8 Freezer Meals in ONE Hour! Instant Pot and Slow Cooker!
Recipes in this Video
Beef stew is a classic American comfort food that has roots in various cultures, often made with hearty ingredients to warm the soul during colder months. Traditionally, it was a way to use tougher cuts of meat, which became tender through slow cooking. Today, it's a beloved dish across the country, with many regional variations and adaptations, making it a staple in family meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
- ●beef chuck
- ●carrots
- ●potatoes
- ●onion
- ●garlic
- ●beef broth
- ●tomato paste
- ●bay leaves
- ●thyme
- ●black pepper
- ●salt
- ●olive oil
- ●peas
- ●celery
- ●Worcestershire sauce
- ●cornstarch
- ●water
Instructions
- 1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- 2Season beef chuck with salt and black pepper.
- 3Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
- 4Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
- 5Add onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and potatoes to the slow cooker.
- 6In a bowl, mix beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves; pour over the beef and vegetables.
- 7Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours until beef is tender.
- 8In the last 30 minutes, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry; stir into the stew.
- 9Add peas and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- 10Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- 11Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.
Ingredient Alternatives
beef chuck
Healthier: leaner beef cuts
Cheaper: pork shoulder
Pork shoulder is often less expensive and can be just as flavorful.
beef broth
Healthier: vegetable broth
Cheaper: water with bouillon cubes
Using bouillon cubes can lower costs while still providing flavor.
olive oil
Healthier: avocado oil
Cheaper: canola oil
Canola oil is a cost-effective option for cooking.
cornstarch
Healthier: arrowroot powder
Cheaper: flour
Flour can be a more economical thickening agent.
Techniques
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Barbeque spare ribs have roots in American barbecue traditions, particularly in the Southern states where grilling is a communal and celebratory activity. Often enjoyed at gatherings and cookouts, these ribs symbolize comfort and indulgence, showcasing the rich flavors of slow-cooked meat. Today, variations can be found worldwide, with different sauces and spices reflecting local tastes.
Ingredients
- ●pork spare ribs
- ●barbecue sauce
- ●brown sugar
- ●garlic powder
- ●onion powder
- ●smoked paprika
- ●black pepper
- ●salt
- ●cayenne pepper
- ●apple cider vinegar
- ●mustard
- ●honey
- ●olive oil
- ●lemon juice
- ●fresh herbs
Instructions
- 1Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- 2Rub the pork spare ribs with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- 3Mix brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and mustard in a bowl.
- 4Coat the ribs generously with the spice mixture.
- 5Place the ribs on the grill, bone side down, and cook for 2-3 hours, basting occasionally with barbecue sauce.
- 6Wrap the ribs in aluminum foil and continue cooking for another hour until tender.
- 7Remove the foil and brush the ribs with more barbecue sauce.
- 8Grill for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce caramelizes.
- 9Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- 10Serve with additional barbecue sauce and fresh herbs.
Ingredient Alternatives
pork spare ribs
Healthier: chicken thighs
Cheaper: pork shoulder
Chicken thighs are lower in fat, while pork shoulder is more affordable.
barbecue sauce
Healthier: homemade tomato sauce
Cheaper: ketchup
Homemade sauce can reduce sugar and preservatives.
brown sugar
Healthier: coconut sugar
Cheaper: white sugar
Coconut sugar provides a lower glycemic index.
apple cider vinegar
Healthier: lemon juice
Cheaper: white vinegar
Lemon juice adds acidity and flavor at a lower cost.
Techniques
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Vegetable soup is a versatile dish found in many cultures, often made with seasonal vegetables. It serves as a nutritious and comforting meal, adaptable to various dietary preferences. Traditionally, it can be a way to use leftover vegetables, making it both economical and sustainable.
Ingredients
- ●mixed vegetables
- ●vegetable broth
- ●onion
- ●garlic
- ●olive oil
- ●salt
- ●pepper
- ●herbs
Instructions
- 1Chop the mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- 2In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- 3Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- 4Add the mixed vegetables and stir for a few minutes.
- 5Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- 6Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes.
- 7Season with salt, pepper, and herbs to taste.
- 8Serve hot, optionally with bread.
Ingredient Alternatives
vegetable broth
Healthier: homemade vegetable broth
Cheaper: water
Homemade broth can be more nutritious, while water is budget-friendly.
olive oil
Healthier: avocado oil
Cheaper: canola oil
Avocado oil has a higher smoke point, while canola oil is often less expensive.
Techniques
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Ingredients
- ●1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- ●1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- ●1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- ●1 medium onion, diced
- ●2 cloves garlic, minced
- ●2 cups vegetable broth
- ●1 tsp ground cumin
- ●1 tsp chili powder
- ●1/2 tsp salt
- ●1/4 tsp black pepper
- ●1 tbsp olive oil
- ●1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- ●1 avocado, diced (for garnish)
- ●1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- 1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- 2Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- 3Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- 4Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, vegetable broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
- 5Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- 6Use a potato masher to slightly mash some of the beans for a thicker consistency, if desired.
