Dinnertime used to be pure chaos in my house.
After school drop-offs, errands, cleaning, and work, I’d realize that I had no clue what to make for dinner.
I was constantly running around, shuttling kids, picking up after everyone, and barely keeping it together…let alone cooking from scratch every night.
Then I discovered make-ahead freezer meals, and everything changed.
Now, instead of scrambling at 5 p.m., I grab a meal from the freezer, pop it in the oven, and dinner is done.
If you’re a busy mom with zero time to cook, this will save you too.
The trick?
Set aside one day to prep a month’s worth of meals.
Just six solid recipes can be batch-cooked into multiple portions making the process simple, stress-free, and a total sanity saver!
And for more ideas, check out my mostly vegetarian Instant Pot dinner ideas!
Let’s get started!
Easy Make Ahead Freezer Meals
When I’m totally busy and can’t even think about dinners, I know these make ahead meals are my lifesaver. And now they are for you!
1. Mini Pizza Muffins
For a quick and easy meal or snack, these make-ahead mini pizzas are a must!
Use English muffins, mini naan, bagels, or homemade dough as the base, then add pizza sauce, shredded cheese, and your favorite toppings.
Flash freeze on a baking sheet for an hour, then store in a freezer bag.
When you’re ready to eat, bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes or air fry at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
These are ready for busy nights, school lunches, or an easy snack. Just grab, bake, and enjoy!
2. Italian Wedding Soup
This soup is a hit in out house and it’s easy to make ahead and freeze.
To make ahead, prep and freeze the meatballs, then store them with chopped veggies and uncooked pasta in a freezer bag.
When you’re ready to eat, simmer everything in broth for 15-20 minutes, and dinner is done!
Serve with crusty bread for an easy, cozy meal anytime.
3. Burritos
These freezer-friendly burritos make busy nights so much easier!
Choose your filling—beef and bean, bean and rice, or beef and rice—then wrap it all up in a warm tortilla with cheese and your favorite seasonings.
To prep, assemble the burritos, wrap them tightly in foil, and freeze.
When you’re ready to eat, microwave for 2-3 minutes or bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.
Perfect for quick lunches, easy dinners, or grab-and-go meals!
4. Chicken and Steak Fajitas
Slice chicken, steak, bell peppers, and onions, then toss them with fajita seasoning and a little oil. Store everything in a freezer bag for a quick dinner later.
When you’re ready to cook, sauté in a hot skillet for 10-15 minutes or bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.
Serve with warm tortillas, guac, and salsa for a delicious, stress-free meal anytime!
5. Chicken Pot Pie
This hearty, comforting classic is perfect for freezing and baking whenever you need a warm, homemade meal.
Cook shredded chicken with mixed veggies in a creamy sauce, then pour it into a pie crust.
Cover with another crust, seal the edges, and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, bake at 375°F for 45-50 minutes (or until golden and bubbly).
A delicious, stress-free dinner the whole family will love!
6. Barbecued Meatballs
These tender, saucy meatballs are a must for easy dinners!
Mix ground beef with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, then roll into balls and freeze.
When you’re ready to cook, simmer in barbecue sauce for 20-25 minutes or bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.
Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for busy nights!
7. Beef Tortilla Taco Casserole
This flavor-packed, cheesy casserole is perfect for meal prep!
Layer seasoned ground beef, tortillas, salsa, and cheese in a baking dish, then repeat until full.
Cover and freeze, or bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.
Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or a side of rice for an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner—great for busy nights!
8. Stuffed Manicotti
Fill manicotti shells with a creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan mixture, then place them in a baking dish with marinara sauce.
Cover and freeze, or bake at 375°F for 30-35 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Serve with garlic bread and a side salad for an easy, delicious dinner anytime!
9. Chicken Broccoli and Rice
My kids love this dinner meal and I can switch out the broccoli with another veggie like peas or even mini potatoes!
Mix shredded chicken, cooked rice, and broccoli with a cheesy sauce, then spread it into a baking dish.
Cover and freeze, or bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.
Serve with a side of garlic bread for a hearty, stress-free meal the whole family will love!
10. Chicken Tenders
Homemade chicken tenders are super easy to make, taste way better, and save you money!
Just coat chicken strips in seasoned flour, dip in egg, and roll in breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch).
Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes or fry until golden brown. Make a big batch and freeze for quick meals later.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauces for a kid-approved, budget-friendly dinner!
11. Pancakes
Homemade pancakes are so easy to make, and prepping them ahead saves time.
Whip up a batch with your favorite recipe, cook until golden, and let them cool.
Stack with parchment paper in between and freeze in a bag or container. When you’re ready to eat, just pop them in the toaster or microwave for a quick, fluffy breakfast.
Perfect for busy mornings, meal prep, or even breakfast-for-dinner!
12. Dump Chicken
Dump chicken is the ultimate easy, no-fuss meal.
Just toss chicken into a freezer bag with whatever marinade or seasonings you have on hand, freeze, and cook when ready!
Bake at 375°F for 30-40 minutes, grill, or slow cook for juicy, flavorful chicken every time.
Best for meal prep, busy nights, and using up pantry staples without overthinking dinner!
13. Black Bean and Quinoa Burgers
For a healthier, meatless twist on burgers, these black bean & quinoa burgers are packed with protein and flavor!
Mash black beans, mix with cooked quinoa, breadcrumbs, and spices, then form into patties.
Cook on a skillet for 4-5 minutes per side or bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.
They freeze well, making them perfect for quick, wholesome meals anytime.
Serve on a bun with your favorite toppings for a delicious, plant-based burger!
14. Baked Eggrolls
These baked egg rolls are just as crispy and way healthier!
