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32 Freezer Meals for Two | Easy Meal Prep Ideas

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Freezer Meals 101
Freezer Meals 101
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Chicken fried rice is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, often enjoyed as a quick meal or leftover dish. It combines rice with various ingredients, typically including chicken and vegetables, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Ingredients

  • cooked rice
  • chicken
  • vegetables
  • soy sauce
  • egg
  • green onions
  • oil

Instructions

  1. 1Prepare cooked rice and let it cool.
  2. 2Cut chicken into small pieces and season.
  3. 3Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
  4. 4Add chicken and cook until browned.
  5. 5Add vegetables and stir-fry until tender.
  6. 6Push ingredients to the side and scramble the egg in the pan.
  7. 7Mix in the rice and soy sauce, stirring well.
  8. 8Add green onions and adjust seasoning if needed.
  9. 9Serve hot.

Ingredient Alternatives

chicken

Healthier: tofu

Cheaper: chicken thighs

Tofu is lower in calories and suitable for vegetarians; chicken thighs are more budget-friendly.

Techniques

stir-fried

Equipment

panspatulaknifecutting board
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowsoy

Also Known As

Fried Rice with ChickenChao Fan

Spanish rice with chorizo, or Arroz con Chorizo, is a beloved dish in Spain, particularly in regions where rice cultivation thrives. It reflects the rich culinary tradition of using local ingredients, with chorizo adding a spicy, smoky flavor that complements the rice beautifully. This dish is often served at family gatherings and celebrations, showcasing the communal aspect of Spanish dining. Modern variations can be found globally, adapting to local tastes and ingredient availability.

Ingredients

  • chorizo
  • rice
  • onion
  • garlic
  • bell pepper
  • tomato
  • chicken broth
  • peas
  • olive oil
  • paprika
  • cumin
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • bay leaves
  • cilantro

Instructions

  1. 1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. 2Add chopped chorizo and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3Remove chorizo and set aside, leaving the oil in the skillet.
  4. 4Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. 5Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. 6Add rice and stir to coat with the oil and vegetables, cooking for 2-3 minutes.
  7. 7Pour in chicken broth and add diced tomatoes, stirring to combine.
  8. 8Season with paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and bay leaves; bring to a boil.
  9. 9Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender.
  10. 10Stir in peas and cooked chorizo; cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  11. 11Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
  12. 12Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

chorizo

Healthier: turkey chorizo

Cheaper: pork sausage

Turkey chorizo reduces fat while maintaining flavor.

chicken broth

Healthier: vegetable broth

Cheaper: water + bouillon cubes

Vegetable broth is lower in calories and can be made easily.

Techniques

sautéingboiling

Equipment

large skilletmeasuring cupsspatulaknifecutting board
🌶️🌶️🌶️Mediummilkgluten

Also Known As

Arroz con ChorizoChorizo Rice

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 3 cups egg noodles, uncooked
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
  • 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, uncooked egg noodles, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and frozen mixed vegetables.
  3. 3Add garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt to the mixture and stir until well combined.
  4. 4Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with olive oil.
  5. 5Pour the chicken noodle mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly.
  6. 6Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
  7. 7Remove the foil and sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.
  8. 8Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. 9Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Equipment

large mixing bowl9x13 inch casserole dishaluminum foiloven

Originating from Italy, gnocchi are soft dumplings made from potatoes, flour, and eggs. This dish combines gnocchi with flavorful Italian sausage and fresh vegetables, creating a comforting one-pan meal. It's a popular choice for busy weeknights, allowing for quick preparation without sacrificing taste. Modern variations often include different proteins or vegetables, making it adaptable to various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

  • gnocchi
  • Italian sausage
  • olive oil
  • onion
  • garlic
  • bell pepper
  • spinach
  • crushed tomatoes
  • parmesan cheese
  • basil
  • oregano
  • red pepper flakes
  • salt
  • black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. 2Add sliced Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3Remove sausage from skillet and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
  4. 4Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet; sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
  5. 5Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  6. 6Add crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper; stir to combine.
  7. 7Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
  8. 8Add gnocchi to the skillet and stir gently to coat in the sauce.
  9. 9Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until gnocchi are tender and cooked through.
  10. 10Stir in fresh spinach and return the sausage to the skillet; cook until spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
  11. 11Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

Italian sausage

Healthier: chicken sausage

Cheaper: pork sausage

Chicken sausage reduces fat while maintaining flavor.

parmesan cheese

Healthier: nutritional yeast

Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast is dairy-free and adds umami.

Techniques

sautéingbrowningsimmering

Equipment

large skilletwooden spoonmeasuring spoons
🌶️🌶️🌶️Mediumglutendairy

Also Known As

Sausage Gnocchi SkilletOne-Pan Gnocchi with Sausage

Garlic mashed potatoes are a popular side dish in American cuisine, often served during holiday meals and family gatherings. The dish combines the creamy texture of mashed potatoes with the aromatic flavor of garlic, making it a comforting addition to any meal. Its versatility allows it to complement a wide range of main dishes, from roasted meats to vegetarian options.

