegar is a true flavor sensation! The sweetness of the preserves perfectly balances the tanginess of the vinegar, while the BBQ dry rub adds a classic smoky depth. This trifecta of flavors results in tender, juicy, and packed-with-flavor pork shoulder, Boston butt, or picnic ham. When it comes to storing leftovers, refrigeration is the way to go for 3-4 days, but if you want to keep it longer, freezing is an excellent option.

Simply store the cooked pulled pork in an airtight container and it can be kept up to 3 months without losing its flavor or texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw and reheat – your delicious meal will be just as good as when it was first made! This method not only ensures a tasty option on hand for busy days but also keeps the meal convenient and economical.

Creamy Chicken Enchiladas

Creamy Chicken Enchiladas

The cherished chicken enchilada recipe holds a special place in your heart, imbued with memories of early days in your marriage. Its enduring popularity among friends is a testament to its timeless appeal. Preserving the dish through freezing allows for convenient meal planning and ensures a delicious option is always at hand. To protect against freezer burn and preserve flavors, wrap the pan tightly with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil.

This method enables the enchiladas to remain fresh for up to three months. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy them again. This practical approach streamlines meal planning while guaranteeing a satisfying culinary experience.

Easy Rustic Italian Tortellini Soup Recipe

Easy Rustic Italian Tortellini Soup Recipe

Your rustic Italian tortellini soup is a true delight! The harmonious blend of flavors from Italian sausage, fresh spinach, rich cheese tortellini, and savory tomato broth comes together in a culinary masterpiece. What’s more, it’s incredibly convenient – ready to devour in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight dinner. The freezing method you described is spot on!

Cooling the soup first and then freezing it in a freezer-safe container ensures the flavors remain vibrant for up to six months. This approach is particularly effective at preserving the soup’s freshness and taste. A simple tip to keep in mind: add the tortellini only when reheating to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Thawing the soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating makes preparation a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your freshly made soup anytime with this clever make-ahead technique.

Homemade Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

Homemade Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

The macaroni and cheese casserole’s unique combination of cheeses and breadcrumbs yields a creamy interior and a crispy, bubbly topping that sets it apart as a comforting classic. This versatile dish is perfect for serving as both a satisfying main course and a hearty side dish at any family gathering. One of its greatest advantages is its ability to be easily preserved and reheated.

Freezing the casserole allows you to enjoy it up to two months later, making it an ideal solution for meal planning. When it’s time to reheat, simply place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 45-60 seconds or until warmed through. This convenient method ensures that even on busy days, a warm and comforting homemade meal is just minutes away.

Homemade Bagel Bites Recipe (Freezer-friendly Meal Prep)

Homemade Bagel Bites Recipe (Freezer-friendly Meal Prep)

Indulge in the comfort of homemade bagel bites, a versatile treat that’s as convenient as it is customizable. By creating three distinct varieties – pepperoni, supreme, and three-cheese – you’ll cater to diverse tastes and preferences, making them an ideal snack or meal option for any time of day. This DIY approach not only saves you time but also your budget. In just 30 minutes, you can prepare a month’s supply of bagel bites, avoiding the temptation of takeout and fast food. The added bonus?

You’ll reduce your expenses and maintain control over your meals. When it comes to storing and reheating these bite-sized delights, simplicity reigns supreme. Freeze them in airtight containers or bags and reheat as needed. In the microwave, a minute is all it takes to warm them through, while a 10-12 minute stint in a preheated oven at 375°F yields a crispy texture. With multiple flavors to choose from, you’ll never tire of these homemade bagel bites.

Whether you’re craving something meaty, cheesy, or loaded with toppings, there’s a flavor profile that will satisfy your cravings. As an added perk, they align seamlessly with budget-friendly meal prep plans, proving that convenience and frugality can coexist harmoniously in the kitchen. So go ahead, craft your batches, and enjoy having a delicious backup meal ready whenever you need it!

Crock Pot Chicken Teriyaki Freeze Meal

Crock Pot Chicken Teriyaki Freeze Meal

Imagine having a reliable go-to dinner option that’s as effortless as throwing all the ingredients into your crockpot in the morning, only to come home to a mouthwatering, homemade meal. That’s precisely what this easy freezer-to-crockpot chicken teriyaki offers – a stress-free and budget-friendly solution for busy weeknights. With its core ingredients of chicken breast, soy sauce, and teriyaki sauce, you’ve got a solid foundation that’s both flavorful and adaptable.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, allowing you to customize the vegetables based on what’s available or on sale. Red and green bell peppers may be your preferred choice for adding natural sweetness and color, but carrots, broccoli, and snow peas are excellent alternatives that can add unique textures and flavors, further enhancing the overall dish.

