• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
freebie! download my top 8 dessert recipe ebook

Join my newsletter for latest recipes!

Erin Lives Whole

Healthy Eats + Delicious Treats

  • Recipe Index
    • Course
      • Appetizers
      • Breakfast
      • Lunch & Dinner
      • Dessert
      • Soup
      • Sides
      • Drinks
      • Snacks
      • Sauces & Dips
    • Dessert Type
      • Bars & Balls
      • Breads & Muffins
      • Brownies
      • Cakes
      • Candy
      • Cookies
      • Frozen
      • Pie & Cobbler
      • Other
    • Diet
      • Dairy-Free
      • Gluten-Free
      • Nut-Free
      • Paleo Friendly
      • Vegan
      • Vegetarian
    • Method
      • 30 Minute or Less
      • Air Fryer
      • Grill
      • Instant Pot
      • Meal Prep
      • No Bake
      • One Pot/Pan
      • Oven
      • Stove Top
    • Season
      • Fall
      • Holiday
      • Winter
      • Spring
      • Summer
    • Recipe Filter
    • All Recipes
  • Ebooks
  • Shop
  • Lifestyle
  • About
    • Work With Me
    • Contact
  • Subscribe to receive latest recipes

    Join my newsletter for latest recipes!

  • Browse by Diet
    • Gluten-Free
    • Dairy-Free
    • Nut-Free
    • Paleo Friendly
    • Vegan
    • Vegetarian
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch & Dinner
  • Drinks
  • Snacks
  • Dessert
  • Appetizers
Home Recipes By Meal

Easy Make Ahead Freezer Meals

By: Erin Antoniak • Updated On December 11, 2025

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy.

Simple and easy make ahead freezer meals are great for busy people, new moms, and college students alike! From lunch and dinner entrees to breakfasts, soups, and sweet treats, these healthy freezer meals are versatile and perfect for enjoying during busy weeks.

buffalo chicken casserole

Quick and easy make ahead meals that freeze well

When it comes to preparing food, there is nothing better than having something ready to go in the freezer. The beauty of freezer meals is that you can make them when you do have time, in preparation for when life gets a little bit crazy, or when you just don’t feel like cooking!

Whether you’re a college student trying to fit healthy eating into a jam packed class schedule, you’re a new mom with a million things to do, or life is just crazy, freezer meals are a life saver!

I love to create meals that freeze and reheat well for all of the above reasons, but also just because it’s nice to have a meal ready to go (and not having to clean a bunch of prep tools is always a nice bonus!).

Below we have dozens of different recipes that you can prepare and freeze for later. In total, it’s enough freezer meals for a month!

How to store freezer meals

To prepare a meal for the freezer, you’ll want to fully prepare it ahead of time. Be sure to let it cool fully, and then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Date it, pop it in the freezer, and it’ll be ready to go in a pinch! Most freezer meals keep for around 5-6 months if packaged and sealed up correctly.

There are a few different ways to store freezer meals. My favorite three include casserole dishes (aluminum for easy throw away!), pyrex containers, and gallon ziplock bags. You’ll want to let the dishes cool completely before putting away in order to help prevent freezer burn.

If it’s a casserole in aluminum container, I will also wrap the entire thing in aluminum foil for more protection, then label it with a sharpie and masking tape. Be sure to write the date, what the meal name is, and how many portions!

For any soups, I like to freeze them in Souper Cubes, directly into a takeout quart size container, or in a gallon ziplock bag. For the latter, once the soup has cooled, I pour it into the ziplock bag, get out all the air I possibly can (helps prevent freezer burn), and ziplock it shut. I will then double bag it in another gallon ziplock bag and lay it FLAT so that it freezes flat and makes it easier to stack. Doing this with soups, meatballs, or anything like taco meat helps save a ton of space in a freezer! You can stack all of your ziplock bags on top of each other. Be sure to label, date, and write the portion amount.

I always like to double protect freezer meals, whether that is double bagging, wrapping take out containers in aluminum foil, or doubling up on containers. These will help ensure that the meal will stay nice and ‘fresh’ for whenever you are ready to use it!

How to reheat freezer meals

When it comes to enjoying freezer meals, it’s best to begin the process by thawing it overnight in the refrigerator. You can sometimes get away with moving it to the fridge in the morning, but doing so overnight will allow the meal to be fully thawed and therefore reheat more evenly.

