35 Easy Freezer Meals You Can Make Ahead (And Devour Later)

Updated on March 15, 2020 by Brittany Devenyi

This roster of lip-smacking meals to make from scratch in advance also happen to freeze beautifully. From hearty vegetarian curry to comforting pasta casseroles, discover freezer-friendly dinners that are easy, healthy and incredibly satisfying – in both flavour and convenience!

1 of 36

Slow-Cooker Freezer-Pack Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry

This is the ideal slow-cooker meal: healthy, unbelievably flavourful and, most importantly, freezer-friendly. <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/best-cauliflower-recipes/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Cauliflower is the star</a>, while chickpeas and coconut milk make the vegetarian dish hearty and satisfying. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-freezer-pack-cauliflower-and-chickpea-curry/22269/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Slow-Cooker Freezer-Pack Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry</a>
2 of 36

Goat Cheese Enchiladas

Comforting enchiladas are one of the best casserole dishes out there, especially this cheesy vegetarian version. To save time, use a pre-made enchilada sauce before freezing for an incredibly satisfying supper in a pinch. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/goat-cheese-enchiladas/16824/" target="_blank">Bobby Flay's Goat Cheese Enchiladas</a>
3 of 36

Bobby Flay's Falafel

Falafels make everything better: salads, pitas, hearty grain bowls – you name it. The little vegan protein bites belong in your freezer, so you have them on hand to dress up any meal. PS, these babies are way better than the store-bought variety, we promise. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/bobby-flays-falafel/20290/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bobby Flay's Falafel</a>
4 of 36

Grandma Mary’s Pierogies

Intimidated by the thought of making from-scratch pierogies? This recipe is quick and easy. Keep the pierogies in the freezer and pair them with a side of sour cream for a make-ahead meal that beats takeout any day. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/grandma-marys-perogies-with-potato-cheese-filling/16335/" target="_blank">Grandma Mary’s Pierogies</a>
5 of 36

Immune-Boosting Bone Broth, Chicken and Vegetable Soup

You never know when a<a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/foods-soothe-sore-throat/" rel="noopener" target="_blank"> cold or flu will strike</a>, which is why you should always have this immune-boosting soup on hand (AKA in your freezer). Packed with chicken, veggies, ginger and turmeric, it's incredibly energizing and delicious. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/best-healthy-soup-recipe/" target="_blank">Immune-Boosting Bone Broth, Chicken and Vegetable Soup</a>
6 of 36

Shepherd's Pie

Comfort food doesn’t get better than the time-honoured shepherd’s pie, with savoury ground beef (or if you’re a purist, ground lamb) topped off with <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/entertaining/blog/perfect-mashed-potato-tips/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">fluffy mashed potatoes</a> baked until a golden-brown crust is formed. Alton Brown’s recipe for this culinary classic is the perfect dinner for a chilly night. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/alton-browns-shepherds-pie/15959/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Alton Brown’s Shepherd’s Pie</a>
7 of 36

Mini Whole Wheat Chicken Pot Pies

Spend an hour on Sunday prepping these tasty and portable pot-pie delights. They freeze easy and make for a perfect snack, lunch or dinner. Any meal, really! Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mini-whole-wheat-chicken-pot-pies/18954/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Mini Whole Wheat Chicken Pot Pies</a>
8 of 36

Baked Ziti

When The Pioneer Woman creates a cheesy, <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/30-must-try-casserole-recipes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">hearty pasta casserole</a>, we always want in. This baked ziti recipe feeds at least 12, and can be frozen and saved for emergency nights when cooking is just not in the cards. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/baked-ziti/19122/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ree Drummond's Baked Ziti</a>
9 of 36

Tortellini Soup

If you're the type of person who doesn't consider soup a satisfying meal, just add pasta. It's that easy. The combo of turkey sausage, cheese tortellini and spinach make for a super filling and delicious meal that does great in the freezer. Plus, it only takes 40 minutes to make 8 serving's worth. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tortellini-soup/13410/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Tortellini Soup</a>
10 of 36

West African Spicy Peanut Chicken Wings

Once you experience the flavour sensations that make up this West African chicken dish, you'll wish you discovered the recipe sooner. The good news: you can fry up the wings the night before, freeze them, and double fry the next day for extra-crispy perfection. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/west-african-spicy-peanut-chicken-wings/19613/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">West African Spicy Peanut Chicken Wings</a>
11 of 36

