I haven’t always made freezer meals. Back in the day, I used to eat out whenever I was in a rush for a meal, and I didn’t always make the most nutritious choices. I had a full time job and helped with my family’s farm which kept me busy even though I’m single. But when I began freelancing a few years ago I became even busier.
As my side hustle grew the amount of time I had available for cooking diminished to almost nothing. Out of necessity, I began planning meals ahead and making freezer meals about once a month. Using either my crock pot or oven, I was able to cook meals and work at the same time. Making freezer meals really saved my butt. Here are 5 ways freezer meals can save your butt and your budget too.
1. Use What is on Hand
One of the ways freezer meals can save your budget is by helping you use what you already have on hand. Take inventory and make a list of the items and their quantities in your pantry, cabinets and freezer. Next, pull out your favorite crock pot recipes or look some up on Pinterest or a website you like. Make a list of what you will need omitting what you already have in your current inventory. You might be surprised to find at least a few of the needed items on hand without having to buy them.
2. Make Meals Healthier
Have you ever looked up the number of calories or amount of fat in your favorite fast food choice? I have, and it is alarming. With so many people eating fast food today it is no wonder obesity in America is at an all-time high. Pre-making freezer meals to enjoy later has saved me from making many last minute runs to buy high fat, high calorie fast food. Thus, saving my butt. In addition, you get a great tasting, healthy meal for less than what you would spend at a fast food restaurant.
3. Feed Large Families or Single People Alike
Although freezer meals are economical for large families, there is no limit to how big you make them other than the size of the container they are stored in. As I pointed out earlier, I have made them and still do make them even though I am single. Most recipes can be split in half to make smaller portions at one time, too.
Once I figured out the value of spending a block of time pre-making many meals at once, I have not given up the habit. The extra money in my budget and time in my schedule have been incentive enough to convince me to keep it up.
4. Save Time
Obviously making freezer meals takes time. But instead of taking the time to prep, cook, and clean up several times, why not just do it once?
What about last minute meals? You can save time trying to figure out what you’re going to fix for supper when you are in a hurry by just grabbing something you already have prepared ahead.
5. Save Money
Now that you are thinking about much money it takes to make your meals, you must know it is much cheaper than going out to eat. To add to your savings, use coupons and buy in bulk because you can save even more. Furthermore, you can save even more money by planning and buying your items in season when they are cheaper and easier to find. It does cost more up-front, but it definitely pays off in the long-run.
Have you ever tried making freezer meals to save money?
The post 5 Ways Freezer Meals Can Save Your Butt and Your Budget appeared first on Eyes on the Dollar.
