Fix, Freeze, Feast

1. Embrace warehouse shopping for economical meal preparation

Warehouse clubs are everywhere, and they are among the best places to save money, day in and day out, on many products.

Cost-effective bulk buying. Warehouse clubs offer significant savings on large quantities of ingredients, making it possible to prepare multiple meals at once. By purchasing meat, produce, and pantry staples in bulk, you can reduce your overall grocery expenses and streamline your shopping trips.

Ingredient versatility. Many warehouse products can be used across multiple recipes, allowing you to maximize your purchases. For example:

• Large containers of spices and seasonings
• Bulk packages of frozen vegetables
• Multi-packs of canned goods
• Large blocks or bags of cheese

Consider splitting large purchases with friends or family members if storage space is limited, or plan your meals around common ingredients to minimize waste.

2. Master the Tray Pack Method for efficient make-ahead meals

We have created our recipes based on the large packages of meat from warehouse clubs—the tray packs. We developed the Tray Pack Method to help people just like you!

Batch cooking efficiency. The Tray Pack Method involves preparing multiple meals from a single large package of meat, typically purchased from a warehouse club. This approach allows you to:

• Save time by cooking in bulk
• Reduce packaging waste
• Ensure consistent portion sizes
• Minimize food waste

Flexible meal planning. By dividing the tray pack into separate meals, you can:

• Customize portion sizes for your family
• Create variety by using different marinades or sauces
• Freeze meals for future use, reducing the need for daily cooking
• Easily scale recipes up or down based on your needs

Adapt the Tray Pack Method to your schedule by preparing a few meals every other week or dedicating a full day to stocking your freezer with multiple entrées.

3. Plan and organize your cooking sessions for maximum productivity

To be successful, start with a plan. Even if it's just a mental list of steps you'll take, thinking through what you want to accomplish will keep you organized and efficient.

Preparation is key. Before beginning your cooking session:

• Create a detailed shopping list, separating warehouse and grocery store items
• Prepare a prep list outlining tasks like chopping vegetables or mincing garlic
• Gather all necessary equipment and containers
• Clear ample space in your refrigerator and freezer

Streamline your process. During your cooking session:

• Group similar tasks together (e.g., chopping all vegetables at once)
• Use assembly-line techniques for preparing multiple recipes
• Clean as you go to maintain an organized workspace
• Label containers and bags before filling them

By planning ahead and staying organized, you can significantly reduce the time and effort required to prepare multiple meals, making the process more enjoyable and efficient.

4. Adapt recipes to suit your family's tastes and dietary needs

Admittedly, ours is not the first recipe book touting the benefits of using your freezer to keep ready-made food on hand. But what we offer here that's new and unique is a method that's updated to the modern warehouse shopping experience while preserving the proven benefits of storing main dish meals and other items in the freezer.

Personalize your meals. While following the Tray Pack Method, don't hesitate to:

• Adjust seasoning levels to suit your family's preferences
• Substitute ingredients to accommodate allergies or dietary restrictions
• Experiment with different protein sources or vegetarian options
• Incorporate local or seasonal ingredients when available

Balance nutrition and flavor. When adapting recipes:

• Consider adding extra vegetables for increased nutritional value
• Explore healthier cooking methods (e.g., grilling instead of frying)
• Use herbs and spices to enhance flavor without adding excess salt or fat
• Incorporate whole grains and legumes for added fiber and protein

Remember that the goal is to create meals your family will enjoy while still benefiting from the convenience and cost-effectiveness of make-ahead cooking.

5. Utilize freezer-friendly packaging and labeling techniques

Carefully packaging and freezing your entrées will ensure the best quality when it comes to dinner time.

Proper packaging. To maintain food quality and prevent freezer burn:

• Use heavy-duty freezer bags or airtight containers
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing
• Double-bag items with bones to prevent punctures
• Portion meals appropriately for your family size

Effective labeling. Clearly label all frozen items with:

• Recipe name
• Date prepared
• Cooking instructions
• Any additional ingredients needed

Organized storage. Maximize freezer space and efficiency by:

• Freezing liquids and sauces flat in bags for easy stacking
• Using square or rectangular containers for better space utilization
• Implementing a first-in, first-out rotation system
• Maintaining a freezer inventory list

Proper packaging and labeling not only preserve food quality but also make it easier to identify and use your frozen meals efficiently.

6. Explore a variety of main dishes, sides, and sauces for diverse menus

Every time you eat from your freezer you save money, especially if it takes the place of frequently eating out.

Diverse meal options. Experiment with a wide range of recipes to keep your freezer stocked with exciting meal choices:

• Main dishes: chicken, beef, pork, and vegetarian options
• Side dishes: rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, and casseroles
• Sauces and marinades: pesto, teriyaki sauce, and flavored butters

Mix and match components. Create flexibility in your meal planning by preparing:

• Versatile protein options that can be used in multiple dishes
• Base sauces that can be customized with different seasonings
• Frozen vegetable mixes for quick side dishes

By maintaining a diverse selection of frozen meals and components, you can easily create varied and satisfying menus without relying on takeout or last-minute grocery runs.

7. Incorporate community cooking and meal sharing into your routine

Put your experience with make-ahead meals to good use for charity. The skills you've developed with this method could be used to make a wonderful donation to a nonprofit group.

Collaborative cooking. Explore community cooking options such as:

• Cooking clubs: Share tasks and enjoy social time while preparing meals together
• Cooking co-ops: Divide recipe assignments and swap prepared meals
• Neighborhood meal swaps: Exchange dishes with friends and neighbors

Benefits of group cooking:

• Share costs of ingredients and equipment
• Learn new recipes and techniques from others
• Enjoy social interaction while being productive
• Increase variety in your freezer meals

Community cooking not only makes meal preparation more enjoyable but also fosters connections and support within your social network.

8. Leverage make-ahead meals for charity and supporting others in need

Whether you want to explore this idea on your own or with a group, here are some things to keep in mind when considering recipe selection.

Meal donations. Use your make-ahead cooking skills to support:

• Local food banks and soup kitchens
• Families facing illness or other challenges
• New parents or elderly neighbors
• Fundraising events for schools or community organizations

Considerations for charitable cooking:

• Choose recipes with broad appeal and mild flavors
• Select dishes that are easy to reheat or prepare
• Consider dietary restrictions and allergies
• Package meals in disposable containers for convenience

By sharing your make-ahead meals, you can make a meaningful difference in your community while putting your cooking skills to good use.

9. Experiment with breakfast options, snacks, and desserts for the freezer

Having a main dish finished and in the freezer is like having a basic black dress in the closet. And just as the accessories complete the outfit, having the main dish out of the way means that I can explore new ways to accessorize my meal.

Beyond dinner. Expand your freezer meal repertoire to include:

• Breakfast items: breakfast burritos, muffins, and smoothie packs
• Snacks: energy balls, granola, and portioned trail mix
• Desserts: cookie dough, fruit crisps, and individual dessert portions

Benefits of diverse freezer options:

• Ensure healthy choices are always available
• Save time during busy mornings or when unexpected guests arrive
• Reduce reliance on processed convenience foods
• Satisfy cravings with homemade treats

By preparing a variety of meals, snacks, and desserts for the freezer, you can enjoy homemade food at any time of day while maintaining control over ingredients and portion sizes.

Last updated: July 21, 2024