Top 10 Easy
Top 10 Easy
Real Food Freezer Meals
Real Food Freezer Meals
Recipes From Thriving Home
Recipes From Thriving Home
Slow Cooker Chicken and
Cheese Taquitos
Slow cooker chicken and cheese taquitos are a delicious dinner that comes
together in a snap! Simply let seasoned chicken cook in the slow cooker,
and then add a little salsa, cream cheese, and shredded cheese at the
end. Wrap up the filling up in tortillas and give them a little time in the oven
for perfectly crunchy taquitos. Finish them off with your favorite Mexican
toppings, if you want.
Serves: 4 (2 taquitos per person)
Ingredients:
• 1 pound (about 2 large) chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons (or 1 store-bought package) of all-natural taco seasoning
• ¾ cup water or chicken broth
• ¼ cup cream cheese
• ¼ cup your favorite salsa
• 8 8-inch whole grain tortillas
• about 1½ cups shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
• Optional toppings: sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, salsa, guacamole
Instructions:
1. Place chicken breasts in a 6 quart slow cooker. Rub both sides of chicken with taco seasoning. Add water
or broth and cover with the lid.
2. Cook on LOW for about 4-5 hours, until chicken shreds easily. Shred using two forks and stir, so the
seasoning is evenly distributed.
3. Add cream cheese and salsa to shredded chicken and stir again until cream cheese melts. If you have a lot
of excess liquid, remove as much as you can using a measuring cup or ladle.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F.
5. Line a sheet pan with foil or parchment paper. Lay the tortillas out on a sheet pan. Top each tortilla with
an equal amount of chicken mixture, leaving a little room at the edges so the filling doesn’t spill out. Top
chicken mixture with about 2-3 tablespoons of shredded cheese. Roll up tortillas tightly into the shape of a
cigar, leaving the top and bottom open. (Freezer meal instructions begin here.)
6. Place on the baking sheet, seam side down. Spray the tops with cooking spray and bake 10-20 minutes,
until cheese melts and they are golden brown. Serving suggestion: Top with salsa, sour cream or plain
Greek yogurt, and/or guacamole.
Freezer Meal Instructions:
To Freeze: Complete the recipe through Step 5 (skipping Step 4). Then, place rolled up tortillas in a freezer bag
or freezer-safe baking dish. Seal tightly and freeze.
To Prepare: When ready to bake, you have three options:
1. Preferred method: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Bake as directed.
2. Defrost in the microwave. Bake as directed.
3. Place frozen taquitos on baking sheet, cover them with foil (so they don’t brown too quickly), and bake
at 400°F for about 25 minutes or until warmed through. Remove foil and bake about 5-10 more minutes
until golden brown.
Top 10 Easy Real Food Freezer Meals
Slow Cooker Balsamic Shredded Beef
We love a good dump-and-go meal, especially one that fills your home with
an amazing aroma. This tender, flavorful slow cooker dish is one that all
ages enjoy. Serve it warm on top of mashed potatoes or on a bun with a bit
of the sauce over the top.
Serves: 6-8 servings
Ingredients:
• 3 to 4 pound boneless roast (rump roast works well)
• 1 cup beef broth
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (recommended: Kikkoman Naturally Brewed Tamari Soy Sauce)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (increase if you want more heat)
Instructions:
1. Put roast into a 6 quart slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, mix together all remaining ingredients. Pour over roast beef.
(Freezer meal instructions begin here.)
3. Cook on LOW for about 8 hours, or until meat easily shreds apart.
4. Using two large forks, shred the meat apart in the slow cooker.
Freezer Meal Instructions:
To Freeze: Place roast in a gallon-sized freezer bag. Complete Step 2 and add marinade to the roast. Squeeze
out all air, seal tightly, and freeze.
To Prepare: Thaw in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours. After thawed, prepare as directed beginning with Step 3.
