This article about bulk freezer meals was last updated in 2022.
Frequently asked question: How can I save money and time in the kitchen?
Frequently given answer: Bulk cook and freeze.
This is all very well, but you might be wondering what exactly should you should bulk cook and freeze. After all, some foods lend themselves beautifully to this cost and time effective method, whilst others would be a disaster. I mean, have you every tried frying and then freezing 20 fried eggs? Neither have I. But I guess it wouldn’t work.
To help, see these recipes, all of which are easy to cook in large quantities which can be frozen and later defrosted for a super easy home cooked meal.
Further reading: Freezer tips to streamline your kitchen.
20 Easy meals to bulk cook and freeze
1. Prosciutto Wrapped Meatloaf
This prosciutto-wrapped meatloaf is perfect to bulk cook and freeze. And it’s a snap to prepare for a family of four.
Recipe source: Taste
2. Frugal Vegetarian Lasagne
Vegetarian. Tasty. Cheap. Bulk cook and freeze this yummy lasagne recipe for up to three months.
Recipe source: Stay at Home Mum
3. Three-Cheese and Chive Tart
A gorgeous tart filled with three types of mouthwatering cheese. Need we say more? The kids will never know if you sneak in some veggies.
Recipe source: Delicious
4. Big Batch Bolognese
Feeding a crowd? Bulk cook and freeze a big batch of delicious bolognese. This one is ready in about an hour and half.
Recipe source: BBC Good Food
5. Roast Pumpkin Soup
Here’s a recipe for the easiest roast pumpkin soup ever. Roast in the oven, scoop out the seeds and add stock. Easy peasy.
Recipe source: Kid Spot
Healthy batch cooking recipes for freezing (cont.)
6. Spaghetti Pepperoni Lentil bake
Craving pizza and spaghetti? This crowd-pleasing freezer-friendly recipe is what you need. Guaranteed to be a family favourite.
Recipe source: Taste
7. Black Bean Burger
Skip the meat and serve up some black bean burgers for dinner tonight. Pro tip: Pop the beans in the oven to dry them out and avoid mushy burgers.
Recipe source: The Kitchn
8. Classic Moussaka
Comfort Greek food doesn’t get easier than a classic moussaka filled with lamb, aubergine and gooey bechamel topping. Bulk cook and freeze the leftovers for breakfast and snacks.
Recipe source: Olive Magazine
9. Cauliflower and bean Chilli
Here’s another meatless comfort food that you can bulk cook and freeze: cauliflower and bean chilli. A one-pot wonder that’s ready in a few hours.
Recipe source: Real Food
10. Slow Cooker Classic Beef Stew
Indulge in a classic beef stew that’s easy to make and freezer-friendly to boot. Double the recipe and throw everything in a slow cooker for rich flavour.
Recipe source: Food and Wine
What meals are good to batch cook and freeze? (cont.)
11. Cheesy Bacon veggie rice slice recipe
Cheesy bacon and veggie rice slices are perfect for lunch boxes. Bulk cook and freeze ahead of time and serve with a fresh salad.
Recipe source: Taste
12. Mango Chicken Slow Cooker Curry
The flavours of mango, chicken thighs and coconut milk come together beautifully in the slow cooker. Serve with steamed rice and lime juice.
Recipe source: Best Recipes
13. Make Ahead Beef Enchiladas
Every ingredient of these beef enchiladas can be made in advance and frozen for up to 2 months. Even the homemade enchilada sauce.
Recipe source: Whole and Heavenly Oven
14. Oven Roasted Meatballs with Kale Pesto
For maximum flavour in no time, try some oven roasted meatballs with kale pesto. It’s on the table in about 30 minutes.
Recipe source: Delicious
15. Steakhouse Soup
We love some hearty steak soup on cold winter nights. This recipe can be prepared ahead and frozen in containers. Adjust the spices when making for kids.
Recipe source: Taste of Home
Meals that freeze well and reheat well (cont.)
20. Bacon cheese rissoles
These bacon cheese rissoles are ready to eat in just 20 minutes. Bulk cook and freeze the leftovers for lunch boxes.
Recipe source: Best Recipes
21. Bean sausage hotpot
This five-ingredient comfort food is a life saver after a long day at work. Whip up a big batch and freeze for easy dinners.
Recipe source: BBC Good Food
22. Speedy Minestrone
Love minestrone? This quick and easy version is ready in under an hour and can be made up to two days ahead.
Recipe source: Women’s Weekly Food
23. Smoked Haddock and chive fishcakes
Bulk cook and freeze these tasty fishcakes when you’re pressed for time. A yummy standby the whole family will love.
Recipe source: Olive Magazine
24. US-style Mac N’ Cheese
Nothing beats homemade mac n’ cheese when you’re in the mood for comfort food. This US-style recipe is loaded with flavour and gooey creaminess.
Recipe source: Delicious
