20 freezer-friendly recipes to make now for incredibly easy meals later

By putting in a little effort now, you’ll reap the delicious rewards later on (and thank yourself in the process).

These simple but satisfying make-ahead recipes from delicious can be portioned up and frozen so you’ll always have lunch or dinner handy when time is short.

Big-batch soups and pastas, tasty one-pan bakes, hearty stews, freezer-friendly sides and richly fragrant curries are all on the menu. The only problem will be deciding which one to choose from.

Cheesy mushroom and lentil lasagne

“Nothing screams comfort like a cheesy lasagne, and this one gives you extra ragu for another day. My best tip for less-waste, less-fuss cooking is to make a double batch. You’re going through the process anyway, so put twice as much in the pan.“ – Tom Walton

Polpette with cannellini beans

Make your Monday mince more exotic and turn it into these fabulous polpette (meatballs) with cannellini beans. This is one protein-rich dish the whole family will enjoy.

Cheesy, delicious, and lasts for days.

Big batch za’atar chicken and freekeh broth (soup) with tahini yoghurt

“While this broth may not be a super-speedy midweek meal, the payoff comes in the form of rich, deep flavours and a big batch of soup that freezes well for up to three months. It’s perfect to have on hand for those times when cooking seems just too hard but only homemade comfort good will do. Chicken soup cures all, and this Middle Eastern-inspired version is no exception.“ – Emma Knowles

Cauliflower khichari (rice and lentil soup)

The humble cauliflower takes a starring role in Emma Knowles’ nourishing khichari, guaranteed to warm your bones on the chilliest winter’s day.

Sausage rolls

It’s a long way to the shop if you want a sausage roll. Stay home and make your own instead with this quick and easy sausage roll recipe.

This Aussie classic is easy to make in a hurry.

Slow-cooked oxtail tagliatelle with pangrattato

“A bit of time and effort is required here, but it’s well worth it. This slow-cook can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. The flavours will improve over time.” – Matt Moran. See notes for Matt’s zero-waste tips.

Moroccan meatballs with chickpeas and yoghurt

“A family favourite! I’ve left the spice out of this recipe to keep it family friendly, but feel free to serve with some harissa or chilli oil if you want to add a kick. And trust me on the pickle juice in the sauce! Leftover meatballs also make for a great pita wrap with some hummus, salad and pickles.” – Tom Walton

Black bean, sweet potato and quinoa soup with taco fixings

When the weather turns chilly, nothing hits the spot better than a hearty pot of warming soup.

Make a large batch of this and reap the rewards all week.

Thai-style beef shin curry

“Beef shin is a highly worked muscle and I think it’s perfect for a curry, because when you slow-cook it, it becomes tender and absolutely delicious.” – Matt Moran

Potato, pumpkin and spinach gratin

“I make this gratin on those days when I want to make something delicious from what’s on hand – some potatoes, onions from the pantry and a piece of pumpkin, leftover spinach and all the dairy from the fridge. We enjoy this as both a standalone meal that the kids enjoy or part of a larger meal. Leftovers are so good reheated, and take the time out of making it again when you crave it!” – Tom Walton

Pumpkin soup

Warm up this winter with our easy, creamy pumpkin soup. All you need are five ingredients, and it’s ready to eat in around 30 minutes.

Nothing beats having pumpkin soup to rely on in the freezer for lazy days.

Cauliflower soup

Cauliflower adds texture and creaminess to hearty winter dishes, plus it’s cheap as chips and great for your health. Warm up to this beaut brassica tonight with a big bowl of our creamy cauliflower soup.

Osso buco

This slow-cooked osso buco delivers rich flavours and melt-in-the-mouth tender beef. Plus it’s so easy to prepare. Top it off with a zesty gremolata for the perfect satisfying meal.

Ricotta and spinach cannelloni with tomato sugo

Ricotta and spinach cannelloni is such a classic combination. You can’t go wrong with this comforting midweek meal. To make dinner even easier, why not make the cheese sauce filling ahead, to save time?

Try this cannelloni recipe today... and tomorrow... and the day after that!

Spicy Kerala fish curry

“This spicy number is moreish and enhances in flavour when packed for lunch the next day. So it’s a win-win. The fish can be replaced with prawns, if you like.” – Helly Raichura

Cheesy chorizo lasagne

This ragout is great for a hearty pasta or a lasagne, as used here.

If presentation is key in your household, you'll love this dish.

Moroccan lamb, tomato and lentil soup (Harira)

This hearty, fragrant soup is sure to satisfy. Don’t do dairy? Just omit the yoghurt.

Jamie Oliver’s hearty minestrone soup

“There is no set recipe for this thick Italian soup – it’s usually made out of whatever vegetables are in season. I use a mix of greens, but you could just use savoy cabbage. I love borlotti beans in this recipe, as they add a slightly sweet taste and creamy texture to this easy minestrone recipe.” – Jamie Oliver

Sri Lankan salmon curry

Experimenting with global cuisines doesn’t have to be daunting when you can whip up a Sri Lankan fish curry in 30 minutes or less.

Meal prep just got a whole lot tastier.

Sunday night chilli con carne

“A good slow-cooked beef and bean chilli always goes down a storm in my house. Make a big batch of this on Sunday, then freeze any leftovers for another night. It’s brilliant spooned over a baked sweet potato.” – Jamie Oliver

Originally published as 20 freezer-friendly recipes to make now for incredibly easy meals later