It’s been a long day. It’s freezing out. You’re exhausted. The thought of grocery shopping or whipping up a gourmet meal is simply out of the question. (OK, we’re done complaining now.) In those weak moments, don’t settle for takeout. Instead, consider these 20 simple and awesome recipes you can make ahead of time to stick in your freezer, then dole out on lazy winter nights. Problems solved.
20 Delicious Make-Ahead Dinner Recipes
Look at you...planning ahead
•
Published Jan 18, 2016
Eggplant Parmesan
You could order in from the local Italian restaurant or defrost this delicious, lightened-up, homemade version.
White Bean Ragout
You can freeze this ragout for about three months. Serve it over warm toast and voilà: a cozy dinner in no time.
Baked Ziti
Loaded with creamy ricotta and veggies, then baked to rich, cheesy perfection.
Coconut Curried Cauliflower Soup
Cauliflower gets a kick in this silky winter soup.
Mini Meatloaves
This recipe is a gift that keeps on giving. Make these guys in bulk, then pop 'em out of the freezer one at a time.
Slow-cooker Butternut Squash Chili
Make it now; serve it every Sunday until the Super Bowl.
Slow-cooker Pulled Chicken
All you need day-of are buns.
Mac And Cheese
You never know when a mac and cheese craving will hit. It’s best to be prepared.
Italian Wedding Soup
Assemble your ingredients in freezer bags. Thaw the bag overnight before you want to make the soup and then throw it all into your slow-cooker.
Veggie Potpie
This potpie can go into the freezer before it’s cooked. When it’s time to whip it out for dinner, simply pop it in the oven (and add 15 minutes to the recipe’s bake time).
Crispy Fish Sticks
Never settle for the packaged version again.
ERIN MCDOWELL
Beef Empanadas
Freeze these finger foods before baking them and add an additional 8 to 10 minutes to the cooking time when you’re ready to eat.
Lamb Ragu
The perfect make-ahead sauce--just pour it over rice or pasta and chow down.
Mixed Greens Lasagna
The most delicious way to eat your greens.
Bbq Shredded Chicken
Make a few pounds in the oven or slow-cooker, store it in the freezer and prepare it for weeknight meals throughout the month.
Homemade Pork Dumplings
Stuff these homemade dumplings with your favorite fillings. Then freeze them for a lazy evening.
Zucchini And Carrot Fritters
Put squares of parchment paper between the fritters so you can easily get them out of the freezer one at a time.
Zucchini And Turkey Meatballs
Meatballs freeze better than most dishes. Cook them ahead of time, then serve them throughout the month in soups or pasta.
Cheater's Pizza Dough
We’re assuming you have marinara sauce and some sort of cheese in your fridge.
Roasted Tomato Soup
Make a big batch then store in individual Tupperware for a perfect lunch or dinner on the go.