Reheat in the oven, just like you’re cooking it for the first time! Often this means transferring it to a baking sheet or casserole dish. You may only need to cook it for a little less since time since it has been fully cooked already, but generally use the same temperature!

Breakfast Freezer Meals

Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Muffins

Get my recipe for healthy banana peanut butter muffins; they’re naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and maple syrup for a lightened-up version of a classic. Perfect as a snack or grab-and-go breakfast!

Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Muffins

Peanut Butter Energy Bars

Stock up on a healthy snack for the week ahead with these Peanut Butter Energy Bars. This easy, no bake recipe combines delicious flavors with healthy ingredient choices for a snack that’s perfect in more ways than one!

Peanut Butter Energy Bars

Freezer Breakfast Sandwich

Are you looking for a quick and easy breakfast option that will make your mornings easier? Look no further than freezer breakfast sandwiches! These delicious handheld sandwiches are the perfect on-the-go meal, made with eggs, English muffins, your favorite breakfast sausage, and cheddar cheese. Read on to learn how to make frozen breakfast sandwiches at home!

Freezer Breakfast Burritos

Give your stomach a meal to drool over with these Freezer Friendly Southwestern Breakfast Burritos. Made with bacon, cheese, beans, and more, this recipe is perfect for brunch for 6, or your weekly meal prep!

Apple Crumble Oatmeal Muffins

Enjoy Apple Crumble Oatmeal Muffins all throughout the day. They make the perfect grab-and-go breakfast, mid-morning snack, afternoon pick-me-up, or even dessert!

apple crumble muffins

Healthy Cottage Cheese Blender Muffins

Go for something nutritious and delicious with these Healthy Cottage Cheese Blender Muffins. Made with maple syrup, rolled oats, cottage cheese, and bananas, they’re a nutrient-packed treat!

cottage cheese blender muffins

Broccoli Cheddar Ham Egg Casserole

Start your day with a nutritious and filling meal with this easy Broccoli Cheddar Ham Egg Casserole recipe. Made with easy ingredients like broccoli, onion, and eggs, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrients!

broccoli cheddar ham egg casserole

Best Healthy Pumpkin Muffins

A cross between a dessert and a nutritious breakfast, these healthy pumpkin muffins are completely gluten-free! The fresh pumpkin puree and chocolate chips elevate these muffins to icon status.

Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars

Fill your kitchen with the aroma of sweet and salty peanut butter banana oatmeal bars. This will make you fall in love with baking again!

Healthy Berry Baked Oatmeal

Healthy Berry Baked Oatmeal is perfect for busy mornings. Made with healthy ingredients, it can be made ahead as a meal prep option. Just warm, add toppings, and enjoy!

Healthy Protein Pancakes

Start your day with this Healthy Protein Pancakes Recipe! These simple, three-minute cakes are loaded with protein and other healthy ingredients and are perfect for yourself or a crowd.

Sausage French Toast Casserole

Enjoy a hearty and delicious morning meal with this Sausage French Toast Casserole. It’s everything you love about french toast, but with added protein and flavor!

Apple Pie Baked Oatmeal

Get ready for fall with this healthy apple pie baked oatmeal! Made with rolled oats, diced apples, cinnamon, and maple syrup for sweetness, this baked oatmeal is perfect for those cooler mornings.

Oatmeal Blender Pancakes

An easy and healthy oatmeal blender pancakes recipe made with simple ingredients like oats, banana, and egg. Perfectly fluffy and packed with protein, these gluten free pancakes make the best breakfast!

Sweet Potato Egg Breakfast Casserole

Start your morning on the right foot with this Sweet Potato Egg Breakfast Casserole. This dish features everything you love to enjoy for breakfast, all combined into one dish for a casserole that hits the spot every time!

Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Cups

Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups are a delicious treat perfect for breakfast, snacking, and on-the-go. Add these to your meal prep lineup for an easy, pre-made hunger fix!

stack of peanut butter oatmeal muffins

Lunch & Dinner Freezer Meals

Buffalo Chicken Baked Ziti

Amp up the flavor with this incredible Buffalo Chicken Baked Ziti recipe. Made with ricotta, buffalo sauce, blue cheese, and lots of veggies, it’s sure to wow the entire family!

Buffalo Chicken Baked Ziti on plate with fork

Teriyaki Beef Bowls

Treat your tastebuds to a world of delicious teriyaki flavor with these easy Teriyaki Beef Bowls. Made with ground beef, onion, pepper, broccoli, and a bunch of flavorings, these bowls are a must-try!