Ingredients

  • potatoes
  • garlic
  • butter
  • milk
  • salt
  • pepper

Instructions

  1. 1Peel and chop the potatoes into even pieces.
  2. 2Place the potatoes in a pot and cover with water.
  3. 3Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil.
  4. 4Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  5. 5Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
  6. 6Melt the butter (or olive oil) and add to the potatoes along with minced garlic.
  7. 7Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
  8. 8Stir in milk (or almond milk) to reach desired consistency.
  9. 9Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. 10Serve warm as a side dish.

Ingredient Alternatives

butter

Healthier: olive oil

Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier with unsaturated fats.

milk

Healthier: almond milk

Cheaper: water

Almond milk is lower in calories, water is budget-friendly.

Techniques

boilingmashing

Equipment

potmasherknifecutting board
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowdairy

Also Known As

Garlic MashGarlic Potato Purée

Ingredients

  • 12 oz cheese tortellini
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2In a large pot, cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. 3In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well until smooth.
  4. 4Add the cooked tortellini, shredded chicken, and crumbled bacon to the cream mixture. Stir until everything is well coated.
  5. 5Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.
  6. 6Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
  7. 7Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  8. 8Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  9. 9Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Equipment

large potmixing bowl9x13 inch baking dishaluminum foil

Lemon Pepper Chicken is a popular dish in American cuisine, often enjoyed for its bright, zesty flavor. It is commonly served at family dinners and gatherings, making it a favorite for both casual and festive occasions. The combination of lemon and pepper enhances the natural taste of the chicken, making it a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides.

Ingredients

  • chicken
  • lemon juice
  • black pepper
  • olive oil
  • garlic
  • salt

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the grill or oven to medium-high heat.
  2. 2In a bowl, mix lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
  3. 3Coat the chicken pieces in the marinade and let sit for at least 30 minutes.
  4. 4Place the chicken on the grill or in the oven.
  5. 5Cook until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  6. 6Serve hot, garnished with lemon slices.

Ingredient Alternatives

chicken

Healthier: turkey

Cheaper: chicken thighs

Turkey is leaner, while chicken thighs are often more affordable.

olive oil

Healthier: avocado oil

Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point, while vegetable oil is usually cheaper.

Techniques

marinatinggrillingbaking

Equipment

grillmixing bowlmeat thermometer
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lownone

Also Known As

Lemon Pepper Chicken WingsLemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
dairy-free

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp mustard
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 4 hamburger buns

Instructions

  1. 1In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. 2Drain excess fat from the skillet.
  3. 3Add chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. 4Stir in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  5. 5Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. 6While the mixture simmers, toast the hamburger buns if desired.
  7. 7Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.
  8. 8Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.

Equipment

large skilletspatulameasuring cupsmeasuring spoons

BBQ meatballs have their roots in American cuisine, often served at gatherings and parties. They embody the spirit of comfort food, combining savory flavors with a sweet and tangy sauce. Today, variations can be found across the globe, with different sauces and spices reflecting local tastes.

Ingredients

  • ground beef
  • bread crumbs
  • egg
  • onion
  • garlic
  • parsley
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • BBQ sauce
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • mustard
  • brown sugar
  • vinegar
  • olive oil
  • water

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  2. 2In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper.
  3. 3Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
  4. 4Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
  5. 5Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. 6Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
  7. 7While the meatballs are baking, prepare the BBQ sauce by combining BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, vinegar, and water in a saucepan.
  8. 8Heat the sauce over medium heat, stirring until well combined and simmering.
  9. 9Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and transfer to the saucepan with the BBQ sauce.
  10. 10Toss the meatballs gently in the sauce until fully coated.
  11. 11Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for an additional 5-10 minutes to absorb flavors.
  12. 12Serve the BBQ meatballs warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
milkeggswheat
dairy-freeegg-free

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp ginger powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, egg, garlic powder, ginger powder, black pepper, and salt.
  3. 3Mix the ingredients until well combined, but do not overmix.
  4. 4Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. 5Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
  6. 6While the meatballs are baking, you can prepare additional teriyaki sauce if desired for serving.
  7. 7Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
  8. 8Serve the meatballs drizzled with extra teriyaki sauce and garnished with sesame seeds.

Equipment

baking sheetmixing bowlmeasuring cupsmeasuring spoonsparchment paper

Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting dish that hails from Italy, where gnocchi are a beloved form of pasta. Traditionally made from potatoes, gnocchi are versatile and can be incorporated into various soups, providing a hearty texture. This soup is especially popular in colder months, offering warmth and nourishment. In modern cuisine, it has gained popularity in many regions, often adapted with different proteins and vegetables to suit local tastes.

Ingredients

  • chicken breast
  • gnocchi
  • carrots
  • celery
  • onion
  • garlic
  • chicken broth
  • heavy cream
  • spinach
  • olive oil
  • butter
  • thyme
  • parsley
  • salt
  • black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat until melted.
  2. 2Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. 4Add diced chicken breast and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
  5. 5Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
  6. 6Add gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. 7Stir in heavy cream and fresh spinach; cook until spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
  8. 8Season with thyme, parsley, salt, and black pepper to taste.
  9. 9Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld flavors.
  10. 10Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Ingredient Alternatives

heavy cream

Healthier: Greek yogurt

Cheaper: milk + cornstarch

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess

Techniques

sautéingsimmering

Equipment

large potcutting boardknifemeasuring cupsspoon
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowdairygluten

Also Known As

Gnocchi alla RomanaPollo e Gnocchi

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