27 make-ahead and freeze recipes to make now and enjoy later

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Imagine having a home-cooked meal ready to heat and eat after a long day at work or a busy weekend running errands. With these 27 versatile recipes, you can prepare wholesome dishes in advance, freeze them, and then simply reheat when you need a tasty and stress-free meal.

From hearty stews to delightful desserts, these freezer-friendly favorites will save you time and satisfy your cravings, all while keeping your kitchen life convenient and enjoyable!

Top view of a bowl of Guinness beef stew with a black checked napkin and a spoon.
Beef Stew. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Slow Cooker Chili

Chili in the crock pot with a wooden spoon.
Slow Cooker Chili. Photo credit: Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Chili made in the slow cooker is a soul-satisfying meal that tastes even better after freezing and reheating. The flavors meld together beautifully, and the texture of the meat remains perfect.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chili

Vegetable Soup

Two bowls of instant pot vegetable soup in front of the pressure cooker.
Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

A classic for good reason, Vegetable Soup freezes beautifully, retaining the fresh flavors and nutrients of its various veggies. Prep a big batch, portion, and freeze, and you’ve got a wholesome, satisfying meal ready to be heated at a moment’s notice.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Soup

Mini Lasagna Cups

Mini lasagna cups cut open to show the insides.
Mini Lasagna Cups. Photo credit: Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Mini Lasagna Cups are the perfect bite-sized way to enjoy a classic comfort food. You create individual servings that are easy to freeze and reheat for a quick meal later. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a party appetizer, or a freezer-friendly meal prep, these little delights are a fantastic solution!
Get the Recipe: Mini Lasagna Cups

Instant Pot Marinara Sauce

Jar of marinara sauce made with fresh tomatoes next to an Instant Pot.
Instant Pot Marinara Sauce. Photo credit: Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Make a large batch of this Instant Pot Marinara Sauce, and you’ll have the foundation for countless Italian dishes just a thaw away! Its fresh tomato goodness, combined with herbs, is only enhanced when frozen and reheated.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Marinara Sauce

Spinach Frittata

Spinach frittata in a cast iron skillet with garlic scapes in the background.
Spinach Frittata. Photo credit: Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Spinach Frittata is a classic and versatile dish that’s just as delicious after being frozen and reheated. The combination of tender spinach, fluffy eggs, and cheese comes together in a nourishing meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Frittata

Amish Cinnamon Bread

Loaf of cinnamon bread sliced to show the ribbon of cinnamon inside.
Amish Cinnamon Bread. Photo credit: Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Sweet and fragrant, Amish Cinnamon Bread is a delightful treat that you can freeze and enjoy later with the same fresh-baked taste. Its moist texture and cinnamon swirl keep well in the freezer, making it a wonderful breakfast or dessert option.
Get the Recipe: Amish Cinnamon Bread

Meatball Soup

Top view of a bowl of meatball soup.
Meatball Soup. Photo credit: Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Meatball Soup is a satisfying meal that transitions wonderfully from pot to freezer to bowl. The meatballs maintain their texture, and the rich broth keeps its flavors intact, allowing you to enjoy a comforting bowl whenever the craving hits.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Soup

Beef Stew

Top view of a bowl of Guinness beef stew with a black checked napkin and a spoon.
Beef Stew. Photo credit: Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This rich and hearty Beef Stew is perfect for freezing and having a flavorful meal ready on demand! The robust flavors and tender chunks of beef meld together in the freezer, making it just as delicious when reheated.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew

Banana Coconut Muffins

Stack of banana coconut muffins on a white plate with chocolate chips scattered around.
Banana Coconut Muffins. Photo credit: Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

The tropical flavors of banana and coconut shine in these muffins that are freezer-friendly and perfect for breakfast on the go. Freezing locks in the moisture, so they’ll taste just as fresh when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Get the Recipe: Banana Coconut Muffins

Air Fryer Egg Cups

Air fryer egg cups cut open to show the insides.
Air Fryer Egg Cups. Photo credit: Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These protein-packed Air Fryer Egg Cups are not only tasty but freeze exceptionally well. They reheat evenly, maintaining their fluffy texture and delicious flavors, ensuring a nutritious breakfast is always ready when you need it.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Egg Cups

Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken

Slow cooker chicken with BBQ sauce in a crock pot with a spoon.
Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken. Photo credit: Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

The juiciness and flavors of Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken are locked in when you freeze it, making it an excellent choice for those busy days. Whether you’re craving sandwiches, salads, or tacos, having this versatile protein ready to go is a lifesaver.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken

Air Fryer Meatballs

Plate of frozen meatballs with toothpicks sticking out of them.
Air Fryer Meatballs. Photo credit: Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Air Fryer Meatballs are not only quick and tasty but also freeze like a dream. Their firm exterior and juicy inside are preserved in the freezer, making them ready to toss into a sauce or enjoy as appetizers. You’ll love having these on hand for easy entertaining or weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Meatballs

Peanut Butter Bread

Slice peanut butter bread on a cutting board with a jar of raspberry jam and knife.
Peanut Butter Bread. Photo credit: Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

