Plant-Based Freezer Meals for Active Families

In this post we’re sharing 30+ https://kellyjonesnutrition.com/what-does-plant-based-mean/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>plant-based freezer meals for new moms, active families, college athletes, and anyone else who needs easy and nutrient-dense options on hand. These freezer-friendly pastas, soups, casseroles, breakfast items, and more will help you stay nourished on your busiest days!

Advantages of Freezer Meal Prep

Sunday https://kellyjonesnutrition.com/meal-prep-for-the-busy-athlete/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>meal prep is a great way to set yourself up for balanced, stress-free meals throughout the week, but let’s be real, it’s never going to happen every week. When you do have time for food prep, making a double batch of a freezer-friendly recipe can be a lifesaver for your future self. That way when busy weekends lead into busy weeks, you always have something quick and easy to fuel your active lifestyle. The key is to choose recipes with textures that hold up well in the freezer and with reheating, such as soups, pastas, and casseroles.

Read on for 30+ convenient and delicious plant-based freezer meals from Registered Dietitians. Note that this roundup includes both vegan and vegetarian options, though many of the vegetarian dishes can be made vegan with a couple of simple swaps such as soy milk or flax eggs.

Freezer Friendly Soups

Soups are a great option for freezer meal prep, especially in the fall and winter months. Keep in mind that plant-based soups that aren’t very bean heavy may be on the lower end protein-wise, but can always be paired with other protein foods. If you eat cheese, pairing soup with a grilled cheese sandwich on sprouted grain bread is an easy (and tasty!) way to increase the protein content of the meal, especially after a workout.

Dairy Free Potato Leek Soup with Kale

This flavorful dairy free potato leek soup gets color and texture from kale, while still offering a creamy texture and crave-able taste.

https://kellyjonesnutrition.com/potato-leek-and-kale-soup/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Dairy Free Potato Leek Soup with Kale” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Lemon Chickpea Vegetable Orzo Soup

With protein from chickpeas and tahini and fresh flavors from lemons and herbs, this satisfying soup from fellow RD Jackie at Accessible Wellness is perfect for freezer meal prep!

https://jackiesilvernutrition.com/recipes/lemon-tahini-chickpea-soup/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Lemon Chickpea Vegetable Orzo Soup” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Slow Cooker Spicy Sweet Potato Bean Chili

This spicy sweet potato bean chili recipe is made entirely of plants, with three types of beans for hearty, satiating protein. With a slow cooker option, it will be a regular on your meal prep list.

https://kellyjonesnutrition.com/spicy-3-bean-chili/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Slow Cooker Spicy Sweet Potato Bean Chili” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Roasted Butternut Squash Carrot Ginger Soup

Freeze this flavorful and antioxidant-rich veggie soup from fellow RD Jackie at Accessible Wellness and pair it with your favorite protein source for a quick & balanced weeknight meal.

https://jackiesilvernutrition.com/recipes/roasted-butternut-squash-carrot-ginger-soup/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Roasted Butternut Squash Carrot Ginger Soup” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Plant-Based Freezer Casseroles

If you’re looking for plant-based freezer meals that feed a crowd (or last a long time), casseroles are a great way to meal prep in bulk. These can be particularly helpful to make in advance of particularly hectic periods of life, such as peak training periods for athletes or shortly before becoming a new mom. Just make sure you have enough freezer space available!

Vegan Tempeh Skillet Casserole

With plant-based protein from tempeh and black beans, this casserole-style taco skillet from fellow RD Debbie pairs great with tortilla chips for a family-friendly meal.

https://dietitiandebbie.com/mexican-tempeh-skillet-casserole/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Vegan Tempeh Skillet Casserole” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Vegan Potato Taco Casserole

The vegan potato taco casserole is packed with nutrients to fuel athletes and active individuals – plus, it’s great for meal prep!

https://kellyjonesnutrition.com/vegan-potato-taco-casserole/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Vegan Potato Taco Casserole” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Kale and Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese

This creamy baked mac & cheese from fellow RD Sarah at Bucket List Tummy gets a boost of nutrients and fall flavors from kale, sweet potatoes, and fresh herbs.

https://www.bucketlisttummy.com/sweet-potato-mac-and-cheese/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Kale and Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Freezer Friendly Pasta Dishes

Pasta provides plenty of energizing carbs and can be paired with protein-rich add-ins like nuts, https://kellyjonesnutrition.com/easy-tofu-ricotta-recipe/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>tofu ricotta, chickpeas, or cheese to support muscle recovery. Swapping in legume-based noodles is another way to increase the protein content. And luckily, pasta dishes do great in the freezer!

Vegetarian Pasta Bake

This creamy baked pasta from Sarah at Bucket List Tummy is a high-protein vegetarian meal that’s great for new moms and busy families.

https://www.bucketlisttummy.com/veggie-pasta-bake/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Vegetarian Pasta Bake” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Vegetarian Ravioli with White Beans and Sun-dried Tomatoes

With creamy white beans and flavorful sundried tomatoes, you can’t go wrong freezing a batch of these homemade raviolis from fellow RD Melissa at Grateful Meal. Pair with additional protein if you’re enjoying them post-workout!

https://agratefulmeal.com/vegetarian-ravioli/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Vegetarian Ravioli with White Beans and Sun-dried Tomatoes” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

High-Protein Vegan Lasagna

This lasagna will fool dairy lovers with its rich tofu ricotta and bold flavors. With high protein ingredients it’ll satisfy active individuals while repairing muscle, too!

https://kellyjonesnutrition.com/protein-packed-vegan-lasagna/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”High-Protein Vegan Lasagna” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Deconstructed Vegetarian Lasagna

This deconstructed lasagna from fellow RD Jackie at Accessible Wellness is made with canned lentils and cottage cheese for a convenient and high-protein vegetarian option.

https://jackiesilvernutrition.com/recipes/deconstructed-high-protein-lasagna/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Deconstructed Vegetarian Lasagna ” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

deconstructed vegetarian lasagna meal prep

Make-Ahead Fusili Pasta Bowl

This easy 6-ingredient pasta bowl from plant-forward culinary nutritionist Jackie Newgent is a delicious and nutrient-dense make-ahead option. Try it with a legume-based noodle for an extra protein boost!

https://jackienewgent.com/pastabowl/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Make-Ahead Fusili Pasta Bowl” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Burrito Bowl Freezer Meal Prep

Burrito bowls are a freezer friendly option that are easy to package as individual meals and grab later as quick lunches or dinners.

