Meal prepping is a fantastic way to save time and ensure you have delicious, home-cooked meals ready to go. Freezer meals are especially convenient because they allow you to prepare a batch of food in advance, store it, and simply heat it up when you’re ready to eat. Here are three diverse examples of make-ahead dinner freezer meals that are sure to please your palate and fit into your busy schedule.
This comforting casserole is perfect for a busy weeknight. It combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce, making it a family favorite.
To prepare this meal, start by cooking 2 cups of diced chicken breast in a skillet until golden brown. Steam 3 cups of broccoli florets until just tender. In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of sour cream, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and 1 can of cream of chicken soup. Combine the chicken and broccoli with the mixture, then pour everything into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with an additional cup of cheese and some breadcrumbs for crunch. Cover tightly with foil and label it with the date. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until bubbly.
Notes/Variations: You can add cooked rice or pasta to the casserole for an even heartier meal. Swap out the broccoli for spinach or mixed vegetables for variety.
Chili is a versatile dish that’s perfect for meal prep. This hearty beef and bean chili packs a punch of flavor and can be easily customized.
Begin by browning 1 pound of ground beef in a large pot. Once browned, drain excess fat and add 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 bell pepper, and 1 can of diced tomatoes. Stir in 2 cans of beans (like kidney and black beans), 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Allow the chili to cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers. Label them with the date and freeze for up to 6 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Notes/Variations: You can add corn for sweetness or jalapeños for heat. For a vegetarian option, replace the beef with lentils or more beans.
These colorful stuffed peppers are not only healthy but also visually appealing! They make for a great meal prep option that can be easily reheated.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off 4 bell peppers and remove the seeds. In a bowl, mix 2 cups of cooked quinoa, 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 2 cups of chopped spinach, and 1 can of diced tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs like oregano or basil. Stuff each pepper with the mixture and place them in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Allow them to cool before wrapping each pepper individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply remove the plastic wrap and microwave or bake straight from the freezer until heated through.
Notes/Variations: Feel free to switch out the feta for goat cheese or add cooked ground turkey for extra protein. You can also use different colored peppers for a vibrant presentation.
With these examples of make-ahead dinner freezer meals, you can enjoy delicious home-cooked dinners without the stress of daily cooking. Happy meal prepping!