Are you tired of throwing away half-eaten leftovers or reheating the same old meal for the umpteenth time? Do you wish you had a stash of delicious, home-cooked meals ready to go whenever your schedule gets busy? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering recipes that freeze perfectly, ensuring you can enjoy your favorite dishes at any time without sacrificing flavor or quality.
From comforting casseroles and savory soups to sweet treats and indulgent baked goods, our list has something for everyone. Whether you’re a busy professional, a family of four, or an individual looking to meal prep, these recipes will become your new best friends. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of freezer-friendly cooking!
Beef and vegetable lasagna
Classic Beef and Vegetable Lasagna Recipe
A hearty and flavorful lasagna recipe packed with ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and a blend of cheeses, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef, onion, garlic, spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers in a large skillet until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in marinara sauce and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create layers of lasagna noodles, meat mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken pot pie filling
A Classic Comfort: Chicken Pot Pie Filling Recipe
This rich and savory filling is the perfect base for a homemade chicken pot pie. With a combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and creamy sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in mixed vegetables, flour, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and cheese stuffed shells
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s sure to please, these spinach and cheese stuffed shells are a comforting twist on traditional pasta. With the perfect balance of creamy filling and tender shell pasta, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach and cheese mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade marinara sauce
Add a touch of Italy to your pasta dishes with this classic homemade marinara sauce recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll be enjoying the authentic flavor of Italy in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Banana walnut muffins
Banana Walnut Muffins Recipe
These moist and flavorful muffins are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. The combination of ripe bananas, crunchy walnuts, and sweet spices will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in walnuts.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Beef chili with beans
This classic chili recipe combines tender beef, fiber-rich beans, and rich flavors for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. With minimal prep time and a short cooking duration, you can enjoy this comforting dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves 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 beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the chili for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable and lentil soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, packed with nutritious vegetables and protein-rich lentils. Enjoy a warm and satisfying meal on a chilly day!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils, broth, carrots, celery, garlic, bell pepper, and thyme.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
3. Add diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-55 minutes
Blueberry almond pancakes
Start your day with a stack of fluffy pancakes infused with the sweetness of blueberries and the nutty flavor of almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, melted butter, and almond extract.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Gently fold in blueberries and sliced almonds (if using).
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 pancakes (depending on size)
Pumpkin spice bread
This moist and aromatic bread is perfect for fall gatherings or cozying up on a chilly morning. The combination of pumpkin puree, warm spices, and sweet brown sugar will transport you to a season of comfort and joy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and spices.
3. Add pumpkin puree, melted butter, egg, and walnuts (if using); stir until combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan; smooth top.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Turkey and wild rice casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of savory turkey, nutty wild rice, and creamy sauce. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked wild rice
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, frozen peas and carrots, cream of mushroom soup, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked wild rice, turkey mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Apple cinnamon oatmeal muffins
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of apples, and the heartiness of oatmeal. These moist and flavorful muffins are perfect for breakfast or a snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 1 medium apple)
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in diced apples and nuts (if using).
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Chicken enchiladas with green sauce
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this recipe for creamy chicken enchiladas smothered in a tangy green sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering, these tender tortillas are filled with shredded chicken, onions, and cheese, then baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup green enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Shred the chicken and cook with diced onion and minced garlic until heated through.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
4. Assemble enchiladas by filling tortillas with chicken mixture, rolling up tightly, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour green enchilada sauce over the top of the enchiladas and sprinkle with cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carrot and ginger soup
This vibrant orange soup is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, ideal for a cozy evening or a comforting pick-me-up. With the natural sweetness of carrots and the zing of fresh ginger, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh herbs, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chopped carrots and grated ginger.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream for added richness.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate chip cookie dough balls
Sweet Treat Alert: Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Balls!
These bite-sized treats are perfect for satisfying your cookie cravings without the hassle of baking a full batch. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these chewy, chocolatey goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, powdered sugar, and butter. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add in chocolate chips until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the dough to firm up.
5. Scoop out small balls of dough, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 balls.
Cooking Time: None! These bite-sized treats are best enjoyed straight from the fridge or at room temperature.
Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Balls!
Beef and barley stew
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful stew, perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering. This classic recipe combines tender beef, nutty barley, and rich broth to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add broth, water, barley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef to pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Broccoli and cheddar quiche
This quiche recipe combines the creaminess of cheddar cheese with the nutty flavor of broccoli, perfect for a brunch gathering or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a skillet, sauté broccoli, onion, and garlic until tender. Add butter and stir until melted.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
5. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the pie crust, followed by the broccoli mixture.
6. Pour in the egg mixture and smooth out the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Peanut butter banana smoothie packs
A deliciously healthy and refreshing snack or breakfast on-the-go, this peanut butter banana smoothie pack is a perfect blend of creamy and crunchy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a tasty treat that’s packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup frozen berries (such as blueberries or strawberries)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the banana, peanut butter, and Greek yogurt.
2. Add the frozen berries and honey to the blender and blend until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
4. Pour into a container or pack in a reusable bag for on-the-go snacking.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and go!
Spaghetti and meatballs
Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
This beloved Italian-American dish is a staple of comfort food, featuring tender spaghetti tossed with juicy meatballs and rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
4. Form meat mixture into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake meatballs for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. In a large saucepan, heat crushed tomatoes over medium-low heat. Add baked meatballs and simmer for 10-15 minutes to combine flavors.
7. Toss cooked spaghetti with tomato sauce and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet potato and black bean burritos
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burritos: A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional burritos!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, salsa, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cooked black beans to the skillet; stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by spooning the sweet potato mixture, black bean mixture, and any desired toppings onto each tortilla.
6. Roll up burritos tightly; serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Lemon poppy seed scones
Lemon Poppy Seed Scones Recipe
These bright and citrusy scones are perfect for a springtime breakfast or brunch. With the warmth of lemon zest and the crunch of poppy seeds, they’re sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until dough comes together.
6. Fold in poppy seeds.
7. Turn dough onto a floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together.
8. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick.
9. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter to create shapes.
10. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each scone.
11. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Summary
Discover 20 delicious recipes that freeze well, perfect for meal prep or leftovers. From comforting classics like beef and vegetable lasagna, chicken pot pie filling, and beef chili with beans, to sweet treats like banana walnut muffins, blueberry almond pancakes, and lemon poppy seed scones. This collection also includes international inspirations like turkey and wild rice casserole, chicken enchiladas with green sauce, and sweet potato and black bean burritos. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking for convenient meals, these freezer-friendly recipes are sure to become new favorites.
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