Teriyaki Beef Bowls with spoon

Fall Harvest Skillet

This fragrant fall skillet is made with spiced chicken sausage, shaved Brussels sprouts, and creamy butternut squash. It’s filled with tons of nutritious veggies and classic fall flavors for a warm and hearty one-skillet meal. 

Fall harvest skillet in pan with wooden spoon

Chili and Cornbread Skillet

Savor my chili and cornbread skillet recipe, made with seasoned ground beef, shredded cheddar, and classic chili spices. Each bite feels like a warm hug on a cold day, with hearty beans and a cornbread topping. 

Cornbread Chili Skillet in bowl

Healthy Greek Turkey Meatballs With Tzatziki

If you want to enjoy the delicious and healthy flavors of the Mediterranean, try making some Greek turkey meatballs! This recipe is absolutely delicious and really easy to make. Served up with a homemade tzatziki sauce, this meal is perfect for meal prep bowls or salads.

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki on plate

Baked Meatballs

Try this Baked Meatballs Recipe for a savory dish sure to hit the spot. Enjoy the dish as-is or paired with your favorite sides for a complete and filling meal!

Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork

Tonight’s dinner just got way easier! This Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork is a simple recipe that combines lots of ease and even more flavor. With 8 servings, this dish is great for a crowd!

pulled pork sandwich

Cider Braised Chicken

Turn this week’s chicken dinner into the perfect fall dish with this Cider Braised Chicken recipe. In it, we’re flavoring chicken with apples, onions, and apple cider for the ultimate flavor-packed, protein-rich meal.

cider braised chicken plated

Chicken Pot Pie With Biscuits

Load up on healthy veggies, a comforting filling, and savory flavors with this Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits recipe. It yields six large servings and comes together in about an hour. Perfect for a cozy night in!

chicken pot pie with biscuits

Butter Chicken Meatballs

Treat your taste buds to Butter Chicken Meatballs served over rice with naan bread. The flavorful recipe infuses ground chicken meatballs with a mouth watering garlic, ginger, turmeric, garam masala, and curry powder sauce.

butter chicken meatballs in bowl

Tex Mex Chicken Skillet Recipe

Craving a tasty dinner that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? You’ve got to try this Tex-Mex chicken skillet recipe! It’s a delicious mix of juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and all those zesty Tex-Mex ingredients you love, all in one pan. Perfect for when you’re super busy but still want something delicious and comforting, minus the hassle!

tex mex chicken skillet

Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Enjoy a twist on classic chicken parm with this Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs recipe! Perfect over a bed of spaghetti or as an appetizer on game day.

chicken parmesan meatballs

Cottage Cheese Lasagna

Cottage Cheese Lasagna is a high protein recipe made with ground beef, turkey sausage, diced tomatoes, marinara, and more! Easy to make, everyone will love the taste of this dish that features a 3 cheese layer in every bite.

cottage cheese lasagna

Easy Green Chicken Enchiladas

Load up on these Easy Green Chicken Enchiladas for a satisfying and protein-loaded meal. Made with salsa verde and Greek yogurt, these enchiladas put a healthy twist on the dish!

Green Chicken Enchiladas in pan

BBQ Turkey Meatloaf

Dig in and enjoy the most delicious BBQ Turkey Meatloaf made with everything you love, like onion, garlic, parsley, ketchup, and BBQ sauce!

bbq turkey meatloaf

Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Make tonight’s meal delicious with this easy Chicken Enchilada Skillet made in one pan and topped with 2 heaping cups of cheese.

Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole

Buffalo Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole is a healthy and satisfying dish that’s made using broccoli, onions, bacon, and more. This delicious recipe requires just 10 minutes of prep time!

Instant Pot Mississippi Pork Roast

Infuse unforgettable flavor into your pork loin with this Instant Pot Mississippi pork roast recipe! It’s a gluten-free take on a classic comfort meal recipe. So juicy and delicious!

Simple Turkey Burgers

Enjoy this Simple Turkey Burger Recipe for a quick and easy meal that can be customized with your favorite toppings. Only 5 minutes of prep time needed!

Stovetop Beef Stew

Enjoy a comforting bowl of Stove Top Beef Stew for intense flavors and lots of heartiness. It’s filled with loads of tasty ingredients like potatoes, spices, veggies, and even a dash of red wine.

