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Dinner just got a whole lot easier. Whether you’re heading into a busy week, want to stock up for back-to-school, or just need a break from the “what’s for dinner?” panic, these freezer meals are for you.
Each one is slow cooker-ready, easy to prep ahead, and designed to freeze perfectly. I use these all the time when I know life’s about to get wild and I’m always so glad I did!
Don’t Start the School Year Without Doing This First
Back-to-school season is always a little chaotic — which is why I lean on these freezer meals every year. They’re slow cooker-ready, easy to prep, and total lifesavers on busy nights when dinner feels impossible. Make one or make all seven, and you’ll be so glad you did. Bonus: there’s a free printable shopping list and eBook to make it even easier.
Get the printable shopping list + full instructions in this Freezer Meal eBook! It’s totally free, and your future self will thank you.
Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Pork Chops
Tender pork chops and potatoes cook together in a creamy ranch sauce that somehow tastes even better the next day. It’s a full dinner without the mess or mental energy.
Crockpot Tuscan Chicken
Creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic make this feel like a dinner you’d get at a restaurant. It freezes beautifully and all you have to do is toss it in the slow cooker. Add pasta and you’re done.
Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken
This one is so versatile, I always keep a bag in the freezer. Make tacos, bowls, nachos, or serve it over rice. It takes five ingredients and comes out packed with flavor every time.
Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs
These Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs are tender, flavorful, and slow-cooked in a creamy gravy that everyone loves. They freeze beautifully, so you can prep now and enjoy later without any extra work. It’s the kind of dinner that feels special but couldn’t be easier to pull off.
Crockpot Chili
This is a freezer staple I make over and over. It feeds a crowd, makes amazing leftovers, and comes together with pantry staples. Serve it with cornbread or chips and everyone’s happy.
Hulu Huli Chicken
This one has big vacation energy, even if you’re just serving it over rice on a random Tuesday. The sweet and tangy sauce does all the work while the chicken turns melt-in-your-mouth tender. It’s a hit with picky eaters and perfect for sliders, wraps, or bowls.
3 Packet Roast
The most hands-off roast recipe on the site. It takes five minutes to prep, and the results taste like you worked all day. Bonus! The leftovers are amazing in sandwiches or sliders.
How to Store Leftovers
Freezer meals are great the first time, but just as handy the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat the leftovers so they turn out just right:
- Fridge: Store any cooked leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Cool completely, then freeze in individual portions for up to 2–3 months.
- Reheating Tips: Add a splash of broth or cream to revive sauces and avoid drying out. Reheat in the microwave, stovetop, or slow cooker on low.
This story originally appeared on TheRecipeCritic