Top 10 Easy Real Food Freezer Meals
Chicken Parmesan Casserole
This is by far the most popular Thriving Home recipe to date. Readers
gravitate towards the simplicity and recognizable ingredients of this freezer
meal. But, they return to this favorite because it’s always a hit!
Serves: One 8x8 casserole dish
Ingredients:
• 4 cups (about 1 ½ pounds) fully-cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
• 1 jar (28 ounces) of marinara sauce
• ½ cup shredded or grated Parmesan cheese
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup Panko or whole wheat bread crumbs
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
• ¼ cup fresh, chopped parsley
• salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Grease an 8x8 inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
3. Layer the chicken in the bottom. Dump in the marinara sauce and mix with the chicken. Next, top with both
cheeses until all the chicken is covered.
4. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, olive oil, fresh herbs, and a dash of salt and pepper together.
5. Sprinkle the seasoned breadcrumbs over the top. (Freezer meal instructions begin here.)
6. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden on top and bubbling on the sides.
7. Serve as is or over your favorite pasta or rice.
Freezer Meal Instructions:
To Freeze: Follow instructions through Step 5. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and a layer of foil or top
with a tight-fitting lid. Freeze.
To Prepare: Let casserole thaw in the fridge for 24-48 hours. Bake as directed. Cover with foil if the top gets
too brown in the oven.
Top 10 Easy Real Food Freezer Meals
Pork Tenderloin with Seasoned Rub
This is one of the first pork tenderloin recipes that Rachel learned how to
make. The fact that she is STILL making it regularly for holidays, guests,
and weeknight meals should prove that it is a keeper! You’ll be amazed at
how such an easy recipe can pack some serious flavor.
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients:
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon ground thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1¼ pounds pork tenderloin
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 450°F.
2. In small bowl combine the garlic powder, oregano, cumin, coriander, thyme, and salt.
3. Rub the pork with the seasoning over all sides of the meat, pressing gently so the seasoning adheres well
to the tenderloin. (Freezer meal instructions begin here.)
4. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the oil. Using tongs, sear the tenderloin in the hot pan on all
sides until a brown crust forms, about 4-5 minutes total.
5. Transfer meat to a roasting pan or sheet pan with sides and bake until it reaches an internal temp of 145°F
(about 20 minutes). It will still be slightly pink inside.
6. Let meat rest for 5-10 minutes so juices redistribute. Slice on an angle and serve.
Freezer Meal Instructions:
To Freeze: Follow directions through Step 3. Immediately freeze the seasoned pork in a tightly sealed freezer
storage bag.
To Prepare: Thaw meat completely in the fridge for about 24-48 hours. Then, follow the cooking instructions
beginning in Step 4.
Top 10 Easy Real Food Freezer Meals
Peanut Butter and Banana
Baked Oatmeal
Packed with fiber, protein, and potassium (from bananas), this baked
oatmeal is not only mouth-watering but also a healthy way to start your day.
Throw it together in minutes for a warm and comforting breakfast the whole
family will love. Be sure to double and freeze one for later. Delicious!
Serves: 6-8 servings
Ingredients:
• 3 cups quick cooking or regular rolled oats
• ¼ cup ground flaxseed
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1/3-1/2 cup honey
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• ½ cup peanut butter or almond butter, melted or softened
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 3 ripe bananas, smashed
• ½ cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease one 9x13 inch or two 8x8 inch baking dishes with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, stir together oats, flaxseed, baking powder, and salt.
3. Next, in a medium bowl or in a blender, combine the honey, milk, butter, nut butter, eggs, vanilla, and
smashed bananas. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well mixed.
4. Add the chocolate chips and stir again. Spread the batter into the dish or dishes. (Freezer meal instructions
begin here.)
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes. If you like it a little crunchy on top cook for a few minutes longer.
6. Serve with warm milk poured over the top and sliced strawberries, blueberries, or sliced bananas.
Freezer Meal Instructions:
To Freeze: Prepare according to directions through Step 4. Wrap tightly in a few layers of plastic wrap and one
layer of foil. Squeeze out all the air and freeze.