When meal planning ahead of time is a priority, assembling all the ingredients in a freezer-safe bag ensures everything is ready to go at a moment’s notice. Simply transfer the contents from the freezer to the crockpot, set it, and let the magic unfold. This method not only streamlines meal planning but also guarantees you’ll have a nutritious and delicious dinner without the last-minute scramble.

How to Make Freezer Friendly Spinach Lasagna Rolls

How to Make Freezer Friendly Spinach Lasagna Rolls

When it comes to juggling busy schedules or supporting new parents in the kitchen, Freezer-Friendly Spinach Lasagna Roll-Ups offer a delightful and practical solution. These crowd-pleasing roll-ups combine tender pasta, rich homemade sauce, generous cheese, and nutritious spinach for a satisfying meal any time of day.

To prepare the roll-ups, start by cooking lasagna noodles until al dente.

Then, spread each noodle with a mixture of ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, and your preferred fillings. Roll up the noodles and arrange them in a baking dish coated with homemade sauce. Top the roll-ups with more sauce and a generous sprinkle of cheese.

If you plan to freeze the roll-ups for later, cover the dish with foil and tightly wrap it with plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Don’t forget to label the dish with the date to keep track of storage time.

When you’re ready to enjoy the lasagna roll-ups, bake them directly from the freezer by removing the plastic, replacing the foil, and cooking in a preheated oven until they’re bubbly and golden. Alternatively, thawing them first will speed up the cooking process.

These spinach lasagna roll-ups are more than just a meal; they’re a convenient, comforting dish ready to be served whenever needed, ensuring a delicious, home-cooked experience with minimal effort.

The Best Make-ahead Slow Cooker Vegan Chili

The Best Make-ahead Slow Cooker Vegan Chili

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this slow cooker vegan chili, where health, convenience, and mouthwatering flavors harmoniously converge. By reimagining traditional chili with a plant-based twist, this recipe ensures that everyone can savor a warm, inviting bowl of goodness on chilly days.

This hearty concoction boasts an impressive array of beans, vibrant vegetables like bell peppers and onions, and expertly balanced spices, yielding a rich, deep flavor profile that evolves over several hours as the slow cooker works its magic. As the ingredients meld together, they develop a velvety texture characteristic of exceptional chili. The best part? This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort beyond chopping and combining ingredients.

And with its impressive nutritional profile – featuring protein-rich beans and fiber-abundant vegetables – it’s a guilt-free treat that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. Serve this vegan chili as a standalone masterpiece or elevate it with creative toppings like creamy avocado slices, fresh cilantro, or dollops of tangy vegan sour cream.

Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or warming up after an outdoor adventure, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. With each bite, you’ll experience the perfect blend of warmth and satisfaction.

Lasagna Easy Freezer Meal Recipe

Lasagna Easy Freezer Meal Recipe

It’s great to hear you had a wonderful visit with your son in Tennessee! When you’re not physically there to take care of him, it’s natural to want to ensure he’s well-fed and rested. One thoughtful way to do this is by preparing freezer meals that are tailored to his tastes, such as lasagna. This dish freezes exceptionally well, reheats beautifully, and offers a comforting taste of home.

As you look for more ideas to stock up for him, consider dishes that are not only nutritious and hearty but also easy to reheat. Stews, casseroles, and soups tend to freeze and reheat well, making them ideal for quick, satisfying meals that will keep your son nourished and feeling loved – no matter his age!

Farmers’ Freezer Challah Bread French Toast Sticks

Farmers’ Freezer Challah Bread French Toast Sticks

What a brilliant concept! Freezer Challah Bread French Toast Sticks are an ingenious breakfast solution for busy market days. By preparing them in advance, you can still savor a warm, satisfying breakfast without the need to wake up at the crack of dawn to cook. The rich, fluffy texture of challah bread, with its subtle sweetness, elevates this classic dish to new heights.

One of the best aspects is that you can easily customize these French toast sticks with an array of toppings or dips like maple syrup, yogurt, or fruit preserves, ensuring each week’s breakfast remains exciting and varied. To make your Sunday mornings even more streamlined, freeze them individually and then warm them up at the market or just before heading out – a thoughtful touch that makes all the difference.

