How to Use a Freezer Thermometer to Monitor Your Freezer Temperature

Zucchini Pizza CasseroleMy husband has a hearty appetite, our two kids never tire of pizza, and I grow lots of zucchini. So this tasty tomato casserole is absolutely tops with us throughout the entire year. Once you've tried the recipe, you may even decide to grow more zucchini in your own garden next summer! —Lynn Bernstetter, White Bear Lake, Minnesota This casserole recipe transforms fresh zucchini into a flavorful crust, offering a gluten-free twist on traditional pizza. Mixing shredded zucchini with eggs and cheese is a great way to use up garden-fresh zucchini and incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Layered with rich tomato sauce, savory ground beef and gooey melted cheese, this satisfying low-carb casserole certainly doesn’t compromise on flavor. Remember, you can also freeze zucchini for all your favorite zucchini recipes.

Taco Stuffed ShellsTaco stuffed shells are a welcome twist on Taco Tuesday—easy to make, with results that are sure to please. Make it once, and this recipe just may end up with its very own weeknight slot. Our family-favorite spin on stuffed shells tastes totally decadent, but it’s made with low-fat ingredients. While the casserole reheats in the oven, pull together Mexican-inspired toppings like freshly made (or store-bought) guacamole, diced tomatoes and pickled jalapenos. If your meal prep involves freezing food, then you’ve probably come across the dreaded freezer burn. Check if the freezer burn is safe to eat.

Spicy Bean and Beef PieMy daughter helped me come up with this recipe when we wanted a one-dish meal that was different than a casserole. This pie slices nicely and is a fun and filling dish. —Debra Dohy, Massillon, Ohio You’ll love this savory pie with aromatic spices. The flaky, buttery crust adds a delightfully crisp texture. Plus, our bean and beef pie is loaded with protein and is quite filling.

Hawaiian Pork RoastBananas, liquid smoke and soy sauce flavor this fall-apart-tender pork roast. It's just like the kind I enjoyedat the luaus I went to in Hawaii. —Mary Gaylord, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin Taste the tropics when you bite into this tender pork roast. A boneless pork shoulder takes on complex flavors as it’s slow-cooked with sweet and savory ingredients like bananas, soy sauce and liquid smoke. The fall-apart pork tastes great on rice or as a filling for sandwiches and tacos.

Tortellini SoupThis quick, easy rustic Italian tortellini soup recipe is flavorful and comforting. Italian sausage, spinach and tender cheese tortellini simmer in a rich tomato broth, creating a soup that cooks for only 20 minutes. This rustic Italian soup cooks for only 20 minutes but tastes as wholesome and comforting as a soup that simmered all day. Italian sausage, spinach and tender cheese-filled tortellini are infused with the flavors from the rich tomato broth, making this one of our go-to soups for chilly nights.

Simple Creamy Chicken EnchiladasThis chicken enchilada recipe is one of the first dishes I created and cooked for my husband right after we got married. He was so impressed! We fix these creamy enchiladas for friends regularly. —Melissa Rogers, Tuscaloosa, Alabama These enchiladas are a creamy, cheesy delight made by rolling tender shredded chicken and cream cheese in soft tortillas. Smothered in a luscious, velvety sauce, they bake to golden perfection in only 30 minutes. Enchiladas are perfect for meal prep because they freeze well and can be quickly reheated for a hassle-free weeknight dinner.

Chicken RingMake this festive, cheesy chicken ring an unconventional part of your family’s next Christmas or holiday menu. You’ll love this golden, wreath-shaped entree. A mixture of cheese, chicken and vegetables is rolled inside a buttery, flaky crescent dough to create an eye-catching dish. It’s ideal for holiday gatherings or family dinners as an appetizer or a main course. It is freezer-friendly and reheats fast, making it a fantastic option for activity-packed days and nights.

Cassoulet for TodayFrench cassoulet is traditionally cooked for hours. This version of the rustic dish offers the same homey taste in less time. It’s easy on the wallet too. —Virginia Anthony, Jacksonville, Florida This cassoulet recipe is a faster take on the classic French dish, creating deep, comforting flavors without the long cooking time. The hearty mix of beans, sausage and aromatic herbs is baked to create an appetizing and wholesome meal. Serve it with crusty bread for an authentic bistro experience at home.