- 7Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- 8Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and lime wedges.
Equipment
French Dip Sandwiches originated in Los Angeles in the early 1900s, created by a French chef who served the sandwich with a side of beef broth for dipping. This hearty meal quickly became a popular choice for lunch and dinner, embodying the spirit of American comfort food. Today, variations abound, with different meats and toppings, but the essence of a warm, juicy sandwich remains a beloved classic.
Ingredients
- ●beef roast
- ●beef broth
- ●onions
- ●garlic
- ●French rolls
- ●olive oil
- ●black pepper
- ●salt
- ●thyme
- ●bay leaves
- ●Worcestershire sauce
- ●cheese
- ●mustard
- ●horseradish
Instructions
- 1Season the beef roast with salt and black pepper.
- 2Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- 3Sear the beef roast on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- 4Transfer the roast to a slow cooker.
- 5Add sliced onions and minced garlic to the skillet; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 6Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves; stir to combine.
- 7Pour the mixture over the roast in the slow cooker.
- 8Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shredded.
- 9Remove the beef from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- 10Strain the cooking liquid to create the dipping sauce; discard solids.
- 11Slice the French rolls in half and toast lightly if desired.
- 12Assemble the sandwiches by placing sliced beef on the rolls and topping with cheese, mustard, or horseradish.
- 13Serve the sandwiches with a small bowl of dipping sauce on the side.
Ingredient Alternatives
beef roast
Healthier: turkey breast
Cheaper: chicken thighs
Turkey is leaner, while chicken is more affordable.
French rolls
Healthier: whole grain bread
Cheaper: baguette
Whole grain adds fiber, while baguette is often less expensive.
cheese
Healthier: low-fat cheese
Cheaper: processed cheese
Low-fat cheese reduces calories, while processed cheese is cheaper.
horseradish
Healthier: wasabi
Cheaper: prepared mustard
Wasabi provides a similar kick, while mustard is often less expensive.
Techniques
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Enchiladas are a traditional Mexican dish that dates back to the Aztec era, where tortillas were filled with various ingredients and rolled. They have evolved over time, incorporating different meats, sauces, and toppings, reflecting regional variations across Mexico. Today, enchiladas are popular in many parts of the world, often served with sides like rice and beans, and are a staple in Mexican cuisine.
Ingredients
- ●tortillas
- ●cooked chicken
- ●cheese
- ●enchilada sauce
- ●onion
- ●cilantro
Instructions
- 1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2In a skillet, sauté onions until translucent.
- 3Add cooked chicken and half of the enchilada sauce; mix well.
- 4Warm tortillas in a pan until pliable.
- 5Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture and roll tightly.
- 6Place rolled tortillas in a baking dish seam-side down.
- 7Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the tortillas.
- 8Sprinkle cheese on top of the sauce.
- 9Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- 10Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Ingredient Alternatives
cooked chicken
Healthier: shredded turkey
Cheaper: canned chicken
Turkey is leaner and lower in calories; canned chicken is often more affordable.
cheese
Healthier: low-fat cheese
Cheaper: processed cheese
Low-fat cheese reduces calories; processed cheese is usually cheaper.
enchilada sauce
Healthier: homemade tomato sauce
Cheaper: store-brand enchilada sauce
Homemade sauce can be healthier with fresh ingredients; store brands are often less expensive.
Techniques
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Meatballs have diverse origins, with variations found in many cultures, including Italian, Swedish, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Traditionally, they were a way to stretch meat and make hearty meals. Today, they are celebrated globally, often served with pasta, in sandwiches, or on their own with sauces, showcasing their versatility.
Ingredients
- ●ground meat
- ●bread crumbs
- ●onion
- ●garlic
- ●egg
- ●milk
- ●parsley
- ●cheese
- ●salt
- ●black pepper
- ●nutmeg
- ●olive oil
- ●tomato sauce
- ●beef broth
- ●Parmesan cheese
- ●Italian seasoning
Instructions
- 1Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2In a large bowl, combine ground meat, bread crumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
- 3Add egg, milk, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg to the mixture.
- 4Mix until well combined, but do not overwork the meat.
- 5Shape the mixture into meatballs, about the size of a golf ball.
- 6Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- 7Add meatballs in batches, cooking until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- 8Transfer browned meatballs to a baking dish.
- 9Pour tomato sauce over the meatballs and sprinkle with cheese.
- 10Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- 11Serve hot with pasta or on a sub roll.
