Freezer-friendly casseroles are a lifesaver for busy families and anyone looking to simplify meal prep. Not only do they save time, but they also allow you to enjoy homemade meals without the hassle of cooking every day. By preparing a few casseroles and freezing them, you’ll always have a delicious and nutritious option ready to go. Below are three diverse examples of freezer-friendly casserole dishes that are sure to please everyone at the table!
This hearty dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering. It combines lean chicken, nutritious broccoli, and cheesy goodness, making it a family favorite.
To make this casserole, start by cooking and shredding 2 cups of rotisserie chicken. In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with 2 cups of steamed broccoli, 1 cup of cooked rice, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup of milk, and a teaspoon of garlic powder. Pour this mixture into the chicken and broccoli mix and stir until well combined. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, sprinkle with an additional 1/2 cup of cheese, and cover tightly with foil.
To freeze, simply let the casserole cool completely, then cover it with the foil and place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 60-70 minutes or until heated through.
Notes: You can substitute the chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or peas, for extra nutrition!
If you’re craving a Mexican-inspired dish, this beef and bean enchilada casserole is a fantastic choice. It’s packed with flavors and can easily feed a crowd!
Begin by browning 1 pound of ground beef in a skillet and draining any excess fat. Add 1 can of black beans (drained and rinsed), 1 cup of salsa, and 1 teaspoon of cumin to the beef, stirring until well combined. In a baking dish, layer 3-4 corn tortillas on the bottom, followed by half of the beef mixture and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with tortillas, the remaining beef mixture, and a final layer of cheese.
To freeze, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to cook, simply remove the plastic wrap and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes: You can use shredded chicken or turkey for a different protein option. For a vegetarian version, swap the beef for lentils or mushrooms and use cheese alternatives.
This vegetarian casserole is a delightful mix of pasta, spinach, and ricotta cheese, making it a great option for meatless meals. It’s also a wonderful way to sneak in some greens!
Cook 12 ounces of your favorite pasta according to package instructions and drain. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with 2 cups of fresh spinach (or 1 cup of frozen spinach, thawed and drained), 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of marinara sauce, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir everything together until well mixed, then transfer it to a greased baking dish. Top with an extra sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
To freeze, let the dish cool completely and cover it with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-50 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and bubbly.
Notes: You can add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added flavor. Feel free to mix in cooked sausage or chicken if you want to add some protein!
By preparing these delicious casseroles ahead of time, you’ll have quick, satisfying meals ready to go whenever you need them. Happy cooking!