14 best freezer meals

Freezer meals are pre-cooked or pre-assembled meals that are prepared in advance and stored in the freezer until you're ready to eat them. These meals are a convenient solution for busy individuals and families who want to save time on cooking without resorting to takeout or fast food. Here's what you need to know about freezer meals:

  1. Preparation: Freezer meals can be prepared in different ways. Some people choose to cook a large batch of a favorite recipe and freeze individual portions. Others assemble uncooked ingredients in a freezer-safe container, such as a casserole dish, to be cooked later. There are also freezer meal kits available that provide pre-measured ingredients and instructions.

  2. Variety: You can make a wide variety of freezer meals, including casseroles, soups, stews, lasagnas, stir-fries, and more. There are also freezer-friendly versions of popular dishes like spaghetti, chili, and meatloaf.

  3. Convenience: Freezer meals are incredibly convenient for busy days or when you don't feel like cooking from scratch. You simply take a meal from the freezer, follow the reheating or cooking instructions, and you have a hot, homemade meal in no time.

  4. Time-Saving: One of the primary benefits of freezer meals is the time saved on meal preparation. By making meals in advance, you can reduce the time and effort required for cooking on a daily basis.

  5. Budget-Friendly: Freezer meals can be cost-effective because you can buy ingredients in bulk, take advantage of sales, and reduce food waste by using up ingredients you already have. Additionally, they can help you avoid spending money on takeout or dining out.

  6. Portion Control: Freezer meals allow you to portion your meals according to your needs. This can be especially helpful for individuals or families with varying appetites.

  7. Customization: You have full control over the ingredients and portion sizes in your freezer meals, making it easy to accommodate dietary restrictions, allergies, or personal preferences.

  8. Labeling: It's important to label your freezer meals with the name of the dish and the date it was prepared. This helps you keep track of what's in your freezer and ensures you use older meals first.

  9. Storage: Proper packaging is crucial for maintaining the quality of freezer meals. Use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness.

  10. Safety: Follow safe food handling practices when preparing and storing freezer meals. Make sure your freezer maintains a temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or lower to keep food safe.

  11. Reheating: When reheating freezer meals, follow recommended guidelines for temperature and time to ensure they are thoroughly heated to a safe temperature.

Freezer meals are a valuable resource for anyone looking to simplify meal planning and save time in the kitchen.With a little planning and preparation, you can have a freezer stocked with delicious homemade meals ready to enjoy at your convenience.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best freezer meals on the market
  

Seriously Good Freezer Meals: 150 Easy Recipes to Save Your Time, Money and Sanity

Robert Rose

Based on 659 reviews Check latest price

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CALIFORNIA BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

Want to invite all your favorite friends to breakfast? And by “friends” I mean potatoes, sour cream, salsa, cheese and everyone’s best friend — bacon. This cheery morning casserole is loaded with so much taste it’s almost impossible for anyone in your family not to want more.

SIZZLIN’ STEAK FAJITAS

Oh, how I love fajitas. These simply seasoned, tender strips of steak paired with fragrant peppers, spicy onions and the tart pop of lime create one of the tastiest and easiest freezer meals you will ever make.

FRIED DILL PICKLES

For reals, if you haven’t tried fried pickles, you are missing out! They are sooooo good — light and crunchy, with the perfect pop of tangy dill. This super-easy recipe keeps your fried pickles crisp on the inside and crunchy on the outside, perfect for dipping into some creamy ranch.

EASY TUNA CASSEROLE

This is my sister Ashleigh’s favorite freezer meal of all time. I know tuna noodle casserole sounds old-fashioned, but this isn’t your typical can-of-soup version. My recipe is a creamy, comforting and more flavorful version that works really well for giving to a family or friend in need. Make it extra fun by baking in individual containers!

LENTIL SUPREME SHEPHERD’S PIE

A lovely twist on traditional shepherd’s pie, this hearty lentil and vegetable filling topped with a mashed potato crust is a wholesome way to enjoy a lovely dinner together.

LAYERED CHOCOLATE MOUSSE CAKE

I would walk through fire, or at least an un-air-conditioned room in the middle of summer, to have a slice of this gorgeous frozen dessert. Made in a loaf pan and frozen till firm, then sliced to show off the beautiful chocolate and fudge layers, it’s perfect for a hot summer’s day.

EMPANADA HAND PIES

1. In a medium bowl, gently combine Spanish rice, Cheddar cheese, chicken, and olives, if using.

2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out pie dough to about 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter and ¼ inch (0.5 cm) thick. Using a small bowl (I like to use a cereal bowl) or a round cutter, cut dough into rounds about 5 ½ inches (13.5 cm) in diameter. Place ¼ cup (60 mL) rice mixture on one half of each round; fold other half over filling. Seal and crimp edges with a fork. (Or, for a fancy look, take remaining dough scraps, slice into 3 very thin strips, braid, and press around edges of each pie.) Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing apart.

3. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat top of each pie with beaten egg.3. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat top of each pie with beaten egg.

MAKE IT NOW

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake empanadas in preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until golden brown and hot in the center. Let cool for 10 minutes.