If you’re a peanut butter lover, this bread is a must-freeze item! Freezing doesn’t compromise its moist and nutty goodness, and it’ll be as if it was freshly baked once you warm it up. Great for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Bread

Easy Egg Sausage & Hashbrown Casserole

A hashbrown casserole in a white baking dish.
Easy Egg Sausage & Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Prepare this family-favorite freezer casserole to have on hand next time you are in a time crunch or just don’t feel like cooking.
Get the Recipe: Easy Egg Sausage & Hashbrown Casserole

Chicken Tinga

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Packed with flavor and so good in burritos and tacos or loaded onto nachos, Chicken Tinga is the perfect Instant Pot recipe when you’re craving big and bold flavors!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Blackberry Muffins

Blackberry muffins broken in half to show the berries.
Blackberry Muffins. Photo credit: Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Stash these sweet and tangy Blackberry Muffins in your freezer, and you’ve got a delightful breakfast or snack ready in no time. They maintain their moist crumb and fruity flavor, bringing a taste of summer to your table whenever you wish.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Muffins

Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu

Slow cooker lamb ragu on pappardelle noodles topped with parmesan cheese and parsley.
Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

This slow cooker lamb ragu is the ultimate Italian comfort food and freezes so well! The lamb is braised for hours to create a delicious, rich sauce. Serve over your favorite pasta for a warming dinner.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu

Wonton-Less Soup

Wonton-less soup in a black bowl.
Wonton-less Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This low-carb Wonton-less Soup is sooo good, you’ll never miss the carbs! Loaded with flavor, this soup is an easy fix and a perfect choice for meal prepping. It reheats and freezes well, so that you can have a bowlful of goodness whenever you’re in the mood for it!
Get the Recipe: Wonton-Less Soup

Easy Black Bean Burger

A black bean burger in a burger bap with relish oozing out over it.
Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Looking for a freezer-friendly meal that’s both delicious and nutritious? Our Easy Black Bean Burger recipe is a perfect choice. These homemade veggie burgers can be prepared in advance and stored in the freezer for quick and convenient meals. Packed with protein-rich black beans and flavorful spices, these burgers are a satisfying and healthy option for any time of the day.
Get the Recipe: Easy Black Bean Burger

Pepper Jack Sausage Balls

A pepper jack sausage ball skewered with a toothpick.
Pepper Jack Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Pepper Jack Sausage Balls are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or breakfast that are low in carbs and can be prepared in just 30 minutes! Requiring just 5 ingredients, you can make them and have a fun party dish or weekday breakfast ready to serve with minimal time spent in the kitchen!
Get the Recipe: Pepper Jack Sausage Balls

Corn Fritters

Image shows three corn fritters stacked atop each other on a white plate with a blue wooden background.
Corn Fritters. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Fritters are so tasty, and these pan fried corn fritters are easy to make and have a lightly sweet flavor from the kernals. You can use fresh or frozen corn, which means this isn’t limited just to a summertime appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Corn Fritters

Blueberry Muffins with Crumble Topping

Freshly baked Blueberry Muffins scattered on a white surface.
Blueberry Muffins with Crumble Topping. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Make a batch of muffins to reheat for easy breakfasts. Topped with a delectable crumbly topping, these bakery-style blueberry muffins are perfect for freezing for later.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Muffins with Crumble Topping

Thai Chicken Chili

Image shows an overhead shot of a bowl of Thai Chicken Chili.
Thai Chicken Chili. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Embark on a culinary adventure with Thai Chicken Chili, where fragrant spices and tender chicken create a harmonious and fiery flavor experience. Discover the perfect balance of heat and depth in every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Chili

Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Sausage breakfast casserole on a plate with a fork.
Sausage Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

This Sausage Breakfast Casserole features ground Italian sausage, eggs, and shredded cheese and is ready in 50 minutes. It stores well and is a great choice for meal prepping for breakfasts on busy weekdays. It’s protein-packed, flavorful, filling, and perfect for family breakfasts!
Get the Recipe: Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Pizza Rolls

Freshly made pizza rolls stacked on each other.
Homemade Pizza Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Craving a snack that’s freezer-friendly and incredibly tasty? Look no further than our Pizza Rolls. These bite-sized treats are filled with gooey cheese, savory sauce, and your favorite pizza toppings. They can be prepared in batches, frozen, and then baked whenever you need a quick and delicious bite. Perfect for parties, game nights, or as an after-school snack, these Pizza Rolls are a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

Cheeseburger Casserole

Cheeseburger casserole in a baking dish with pickles and cheese nearby.
Cheeseburger Casserole. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins

Cheeseburger Casserole is meaty, cheesy, and is a hearty 1-dish meal. Don’t forget the pickles!
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Casserole

Instant Pot Navy Bean Soup

Instant pot navy bean soup in a copper-colored spoon over a white bowl of soup.
Instant Pot Navy Bean Soup. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

This Instant Pot Navy Bean Soup recipe combines warming broth, rich, salty bacon, hearty navy beans, celery, carrot, and fresh herbs for an easy, delicious dinner everyone will love! Freeze any leftovers for an easy meal another night.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Navy Bean Soup

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