Cool It — 10 Simple Tips for Freezing Meals

Be smart and use your freezer, and you'll get the most out of your meals. Cooking larger portions and freezing for later isn’t just a way to put extra money in your pocketbook. It’s also a way to make sure you’ve got a delicious dinner ready to serve in no time at all.

Here’s a quick tip: Freeze in individual portions, so you can reheat just what you want to eat.

Remember these 10 simple tips:

1. Freeze casseroles before or after baking.
   
   
2. Bake frozen casseroles about 10-15 minutes longer than the recipe specifies. (Be sure to keep an eye on it as it bakes.)
   
   
3. Some foods are harder to freeze, like fresh potatoes, sour cream, half-and-half or ricotta and cottage cheeses.
   
   
4. Meats, veggies and pastas cook more during reheating, so cook them just until tender.
   
   
5. Get creative after the dish is thawed. Add any of your favorite crisp toppings like nuts, crushed chips or bacon.
   
   
6. Cool foods before freezing, and store them at 0 F or colder.
   
   
7. You can freeze foods in any size—a larger portion for your whole family or a single serving for yourself.
   
   
8. Save time by using airtight containers that can go straight from the freezer to the oven or microwave.
   
   
9. If you microwave frozen casseroles, be sure to stir as it reheats. If you’re reheating something that can't be stirred, like lasagna, just let it stand so the heat can equalize.
   
   
10. Make sure you use frozen foods within 3 months.