Preparing for solo cooking adventures can be daunting, especially when the temptation to opt for takeout or delivery is strong. But fear not! The solution lies in freezer meal preparation, a game-changer that saves time, money, and stress. By cooking once and serving multiple times, you’ll enjoy the benefits of home-cooked meals without the daily hassle. In this post, we’re excited to share 35 quick and easy freezer meals designed specifically for individuals like you – students, professionals, and anyone in between seeking a more convenient and cost-effective approach to eating well.
35 Easy Freezer Meals for One
Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Transform four bell peppers by removing the tops, seeds, and membranes. Then, combine cooked quinoa with canned black beans, salsa, and shredded cheese to create a flavorful filling. Stuff each pepper with this mixture, ensuring it’s fully packed. Next, wrap each pepper in foil, taking care not to trap any air pockets. Store them in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to cook, place the foil-wrapped peppers in a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Creamy Tomato Soup
Simplify the process of preparing a hearty tomato sauce by combining sautéed onions and garlic with canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, vegetable broth, honey, and salt. In a large pot, cook the mixture over low-medium heat for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once cooled, transfer the sauce to an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to several months. When ready to reheat, simply thaw the sauce overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in the microwave, then warm it on the stovetop before serving.
Chicken Pesto Pasta
Prepare one serving of spaghetti according to package directions. After draining, enhance the dish by adding a tablespoon each of pesto and butter. Next, top with 4-6 ounces of succulent grilled chicken breast and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the mixture to cool before freezing it in a small container or freezer bag. To reheat, simply thaw and microwave or cook on the stovetop.
Beef Stew
Combine 1-2 pounds of cubed beef with a medley of aromatics – chopped onion, celery, and carrots – and add a can of diced tomatoes for added depth. Then, pour in a cup of rich beef broth and whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken the mixture. Transfer this slow-cooked delight to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw the contents, then reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili
Winter days call for warm, comforting meals that simmer all day in the slow cooker. A slow-cooked sweet potato black bean chili fits the bill perfectly, offering a rich tapestry of flavors and a boost of nutrients. With its simplicity and ease of preparation, this recipe is an ideal choice for a cozy winter’s day.
Lentil Soup
Savor the rich flavors of this hearty lentil dish by first creating the aromatic base in a large pot. Gently cook a finely chopped onion and two minced garlic cloves in olive oil until they’re soft and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. This foundation sets the stage for a delightful culinary experience. Next, add a cup of dried lentils, a can of crushed tomatoes, a spoonful of honey, and a pinch of salt. As the mixture comes to a rolling boil, reduce the heat and allow it to simmer gently for 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together in harmony. Once cooked, let the dish cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. To revive this satisfying meal, simply thaw it out and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, ready to be devoured.
Turkey Chili
To begin, cook one pound of ground turkey in a large pot until it reaches an internal temperature that’s no longer pinkish in hue. Once browned, add in a can of kidney beans, a can of diced tomatoes, and a cup of chicken broth, seasoning with chili powder to your liking. Allow this hearty mixture to simmer for 30 minutes before letting it cool down completely. Next, transfer the cooked turkey and bean mixture into a freezer-safe container or bag, designed specifically for long-term storage in the icy depths. To reheat this tasty dish, simply thaw it out and then revive it on the stovetop or using the microwave’s gentle warmth.
Meatballs and Marinara Sauce
To create meatballs, combine ground beef, pork, or turkey with breadcrumbs, an egg, and Italian seasoning. Form into desired shapes and brown them in a pan before adding a jar of marinara sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes, then let it cool completely. Once cooled, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, simply thaw and cook in the oven or on the stove, whichever method suits your needs best.
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Transform chicken breasts by wrapping them around buttery fillings. For this recipe, layer steamed broccoli and shredded cheese on top of the breast, then secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine to create a neat bundle. Place the wrapped chicken in the oven for 25-30 minutes, allowing it to cook until fully done. Once cooled, transfer the frozen bundles to an airtight container or bag for storage. When reheating, simply thaw and return the bundles to the oven for an additional 15 minutes.