Big-Batch Meatballs and Red Sauce

Pasta is a cinch to cook – it's the sauce and other accompaniments that require a little extra love. So whip up a giant batch of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/mouth-watering-meatball-recipes/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">homemade meatballs</a> and tomato sauce in advance to keep in your freezer, and reheat with spaghetti noodles the next time you're faced with a jam-packed weeknight. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/big-batch-meatballs-and-red-sauce/22104/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Big-Batch Meatballs and Red Sauce</a>
12 of 36

Lasagna Rolls

Lasagna noodles are an easy stand-in for cannelloni in this stunning recipe that features spinach, ricotta, prosciutto and alternating ribbons of marinara and béchamel sauce. Plus, you can make a double batch and freeze for later. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lasagna-rolls/15475/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Lasagna Rolls</a>
13 of 36

Vegan Corn Zucchini Fritters with Jalapeno Cream

Fritters and patties are another staple food item that always keep well frozen. These plant-based fritters can be enjoyed on their own, in a salad or as a <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/best-veggie-burger-recipes/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">veggie burger</a>, complete with all the fixings! Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/vegan-corn-zucchini-fritters-with-jalapeno-cream/36680/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Vegan Corn Zucchini Fritters with Jalapeno Cream</a>
14 of 36

Chicken Pot Pie

Loaded with veggies, protein and flavour, this flaky pot pie has all the makings of a superstar supper. The best part? You can pretend you whipped it up in minutes, and it won't be long before you've earned superstar status, too. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-chicken-pot-pie/15430/" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Chicken Pot Pie</a>
15 of 36

Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells

A pasta lover's version of a favourite meal that’s on the table in an hour. A chicken Parmesan-inspired filling is stuffed into jumbo shells, which are then coated in marinara sauce and smothered with mozzarella before being baked to perfection. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-parmesan-stuffed-shells/21359/" target="_blank">Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells</a>
16 of 36

Hearty Vegetarian Chili

Fresh vegetables make for a lighter, meatless bean chili that can be thrown together on the stove or in your slow-cooker. Get a helping hand from pantry staples, including beans and tomatoes, for a healthy meal you’ll revisit all year long (freezer or otherwise). Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/hearty-vegetarian-chili/14326/" target="_blank">Hearty Vegetarian Chili</a>
17 of 36

Turkey Meatloaf

Having frozen meatloaf on hand makes it easy to serve up a delicious protein-packed dish in a pinch. Ina Garten promises this turkey meatloaf will bring delicious, healthy flavour to the dinner table. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-turkey-meatloaf/15408/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Turkey Meatloaf</a>
18 of 36

Chicken and Rice Paprikash Casserole

A one-pot dish that’s filled with tender chicken, wholesome brown rice, red peppers and smoky, Hungarian paprika. This delicious meal freezes like a dream for the perfect make-ahead dish. See here for more of our favourite <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/best-freezer-friendly-chicken-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">freezer-friendly chicken recipes</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-and-rice-paprikash-casserole/18197/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Chicken and Rice Paprikash Casserole</a>
19 of 36

Chicken, Avocado Cream and Quinoa Salad-in-a-Jar

While we don't recommend freezing all these ingredients (for obvious, soggy reasons) you can freeze a few servings worth of cooked quinoa for a nutritious meal shortcut. Then simply assemble this <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/meal-sized-salads/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">meal-worthy salad</a> for a quick dinner that'll feed the entire family. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-avocado-cream-and-quinoa-salad-in-a-jar/21729/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Chicken, Avocado Cream and Quinoa Salad-in-a-Jar</a>
20 of 36

Homemade Frozen Fish Sticks

Skip the freezer aisle and make your own fresh and crispy fish sticks so you can bake up a healthy dinner in just a few minutes. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/homemade-frozen-fish-sticks/18382/" target="_blank">Homemade Frozen Fish Sticks</a>
21 of 36

Paleo Turkey-Stuffed Peppers

Turkey provides lean, perfectly spiced protein to these grain-free stuffed peppers. Make extra to freeze and reheat for when you’re craving something light, but packed with bold taste. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/paleo-turkey-stuffed-peppers/16964/" target="_blank">Paleo Turkey-Stuffed Peppers</a>
22 of 36

King Ranch Chicken

 Take some time out of your weekend to assemble this cheesy chicken casserole, and then freeze it for a head start on a weeknight dinner. When you're ready to serve, pop it in the oven until golden and bubbly and pair with a simple green salad. Find out <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/how-to-prep-slow-cooker-freezer-meals-for-busy-nights/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">how to prep slow cooker freezer meals to help you get through the week</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/king-ranch-chicken-/22013/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's King Ranch Chicken</a>
23 of 36