MAKE IT A FREEZER MEAL & COOK FROM FROZEN

Transfer baking sheet with uncooked empanadas to freezer. Freeze for 2 to 3 hours, until solid. Transfer frozen pies to a labeled gallon-size (4 L) freezer bag. Seal, removing as much air as possible, and freeze.

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place frozen pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden brown and hot in the center. Let cool 10 minutes.

Skinnytaste Meal Prep: Healthy Make-Ahead Meals and Freezer Recipes to Simplify Your Life: A Cookbook

Clarkson Potter

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Cook Once, Eat All Week: 26 Weeks of Gluten-Free, Affordable Meal Prep to Preserve Your Time & Sanity

Victory Belt Publishing

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

From Freezer to Cooker: Delicious Whole-Foods Meals for the Slow Cooker, Pressure Cooker, and Instant Pot: A Cookbook

Rodale Books

Based on 354 reviews Check latest price

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How can I get dinner on the table tonight?

Save time and money by learning to prep freezer meals ahead and then utilize your Instant Pot or slow cooker to whip up that tasty, filling, and healthy meal anytime. With Polly and Rachel’s fail-proof freezer cooking tips and slow cooker and Instant Pot basics, dinner can be as easy as dumping it in, setting the cook time, and forgetting it. Each recipe in this book contains instructions for cooking the dish in your Instant Pot or your slow cooker, as well as simple freezer meal instructions at the bottom of every recipe, taking the guess work out of meal prep!

Guides to Freezer Cooking, Instant Pots, and Slow Cookers

Guides to Freezer Cooking, Instant Pots, and Slow Cookers

Cooking in an Instant Pot or “freezer cooking” may seem daunting, but with Polly and Rachel’s simple recipe instructions, cooking times charts for cookers, and freezer meal prep tips, even the novice cook will find mealtime success quickly. Every recipe and cooking method have been tested many times in their own kitchens to make sure the instructions are right and that the food is delicious!

Family-Friendly, Kid Approved Meals

Got a picky eater on your hands, or feeding a family with specific dietary needs? You’ll find gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian dishes that will satisfy even the toughest critics. Their simple icon guide will help you locate these recipes quickly and easily. From Honey Bourbon Chicken and Veggie and Bean Stuffed Burritos, to Loaded Cheddar Potato Soup and Pumpkin Pie French toast, there’s enough variety here to keep your family’s taste buds happy.

Taste of Home Make It Freeze It: 295 Make-Ahead Meals that Save Time & Money

Trusted Media Brands

Based on 200 reviews Check latest price

365 by Whole Foods Market, Frozen Plant-Based Nuggets, Chicken-Style, 1.5 Ounce

365 by WFM

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

If ever something was begging to be dipped into a ramekin of honey barbecue sauce, it’s one of these plant-based nuggets. Salty and savory with crispy golden-brown breading, they make great cholesterol-free appetizers or movie-watching lap snacks. And behold the protein plants can pack—12 grams per serving, to be exact.

  • Brought to you by Whole Foods Market.  The packaging for this product has a fresh new look. During this transition, you may get the original packaging or the new packaging in your order, but the product and quality is staying exactly the same. Enjoy!
  • If ever something was begging to be dipped into a ramekin of honey barbecue sauce, it’s one of these plant-based nuggets.
  • Salty and savory with crispy golden-brown breading, they make great cholesterol-free appetizers or movie-watching lap snacks. And behold the protein plants can pack—12 grams per serving, to be exact.
  • 12g Protein Per Serving. Cholesterol Free. Vegan.
  • Non-GMO Verified. Certified Kosher.

User questions & answers

Question: what is the sodium and fat content of these nuggets
Answer: I doubt it. Unsure. Contact Whole Foods.

Family Freezer Meals

Based on 18 reviews Check latest price

The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Dinnertime - Comfort Classics, Freezer Food, 16-minute Meals, and Other Delicious Ways to Solve Supper

William Morrow & Company

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Smart Meal Prep for Beginners: Recipes and Weekly Plans for Healthy, Ready-to-Go Meals

Based on 610 reviews Check latest price

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Smart Prep is Simple Prep:

The purpose of this cookbook is to help you create the healthy habit of meal prepping. Beginning with the more manageable preps, you can get a feel for what works for you, and slowly build your way up to advanced preps. With simple recipes that are doable, plus ingredients that are easy to find, this cookbook makes meal prep the norm in your everyday life and a lifelong healthy habit!

A Guide to Meal Prep Tools:

From essential storage containers to shopping lists, this meal prep cookbook outlines all of the tools you need to meal prep successfully.

Meal Prep 101:

Packed with helpful tips, do's and don'ts, food storage guidelines, and more, this meal prep cookbook gives you step-by-step direction to meal prep.

Progressive Meal Prep Plans:

This meal prep cookbook offers six weeks of progressive meal prep plans to help you develop your meal prep skills.

Sample Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon Chicken with Potatoes and Carrots

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425˚F. Coat a sheet pan with cooking spray.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.

