20 Easy Freezer Meals Recipes for Busy Weeknights
Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen every night, only to have leftovers pile up and go to waste? Do you wish you had a way to meal prep without sacrificing flavor or quality? Look no further! In this article, we’ll share 20 easy freezer meals recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From comforting casseroles to quick and easy stir-fries, these recipes will help you get dinner on the table in no time.
With our collection of freezer-friendly meals, you can meal prep like a pro without sacrificing an ounce of flavor or quality. Simply prepare the ingredients, assemble the meal, and freeze until ready to bake or cook. Then, just thaw and serve – it’s that easy!
In this article, we’ll share 20 delicious recipes for freezer meals, including beef and vegetable stir-fry packs, chicken alfredo pasta bakes, slow cooker stews, and more. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent on-the-go, or simply someone who wants to make mealtime easier, these recipes are sure to please.
Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry Freezer Pack
This recipe makes a delicious and convenient stir-fry that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Simply thaw, cook, and serve over rice or noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large ziplock bag, combine beef strips, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Seal and massage to coat evenly.
2. Add mixed vegetables to the bag, making sure they’re coated with the marinade.
3. Label the bag with the date and contents.
4. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Cooking Time:
– Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or quickly thaw by submerging in cold water.
– Cook in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until beef is cooked through and vegetables are tender (about 5-7 minutes).
– Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
A comforting casserole that combines the richness of chicken alfredo with the simplicity of a pasta bake. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken alfredo mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese in a large bowl; season with salt, pepper, and basil.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Freezer Beef Stew
Slow Cooker Freezer Beef Stew Recipe
This hearty slow cooker stew is perfect for a chilly day or a busy weeknight meal. With tender beef, vegetables, and rich broth, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless beef stew meat
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine the beef, onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, water, tomato paste, and thyme. Pour over the beef mixture.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove from slow cooker and let cool before freezing.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Vegetable Lasagna Rolls
Transform classic lasagna into bite-sized rolls filled with a colorful medley of vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup mixed sautéed vegetables (such as spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, sautéed vegetables, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Lay a cooked lasagna noodle flat and spread about 1/4 cup of the vegetable mixture onto the noodle, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Roll the noodle tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat with remaining noodles and filling.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Freezer-Friendly Turkey Chili
This freezer-friendly turkey chili recipe is a perfect solution for busy households or meal prep enthusiasts. With its rich flavors and tender texture, it’s a comforting and satisfying dish that can be easily reheated whenever you need it.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Let cool completely before freezing.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells
This recipe combines the flavors of spinach, cheese, and pasta to create a creamy and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly ground nutmeg to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese over the stuffed shells.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Freezer Breakfast Burritos
Start your day off right with these freezer-friendly breakfast burritos, packed with scrambled eggs, savory sausage, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 tortillas
– 1 dozen large eggs
– 1 lb cooked sausage (such as chorizo or breakfast links), crumbled
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Scramble the eggs in a bowl and set aside.
2. Cook the sausage in a pan over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the cooked sausage to the scrambled eggs and mix well.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by spreading about 1/2 cup of the egg-sausage mixture onto each tortilla, followed by about 1 tablespoon of shredded cheese and 1 tablespoon of black beans.
6. Roll up the burritos tightly and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet or tray.
7. Place the burritos in the freezer and cook for up to 3 months.
Cooking Time: None needed, as these are frozen breakfast burritos! Simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for 20-30 seconds before serving.
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice
Savor the rich flavors of succulent shrimp smothered in a savory garlic butter sauce, served atop a bed of fluffy rice. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Serve shrimp on top of cooked rice. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready to sink your teeth into tender, fall-apart pork shoulder smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, all wrapped up in a soft bun. This recipe is perfect for casual gatherings or game-day eats.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
– 8 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with a lid.
5. Roast the pork for 6-8 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before shredding with two forks.
7. Add BBQ sauce to taste, mixing well with the shredded pork.
8. Split hamburger buns in half and fill with pulled pork mixture.
9. Serve immediately, topped with coleslaw if desired.
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Freezer-Friendly Chicken Enchiladas
A delicious and convenient Mexican-inspired dish that’s perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. These enchiladas freeze beautifully, making them an ideal option for busy families.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, shredded
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, and bell pepper until the vegetables are tender.