Starting your busy market day with a nutritious and comforting meal is exactly what you need to tackle the day ahead with energy and enthusiasm.

Low Carb Keto Cottage Cheese Lasagna Recipe

Low Carb Keto Cottage Cheese Lasagna Recipe

With a creative twist on traditional lasagna, you can now enjoy this comfort food favorite while staying true to your dietary preferences. Substituting cottage cheese for the usual ingredients is an intelligent move that not only reduces carbs but also adds richness and creaminess to your dish. This clever remake allows you to indulge in your beloved lasagna without compromising your health goals.

One of its best features is that it reheats exceptionally well, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying leftovers throughout the week – a perfect combination of convenience and satisfaction. For an added twist, consider incorporating various low-carb vegetables or experimenting with other keto-friendly cheeses to introduce new flavors and textures to your dish. With this delicious, guilt-free lasagna, you can satisfy your cravings without worrying about the calories.

Favorite Freezer Breakfast Burrito Recipe

Favorite Freezer Breakfast Burrito Recipe

Indulge in the delightful convenience of freezer breakfast burritos, packed with a rich medley of ingredients that’s sure to kick-start any day on the right foot. The added surprise element of a secret ingredient elevates their flavor profile and sets them apart from the rest.

These versatile burritos are perfect for hectic mornings or when you need a satisfying meal on-the-go, making them an excellent breakfast option that can also seamlessly transition into a filling lunch or dinner.

To keep things fresh and exciting, feel free to mix things up by experimenting with different cheeses, vegetables, or proteins like sausage or chorizo. With these tasty creations, you’ll be treated to a culinary adventure that’s sure to please!

Moist and Chewy Chocolate and Coconut Coated Mini Heart Cakes

Moist and Chewy Chocolate and Coconut Coated Mini Heart Cakes

Indulge in these bite-sized mini heart cakes smothered in rich chocolate and toasted coconut, offering a scrumptious treat that’s not only effortless to prepare but also ideal for stocking up in advance. With the option to make a double batch, store them in an air-tight container or bag in the freezer, and simply thaw when needed, these treats are perfect for accommodating unexpected guests or satisfying a sudden sweet craving.

Even better, they’re delightful when enjoyed at a slightly frozen temperature, providing a refreshing twist on traditional desserts.

Homemade BBQ Meatballs with a Sweet Glaze

Homemade BBQ Meatballs with a Sweet Glaze

Savoring the rich flavors of homemade BBQ meatballs, this recipe combines the sweetness of a glaze with the savory taste of baked meatballs. This versatile dish is equally suited as a filling main course or an enticing appetizer for any gathering. Its exceptional freezing properties make it easy to prepare in advance and enjoy at your convenience.

Super Easy Make Ahead Freezer Meals

Super Easy Make Ahead Freezer Meals

For overwhelmed parents or anyone dealing with chaotic schedules, this curated list of 12 effortless make-ahead freezer meals offers a beacon of hope. Whether you’re preparing for a new addition or navigating the back-to-school rush, these recipes are engineered to seamlessly transition from frozen storage to oven-roasted perfection, guaranteeing a comforting, homemade meal at your fingertips.

Low Carb Keto Pressure Cooker Carnitas

Low Carb Keto Pressure Cooker Carnitas

Transforming tender pork into mouthwatering carnitas has never been easier or faster! By using a pressure cooker like an Instant Pot, you can achieve succulent results in under an hour. This recipe is ideal for meal prep enthusiasts and keto dieters alike, as it’s not only quick but also low-carb and freezer-friendly, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Avocado Vegan Cake Recipe

Avocado Vegan Cake Recipe
Avocado Vegan Cake Recipe

A game-changer in the world of desserts, this no-bake raw avocado cake is a masterclass in combining healthy ingredients with indulgent flavor. The union of ripe avocados and bananas creates a moist and creamy texture that’s both delicious and nutritious. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, free from gluten and packed with wholesome goodness. Whether you’re adhering to a vegan lifestyle or simply seeking a guilt-free sweet treat, this show-stopping dessert is sure to impress.

And for those looking to make meal prep a breeze, be sure to check out our collection of 20 make-ahead freezer meals, featuring recipes that can be prepared in advance and reheated with ease.

Instructions

Instructions

Discover a world of convenience with our carefully curated selection of Make Ahead Freezer Meals. Browse through the options that catch your eye, and click on the link below each photo to access the complete recipe and step-by-step instructions. Once you’ve tried out these delicious meals, don’t forget to share your own creations under my pin on Pinterest!