Fill egg roll wrappers with a mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, cooked chicken or pork, and seasonings, then roll them up and brush lightly with oil.
Bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
Perfect for meal prep, freeze before or after baking for a quick, tasty snack or appetizer anytime!
15. Orange Chicken
This crispy, tangy orange chicken is super easy to make and way better than takeout!
Coat bite-sized chicken pieces in cornstarch, pan-fry until golden, then toss in a sweet and orange sauce made with orange juice, soy sauce, honey, and garlic.
Serve over steamed rice with a side of veggies for a delicious, budget-friendly meal the whole family will love!
16. Sloppy Joes
Homemade Sloppy Joes are just as easy and way more flavorful than any can you can buy at the store!
Brown ground beef (or turkey) with onions, then simmer in a tangy, slightly sweet sauce made with tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire, and seasonings.
Serve on toasted buns for a quick, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy nights.
Bonus: It freezes well, so make a big batch and save some for later!
17. French Dip Sandwiches
Slow-cook beef chuck roast with onion, garlic, beef broth, and seasonings until tender, then shred and pile onto toasted hoagie rolls with melty provolone.
Serve with a side of warm au jus for dipping for the ultimate bite.
Great for meal prep, freezer meals, or an easy dinner the whole family will love
18. Chicken Noodle Soup
Simmer shredded chicken, carrots, celery, and onions in a flavorful broth, then add egg noodles for the perfect bite.
Make a big batch and freeze without the noodles for a quick, cozy meal anytime. Just reheat, add fresh noodles, and enjoy
19. Mexican Tater Tot Casserole
This cheesy, flavor-packed casserole is a fun twist on taco night!
Brown ground beef or turkey with taco seasoning, then layer it with black beans, corn, salsa, and cheese in a baking dish.
Top with crispy tater tots and bake at 375°F for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Serve with sour cream, guac, or a drizzle of hot sauce for a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for busy nights!
20. Chili
Nothing beats a warm bowl of hearty homemade chili, and my daughter absolutely loves it!
I keep it simple with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and the perfect blend of spices and let it simmer until it’s thick and flavorful.
Sometimes, we switch it up with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips.
It’s an easy, cozy meal that always gets a thumbs-up in my house, and the leftovers taste even better the next day!
21. Taco Meat
We always have taco meat ready to go because it makes dinner so much easier!
Brown ground beef or turkey with taco seasoning, and you’ve got the base for tacos, burritos, nachos, taco salads, and more.
I like to make a big batch and freeze portions for quick meals on busy nights.
Just reheat, load up your favorite toppings, and dinner is done in minutes!
22. Bolognese Sauce
This slow-simmered, meaty tomato sauce is made with ground beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and a splash of milk for richness.
Serve over pasta, layer into lasagna, or spoon over zucchini noodles.
It freezes beautifully, so make extra and have a delicious, homemade meal ready anytime!
23. Lasagna
Lasagna is my comfort meal but everyone in my family loves, and the best part?
It’s easy to make ahead and freeze!
Layer rich Bolognese sauce, creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and tender pasta sheets, then bake at 375°F for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Make two—one for tonight and one for later—because this cheesy, hearty dish is always a hit!
Healthy Freezer Meals to Make
If you want something more healthier to make on those busy nights, here are my absolute faves that even my children enjoy.
24. Chicken & Veggie Stir-Fry
Chop chicken, bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, then toss with a simple stir-fry sauce (soy sauce, garlic, and ginger).
Freeze everything in a bag. When ready to eat, sauté in a pan for 10 minutes, serve over rice or cauliflower rice, and dinner is done!
25. Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili
Brown ground turkey with onions, then mix in diced sweet potatoes, beans, tomatoes, and spices. Let it simmer, then cool and freeze.
Just reheat on the stove for a warm, hearty meal that’s packed with protein and flavor!
26. Lemon Garlic Chicken
Marinate chicken breasts in lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and Italian seasoning, then freeze in a bag.
When you’re ready, bake at 375°F for 25 minutes or grill for a fresh, zesty meal.
27. Beef & Veggie Meatballs
Mix lean ground beef with shredded zucchini, carrots, breadcrumbs, and spices, then roll into meatballs. Bake, let cool, and freeze.
Just reheat and serve with pasta, zoodles, or over rice!
28. Thai Peanut Chicken
Combine chicken, bell peppers, and carrots with a peanut sauce (peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and garlic).
Freeze in a bag, then stir-fry when ready. Serve over rice or noodles for a delicious, protein-packed meal!
29. Cauliflower Fried Rice
Sauté cauliflower rice, peas, carrots, and scrambled eggs, then mix in soy sauce and sesame oil.
Freeze flat in a bag and reheat in a pan for a quick, healthy side or meal!
30. Greek Chicken Bowls
Marinate chicken in olive oil, lemon, garlic, and oregano, then freeze.
Cook and serve with quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta for an easy Mediterranean-style meal.
31. Lentil Soup
Sauté onions, carrots, and garlic, then add lentils, diced tomatoes, and broth.
Simmer, cool, and freeze. Just reheat on the stove for a warm, hearty plant-based meal that’s loaded with fiber and protein!
32. Honey Garlic Salmon
Marinate salmon fillets in a mix of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and lemon juice, then freeze in a bag.
When ready to cook, bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes or pan-sear for a quick, flavorful dinner.
Serve with steamed veggies or quinoa for a healthy meal!
33. Chicken & Spinach Stuffed Shells
Mix shredded chicken, ricotta, spinach, and mozzarella, then stuff into cooked pasta shells.
Cover with marinara sauce and freeze in a baking dish.
Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes straight from the freezer for a cheesy, protein-packed meal the whole family will love!
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