Ingredient Alternatives
ground beef
Healthier: ground turkey
Cheaper: ground pork
Ground turkey is leaner, while ground pork is often less expensive.
bread crumbs
Healthier: oats
Cheaper: crushed crackers
Oats provide fiber and are a healthier alternative.
Parmesan cheese
Healthier: nutritional yeast
Cheaper: grated cheddar
Nutritional yeast is dairy-free and adds a cheesy flavor.
egg
Healthier: flaxseed meal
Cheaper: applesauce
Flaxseed meal acts as a binder and is plant-based.
Techniques
Equipment
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Hearty Beef Stew has its roots in British cuisine, traditionally made by slow-cooking tougher cuts of meat with seasonal vegetables. This dish was a staple for families, providing warmth and sustenance during colder months. Today, variations exist globally, with different meats and vegetables, but the essence of a comforting stew remains cherished.
Ingredients
- ●beef chuck
- ●carrots
- ●potatoes
- ●onions
- ●garlic
- ●beef broth
- ●red wine
- ●tomato paste
- ●bay leaves
- ●thyme
- ●black pepper
- ●salt
- ●olive oil
- ●peas
- ●mushrooms
- ●parsley
Instructions
- 1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- 2Add beef chuck and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3Remove beef and set aside. In the same pot, add onions and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- 4Stir in carrots and mushrooms; cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- 5Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- 6Return beef to the pot and pour in red wine; scrape the bottom to deglaze.
- 7Add beef broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and black pepper; bring to a boil.
- 8Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5-2 hours until beef is tender.
- 9Add potatoes and peas; cook for an additional 30 minutes until potatoes are soft.
- 10Remove bay leaves and thyme stems before serving.
- 11Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Ingredient Alternatives
beef chuck
Healthier: lean beef
Cheaper: pork shoulder
Lean beef reduces fat content while pork shoulder is often less expensive.
red wine
Healthier: grape juice
Cheaper: beef broth
Grape juice adds sweetness without alcohol, while broth is cost-effective.
olive oil
Healthier: canola oil
Cheaper: vegetable oil
Canola oil is lighter and often cheaper than olive oil.
beef broth
Healthier: vegetable broth
Cheaper: water with seasonings
Vegetable broth is lower in calories, and water with seasonings is budget-friendly.
Techniques
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Stuffed peppers are a popular dish in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in Spain and Italy. They are often filled with a mixture of meat, rice, and vegetables, making them a hearty and versatile meal. This dish can be adapted to include various fillings based on regional ingredients and personal preferences, showcasing the adaptability of traditional recipes.
Ingredients
- ●bell peppers
- ●rice
- ●ground meat
- ●onion
- ●tomato sauce
- ●cheese
- ●spices
Instructions
- 1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
- 3In a pan, sauté chopped onion until translucent.
- 4Add ground meat and cook until browned.
- 5Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce, and spices; mix well.
- 6Stuff the mixture into the hollowed peppers.
- 7Place stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
- 8Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- 9Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- 10Serve hot.
Ingredient Alternatives
ground meat
Healthier: lean turkey
Cheaper: ground chicken
Lower in fat and calories, or more budget-friendly.
cheese
Healthier: nutritional yeast
Cheaper: processed cheese
More nutritious or a cheaper alternative.
Techniques
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Also Known As
Ingredients
- ●4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ●1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- ●1/4 cup olive oil
- ●1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ●3 cloves garlic, minced
- ●1 tsp cumin
- ●1 tsp salt
- ●1/2 tsp black pepper
- ●1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- 1In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- 2Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
- 3Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated.
- 4Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- 5Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- 6Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- 7Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- 8Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- 9Serve with additional cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Equipment
Honey Sesame Chicken is a popular dish in Chinese-American cuisine, known for its sweet and savory flavor profile. It is often served in Chinese restaurants across the United States and has become a favorite among families for its quick preparation and appealing taste. The dish showcases the balance of flavors that characterize much of Chinese cooking, and its popularity has led to various adaptations worldwide, making it a beloved comfort food.
Ingredients
- ●chicken breast
- ●honey
- ●soy sauce
- ●sesame oil
- ●cornstarch
- ●garlic
- ●ginger
- ●green onions
- ●sesame seeds
- ●vegetable oil
- ●bell pepper
- ●carrot
- ●broccoli
- ●water
- ●rice
Instructions
- 1Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- 2Marinate chicken in soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger for 30 minutes.
- 3Coat marinated chicken in cornstarch evenly.
- 4Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- 5Add chicken to the skillet in a single layer and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- 6Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- 7In the same skillet, add bell pepper, carrot, and broccoli; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- 8In a small bowl, mix honey and water until combined.
- 9Return chicken to the skillet and pour honey mixture over the top.
- 10Stir well to coat chicken and vegetables in the sauce; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- 11Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top before serving.
- 12Serve hot over cooked rice.