3. In a separate pot, heat enchilada sauce over medium heat.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom.
5. Arrange tortillas on top of the sauce, then fill with chicken mixture and sprinkle with cheese.
6. Roll up tortillas and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
7. Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Freezing Instructions:
1. Let the enchiladas cool completely before freezing.
2. Place the baking dish in a freezer-safe bag or wrap individually in plastic wrap.
3. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
4. To reheat, bake frozen enchiladas at 375°F for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry
This hearty and flavorful curry combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the comforting warmth of red lentils, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With its rich and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the sweet potatoes, lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Freezer Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for busy households. These freezer meatballs can be cooked from frozen and served with a rich marinara sauce, making them a quick and easy meal option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Let cool completely before freezing.
6. To cook from frozen, bake at 400°F (200°C) for an additional 10-12 minutes or until heated through. Serve with marinara sauce.
Cooking Time: 22-27 minutes
One-Pot Freezer Minestrone Soup
A hearty and comforting Italian-inspired soup that’s perfect for a chilly day or a quick meal prep. This recipe makes 6-8 servings, so feel free to freeze some for later!
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, carrots, and green beans)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables; cook until they’re tender, about 5 minutes more.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, pasta, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
6. Let cool, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags. Label and date.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Freezer-Friendly Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli
Make a batch of delicious ravioli that can be frozen and cooked at a later time. This recipe uses fresh spinach and ricotta cheese to create a creamy and flavorful filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well until combined.
2. Lay out a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place a tablespoon of the spinach-ricotta mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the ravioli.
5. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Place the filled ravioli on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each ravioli.
7. Cook immediately or freeze for up to 3 months. To cook, simply boil in salted water for 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This sweet and savory stir-fry combines juicy chicken breast with a medley of colorful vegetables, all wrapped up in a flavorful teriyaki sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas)
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add remaining oil, garlic, and mixed vegetables to the pan. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Return chicken to the pan and pour in teriyaki sauce. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Freezer Breakfast Egg Muffins
Start your day with a protein-packed breakfast that’s easy to prepare and can be enjoyed on-the-go. These freezer-friendly egg muffins are perfect for busy mornings when you need a nutritious breakfast in a hurry.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/4 cup diced onions
– 1/4 cup cooked sausage (such as chorizo or breakfast links), crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 whole wheat English muffins, toasted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and pepper.
3. Add shredded cheese, bell peppers, onions, and cooked sausage to the egg mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Divide the egg mixture evenly among the toasted English muffins.
5. Place the muffins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until eggs are set and muffins are golden brown.
7. Allow to cool completely before freezing.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Freezer Meal
A classic combination of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce, this freezer meal is a quick and easy solution for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen beef broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the frozen beef broth, soy sauce, and olive oil. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Divide the mixture into individual portions (about 1 1/2 cups each) and place in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
Cooking Time: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the microwave for 3-4 minutes or on the stovetop over low heat until hot and bubbly. Serve with your favorite sides.
Freezer-Friendly Mushroom Risotto
This recipe makes a delicious and comforting mushroom risotto that can be cooked from frozen in just a few minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook Arborio rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic in olive oil until tender.
3. Add wine (if using) and cook until reduced by half.
4. Stir in warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Remove from heat and stir in butter and Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Divide mixture into individual portions and freeze.
Cooking Time: From frozen, cook risotto in microwave for 3-4 minutes or on stovetop for 5-7 minutes. Reheat and serve with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas
These flavorful quesadillas are a perfect blend of Latin-inspired flavors, featuring tender black beans, sweet corn, and melted cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they’re sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, avocado, cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in black beans and corn kernels; cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate pan or griddle, place a tortilla and sprinkle with half of the cheese.
5. Spoon the bean and corn mixture over the cheese, leaving a small border.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until crispy and melted.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Freezer-Friendly Honey Garlic Salmon
This recipe yields a deliciously sweet and savory salmon dish that’s perfect for freezing and reheating on busy days. With its simplicity, it’s a great option for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together honey, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Brush the honey-garlic mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each fillet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to meal prep with ease! This collection of 20 easy freezer meals recipes is perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods like chicken alfredo pasta bake and beef stew, to international-inspired dishes like teriyaki chicken stir-fry and black bean quesadillas, there’s something for everyone. Plus, many of these recipes can be prepared ahead of time and simply thawed when you’re ready to cook. With a little planning, you’ll have delicious meals at your fingertips without the hassle of last-minute cooking.