To Prepare: Thaw in the fridge for 24-48 hours or by using the defrost microwave setting. Then, bake
according to directions.
Top 10 Easy Real Food Freezer Meals
Baked Italian Meatballs
Meatballs don’t get easier than this baked version, which means less work
and fewer dishes to clean up than typical recipes. These tasty little orbs
may get eaten before they ever make it atop spaghetti or a sub sandwich.
They are moist and perfectly seasoned every time.
Serves: 4-6 servings (makes about 24 1-1/2 inch meatballs)
Ingredients:
• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or substitute ground turkey)
• 1 cup whole wheat or Panko breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• ¼ cup loosely packed fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper or foil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine all ingredients using clean hands.
3. Use a medium dough scooper or a spoon to scoop and then roll about 1½ inch meatballs. (Freezer meal
instructions begin here.) Line up meatballs on the sheet pan, leaving room between each.
4. Bake for 20 minutes or until no longer pink inside (160 degrees internal temperature).
Freezer Meal Instructions:
To Freeze: Freeze meatballs in single layers in a gallon-sized freezer bag or freezer container with lid. Place
parchment paper or waxed paper between layers. Seal tightly and freeze.
To Prepare: Thaw meatballs in refrigerator overnight. Cook according to instructions.
Top 10 Easy Real Food Freezer Meals
Oven-Fried Parmesan Chicken Tenders
This kid-favorite that can go straight from freezer to oven is one that we
often have stocked up for quick, weeknight meals. The shake-and-bake
method delivers loads of flavor to the tenders without all the mess of
dredging and dirtying up multiple dishes. You will love this healthy twist
on classic chicken fingers.
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients:
• ¼ cup whole wheat flour
• ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1½ teaspoons Old Bay seasoning (reduce to ½ or 1 teaspoon for picky eaters)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 11/3 pounds chicken tenders (or cut up chicken breasts into strips)
• salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Cover a metal sheet pan with foil for easy clean up. Place the pan in the preheated oven, so it gets hot.
3. Place flour, Parmesan, Old Bay, and garlic powder in a gallon-sized freezer bag; shake well to combine.
Set aside.
4. In a small bowl, lightly season chicken tenders with salt and pepper. Then toss with olive oil until coated.
5. Add several chicken tenders at a time to the bag of dry ingredients. Close and shake well to coat each
piece. (Freezer meal instructions begin here.)
6. Carefully remove hot sheet pan and generously grease with cooking spray. Arrange seasoned chicken
tenders on the pan, leaving room between each one.
7. Bake for 15 minutes or until tenders are done, turning once halfway through cooking time. Chicken is done
when there is no longer any pink inside or it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Serve immediately.
Freezer Meal Instructions:
To Freeze: Bread the chicken tenders according to Steps 3-5. Flash freeze uncooked, breaded chicken
tenders by placing on a baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, place tenders in a gallon-sized
freezer bag, and freeze until ready to prepare.
To Prepare: Place a foil-lined baking sheet in a cold oven and preheat to 425°F. Remove the hot pan and
spray generously with cooking spray. Bake frozen chicken tenders for 20-25 minutes on the hot sheet pan,
turning halfway through cooking time. Chicken is done when there is no longer any pink inside or it reaches
an internal temperature of 165°F. Serve immediately.
Top 10 Easy Real Food Freezer Meals
Ham and Cheese Sliders
This recipe takes a ham sandwich to a whole new level. When Polly has a
group coming to her house, this is her go-to recipe. Not only do all ages like
them, but they are cheap and easy to make.
Serves: 15-20 mini sandwiches
Ingredients:
• 15-20 mini wheat rolls
• about 1 pound all-natural deli ham
• 7 ounces Swiss cheese slices
• ½ cup butter
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (look for an all-natural version)
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven 350°F.
2. Assemble the sandwiches, using 1-2 slices of folded ham and a ½ slice of cheese on the rolls. Place in a
greased 9x13 baking dish (or whatever size you have). Squeeze sandwiches in side by side.