Ingredient Alternatives
honey
Healthier: agave syrup
Cheaper: sugar syrup
Agave syrup has a lower glycemic index while sugar syrup is more economical.
soy sauce
Healthier: tamari
Cheaper: liquid aminos
Tamari is gluten-free while liquid aminos offers a similar flavor at a lower cost.
sesame oil
Healthier: olive oil
Cheaper: canola oil
Olive oil is healthier while canola oil is a budget-friendly alternative.
chicken breast
Healthier: tofu
Cheaper: chicken thighs
Tofu is plant-based and lower in calories, while chicken thighs are more economical.
Techniques
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Pasta Primavera originated in the United States, inspired by Italian cuisine, particularly during the spring when fresh vegetables are abundant. It reflects a celebration of seasonal produce, emphasizing the vibrant colors and flavors of vegetables. Today, it has become a staple in many Italian-American restaurants and is enjoyed worldwide, often adapted to include various ingredients based on local availability.
Ingredients
- ●pasta
- ●olive oil
- ●garlic
- ●bell peppers
- ●zucchini
- ●carrots
- ●cherry tomatoes
- ●spinach
- ●parmesan cheese
- ●basil
- ●salt
- ●black pepper
- ●lemon juice
- ●red pepper flakes
- ●onion
- ●peas
Instructions
- 1Boil water in a large pot and cook pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- 2Drain pasta and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
- 3Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- 4Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- 5Add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots; cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- 6Stir in cherry tomatoes and peas; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- 7Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
- 8Combine cooked pasta with the vegetable mixture in the skillet.
- 9Add reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
- 10Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
- 11Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and toss to combine.
- 12Serve topped with grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Ingredient Alternatives
parmesan cheese
Healthier: nutritional yeast
Cheaper: grated mozzarella
Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor with fewer calories.
olive oil
Healthier: avocado oil
Cheaper: canola oil
Avocado oil is healthier, while canola oil is more budget-friendly.
fresh basil
Healthier: spinach
Cheaper: dried herbs
Spinach offers similar nutrients, while dried herbs are more affordable.
cherry tomatoes
Healthier: sundried tomatoes
Cheaper: canned tomatoes
Sundried tomatoes provide intense flavor, while canned are cost-effective.
Techniques
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Chili is a staple dish in American cuisine, particularly associated with Tex-Mex and Southwestern cooking. It has roots in the early 20th century and is often served at gatherings, competitions, and as comfort food. Variations abound, with some regions favoring beans while others do not, leading to spirited debates about the 'true' chili recipe.
Ingredients
- ●ground beef
- ●kidney beans
- ●black beans
- ●tomato sauce
- ●onion
- ●garlic
- ●chili powder
- ●cumin
- ●salt
- ●pepper
Instructions
- 1Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat.
- 2Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
- 3Stir in chili powder and cumin; cook for a minute to release flavors.
- 4Add tomato sauce, kidney beans, and black beans; mix well.
- 5Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 6Bring to a simmer and cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Ingredient Alternatives
ground beef
Healthier: ground turkey
Cheaper: ground pork
Ground turkey is lower in fat, while ground pork is often cheaper.
kidney beans
Healthier: black beans
Cheaper: pinto beans
Black beans are more nutritious, while pinto beans are usually less expensive.
Techniques
Equipment
Also Known As
Ingredients
- ●4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ●1 cup salsa verde
- ●1 tablespoon olive oil
- ●1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ●1 teaspoon onion powder
- ●1/2 teaspoon cumin
- ●1/2 teaspoon salt
- ●1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- ●1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- 1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2In a large baking dish, drizzle the olive oil to coat the bottom.
- 3Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish and season with garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- 4Pour the salsa verde evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
- 5Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- 6Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- 7Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- 8Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Equipment
Originating from Sweden, Swedish meatballs (Köttbullar) are a beloved dish that showcases the country's culinary tradition of using simple, hearty ingredients. Traditionally served with lingonberry sauce and creamy gravy, they are a staple at festive gatherings and family meals. Today, they have gained international popularity, often appearing on menus around the world, especially in Scandinavian-themed restaurants.
Ingredients
- ●ground beef
- ●ground pork
- ●onion
- ●garlic
- ●bread crumbs
- ●milk
- ●egg
- ●nutmeg
- ●allspice
- ●salt
- ●black pepper
- ●butter
- ●flour
- ●beef broth
- ●heavy cream
- ●parsley
Instructions
- 1Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- 2Finely chop the onion and garlic.
- 3In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, garlic, bread crumbs, milk, egg, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and black pepper.
- 4Mix the ingredients until well combined.
- 5Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- 6Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat until melted.
- 7Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- 8Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes until cooked through.
- 9In the same skillet, add flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- 10Slowly whisk in beef broth and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until thickened.
- 11Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- 12Serve the meatballs with the creamy sauce, garnished with chopped parsley.