White Bean and Chicken Chili

A lighter <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/10-best-chili-recipes-to-feed-a-crowd/">chili recipe</a> that combines lean chicken and spring greens all in one family-friendly pot of goodness. Simply reheat on the stove from frozen and devour to make chaotic weeknights a little less hectic. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/white-bean-and-chicken-chili/15916/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Giada De Laurentiis' White Bean and Chicken Chili</a>
24 of 36

Spinach and Mushroom-Stuffed Chicken Breast

A new presentation transforms everyday chicken into a special-occasion affair. Spinach and mushrooms tucked inside keep this lean protein moist and succulent, while adding a rich, meaty taste. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/spinach-and-mushroom-stuffed-chicken-breasts/18175/" target="_blank">Rachael Ray's Spinach and Mushroom-Stuffed Chicken Breast</a>
25 of 36

Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables

Try doubling the recipe on this simple casserole dinner for a meal that keeps on giving. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/baked-penne-with-roasted-vegetables/15496/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables</a>
26 of 36

Chicken Tortilla Casserole

We can’t get enough of Ree Drummond’s Mexican inspired lasagna. Layers of cheese, salsa verde, rice, corn, beans and juicy chicken breast come together to make a comforting make-ahead dish. If you love this dish, then be sure to check out <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/photos/pioneer-woman-best-tex-mex/#!quesadillas-shrimp-pepepers" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman’s best Tex-Mex recipes</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-tortilla-casserole/17686/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman’s Chicken Tortilla Casserole</a>
27 of 36

Stuffed Cabbage

These cabbage rolls are a hearty and ultra-tasty comfort food. Beautiful green leaves are stuffed with an onion-and-thyme flavoured mixture of ground beef and rice and topped with tangy tomato sauce. You’ll want to double or triple this recipe because it freezes so well. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/stuffed-cabbage/17332/" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Stuffed Cabbage</a>
28 of 36

Slow Cooker Irish Stew

Take the guesswork out of making Irish stew and pop everything in a slow cooker to tenderize and meld. This recipe takes little time to prep, and your slow cooker handles the rest. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/slow-cooker-irish-stew-is-a-restored-classic/" target="_blank">Slow Cooker Irish Stew</a>
29 of 36

Black Bean Rainbow Burger

These healthy, yet filling, black bean burgers can be dressed up any way you love, be that with ketchup, mustard and relish, or dressed to the nines with hummus, tomato, pickles and grilled onions. These patties are versatile, freezer-friendly and good for you, too. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/black-bean-rainbow-burger/14720/" target="_blank">Black Bean Rainbow Burger</a>
30 of 36

Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese Casserole

The rich, spicy flavour of Indian butter chicken is combined with the creamy goodness of mac ‘n’ cheese for a baked casserole that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/butter-chicken-mac-and-cheese-casserole/19828/" target="_blank">Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese Casserole</a>
31 of 36

Chicken Tacos

Ree Drummond's recipe for chicken taco meat is easy to make in big batches over the weekend and freeze into dinner-ready portions. After a long day, this tasty chicken can be used for tacos, burritos or pizza. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-taco-meat/16494/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Taco Meat</a>
32 of 36

Chicken and Rice Soup

Soup is forever a perennial, cold-weather comfort food. Make a double batch of this hearty, freezer-friendly dish, so you’ll always have a bowl on hand to get you through the chilly season. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-rice-soup/15639/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman’s Chicken and Rice Soup</a>
33 of 36
34 of 36

Instant Pot Shrimp Biriyani

Make this easy and spice-filled Indian inspired meal in one with virtually no clean-up and store it in the freezer for future weeknight dinners. To avoid overcooking the shrimp, store and reheat them separately and add them back to the rice before serving. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-indian-shrimp-biriyani/22688/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instant Pot Indian Shrimp Biriyani</a>
35 of 36

Vegan Crabless Cakes

For a more creative vegan freezer meal, try your hand at these simple crab-cake inspired patties, featuring artichoke in place of seafood. For the tastiest results, pair with a homemade dairy-free horseradish dill tartar sauce. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/vegan-crabless-cakes-with-horseradish-dill-tartar-sauce-34500/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Vegan Crabless Cakes</a>
36 of 36

Baked Rigatoni with Sausage

 Bake up this comforting, melty masterpiece straight out of the oven, or stock up the freezer as a make-ahead dish for future guests. For more inspiration, check out these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/giada-de-laurentiis-delicious-italian-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">delicious Italian dishes from Giada de Laurentiis</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/baked-rigatoni-with-sausage/22970/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Giada de Laurentiis' Baked Rigatoni with Sausage</a>
Start Over

Next Gallery