Freezer meals are a game-changer for busy parents and anyone looking to simplify meal prep. They save time and reduce daily stress; buying in bulk and avoiding last-minute takeout can also help you save money.
However, having the right supplies and equipment to make the most of your freezer meals is crucial. With the proper tools, you can ensure that your meals are stored safely, maintain their quality and are easy to prepare when needed.
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Vacuum sealer
Before you start making freezer meals, consider adding a vacuum sealer to your supply of handy kitchen gadgets. You need one if you’re serious about making freezer meals. By removing air from the packaging, a vacuum sealer prevents freezer burn and extends the shelf life of your meals.
Use a vacuum sealer to preserve meats, vegetables and other items that might otherwise lose their freshness over time. Vacuum-sealed bags take up less space in the freezer, allowing you to store more meals.
Freezer bags
Stock up on freezer bags as a versatile and affordable meal storage option. Look for heavy-duty, zip-top bags specifically designed for freezing. These are thicker and more durable than regular plastic bags.
Choose heavy-duty freezer bags to store homestyle soups, stews and marinated meats. They also come in handy for portioning ground meat and food you buy in bulk and on sale.
Storage containers
While freezer bags make sense for certain freezer meals, select sturdy, budget-friendly storage containers for others. Choose containers labeled freezer-safe to prevent cracking and ensure your food stays fresh.
For example, one popular option is glass containers with airtight lids. These freezer storage containers offer durability, don’t absorb odors and can go directly from the freezer to the microwave or oven, making them a good option for casserole dishes. Plastic containers may also work well if they are BPA-free and designed for freezing.
“Preparing freezer meals saves time and money and helps reduce food waste. When storing in your freezer, group similar items together, such as meats, vegetables, fruits and prepared meals. Using items such as a label maker, freezer bags and storage bins can help to manage your freezer items.”
— Raquel Pineira, Organized Island
Freezer bag stand
One challenge of preparing freezer meals involves getting liquids into those slippery freezer bags without making a mess. A freezer bag stand is a simple yet effective solution.
A freezer bag stand holds the bags open and upright while you pour soups, stews and sauces into them. It’s an inexpensive tool that saves you time and frustration during meal prep.
Freezer-safe labels
Remember to label your freezer meals. Freezer-safe labels and a good marking pen will help you track what’s in each container or bag and when it was prepared.
This is important for organization and food safety, as it ensures you use the oldest meals first. Select freezer meal labels that stick in cold temperatures.
Freezer
A reliable freezer is the backbone of any freezer meal prep. Whether it’s a deep freezer or an upright freezer model, keep your freezer organized so you can easily find and access your meals.
If you’re serious about stocking up, consider investing in a standalone freezer rather than depending on the freezer compartment of your fridge. A standalone freezer offers more space and helps you take advantage of bulk buying without overcrowding your kitchen freezer.
“My most useful tip for cooking big batch freezer meals is to use your appliances. For example, when I cook several chicken breasts, I use my stand mixer to shred the chicken for use in a variety of recipes.”
— Jennifer Osborn, Kitchen Serf
Aluminum foil
Here’s another versatile tool in the freezer meal prep arsenal: aluminum foil. Use it to wrap baked goods, cover casseroles or create disposable freezer trays.
Choose aluminum foil to protect food from freezer burn and to double-wrap items for extra protection. It’s also handy for reheating, as it can go directly from the freezer to the oven.
Baking trays
Good-quality baking trays are the way to go when it comes to freezing asparagus, other vegetables and fruits or even meals in portions. First, lay out items like meatballs, cookies or individual servings of soup on a baking tray.
Next, freeze them before transferring them to a freezer bag or container. This method, known as flash freezing, prevents the food from sticking together and makes it easier to grab just the portions you need.
Sharpie marker
A Sharpie marker might seem small, but it’s one of the most essential tools for freezer meal prep. Use it to label containers and bags with the dish’s name, the date it was prepared and any reheating instructions. Reliable Sharpie markers won’t rub off in the freezer, keeping your labels readable for weeks or even months.
“When I batch cook for the freezer, I like to start with my slow cooker dinners. As I prep them for the freezer, I drop one batch right into the slow cooker. Then I know, no matter what, dinner for that night isn’t something I have to worry about.”
— Laura Sampson, Little House Big Alaska
Freezer meal cookbooks
While not exactly a piece of equipment, a good freezer meal cookbook can inspire and ensure your meals are diverse and delicious. Look for cookbooks offering tried-and-true recipes designed to be frozen and reheated without losing quality.
The right freezer meal supplies make all the difference
Investing in the right equipment and supplies for freezer meals can save you time, money and hassle. With tools like a vacuum sealer, freezer bags, storage containers and proper labeling, you’ll be well on your way to building a freezer full of delicious, ready-to-eat meals. Whether you’re a busy parent or simply looking to simplify your meal planning, these essentials will help you maximize your freezer meal prep efforts.
Sarita Harbour is a long-time lifestyle, business and finance writer. Her work is featured in various online publications, including TIME/Money, Business Insider, CBS News and Bob Vila. She created An Off Grid Life to help people become more self-reliant.