3 Easy Crockpot Freezer Meals Your Family Will Devour

Finding time to make a healthy, home-cooked meal can feel nearly impossible some days. Whether you have been running errands, working late, or catching up on house cleaning, there are nights when cooking from scratch just is not realistic. Still, you want to avoid grabbing unhealthy frozen dinners or heavily processed foods that are full of additives.

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That is where crockpot freezer meals come in. By preparing a few simple recipes ahead of time, you can stock your freezer with ready-to-go dinners that are both wholesome and delicious. When a busy day hits, all you need to do is drop one bag into your slow cooker and let it work its magic.

The three recipes below are family-friendly, easy to assemble, and packed with flavor. Each one freezes beautifully, cooks to tender perfection, and will leave your kitchen smelling amazing. These are comfort meals you can feel good about serving your family.

1. Crockpot Slow-Cooked Beef Stew

This hearty recipe is a true family favorite and one that always brings back special memories of my Granddaddy. Every year on his birthday, we would make him his “favorite beef stew,” and without fail, he would grin and say in his thick North Carolina accent, “That there is a good bowl of stew!”

If you are looking for a classic, comforting meal to add to your regular rotation, this stew is it. Be prepared for everyone to ask for seconds and maybe even thirds. The recipe makes about six servings, but once you try it, you will probably want to double it next time.

Old-Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe

Yield: 6 servings
Cook Time: 5 hours 10 minutes on high or 8 hours on low

Ingredients

• 2 pounds cubed grass-fed stew beef
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup organic beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons A1 sauce
• 3 organic potatoes, chopped
• 4 organic carrots, sliced
• 1 organic onion, diced
• 1 clove organic garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt or sea salt

Instructions

1. Combine the beef, butter, water, broth, Worcestershire sauce, A1 sauce, vegetables, and spices in the crockpot.
2. Cover with the lid and cook on high for 5 hours or low for 8 hours until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.
3. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.

When you are ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or run warm water over the container for a minute to loosen it. Transfer the stew to a pot, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until heated through.

Serve hot and enjoy a bowl of classic, old-fashioned beef stew that tastes like home.

2. Ham and Bean Soup

Do not let the simple name fool you. This ham and bean soup is hearty, comforting, and full of rich flavor. It has quickly become one of our family’s favorite meals, and even our two-year-old asks for seconds and thirds every time I make it.

As a mom who enjoys cooking meals that are both nourishing and family-friendly, I am always searching for dinners that bring everyone to the table with smiles. Ham and bean soup fits that perfectly. It is budget-conscious, filling, and easy to prepare, making it a wonderful choice for busy evenings or relaxed weekends at home.

I have to admit, the first time my husband asked me to make this soup, I was unsure. I had never been much of a fan of beans and expected it to taste plain. To my surprise, it turned out to be one of the most flavorful soups I had ever made. The savory ham, tender beans, and simple spices come together beautifully, creating a warm and satisfying meal every time.

Now, it is a regular in our home, and my family always looks forward to it. Once you try this recipe, you will understand why it has earned a permanent spot in our dinner rotation. It is simple to make, hearty to eat, and loved by all ages.

Savory Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Yield: 6 servings
Cook Time: 6 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 organic ham (bone-in recommended for flavor)
• 1/2 large organic onion, chopped
• 2 pounds organic Great Northern or navy beans
• 8 cups water
• 1 cup organic celery, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt or sea salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Rinse the beans thoroughly and remove any stones or shriveled beans.
2. In the crockpot, combine water, ham, onion, celery, and beans.
3. Add salt and pepper, then stir gently to combine.
4. Cover and cook on high for 6 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have blended.
5. Once cooked, remove the ham bone if used, shred any remaining meat, and return it to the soup.

Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing. Transfer it to freezer-safe containers, seal tightly, and store in the freezer until needed.

When you are ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or place the frozen soup into a large pot and heat over medium until it begins to boil. Stir occasionally as it warms through.

For a heartier meal, serve this soup with warm cornbread or a slice of crusty bread. If you are sensitive to sodium, start with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and adjust to taste once the soup is finished cooking.

3. Crockpot Chicken on Veggies with Stuffing

This cozy crockpot chicken dinner is the perfect hot meal for a cold winter day. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and herbed stuffing makes for a hearty, satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out. It is one of those meals that fills your home with the most comforting aroma and leaves everyone asking for seconds.

I love preparing this recipe because it takes minimal effort but delivers an impressive result. It is also ideal for freezing ahead of time, making it a great option for unexpected guests or busy weeknights when you need a quick, wholesome dinner.