3. Mix butter, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, and brown sugar in medium sauce pan over medium-high
heat. Bring sauce to a boil for about one minute and then remove the sauce from heat.
4. Evenly drizzle each sandwich with the prepared sauce. (Freezer meal instructions begin here.)
5. Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes.
Freezer Meal Instructions:
To Freeze: Follow directions through Step 4. Do not bake. Seal with a lid or wrap with plastic wrap and/or foil.
Freeze.
To Prepare: Let sandwiches thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Bake according to directions.
Top 10 Easy Real Food Freezer Meals
Easy Breakfast Casserole Muffins
This on-the-go breakfast takes seconds to warm up in the morning before
heading out the door and will stick with you through lunch. These mini
casseroles are full of simple ingredients that you likely have in your kitchen,
too. Do invest in some silicone muffin liners and/or generously grease muffin
tins to avoid what can be tough clean up.
Serves: 12 muffins
Ingredients:
• 3-4 pieces whole wheat bread, torn into small pieces (enough to fill muffin tins almost to top)
• 3-4 slices all-natural deli ham (look for preservative-free)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons ground mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper (or more or less to taste)
• dried Parsley, as garnish on top
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease muffins tins well with baking spray. (We highly recommend using silicone
muffin tin liners, if you have those, to avoid clean-up!)
2. Drop bread pieces evenly in muffin tins until they come about 2/3 of the way up the tin.
3. Sprinkle ham pieces evenly in each tin.
4. Sprinkle cheese evenly in each tin.
5. In a medium glass measuring bowl with a spout, whisk together eggs, milk, ground mustard, and pepper.
6. Pour egg mixture evenly in each muffin tin.
7. Sprinkle a little dried Parsley on the top of each one.
8. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown on top and cooked through the middle.
Freezer Meal Instructions:
To Freeze: Bake according to instructions and fully cool. Place casserole muffins in a single layer in a freezer
container or bag. Seal well, squeezing out excess air, and freeze.
To Prepare: Wrap a muffin in a moist paper towel and microwave in 30 seconds increments until heated
through. Or thaw in the refrigerator and warm in the microwave.
Top 10 Easy Real Food Freezer Meals
Mini Chicken Burgers with Herbs
Mini Chicken Burgers with Herbs are super easy, kid-friendly, healthy, and
tasty. They come together fast for chaotic evenings. Serve by themselves
as patties or on mini buns with your favorite burger toppings. Don’t skip the
fresh parsley or fresh lemon juice, as they both add a freshness that makes
these burgers pop.
Serves: 8 servings (2 mini burgers each)
Ingredients:
• ½ cup dried whole wheat bread crumbs
• 2 pounds ground chicken (or turkey)
• 1½ teaspoons finely chopped garlic
• ½ cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• olive oil or avocado oil
• Optional: cheese slices, lettuce, tomato, ketchup, etc.
Instructions:
1. Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, use a fork or clean hands to combine the ground chicken, garlic, parsley, oregano, lemon
juice, salt, and pepper. Form the meat into 16 small patties.
3. Coat each patty in the crumbs, turning to coat and pressing so the crumbs adhere; set aside.
(Freezer meal instructions begin here.)
4. Heat 1-2 tablespoons of the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add some of the patties to the pan,
being careful not to overcrowd them. Cook until browned and cooked through, turning once, about 8-10
minutes total. (If the patties brown before they’re cooked through, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover
the pan, and continue to cook for a few minutes more.) Repeat with more oil and patties.
5. Serve either as patties or topped with your favorite burger toppings.
Freezer Meal Instructions:
To Freeze: Complete the recipe through Step 3. Freeze the uncooked chicken burgers in single layers in a
gallon-sized freezer bag or freezer container with lid. Place parchment paper or waxed paper between layers.
Seal tightly and freeze.
To Prepare: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Cook according to directions.
Top 10 Easy Real Food Freezer Meals
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