Olivia Carter
As a busy individual, I am constantly on the lookout for easy and convenient meal options. One pot meals that can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the freezer have become my ultimate lifesaver. Not only do they save me time and effort, but they also ensure that I have a delicious and nutritious meal ready to go whenever I need it.
There are numerous one pot meal options that work well for freezing, but some stand out as the best choices. One of my personal favorites is a hearty and comforting beef stew. Packed with tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and flavorful broth, this meal is perfect for cold winter days when I need some warmth and nourishment.
Another fantastic one pot meal for freezer is a creamy and satisfying chicken and rice casserole. Made with tender chicken, fragrant rice, and a rich sauce, this dish is both comforting and filling. I love having it on hand for those days when I want a homemade meal but don’t have the time or energy to cook from scratch.
Best One Pot Meals for Freezer
When it comes to meal planning, having freezer-friendly options can be a lifesaver. One pot meals are not only convenient, but they also make for easy cleanup. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead option, here are some of the best one pot meals that you can freeze for later.
1. Beef Stew: A hearty and comforting dish, beef stew is perfect for freezing. Simply cook the stew on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, and divide it into individual serving-sized containers. When you’re ready to eat, just defrost and reheat for a satisfying meal.
2. Chicken and Rice Casserole:
This classic dish is a crowd-pleaser and can easily be made ahead of time. Cook chicken, rice, and vegetables in a single pot, and then transfer to a casserole dish. Cover and freeze until you’re ready to enjoy. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
3. Vegetarian Chili:
If you’re looking for a healthy and filling option, vegetarian chili is a great choice. This one pot meal is packed with protein and fiber from beans, and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and spices. Make a large batch, portion it out into containers, and freeze for an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner.
4. Pasta Bake: Pasta lovers will rejoice with this freezer-friendly one pot meal. Cook your favorite type of pasta with sauce and toppings of your choice, and then bake it in the oven until bubbly and golden. Let it cool, divide into individual portions, and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven for a quick and delicious meal.
5. Lentil Soup:
Lentil soup is not only nutritious, but it also freezes exceptionally well. Cook lentils with vegetables, broth, and spices in a large pot, and then portion it out into freezer-safe containers. This hearty soup can be enjoyed on its own or served with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Easy One Pot Spaghetti Bolognese
I love making easy and delicious one pot meals that I can freeze and enjoy later. One of my favorite dishes to make is spaghetti bolognese. It’s a classic Italian dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef, tomatoes, and herbs.
To make this one pot spaghetti bolognese, I start by browning ground beef in a large pot. Once the beef is cooked, I add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté them until they become tender. Then, I stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Next, I add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and a blend of Italian herbs, such as oregano, basil, and thyme. I also season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. I let the sauce simmer for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Once the sauce is ready, I add dried spaghetti noodles to the pot and stir them into the sauce. I make sure the noodles are fully submerged in the sauce, adding more beef broth if needed. I cover the pot and let the spaghetti cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are al dente.
After the spaghetti is cooked, I serve it hot and garnish it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. The final dish is a comforting and flavorful one pot spaghetti bolognese that can be enjoyed immediately or frozen for later. It’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love!
Hearty Beef Stew with Vegetables
As someone who loves easy and delicious meals, I can confidently say that my hearty beef stew with vegetables is a winner. This one-pot wonder is packed with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich broth that will satisfy any hungry appetite.
When it comes to making this beef stew, I always prioritize quality ingredients. I start by browning cubes of beef in a hot skillet, which adds a deep, caramelized flavor to the stew. Then, I sauté onions, garlic, and carrots until they’re soft and fragrant, creating a tasty base for the stew. I add in potatoes, celery, and a handful of herbs like thyme and bay leaves for an extra burst of flavor.
To make the broth, I use a combination of beef broth and red wine, which adds a robust richness to the stew. I also like to add a touch of tomato paste for added depth of flavor. Once everything is simmering together in the pot, the aroma fills the kitchen and my taste buds tingle with anticipation.
This beef stew is perfect for freezing, as the flavors only get better with time. I like to portion it into individual containers, so I can easily grab one from the freezer for a quick and satisfying meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday, my hearty beef stew with vegetables is always a comforting and delicious choice.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds beef, cubed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the beef cubes.
- Add the onions, garlic, and carrots to the skillet and sauté until softened.
- Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to a large pot or slow cooker.
- Add the potatoes, celery, beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Bring the stew to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Remove the bay leaves before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!
My Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole Recipe
One of my go-to recipes for a delicious and satisfying one pot meal that can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer is my creamy chicken and mushroom casserole. This dish is packed with flavor and is perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
To start, I heat some olive oil in a large pot and sauté the diced onion until it becomes translucent. Then, I add in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking them until they start to brown and release their juices.
Next, I add in the chicken breasts and cook them until they are browned on both sides. Once the chicken is cooked through, I remove it from the pot and set it aside.
In the same pot, I pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. I then add in the heavy cream, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. I let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Once the sauce has thickened slightly, I return the chicken to the pot, making sure to coat it in the creamy sauce. I let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, or until it is cooked through and tender.
Finally, I serve the creamy chicken and mushroom casserole with some crusty bread or over a bed of rice. The combination of the tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and rich cream sauce is absolutely divine. Plus, the fact that I can make this dish ahead of time and freeze it for later makes it even more convenient and perfect for busy weeknights.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vegetarian Chili with Beans and Quinoa is a delicious and nutritious one pot meal that can be easily made in advance and stored in the freezer for a quick and convenient meal. It is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients from the beans and quinoa, making it a satisfying and healthy option for vegetarians and vegans.
This recipe is versatile and can be customized to personal preferences by adding additional vegetables or spices. It can also be served with various toppings such as avocado, cilantro, or grated cheese to enhance the flavors and textures. Whether enjoyed on its own or served with crusty bread or rice, Vegetarian Chili with Beans and Quinoa is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Easy to make in one pot
- Can be made in advance and stored in the freezer
- Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients
- Customizable to personal preferences
- Versatile and can be served with various toppings
Next time you’re looking for a wholesome and satisfying meal that can be prepared ahead of time, give this Vegetarian Chili with Beans and Quinoa recipe a try. Your taste buds and body will thank you!
10 Best one pot meals for freezer
Freshware 240 Set Food Storage Containers
Features
| Part Number | FR-S32X240 |
| Model | FR-S32X240 |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
| Color | 32 oz, 240 Pack |
| Size | 32 ounce |
Bialetti 6 Quart Pasta Pot with Strainer
Features
| Part Number | 7953 |
| Model | 7593 |
| Warranty | LifeTime |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Release Date | 2019-09-29T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 6.3 Quarts |
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Cooker
Features
| Part Number | IP-DUO60 |
| Model | 112-0170-01 |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer warranty |
| Color | 0 |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 6 Quarts |
| Language | English |
FAQ:
What are some best one pot meals that can be frozen?
Some of the best one pot meals that can be frozen include chili, lasagna, beef stew, chicken and rice casserole, and vegetable curry.
How long can one pot meals be stored in the freezer?
One pot meals can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. It is important to properly label and date the containers to keep track of the storage time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, one pot meals are a convenient and delicious option for those who want to save time in the kitchen and have a freezer full of ready-to-eat meals. Whether you prefer pasta dishes, soups, or casseroles, there are plenty of options to choose from. Planning ahead and having a stash of one pot meals in the freezer can be a game-changer for busy individuals or families. Not only do these meals make dinner time a breeze, but they also ensure that you always have a nutritious and homemade option on hand. So why not give these best one pot freezer meals a try and experience the joy of cooking once and enjoying multiple times? Happy freezing!