Scrumptious Chicken over Veggies with Stuffing Recipe

Yield: 6 servings
Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours on low

Ingredients

Main Dish:

• 1 whole thawed free-range organic chicken
• 3 organic carrots, sliced
• 4 large organic potatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup organic celery, chopped
• 1/2 organic onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt or sea salt
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1 clove organic garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Stuffing:

• About 6 slices bread, diced (adjust based on chicken size)
• 1/2 cup organic celery, chopped
• 1/4 cup organic onion, diced
• 1 clove organic garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon basil
• 1/2 teaspoon parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt or sea salt
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

1. Prepare the stuffing:
   In a medium bowl, combine diced bread, celery, onion, garlic, salt, and spices. Add the melted butter and mix well. Set aside.
2. Prepare the vegetables:
   Layer the carrots, onion, potatoes, and celery in the bottom of the crockpot.
3. Stuff the chicken:
   Gently pack the stuffing into the cavity of the chicken, one handful at a time. If there is extra stuffing, place it around the chicken in the crockpot.
4. Season the chicken:
   Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and stir in the garlic, salt, oregano, basil, and Parmesan cheese. Rub the mixture evenly over the outside of the chicken.
5. Cook:
   Place the stuffed chicken on top of the vegetables. Cover with the lid and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the joint.
6. Cool and store:
   When the chicken is done, allow it to cool completely. Debone the chicken and layer the meat over the vegetables, or leave the pieces whole if you prefer. Store any extra stuffing separately.
7. Freezing and reheating:
   For freezer storage, place the cooked meal in a disposable foil baking pan, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze. When ready to serve, allow the meal to thaw slightly while preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Heat the covered dish in the oven until the chicken and vegetables reach 165°F (74°C).

Serve warm with your favorite side, such as green beans or a fresh salad, and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal that tastes just like Sunday dinner.

Go Ahead and Start Planning Your Meals!

I hope that these three crockpot freezer meals will be a great help to you as you plan meals for your family. It’s important for us moms not to be stressed out about making dinner. At the same time, we need to feel good about the meals we make for our loved ones.  Isn’t it just comforting to know that there is a healthy dinner ready to go right when you need it?

I know that these three delicious meals will always come in handy for busy moms like yourself.

Lastly, you can make any of these meals on demand without sticking them in the freezer. I hope you and your family enjoy these meals as much as my family and I do.

Crockpot Freezer Meal FAQs

What are some popular crockpot freezer meal options?

Beyond the recipes shared above, other great options include chili, shredded meats for tacos or sandwiches, and hearty casseroles. For example, you can make a simple casserole by combining rotini pasta, browned hamburger, tomato sauce, Italian spices, a pinch of salt, and mozzarella cheese.

How do you reheat a freezer meal in the crockpot?

When you are ready to cook, thaw the meal if needed, especially for recipes that are not broth-based. Empty the contents into your crockpot, and add a bit of hot water to help the reheating process. Use the low setting for larger portions to ensure everything warms evenly without drying out.

What are the best containers to use for crockpot freezer meal storage?

Heavy-duty freezer bags or airtight freezer-safe containers work best. These help prevent freezer burn and preserve the flavor and texture of your meals.

How long can you store crockpot freezer meals?

Most crockpot freezer meals can be stored for up to 3 months. Always label each container with the name of the dish and the date it was frozen. With proper storage, many meals can last up to 6 months and still taste great.

Do you need to adjust cooking times for crockpot freezer meals?

If your ingredients have been thawed before cooking, you do not need to change the cooking time. If you are cooking directly from frozen, add a little extra time to ensure the ingredients heat through completely.

What are some kid-friendly crockpot freezer meal ideas?

Children usually love simple, flavorful meals like meatballs in marinara sauce, cheesy chicken and rice, pulled pork sandwiches, or beef and vegetable stew.

How can you prevent freezer burn on crockpot meals?

Remove as much air as possible from freezer bags before sealing. If using containers, make sure they are airtight. Label your meals and enjoy them within the recommended storage period for the best flavor and texture.

Can you cook vegetables and meat together in a freezer meal?

Yes, you can absolutely combine vegetables and meat in the same meal. Just make sure all ingredients are prepped properly before freezing. For example, browning meat or lightly sautéing vegetables first can help preserve flavor and texture.

What is the best way to label crockpot freezer meals?

Use a permanent marker to write the dish name, cooking time, and the date it was prepared on the freezer bag or container. You can also include a “use by” date to make meal planning easier.