When you have just had a baby, the last thing you need is stress. Or more responsibility. Or clean-up! Meal trains and well-meaning neighbors are fabulous, but being prepared with a freezer stocked up on wholesome, filling meals to enjoy post-baby is an absolute 'recipe' for success.
Chili and lasagna may be the old standbys for make-ahead freezer meals, but there are so many more delicious and innovative recipes you can try with minimal effort in those final weeks of baby prep. (Full disclosure: Both chili and lasagna recipes show up on this list! But they’re special ones...)
Today’s freezer meals are nutrient-dense and flavorful, easy for busy parents to make, and warm up in minutes to give you that cosy, cared-for feeling that new mums and dads need more than anything. So, we have pulled together a month’s worth of options for you and your family to enjoy. Dig in!
Creamy, salty, cheesy goodness are the words that come to mind with this easy-peasy, ultra-yummy make-ahead dish. Top with fresh tomatoes and basil and it will feel anything but frozen.
If you are breastfeeding—or simply have picky little kids in addition to the new baby—lay off the heat with your freezer chili... but do not lay off the flavor! This old-school Betty Crocker recipe is expertly seasoned but will not offend tiny taste buds. You can swap ground chicken, turkey, or even meat-free grounds in place of the beef if preferred. Make sure to stock up on shredded cheddar cheese ahead of Baby’s arrival, because you will want some for topping this and plenty of the other recipes on our list.
This naturally vegan and gluten-free minestrone soup is a no-brainer—and the kids will love it, too. Add or subtract your favourite veggies or whatever you have on hand to make life easier. It is a 30-minute, one-pot recipe that stores easily in a Ziploc bag and is fantastically filling as its own, plant-based protein meal or with a side salad and of course some crusty bread for dipping.
These healthy burgers are easy to make and they freeze well for a pretty much instant, plant-based dinner you can serve in minutes. Add oven fries or a salad to round out the meal.
This is a no-brainer recipe for the early baby days and will probably stay in your rotation for busy nights in the months and years ahead. Health-conscious and super-tasty, it is an easy stir-fry that can be bagged and frozen for a balanced meal to enjoy once Baby arrives.
One thing you’ll get used to doing once Baby arrives is using one hand for practically everything. Since eating is no exception, these homemade 'hot pockets' are an absolute win for new parents.
It is like a no-pressure lasagna, just as tasty and comforting without the finicky sheet noodles. Layer in your favourite cheeses and sauce, and please even the pickiest eaters in your home with this winning Italian freezer dinner.
Pasta is life when you have just had a baby, but 'zoodles,' or, shredded zucchini in the shape of noodles, offer up a low-carb alternative for those nights you want a light, yet savory, meal. This recipe looks perfect for exactly that.
This is one of those dishes where healthy and hearty collide, and you can pile up plate without a second thought. Happily, this make-ahead meal only takes 15 minutes of prep time, and once cooked, it can last in the freezer up to a month.
The Pioneer Woman never lets us down, with family-friendly recipes that are easy to recreate at home. This inventive take on freezer lasagna is an absolute must for the new-baby days.
Two words: Um, yum! If you thought those hot pockets were a hit, keep the handheld goodness going with this flavorful Latin recipe that is sure to be added to your permanent rotation.
If you had not guessed, we are big fans of Minimalist Baker, where recipes are designed with real home cooks in mind (read: easy!) and most of it is exceptionally healthy as well. This rich, savory take on a classic risotto is freezer perfection, and it’s dairy-free, which is useful for any nursing mum whose baby has a sensitive tummy.
This vegetarian take on a traditional Greek lemon chicken soup uses eggs in place of heavy cream for a lightened-up version. The chickpeas add plant-based protein but you can substitute them or simply add in shredded roast chicken, fresh or store-bought.
It is a family-friendly recipe that hits all the food groups with a bright, flavorful blend of spices; acid from the lemon; and creamy, cheesy elements. You and your crew are going to love this easy freezer dinner.
There are a fair amount of soups on this list because they freeze and reheat well, and are a great way to bring in lots of much-needed veggies and other nutrient-dense foods when you are recovering from childbirth. This one takes traditional tomato soup to the next level and will have you reaching for a second bowl.
It is a healthier take on a classic Cuban recipe traditionally made with beef. This version is just as flavorful and easy to reheat and enjoy as the original, but if what you have on hand is beef or pork, feel free to sub those in.
Comfort food at its finest... all gooey, cheesy, hearty, and ready-to-go! This is another make-ahead meal that your bigger kids will love just as much as you do.
Whole grains are so important for your health, and when your body is recovering from pregnancy and childbirth, you want to pack in as many nutrient-rich foods as possible. That is why we are recommending this tasty farro dish that feels elevated enough to be a restaurant meal but will be expertly (and easily) delicious right out of your freezer.
You could spend $10+ each on burritos plus delivery fees, tax, and a tip… or you could make these bad boys ahead and pop them in the freezer for anytime that craving hits in the weeks and months to come!
Not exaaaaactly healthy, but absolutely delicious. You will have just birthed a human and be up half the night and all day caring for it. We think you deserve the noodle bake.
In addition to all the cheesy goodness on this roundup, we wanted to make sure to have plenty of savory dairy-free recipes for those mums who need to go without it. These tasty chicken meatballs are naturally DF and GF, loaded with protein and flavor, and are perfect when served over pasta, rice, or veggies, or inside a pita pocket.
We did not promise no lasagna, we just said they would be different! And this taco take on classic lasagna is a flavor party for the mouth that the tiniest, pickiest eaters and their tired, ravenous parents will all equally enjoy.
Everyone wants their chili to be packed with protein; did you know you can accomplish that and still keep it meat-free? This modern chili recipe freezes and heats flawlessly for Meatless Monday, vegetarian households, or any time you want to mix it up with something new and different.
Breakfast for dinner is always a good idea, and these make-ahead sammies were tirelessly taste-tested for freeze-ability. Make up a big ole’ batch and toss them in the freezer for a yummy, satisfying meal morning, noon, or (middle-of-the) night!
It is like a homemade version of Hamburger Helper, but kicked way up to the next level. This creamy, meaty, crave-worthy meal is a must-try, especially if you have young picky eaters in the house.
A total staple, easy to heat and eat, and pairs beautifully with a side salad or even a piece of grilled meat or fish for a post-baby dinner packed with all the good stuff.
Sometimes you just really want something super healthy, and this clean, plant-based dish is a really good one to have in the freezer for those nights.
Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider. Breastmilk is the best source of nutrition for babies. It is important that, in preparation for and during breastfeeding, mothers eat a healthy, balanced diet. Combined breast- and bottle-feeding in the first weeks of life may reduce the supply of a mother's breastmilk and reversing the decision not to breastfeed is difficult. If you do decide to use infant formula, you should follow instructions carefully.
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