3. Add the chicken, potatoes, carrots, and parsnips to the dressing and toss to coat.

4. Gently pour the vegetables and chicken onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are in a single layer. Top with the lemon slices. Place in the oven and roast for 40 to 45 minutes until the chicken reaches a minimum internal cooking temperature of 165˚F.

5. Into each of 4 containers, scoop 2 cups of chicken and vegetables.

Storage:

Place airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To freeze, place freezer-safe containers in the freezer for up to 2 months. To defrost, refrigerate overnight. To reheat individual portions, microwave uncovered on high for 2 to 2 1/2 minutes.

Toby’s Tip:

To minimize food waste, add leftover vegetables like carrots, beets, or Brussels sprouts to this mix.

Johnsonville Homestyle Meatballs, 24 oz

Johnsonville

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Johnsonville Homestyle Meatballs, 24 oz

  • Johnsonville

User questions & answers

Question: How Long Do You Microwave It
Answer: it dose twist and lock
Question: How Do You Heat This Up
Answer: First question I don't know second question it is double lined
Question: How Long Do You Bake It
Answer: Yes.
Question: Will It Work In An Instant Pot
Answer: Yes we used it to connect to our old fireplace chimney.

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About Johnsonville

In 1945, Ralph F. and Alice Stayer opened a butcher shop and named it after their quaint hometown – Johnsonville, Wisconsin. The delicious sausage made in the Stayer’s butcher shop came from an old family recipe, which made its way down the family tree from 19th-century Austria. This recipe became known as the sausage with the BIG TASTE, and a legacy was born!

We here at Johnsonville have a moral responsibility to create and maintain an environment that requires each member to fully develop their God-given talents. We achieve this by living the Johnsonville Way.

Fix-It and Forget-It Slow Cooker Freezer Meals: 150 Make-Ahead Dinners, Desserts, and More!

Good Books

Based on 52 reviews Check latest price

From Freezer to Table: 75+ Simple, Whole Foods Recipes for Gathering, Cooking, and Sharing: A Cookbook

Rodale Books

Based on 360 reviews Check latest price

[50 Pack] Rectangular 1.5 lb 24 oz 8.75 x 6.25 x 1.5" Disposable Aluminum Foil Pan Take Out Food Containers with Flat Board Lids, Hot Cold Freezer Oven Safe

Based on 114 reviews Check latest price

Product description

WARNING: Do not use in microwave.

These standard 1.5 lb 24 oz rectangular aluminum pans are a perfect for both home or commercial use. Aluminum foil take-out pans allow you to bake and serve all in the same container! Use these pans to ensure that baked food, pasta dishes, casseroles, and appetizers stay fresh and hot. They are also safe to use in fridge and freezer for storing your left-over food. A convenient board lid with foil lining on the inside is included to lock in flavor and provide safe transport. They can be stacked one on top of the other to ensure your work spaces and kitchen will remain clean organized.

Package includes 50 pans and 50 flat lids.

Dimensions:

Length: 8 3/4"

Width: 6 1/4"

Height: 1 1/5"

Capatity: 24 Oz (1 1/2 lb)

100% lifetime guarantee - contact us if not satisfied with our product and we will send you a new replacement or issue you a full refund.

  • 50 pans and 50 lids, perfect for baking or reheating food in the oven as well as storing left over food in fridge or freezer.
  • Dimensions: 8 3/4 x 6 1/4 x 1 1/2 inch, Capacity: 1.5 LB, 24 OZ. Containers are stackable for easy storage and kitchen organization.
  • Bake and serve in the same container. Durable aluminum supports heavy pastas, meats, cakes, breads, casseroles, lasagna, appetizers, etc.
  • Material evenly distributes heat and retains hot temperatures. Heavy gauge aluminun pan and lid locks in food temperature and flavor and provides safe transport. Made of 100% Eco-Friendly recyclable aluminium.
  • WARNING: Do Not Use in Microwave.

User questions & answers

Question: Can you put these in a toaster oven or microwave
Answer: Of course it varies depending on how many you wish to eat, but I placed in a microwave bowl and just warmed them up (if whole bag start with 2 minutes of frozen) You can thaw them out ahead of time if you wish, which of course would not take as long to heat.
Question: Does the lid have to be removed before baking
Answer: Either in the toaster oven, convection oven, or in a pan on the stove. I really like to saute them a bit in olive oil before adding whatever sauce I'm using to that same pan. The meat balls really soak up the flavor well. 👌
Question: Can the lid go in the oven
Answer: For me whatever the time was on package.... believe approximately 20 minutes - then I added sauce and cooked 15 more
Question: Anyone notice a smell or flavor? I have used dollartree, and they leave a smell and taste
Answer: Absolutely will! I cook these from frozen. I put onions in saute, add noodles (twist spaghetti in half) add broth and water to cover pasta then tomato sauce on top (so it doesn’t burn). Frozen meat balls next pressure cook on high for 4-5 minutes. QR and then stir!

From Freezer to Instant Pot: The Cookbook: How to Cook No-Prep Meals in Your Instant Pot Straight from Your Freezer

Voracious

Based on 421 reviews Check latest price

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