Vegetable Stir Fry
Transform your favourite vegetables – think broccoli, bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and mushrooms – into a delicious meal by sautéing them in olive oil and garlic. Then, combine cooked rice or noodles with your go-to sauce, such as soy sauce or teriyaki sauce. Allow the mixture to cool before freezing it in a container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw the frozen meal and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
Chicken Enchiladas
To create these convenient enchiladas, start by filling tortillas with cooked chicken, grated cheese, and a generous helping of enchilada sauce. Roll up each tortilla tightly and arrange them seam-side down in a baking dish. Next, cover the top layer of tortillas with more enchilada sauce and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Once assembled, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag for storage. To reheat, simply thaw the frozen enchiladas overnight in the refrigerator and then bake them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 20-30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Greek Salad
To prepare a refreshing and crunchy salad, gather a mix of chopped lettuce, juicy tomatoes, cool cucumbers, crumbly feta cheese, and briny olives in a container or bag. A clever move is to keep the dressing separate from the ingredients to prevent sogginess. Once ready to serve, simply thaw the mixture and drizzle with your preferred dressing.
Beef and Broccoli
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook sliced steak until it develops a nice brown colour. Then, add sliced broccoli to the pan and continue cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the vegetables to tenderize alongside the steak. Next, in a small bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger to create a sweet and savory glaze. Pour this mixture over the steak and broccoli, stirring everything together to ensure the flavors meld. Once the mixture has cooled slightly, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, allowing you to store it for later use. When you’re ready to reheat, simply thaw the dish overnight in the fridge or quickly revive it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Spinach and Feta Quiche
Combine eggs, milk, chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, salt, and pepper to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Pour this mixture into a pre-baked pie crust and allow it to bake in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden. Allow the quiche to cool completely before freezing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When reheating, thaw the quiche first by leaving it at room temperature overnight or by microwaving it briefly. Then, reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through, serving it hot and enjoying its satisfying flavors.
Chicken Teriyaki
To prepare chicken for long-term storage, cook it in a pan with teriyaki sauce until it reaches an appealing brown color and is fully cooked through. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw the chicken and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave for a quick and easy meal.
Black Bean Burgers
To create these unique black bean burgers, blend together a mixture of cooked black beans, breadcrumbs, egg, spices, and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce using a food processor. Form the resulting mixture into patties and cook them in a skillet or on a grill until they’re nicely browned and fully cooked. Once cooled, store the frozen patties in an airtight container or freezer bag for later use. To reheat, simply thaw the desired number of burgers overnight in the refrigerator before reheating them in the oven or microwave.
Veggie Quesadillas
Transform a tortilla into a savory delight by stuffing it with a flavorful mix of sautéed peppers, onions, mushrooms, and melted cheese. Fold the tortilla in half and cook it in a skillet until the cheese is gooey and the tortilla develops a golden brown hue. Allow it to cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag for storage. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it out and reheat it in the oven or microwave.
Minestrone Soup
Combine olive oil, sautéed onion, and minced garlic in a large pot over medium heat until the aromatics are soft and translucent. Next, add an assortment of vegetables like carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans, allowing them to cook until tender. Then, introduce canned diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chicken or vegetable broth to create a hearty foundation. Allow the mixture to simmer for 20-30 minutes before letting it cool and transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. For reheating purposes, simply thaw the frozen stew and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
Sloppy Joes
Savvy cooks know that make-ahead sloppy joes are the ultimate solution for chaotic weeknights. By combining ground meat with a rich, sweet and tangy tomato sauce, then serving it piled high on a toasted hamburger bun, you’ll effortlessly satisfy even the most discerning appetites. This nostalgic treat has a knack for transporting adults back to their carefree childhood days, when simplicity and joy reigned supreme.
Baked Ziti
To prepare the ziti dish, first cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Then, combine it with marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese for a creamy and flavorful filling. Transfer this mixture to a baking dish and bake in the oven for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once cooked, allow the dish to cool before freezing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to reheat, simply thaw the frozen ziti and then warm it up either in the oven or microwave.
Vegan Curry
Sear the aromatics first – a mixture of sautéed onions and minced garlic – in olive oil until they’re soft and translucent. Then, add the trio of sweet potato, cauliflower, and chickpeas to the pot, cooking them until they’re tender and easily mashed by a fork. As the vegetables cook, prepare the creamy sauce by combining coconut milk, rich tomato paste, warm curry powder, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Once the vegetable mixture is cooked through, add the sauce to the pot and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together in harmony. After the pot has cooled slightly, transfer the contents to a freezer-safe container or bag, ready to be reheated at your convenience – whether that’s on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Chicken Noodle Soup
Transform the classic comfort food, chicken noodle soup, into a convenient and speedy meal solution by cooking a large batch and dividing it into single-serving portions. To make it even more accessible, freeze the individual servings in microwave-safe containers, allowing you to enjoy a warm and satisfying meal whenever the need arises.
Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Savory meatballs infused with the tangy flavors of sweet and sour sauce can be a game-changer for quick and easy dinners. Simply prepare these bite-sized morsels, freeze them, and then reheat as needed using either your oven or microwave. This convenient solution allows you to enjoy an Asian-inspired meal at any time, without sacrificing flavor or effort.
Eggplant Parmesan
Transforming eggplant slices into a convenient and delicious snack is a cinch. Simply bake or fry them until tender, then coat with marinara sauce and melted cheese. To make meal prep a breeze, freeze these bites in individual portions and reheat to perfection in the oven, whenever hunger strikes.
Mushroom Risotto
Indulge in the rich flavors of a creamy mushroom risotto, carefully portioned out into freezer-safe containers for a convenient and gourmet-worthy meal. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave to enjoy a satisfying culinary experience, reminiscent of a fine dining establishment.
Shrimp Fried Rice
Transform your culinary routine with a convenient and delicious twist! Cooking shrimp fried rice in bulk and freezing it in portion-sized containers allows you to whip up a mouthwatering, Asia-inspired meal in an instant. Simply reheat your frozen masterpiece on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying dining experience.
Baked Chicken Breast
To add a convenient and healthy twist to your meal prep, consider baking chicken breasts and freezing them for quick reheating. This simple technique can be used to create protein-packed meals that are ready in no time. Whether you’re short on time or need a quick lunch solution, frozen baked chicken breasts can be reheated in the oven or microwave, making it an ideal option for busy lifestyles.
Veggie Chili
Crafting a rich and flavorful vegetable chili is a straightforward process that yields a satisfying and nutritious meal option. Begin by combining a medley of colorful vegetables, such as diced bell peppers, chopped onions, and sliced mushrooms, with canned beans like black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans. Add a depth of flavor with aromatic spices, including cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Once cooked, portion the chili into individual containers for a convenient meal that can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Lemon Butter Shrimp
Transforming succulent shrimp into a convenient meal solution, consider sautéing them in a zesty lemon butter sauce, then freezing the mixture for a rapid seafood dinner. To reheat, simply cook over low heat on the stovetop or utilize the speed of your microwave to revive the flavors and textures.
Curry Lentil Stew
Transform humble lentils into a rich and aromatic stew infused with the warm, comforting essence of curry spices. This recipe offers a triple threat: flavor, convenience, and nutrition. Prepare the stew in bulk, then freeze it for quick reheat options on the stove or in the microwave, ensuring you have a satisfying meal at your fingertips whenever the need arises.
Pierogies with Onions
Pierogi enthusiasts, rejoice! Caramelize some onions to elevate this Polish staple to new heights, then portion out individual servings and freeze for a convenient meal solution. When you’re ready to devour, simply reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop – a quick and satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Cauliflower and Broccoli Bake
Transform humble vegetables into a comforting, cheesy delight by crafting a cauliflower and broccoli bake that’s as convenient as it is delicious. Simply prepare the dish, divide it into freezer-safe portions, and easily reheat whenever you need a satisfying meal.
Turkey and Cheese Quesadillas
Transforming turkey and cheese quesadillas into convenient, flavorful meal solutions is a breeze. By portioning them out and freezing for later use, you can easily reheat these tasty treats in either the oven or on the stovetop, making for a quick and satisfying meal option whenever hunger strikes.
Pasta Carbonara
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with a simple yet satisfying twist – cook pasta carbonara, portion it out, and freeze it for a convenient reheat whenever you need a creamy comfort food fix. Whether you’re reheating it on the stovetop or in the microwave, this classic dish is sure to transport your taste buds to the Tuscan countryside.
Black Bean Soup
Freezing a hearty black bean soup in individual portions can be a game-changer for those with busy schedules or living alone. The convenience of reheating on the stove or in the microwave makes it easy to enjoy a warm and satisfying dinner whenever you need it. This approach also offers a lifesaving solution for meal preparation, allowing you to savour healthy and delicious meals without the daily effort and expense of cooking. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, soup, chicken, or tofu, there’s a freezer meal recipe out there that caters to your tastes. By planning and preparing your meals in advance, you can reap the rewards of freezer cooking, including the freedom to enjoy a homemade meal at any time.