021: What Am I Going to Make For Dinner? Freezer Meals to the Rescue!

Join Erika Sagert as she addresses the common thought: "Freezer meals sound like a lot of work." She emphasizes the long-term benefits of a stocked freezer, and shows how freezer meals are a game-changer for everyone, regardless of cooking experience.

• Tip 1: Community Cooking
  • Teaming up with friends/family for freezer meal prep.
  • Example: 10 women bringing 10 meal kits each, dividing costs, and getting a variety of meals.
  • Fun and efficient way to stock freezers.
• Tip 2: Freezer Packs
  • Freezing individual components instead of entire meals.
  • Examples:
    • Pizza dough, sauce, cheese, and toppings (assemble and bake later).
    • Dump Chicken: Marinated chicken frozen in bags (cook in slow cooker/Instant Pot).
    • Taco Packs: Frozen ground beef, taco seasoning, and toppings.
    • Marinated Meat Packs: Pre-marinated meat ready for grilling.
• Tip 3: Soups and Stews
  • Freezing large batches or leftovers.
  • Examples:
    • Hearty Chili
    • Vegetable Soup
    • Chicken Noodle Soup
    • Beef Stew
    • Tomato Soup
  • Freezing Instructions: Cool completely, use airtight containers, label and date, freeze up to 3 months.
  • Reheating Instructions: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then heat on stovetop or microwave.
• Tip 4: Casseroles
  • Versatile freezer meal option.
  • Examples:
    • Chicken Enchilada Casserole
    • Broccoli Cheddar Casserole
    • Taco Casserole
    • Shepherd's Pie
  • Freezing Instructions: Cool completely, use airtight containers, label and date.
  • Reheating Instructions: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake in the oven according to instructions.
• Tip 5: Ground Meat Prep
  • Cooking large batches of seasoned ground beef/chicken.
  • Use for various dishes (spaghetti, tacos, stir-fries).
• Tip 6: Breakfast Bites
  • Freezer-friendly breakfast sandwiches (English muffins, eggs, ham, cheese).
    • Here is an idea to get you started, adjust to your own tastes:
      • http://www.eatcakefordinner.net/2013/11/homemade-freezer-breakfast-sandwiches.html
  • Wrap individually in parchment paper and foil.
  • Include heating instructions.
• Tip 7: Burritos
  • Assemble favorite ingredients, wrap tightly, and freeze.
    • https://www.fromvalerieskitchen.com/freezer-friendly-beef-and-bean-burritos

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