JambalayaThis low-effort slow-cooker jambalaya recipe features chicken, shrimp, and andouille sausage, various vegetables, bold flavors and plenty of spice. It's the ultimate one-pot meal any time of year. Enjoy Louisiana’s tangy, spicy flavors with this jambalaya dish. It’s rich in Creole spices and packed with protein-rich shrimp and sausage. Jambalaya is simple to make and feels heartwarming on a cold day.

The Best Shepherd’s PieOur top-rated shepherd's pie recipe delivers a cozy, filling, homestyle dinner that never disappoints. Shepherd’s pie is a timeless British classic, and every mouthful will greet your taste buds with seasoned goodness. Ground beef is combined with tender vegetables and topped with hearty, buttery mashed potatoes for a filling and satisfying meal. Thaw the frozen pie in the fridge overnight, then reheat it in the oven or microwave for a great meal.

Chicken PotpieLearning how to make chicken potpie from scratch is 100% worth it. This chicken potpie recipe features a flaky, buttery crust packed with chicken, vegetables and a creamy sauce. Blind bake pie crust for this recipe and enjoy the potpie’s flaky, buttery edge—no soggy crust here! The delightful crust is a nice contrast to the velvety, tender filling of hearty chicken and vegetables. This recipe might become an all-time family favorite.

Stuffed Shells with MeatThis easy stuffed shells with meat and ricotta recipe is warm and comforting after a long day. Prep the meat-stuffed shells the day before, then just pop the dish in the oven after work. In this Italian-inspired recipe, pasta shells are stuffed with a rich mixture of ground beef, creamy ricotta and savory herbs, then baked in a luscious marinara sauce. Make a double batch and freeze one of the unbaked casseroles for later. When ready to enjoy, simply bake the casserole from frozen until hot and bubbly. Pair with garlic bread and a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Southwestern CasseroleI’ve been making this mild family-pleasing southwest casserole for years. It tastes wonderful and fits nicely into our budget. Best of all, the recipe makes a second casserole to freeze and enjoy later. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas Savor a hearty, flavor-packed casserole combining ground beef, beans, tomatoes and zesty spices under a layer of melted cheese. Inspired by the bold flavors of the Southwest, this recipe makes two casseroles—enjoy one for dinner and freeze the second for a convenient, ready-to-go meal. Garnish it with a dollop of sour cream, sliced avocados or fresh cilantro to enhance its flavor.

Chicken Florentine MeatballsServed over squash and a chunky, mushroom-tomato sauce, these tender meatballs are tops when it comes to great flavor. —Diane Nemitz, Ludington, Michigan Think tender, flavorful meatballs packed with spinach and Parmesan cheese simmered in a mushroom-rich tomato sauce—perfection! Served over pasta or spaghetti squash, the ground chicken meatballs and rich mushroom sauce create an inviting Italian-inspired meal. Garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of extra cheese for an added burst of flavor.

Make Once, Eat Twice LasagnaOur family loves this recipe along with a green salad and garlic bread. It's so handy to have an extra pan in the freezer when unexpected guests drop in or you need to take a main course to a charity event. —Geri Davis, Prescott, Arizona This lasagna is layered with a flavorful meat sauce, creamy ricotta and rich mozzarella. The recipe makes two trays, so you can enjoy a lasagna today and freeze one for later. Whether hosting guests or preparing for a busy week, having an extra lasagna in the freezer ensures an easy, stress-free dinner option.

Stuffed Chicken RollsJust thinking about this dish sparks my appetite. The ham and cheese rolled inside are a tasty surprise. Leftovers reheat well and make a perfect lunch with a green salad. —Jean Sherwood, Kenneth City, Florida The aroma of these beautiful chicken rolls will tease your taste buds as the meat braises in the slow cooker. The tender, juicy chicken contrasts with the rich, cheesy filling to create a delightful mixture of textures and flavors. A green salad or side of steamed veggies turns it into a balanced meal.

Chicken Cordon Bleu CasseroleChicken cordon bleu casserole is made with all the same great flavors of the classic dish but with half the fuss. It'll have everyone coming back for seconds. All the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu are reimagined in this easier-to-make comforting casserole. Instead of individually rolling chicken breasts, layers of tender chicken, ham and Swiss cheese are placed in a casserole dish and smothered in a creamy Dijon mustard sauce. Topped with panko bread crumbs, the dish finishes with the perfect crunch.

Pulled Pork PastaI'm the proud mother of wonderful and active children. Simple, delicious and quick meals like this BBQ pork skillet are perfect for us to enjoy together after school activities, especially if I have leftover pulled pork. —Judy Armstrong, Prairieville, Louisiana Perfect for reheating, this succulent pulled pork pasta is flavored with a tangy and hearty barbecue sauce. It comes together in only 25 minutes and can be made with leftover pulled pork, making it a favorite among reviewers. It pairs well with crisp coleslaw or homemade cornbread.

