Everyday Cooking

Everyday Cooking

30 Freezer Meals You Can Make Ahead

Updated on October 17, 2018 by Food Network Canada Editors

Skip the frozen aisle in the grocery store for these healthful meals you can make from scratch ahead of time. From hearty slow cooker beef stew recipes to comforting pasta chicken casseroles, discover 30 freezer-friendly dinners that are easy and healthy so you can feel good about serving them to your family on busy nights.

  • Grandma Mary’s Pierogies
     
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    Grandma Mary’s Pierogies

    <p>Intimidated by the thought of making from-scratch pierogies? This recipe is quick and easy, and won’t fail to impress. 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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/grandma-marys-perogies-with-potato-cheese-filling/16335/" target="_blank"><strong>Grandma Mary’s Pierogies</strong></a></p>
  • Shepherd's Pie
     
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    Shepherd's Pie

    <p>Comfort food doesn’t get more comforting than the time-honoured shepherd’s pie, with savoury ground beef (or, if you’re a purist, ground lamb) topped by fluffy mashed potatoes baked until a crusty golden-brown crust is formed on top. Alton Brown’s recipe for this culinary classic is the perfect dinner for a chilly winter night.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/alton-browns-shepherds-pie/15959/" target="_blank"><strong>Alton Brown’s Shepherd’s Pie</strong></a></p>
  • Lasagna Rolls
     
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    Lasagna Rolls

    <p>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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lasagna-rolls/15475/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Lasagna Rolls</a></strong></p>
  • Chicken Pot Pie
     
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    Chicken Pot Pie

    <p>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. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-chicken-pot-pie/15430/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten’s Chicken Pot Pie</strong></a></p>
  • Hearty Vegetarian Chili
     
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    Hearty Vegetarian Chili

    <p>Fresh vegetables makes a lighter, meatless bean chili that can be made on the stove top 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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/hearty-vegetarian-chili/14326/" target="_blank"><strong>Hearty Vegetarian Chili</strong></a></p>
  • Goat Cheese Enchiladas
     
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    Goat Cheese Enchiladas

    <p>Casserole season wouldn’t be complete without comfort food enchiladas, this version made vegetarian with tangy goat cheese. To save time, use a pre-made enchilada sauce, or prepare a double batch of Bobby’s to keep in the freezer for an even quicker meal next time.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/goat-cheese-enchiladas/16824/" target="_blank"><strong>Bobby Flay's Goat Cheese Enchiladas</strong></a></p>
  • Rachael Ray's Spinach and Mushroom-Stuffed Chicken Breast
     
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    Rachael Ray's Spinach and Mushroom-Stuffed Chicken Breast

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

    <p>This wholesome lentil soup will ensure you get your daily intake of veggies even when the fridge is empty. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lentil-vegetable-soup/10527/"><strong>Lentil Vegetable Soup</strong></a></p>
  • Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells
     
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    Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells

    <p>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 pasta shells, which are then coated in marinara sauce and smothered with mozzarella before being baked. It's a chicken Parmesan pasta bake the whole family will love.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-parmesan-stuffed-shells/21359/" target="_blank"><strong>Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells</strong></a></p>
  • Turkey Meatloaf
     
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    Turkey Meatloaf

    <p>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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-turkey-meatloaf/15408/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten's Turkey Meatloaf</strong></a></p>
  • Chicken and Rice Paprikash Casserole
     
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    Chicken and Rice Paprikash Casserole

    <p>A one-pot dish that’s filled with tender chicken, wholesome brown rice, red peppers and smoky, Hungarian paprika. This delicious meal freezes well, making it a perfect make-ahead recipe.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-and-rice-paprikash-casserole/18197/" target="_blank">Chicken and Rice Paprikash Casserole</a></strong></p>
  • Wafflet
     
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    Wafflet

    <p>Waffles get lean and go gluten-free with craving-crusher eggs, and protein-filled ham and cheese. Make them ahead, freeze and pop in the microwave on busy weekdays. Include your favourite veggies and herbs for a flavour-packed, nutritous morning meal.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/wafflet/18313/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Wafflet</strong></a></p>
  • Paleo Turkey-Stuffed Peppers
     
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    Paleo Turkey-Stuffed Peppers

    <p>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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/paleo-turkey-stuffed-peppers/16964/" target="_blank"><strong>Paleo Turkey-Stuffed Peppers</strong></a></p>
  • Homemade Frozen Fish Sticks
     
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    Homemade Frozen Fish Sticks

    <p>Skip the freezer aisle and make your own fresh and crispy fish sticks. Make a double batch to stash in your freezer, so you can bake up a healthy dinner in just a few minutes.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/homemade-frozen-fish-sticks/18382/" target="_blank"><strong>Homemade Frozen Fish Sticks</strong></a></p>
  • King Ranch Chicken
     
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    King Ranch Chicken

    <p>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 it, pop it in the oven until golden and bubbly, and pair with a simple green salad.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/king-ranch-chicken-/22013/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's King Ranch Chicken</a></strong></p>
  • White Bean and Chicken Chili
     
