Hi friends! We all know that life can get hectic, and sometimes it feels like all of our free time is taken up by meal prepping and cooking. That’s why I love having an arsenal of already-cooked freezer meals on hand. Not only do they help me save time, but they also make it easier for me to eat healthily, no matter how busy my schedule is.
What exactly are freezer meals?
Already cooked freezer meals are pre-cooked, then frozen in family-size or individual portions for later use. They can be anything from casseroles to burritos to meatballs, and are great for when you don’t have the time or energy to cook. All you have to do is thaw them and pop them in the Crockpot or the Instant Pot, and you’ll have a tasty, nourishing meal in minutes!
How do you make freezer meals?
Making already-cooked freezer meals is quite simple! All you need is a few basic ingredients (such as meat, vegetables, cheese, rice/pasta, etc.), some sturdy gallon-sized freezer bags (not those flimsy sandwich bags!) or containers, and a bit of time.
You can make your own recipes or sign up for full access to our recipe database and more!
When making your own recipes, start by pre-cooking the ingredients that take longer to cook (like meats). Then assemble them into individual portions in your freezer bags or containers before freezing them. Ensure that each container has enough space for the food to expand when frozen—about 1/4 inch should do it! Once everything is packed in the containers/bags, put them in the freezer, and voila – now you have enough delicious pre-made meals for days!
What are some easy recipes for already cooked freezer meals?
If you’re looking for some easy freezer meals recipes, here are some of my go-to favorites:
- Instant Pot Vegan Burrito Bowls – a hearty dish of rice and beans in a delicious enchilada sauce is perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs – only take minutes to make ahead of time; just thaw and reheat when ready to eat!
- Paleo Chicken Enchiladas Verdes – cheesy enchiladas come together quickly with leftover chicken breast; just assemble ahead of time, then freeze until ready to use.
How long do already cooked freezer meals last?
Stored correctly, most frozen meals will last up to 4 months in the freezer without losing flavor or texture. So if you’re looking for healthy options during those hectic weeks ahead, stocking up on some pre-made foods beforehand can help save time down the line!
Final Thoughts
Overall I think having an arsenal of already cooked freezer meals is one of the best things any busy person can do! It saves time from having to cook every day and helps keep us healthy by providing us with nutritious options during our busiest weeks. So if you’re short on free time but still want delicious home-cooked food every day, then give make-ahead freezer meals a try. They’ll definitely be worth your while!