Chicken Biscuit CasseroleChicken biscuit casserole is rich and satisfying with a broccoli cheddar base and a buttery biscuit topping. The recipe comes together in about an hour and is a great way to use up leftover chicken. Each bite of this casserole is packed with moist chicken, creamy sauce and savory vegetables. The buttery, golden biscuit topping melts in your mouth with teasingly rich flavors from the juicy filling. It’s the perfect cozy comfort food for warming up on a chilly day.

Thai Beef Stir-FryA distinctive peanut sauce complements this colorful combination of tender sirloin strips, cauliflower, carrots, broccoli and mushrooms. I like to dish it up over spaghetti, but you could use fried noodles instead. —Janice Fehr, Austin, Manitoba Enjoy flavorful beef strips and crispy veggies in a satisfying peanut sauce. Serve it with whole wheat noodles or rice and fresh garnishes like cilantro, lime wedges or chopped peanuts for a satisfying meal.

Miniature Meat PiesI make these handheld pies in advance, keep them in the freezer, then bake them the day of the party. They are always a hit at tailgate and potlucks. —Gayle Lewis, Yucaipa, California Experience culinary excitement when you taste these little savory pies. Each bite is a delicious treat of seasoned ground beef and veggies, luxurious gravy, and a rich and delicate crust. It’s a great snack or satisfying appetizer that can be turned into a main course with a salad or roasted vegetables.

Potato Chip Chicken StripsThis novel recipe is a fast and tasty change from fried chicken.—Sister Judith LaBrozzi, Canton, Ohio In this crispy, crunchy twist on classic chicken strips, tender pieces of boneless skinless chicken breasts are coated in crushed potato chips for an extra-flavorful and satisfying crunch. They are quick to prepare but also freeze well. Simply reheat them from frozen in a 400°F oven to restore their crisp texture. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces and a side of fresh veggies or coleslaw for a complete meal.

Buffalo Chicken PizzaFans of spicy chicken wings will love this rendition that turns it into pizza. Serve it up with blue cheese dressing and crisp celery, just like the tasty original. —Shari DiGirolamo, Newton, Pennsylvania This spicy pizza is perfect for fans of Buffalo wings. Tender chunks of seasoned chicken sit atop a crispy crust, all smothered in melty cheese. It makes a fantastic game-day meal or weeknight dinner, especially when paired with celery sticks or a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing.

Korean Beef and RiceIf you like bulgogi, think of this Korean beef and rice recipe as the quick-and-dirty version. Using ground beef instead of sliced steak, it's ready in just 15 minutes, start to finish. This quick and flavorful dish is inspired by bulgogi, a Korean dish that’s usually made with thinly sliced, marinated steak. In our version, ground beef is cooked in a sweet and savory sauce. Served over fluffy rice and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, it’s an easy meal that delivers bold, umami-packed flavors.

Sausage ManicottiThis classic Italian entree comes together in a snap but tastes as if it took hours. It's so tasty and easy to fix. My family always enjoys it. —Carolyn Henderson, Maple Plain, Minnesota This Italian favorite is made with five simple ingredients: sausage, cottage cheese, manicotti shells, marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. The melted mozzarella and sausage give the dish an irresistible texture. Turn it into an elegant meal with a side of garlic bread and a garden salad.

German MeatballsThis is one of our favorite main dishes. Because we raise our own pork and beef, the meat we use is always freshly ground. For variety, these meatballs can be cooked with a sweet cream gravy or steamed with tomatoes. But we prefer them with homemade sauerkraut. —Iona Redemer, Calumet, Oklahoma Dig in to mouthwatering meatballs simmered in a rich and tangy gravy. Combine the ground pork and beef with German-inspired spices for the perfectly textured and flavored meatball blend. The meatballs are best served with egg noodles, creamy mashed potatoes or sauerkraut.

Slow-Cooker Sweet-and-Sour PorkSlow-cooker sweet-and-sour pork has all the restaurant flavors, but is easy to make at home. It's great for meal planning, since you can freeze it then heat it up when the mood hits. This tender pork dish is like takeout with a homemade twist. Boneless pork loin chops are slow-cooked in a palate-teasing, sweet-and-tangy sauce made with pineapple, soy sauce and vinegar. The combination tastes delicious over steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables. For a restaurant-quality meal, finish it with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions.