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    White Bean and Chicken Chili

    <p>A lighter, springtime chili recipe that combines lean chicken and spring greens all in one family-friendly, one-pot dinner. Take leftovers to work for lunch, or freeze half for a complete dinner in the coming weeks.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/white-bean-and-chicken-chili/15916/" target="_blank"><strong>Giada De Laurentiis' White Bean and Chicken Chili</strong></a></p>
  • Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables
     
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    Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables

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

    <p>A perennial, cold-weather comfort food. Make a double batch of this hearty, freezer-friendly soup, so you’ll always have a bowl on hand when you are feeling under the weather.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-rice-soup/15639/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman’s Chicken and Rice Soup</strong></a></p>
  • Chicken Tortilla Casserole
     
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    Chicken Tortilla Casserole

    <p>We can’t get enough of Ree Drummond’s Mexican inspired lasagna. Layers of cheese, salsa verde, rice, corn and beans and juicy chicken breast come together to make a comforting make-ahead dish.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-tortilla-casserole/17686/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman’s Chicken Tortilla Casserole</strong></a></p>
  • Freezer Chicken Enchilada Lasagna
     
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    Freezer Chicken Enchilada Lasagna

    <p>Alton Brown takes an Italian classic and gives it a Mexican makeover with this chicken enchilada lasagna. Freeze this directly in the casserole dish for a no-prep weeknight dinner or make individual portions for grab and go meals through the week.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/enchilada-lasagna/15938/" target="_blank"><strong>Alton Brown’s Chicken Enchilada Lasagna</strong></a></p>
  • All-Purpose Meatballs
     
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    All-Purpose Meatballs

    <p>Planning ahead for the holidays? This freezer-friendly, large-batch meatball recipe will do the trick. You can employ these as an appetizer, toss into weeknight pasta or tuck into lunchtime sandwiches. It’s party- and meal-planning in one!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/all-purpose-meatballs/16491/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's All-Purpose Meatballs</strong></a></p>
  • Chicken Tacos
     
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    Chicken Tacos

    <p>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. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-taco-meat/16494/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Taco Meat</a></strong></p>
  • Stuffed Cabbage
     
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    Stuffed Cabbage

    <p>These cabbage rolls are the ultimate cold-weather comfort food. Beautiful green cabbage 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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/stuffed-cabbage/17332/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten’s Stuffed Cabbage</strong></a></p>
  • Black Bean Rainbow Burger
     
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    Black Bean Rainbow Burger

    <p>These healthy, yet filling, black bean burgers can be dressed up any way you love, be that minimalistic 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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/black-bean-rainbow-burger/14720/" target="_blank"><strong>Black Bean Rainbow Burger</strong></a></p>
  • Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese Casserole
     
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    Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese Casserole

    <p>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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/butter-chicken-mac-and-cheese-casserole/19828/" target="_blank"><strong>Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese Casserole</strong></a></p>
  • Slow Cooker Irish Stew
     
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    Slow Cooker Irish Stew

    <p>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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/slow-cooker-irish-stew-is-a-restored-classic/" target="_blank"><strong>Slow Cooker Irish Stew</strong></a></p>
  • Slow Cooker Beef Stew
     
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    Slow Cooker Beef Stew

    <p>When you're craving something warm and comforting, this delicious stew is the answer. What makes this recipe the one to turn to is that it's full of tender morsels of beef and veggies, made easy with the help of your slow cooker.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-canadian-stout-and-alberta-beef-stew/20790/" target="_blank"><strong>Slow Cooker Stout and Alberta Beef Stew</strong></a></p>
  • Slow Cooker Thai Red Curry
     
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    Slow Cooker Thai Red Curry

    <p>Bring the warm flavours of Thailand into your kitchen with this comforting, curry soup. Thai red curry paste, onion, ginger and garlic create an aromatic base of flavour that is tempered with creamy coconut milk. Chicken, broccoli and carrots are simmered slowly for a hands-off meal that is ready when you arrive home. No need for take-out!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/slow-cooker-thai-red-curry-soup/" target="_blank"><strong>Slow Cooker Thai Red Curry Chicken Soup</strong></a></p>
  • Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
     
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    Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

    <p>No breadcrumbs for your pot pie? No problem! Dig into your freezer and turn those tater tots into a crispy chicken pot pie topping with just a quick whizz in the food processor.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-and-tater-tot-casserole/21728/" target="_blank">Chicken and Tater Tot Casserole</a></strong></p>
  • Winter Minestrone
     
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    Winter Minestrone

    <p>Minestrone is a classic Italian soup ideal for chilly days. Pancetta and beef stock add lots of flavour, while vegetables — including chard, cannellini beans and tomatoes — provide plenty of colour. Top with chopped parsley for a little taste of summer in the winter months.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href =“https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/winter-minestrone/17267/" target="_blank"><strong>Giada De Laurentiis' Winter Minestrone</strong></a></p>
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