Soups

Soup is great for a whole list of reasons. But, one of my favorite benefits of a hearty soup recipe is that it stores well every single time. Soups are perfect for preparing as make ahead freezer meals. They’re also great for doubling, enjoying half now, and turning the other half into a freezer meal!

  • Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup
  • Easy Zuppa Toscana Recipe
  • Thai Chicken Curry Soup
  • Potato Corn Chowder
  • Best Minestrone Soup
  • Cauliflower Soup
  • White Bean Kale Sausage Soup
  • French Onion Soup
  • Easy White Chicken Chili
  • Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
  • Easy Creamy Tomato Soup
  • Chicken Tortilla Soup
  • Creamy Buffalo Chicken Soup
  • Vegetarian Chili
  • Creamy Chicken And Wild Rice Soup
  • Easy Taco Soup Recipe
  • Italian Wedding Soup Recipe
  • Sweet Italian Sausage Chili
  • Classic Ground Beef Chili Recipe

Snacks and sweet treats

Sweet treats work surprisingly well as a freezer foods. Did your mom ever freeze half a batch of cookies growing up? She was onto something! Whether you want to store leftovers or you just want to whip up something sweet for when life gets crazy, these desserts make great make ahead freezer meals.

Especially for new mamas who are breastfeeding or just constantly hungry, healthy snacks are the move! Stock the freezer with some of our favorite healthy snacks and sweet treats:

  • Healthy Energy Balls Recipe
  • Oatmeal Raisin Chocolate Chip Cookies
  • Healthy Banana Bread
  • No Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
  • Healthy Almond Butter Granola Recipe
  • Healthy Chocolate Granola Recipe
  • Flourless Peanut Butter Blondies
  • No Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
  • Copycat Perfect Bars
  • Healthy Granola Bars
  • Oatmeal Raisin Energy Balls
  • Peanut Butter Protein Balls
  • Healthy Pretzel Freezer Fudge

Try these freezer friendly meals for next time you are looking to stock your freezer with some delicious and healthy meals. They are perfect for when life get’s busy and you need a quick meal!

There may be affiliate links in this post! By purchasing a product I recommend, I may receive a small compensation. However, I only recommend products I absolutely love and use myself. Thank you for supporting Erin Lives Whole, it helps keep this blog afloat 🙂

You May Also Like...

  • homemade chicken noodle soup
    Best Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
  • healthy pizza casserole
    Easy Pizza Casserole Recipe
  • pesto chicken salad
    Pesto Chicken Salad Recipe
  • cranberry chicken casserole in dish
    Cranberry Chicken Casserole
Previous Post
Next Post

Reader Interactions

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Have a question? Use the form below to submit your question or comment. I love seeing what you made!

Primary Sidebar

erin in front of a building

Hey there!

I’m Erin. Creator of Erin Lives Whole, a food blog with delicious and easy healthy recipes that will leave you feeling good. We’ve got everything from wholesome baked goods to comforting savory dishes. I can’t wait to see what you whip up! Read More...

grocery lists

Shop My Grocery Downloads

Do you head to the grocery store and feel overwhelmed with all of the options? Well, I've created FIVE downloadable and printable grocery lists from five different and popular grocery stores. All of my absolute must haves from Whole Foods, Target, a regular grocer, Trader Joe's, and Costco!

Shop Now

Popular Posts

chickpea brownie on a tray

Chickpea Brownies

bite out of healthy cookie dough ball

Healthy Cookie Dough Balls

cauliflower wings on plate

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

pouring syrup on stack of oatmeal blender pancakes

Oatmeal Blender Pancakes

Trending Recipes

avocado corn salad

Summer Avocado Corn Salad

cilantro lime shrimp on plate

Cilantro Lime Shrimp with Coconut Cauliflower Rice

paleo cookie skillet with ice cream

Healthy Cookie Skillet

banana bread muffin on a rack

Paleo Banana Bread Muffins

Featured On

good housekeeping logo
parade logo
feed feed logo
business insider logo
everyday health logo
country living logo
bar desserts
truffles
bar desserts
bar desserts
muffins
vanilla birthday cake with chocolate icing

Get latest updates To your inbox!

Back to Top
© 2026 Erin Lives Whole
  • Privacy Policy
Site Credits Designed by Melissa Rose Design Developed by Once Coupled
Freezer Friendly Recipes to Meal Prep
Freezer Friendly Recipes to Meal Prep
Freezer Friendly Recipes to Meal Prep