Black Bean Turkey EnchiladasMy best friend and I created this recipe together because we wanted a meal that’s easy to prepare, affordable and nutritious. We both have hectic schedules, so when we’re feeling crunched for time, it’s a relief to have these wholesome enchiladas waiting for us in the freezer. —Holly Baber, Seattle, Washington Rethink Mexican food with this soul-warming and filling southwestern dish. Soft, aromatic wheat tortillas envelop wholesome black beans and lean ground turkey. They’re finished with tangy enchilada sauce and melty cheese, then baked to perfection. To add more flavor, serve the enchiladas with sliced avocado, fresh cilantro or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Pineapple ChickenBreak out of a humdrum chicken dinner routine with this simple sweet pineapple chicken recipe. Try this dish when you want something exciting with noticeable tropical flavors. The pan-fried chicken is simmered in a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce, while green onions add a pungent finish. Turn it into a complete meal by serving it over hot cooked rice or noodles.

Moroccan Braised BeefCurry powder is a blend of up to 20 spices, herbs and seeds. Add a pinch of curry to your favorite soups, stews, salads and even rice for an exotic flavor. In this Moroccan stew, begin with 2 teaspoons of curry, then add more to your taste. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen Enjoy the Moroccan flavor profile of this dish, which blends hearty spices, tangy tomatoes and juicy beef. Simmering the beef with fragrant spices (cinnamon, coriander and cumin) and sweet dried apricots or golden raisins gives it a signature taste.

Chicken Broccoli CasseroleThis delicious chicken and broccoli casserole recipe is a twist on chicken divan that came from an old boss. It’s quick, satisfying comfort food. —Jennifer Schlachter, Big Rock, Illinois Casseroles are one-pot wonders, and this creamy, cheesy chicken broccoli casserole is no exception. We make this with simple ingredients like chicken stuffing mix, cooked chicken, frozen broccoli, condensed broccoli cheese soup and shredded cheddar cheese. Double the recipe and stash one in the freezer for a rainy day.

Mexi-Mac CasseroleI typically have most of the ingredients for this dish in my pantry. Green chiles give it a little bite, but it’s easy to swap in a can of spicier tomatoes to turn up the heat. —Jan Conklin, Stevensville, Montana Craving a casserole? You’ll love the combination of taco-seasoned ground beef, diced tomatoes, green chiles, corn and kidney beans. The casserole is finished with melted cheese to create a delicious, comforting meal.

Beef & Mushroom Braised StewEvery spring, my family heads out to our timber acreage to collect morel mushrooms, and then we cook up this stew. We use morels, of course, but baby portobellos or button mushrooms or will work, too. —Amy Wertheim, Atlanta, Illinois It’s hard to beat a homemade braised stew packed with slowly cooked beef, hearty mushrooms and fragrant herbs. Simmering the beef in red wine, brandy and beef broth creates a delectable and velvety broth, and a touch of tomato paste adds depth and umami flavor. The stew goes great with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles or crusty bread. Garnish servings with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for that gourmet touch.

Sweet-and-Sour Meat LoafMy husband and I like basic, hearty meat-and-potatoes meals. The sweet-and-sour flavor adds a deliciously different twist to this longtime standby. —Debbie Haneke, Stafford, Kansas Enjoy a sweet-and-sour version of your favorite childhood dish. The savory ground beef is balanced with a tangy glaze of brown sugar, vinegar and tomato sauce. Serve it with mashed potatoes and steamed veggies to round out the meal.

Pork, Bean & Rice BurritosThe combination of spices is key to this slow-cooked pork—it's my family's favorite burrito filling. The aroma that fills the air as the pork slowly simmers is like a Mexican restaurant. A perfect recipe for tailgate parties. —Valonda Seward, Coarsegold, California Each bite of these burritos greets you with seasoned pork, delicious beans and rice, all wrapped up in a soft, warm tortilla. It’s the ideal meal-prep food because the burritos can be frozen for up to three months.

Grilled Marinated RibeyesThese juicy steaks are a favorite meal of ours when we go camping. Let them sit in tangy, barbecue-inspired marinade overnight and you've got a rich and hearty dinner ready to grill up the next day. —Louise Graybiel, Toronto, Ontario   Grilling these marinated steaks adds a signature smoky taste that makes them ideal for summer barbecues or backyard cookouts. Pair them with grilled veggies, baked potatoes or homemade salads, or top them with garnishes like chimichurri or garlic butter.

