Keeping Busy | Freezer Meals

Last weekend into the beginning of this week I was stuck inside with no where to go. Winter Storm Jonas left the Triangle with inches of ice and very little snow. Playing it safe, Joe and I hunkered down for a few days at the house. We had plenty of food and TV to watch to keep us entertained for a day or two. I have never been the sit at home type for long and found myself getting restless on Saturday. I decided it was the perfect time to cook up some freezer meals in preparation for baby. I already had a Pinterest board dedicated to a few delicious recipes and decided it was time give it a try.

I did a mix of casseroles and crockpot meals. I considered doubling the ingredients to make extra batches but decided to cut each recipe in half instead. With just the two of us, we never eat a full casserole. I always end up packing it for lunch or freezing it.

Creamy Chicken and Rice

The chicken and rice is a dish I made months ago and was a big hit with Joe. I substituted chicken breasts for thighs to make it a bit healthier. It makes a ton of rice so it is perfect for cooking up and freezing for later. The flavors really hold their own when frozen. 

Slow Cooker Balsamic Pot Roast

This one was so easy and all I needed to buy was the roast. I liked that the recipe included ingredients already in my pantry. I froze the meat and potatoes with the glaze in a gallon size bag. I will add the beef stock in when it goes in the slow cooker.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

This recipe is a homemade favorite for me. The directions are easy and simple to follow. I love it served with a bowl of soup and cornbread on cold nights. 

Freezer Mashed Potatoes

I had never heard of freezer mashed potatoes until I stumbled upon some a Trader Joe's last year. I hate boxed potatoes and was curious about being able to enjoy instant mashed potatoes without making a huge batch. It is so simple, I can't believe that I waited this long to try it myself. After cooking the potatoes, I let them cool and then froze individual scoops on a baking sheet overnight. Then I transferred them to a gallon size freezer bag the next day. You can thaw overnight or heat directly in the oven or microwave. 

After all that cooking, I have a freezer full of un-processed ready to eat foods. I hope to cook a few more meals before baby arrives. Have you ever made freezer meals before? I would love to hear your favorite recipes!

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