Mexican Chicken AlfredoOne family member likes Italian; another likes Mexican. They’ll never compromise when this is on the menu. —Tia Woodley, Stockbridge, Georgia Give a traditional Italian dish a Mexican-inspired twist with a little taco seasoning. The Alfredo sauce gives the dish its distinctive Italian character, while the salsa and smoky spices give it a fun new flavor. Feel free to add fun garnishes like fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes and a squeeze of lime for a fresh taste.

Breadstick PizzaNot only do refrigerated breadsticks lend a fun twist to pizza, but they make this dish a weeknight staple at my house. Feeding kids? Slice pieces into small strips and let the kids dip each strip into marinara sauce. They’ll love it! —Mary Hankins, Kansas City, Missouri This recipe couldn’t be easier: Simply sprinkle refrigerated breadstick dough with cheese, and top it with sauteed vegetables and Canadian bacon. It’s the perfect appetizer, finger food or light meal during game night. We usually serve it with marinara, but garlic butter and ranch dressing also make great dipping sauces.

Greek Pork ChopsMy in-laws taught me a lot about cooking, so any time I come across a great new recipe, I enjoy making it for them. These bright, lemony chops quickly became a favorite. —Geri Lipczynski, Oak Lawn, Illinois Welcome to pork chops cooked Mediterranean style! The pork chops marinate overnight in a flavorful combination of lemon juice, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, herbs and spices, ensuring the meat won’t dry out on the hot grill. They taste great as-is, or finish with crumbled feta and lemon juice to bring out the marinade’s flavors. Serve with roasted potatoes, Greek salad or warmed pita bread.

Lone Star Pot RoastPot roast becomes especially delicious with the addition of chopped green chiles and taco seasoning. —Helen Carpenter, Albuquerque, New Mexico This southern pot roast features beef chuck roast cooked in a Dutch oven with zesty green chiles, taco seasoning and tomatoes. Mashed potatoes, rice or warm cornbread are great pairings to create a comforting meal.

Mozzarella Baked SpaghettiThis satisfying easy baked spaghetti recipe comes together and will please everyone at your table. Add a salad and breadsticks, and dinner's done. —Betty Rabe, Mahtomedi, Minnesota Marry the best aspects of lasagna and spaghetti into one delicious dish. Toss cooked spaghetti in an egg mixture, then bake it in a casserole dish with classic lasagna ingredients like ground beef, sausage and spaghetti sauce. Top it with mozzarella cheese and bake it until golden brown to add an irresistible texture to the dish.

Chipotle Shredded BeefThis beef is delicious whether you serve it all rolled up in a tortilla, with corn salsa in a burrito, in a bun or over rice or mashed potatoes. So many options! —Darcy Williams, Omaha, Nebraska Smoky, slow-cooked beef is infused with the bold, spicy depth of chipotle peppers, garlic and a blend of warming spices. After several hours in the slow cooker, the chuck roast becomes tender and shreddable. We serve it over brown rice, but you could easily use it as filling for tacos, burritos or grain bowls. Its rich, complex flavor intensifies over time, making it an excellent freezer-friendly meal that retains its vibrancy upon reheating. Serve it with warm tortillas, fresh lime and avocado for a perfectly balanced dish. Make-Ahead Freezer Meals FAQ What are the best containers for freezing meals? Use the best freezer containers to preserve your food’s quality and prevent freezer burn, ensuring your frozen meals taste as fresh as the day they were frozen. Glass or plastic containers work best for freezer-friendly recipes. They’re sturdy enough to withstand freezing and won’t impart a strange odor or flavor on the leftovers. Use freezer-safe labels to track prep dates and ensure meals are used at their peak. How long do make-ahead freezer meals last? Most prep-ahead meals can be frozen for three to six months. Technically, food lasts in the freezer indefinitely when stored at 0° or lower, but frozen foods will degrade in quality over time. For the best flavor, we recommend enjoying prepared soups, stews, pasta dishes and casseroles within three months. What’s the best way to reheat freezer meals without drying them out? Some freezer meals can be cooked from frozen, but we generally recommend thawing meals in the fridge overnight to retain moisture and flavor. It’s also helpful to add a splash of broth or water when reheating. To reheat freezer meals in the oven, bake in a 350° oven until warmed through to an internal temperature of 165°. If you prefer the stovetop, reheat in a covered skillet or saucepan over medium heat until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave leftovers, but it’s best to opt for a low power setting and stir frequently for even heating.