Homemade Chipotle Sofritas Bowl

Made with shelf stable and freezer ingredients, this homemade Chipotle sofritas bowl recipe satisfies your craving when you haven’t shopped in awhile!

https://kellyjonesnutrition.com/homemade-chipotle-sofritas-bowl/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Homemade Chipotle Sofritas Bowl” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Vegan Meal Prep Burrito Bowls

These 6-ingredient freezer burrito bowls from fellow RD Jess are another easy and balanced option that’s perfect for freezer meal prep.

https://www.dietitianjess.com/meal-prep-burrito-bowls/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Vegan Meal Prep Burrito Bowls” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Freezer Friendly Veggie Burgers & Fritters

While they’re not a complete meal, freezing veggie patties is another way to get a jump start on lunch or dinner, and you can also keep buns on hand in the freezer!

Chickpea Black Bean Burgers

These Chickpea Black Bean Burgers are an easy, high-protein alternative to beef burgers to throw on the grill. Vegans and omnivores alike will love these!

https://kellyjonesnutrition.com/chickpea-black-bean-burgers/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Chickpea Black Bean Burgers” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Crispy Zucchini and Sweet Potato Fritters

Made with shredded zucchini, sweet potato, chickpea flour, eggs, and cheese, this fritter recipe from fellow RD Sarah at Bucket List Tummy is a veggie-forward meal or snack that kids and adults alike will love.

https://www.bucketlisttummy.com/crispy-zucchini-and-sweetpotato-fritters-gluten-free/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Crispy Zucchini and Sweet Potato Fritters ” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Lentil Taco Burgers

This recipe has come along to simplify tacos for everyone. They’re healthy, easy to make, versatile, and portable. What more could you ask for?

https://kellyjonesnutrition.com/lentil-taco-burgers/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Lentil Taco Burgers” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Other Plant-Based Freezer Meals

The options for other plant-based freezer meals are endless. Get recipes for ratatouille and lentil pot pie below, and get even more ideas, many of which can be frozen, in our roundup of https://kellyjonesnutrition.com/plant-based-recipes-rich-in-protein/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>50 High Protein Vegan Recipes.

Easy Veggie Italian Ratatouille

This ratatouille-inspired dish from fellow RD Nicole at Nourished by Nic is a great way to use up extra veggies and comes together in just 30 minutes. Pair with additional protein if you’re enjoying it post-workout!

https://nourishedbynic.com/italian-ratatouille-recipe/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Easy Veggie Italian Ratatouille ” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Lentil Pot Pie

This vegetarian lentil pot pie with flaky sweet potato crust is the perfect comfort food for a cold winter night!

https://kellyjonesnutrition.com/lentil-pot-pie-vegetarian/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Lentil Pot Pie” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Freezer Friendly Breakfast Items

Last but not least, breakfast! These items will come in handy on busy mornings when all you can manage is sticking something in the microwave.

Vegan Chocolate Protein Pancakes

These chocolatey protein pancakes freeze well and offer everything you need for post-workout recovery, plus the fluffy pancake texture you crave.

https://kellyjonesnutrition.com/vegan-chocolate-protein-pancakes/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Vegan Chocolate Protein Pancakes” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Butternut Squash Challah French Toast Casserole

Enjoy this moist & chewy french toast casserole recipe from fellow RD Amy at Plant Based with Amy pre-workout, or pair it with nut butter and a glass of soy milk for a balanced post-workout breakfast!

https://plantbasedwithamy.com/challah-french-toast-casserole/%20″ style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Butternut Squash Challah French Toast Casserole” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Freezer-Friendly Breakfast Burritos

These balanced freezer meal prep breakfast burritos are a great on the go option for busy parents, athletes, or anyone who likes to hit snooze again!

https://kellyjonesnutrition.com/breakfast-burritos-and-freezer-meal-prep/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Freezer-Friendly Breakfast Burritos” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Easy veggie Egg Muffins

These protein rich, easy veggie egg muffins are the perfect grab and go breakfast or snack to fuel your busy lifestyle.

https://kellyjonesnutrition.com/easy-veggie-egg-muffins/” style=”color: #ffffff;background-color: #1d5959;border-color: #1d5959;border-radius: 5px;padding: 10px 10px;” class=”wprm-recipe-roundup-link wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-uppercase wprm-recipe-roundup-link-inline-button wprm-recipe-link-inline-button wprm-color-accent” target=”_blank” aria-label=”Easy veggie Egg Muffins” rel=”noopener”>Get the recipe

Store Bought Plant-Based Freezer Meals

If it’s in your budget, stocking up on packaged freezer meals is also a great backup. There are plenty of store-bought plant-based meal options to choose from that are satisfying and provide adequate protein, carbs, and fat for athletes and active individuals. In some cases you may need to supplement with additional sides or add-ins depending on the item, but these quick and delicious options are still a great place to start! Here are a few of our team’s favorites:

https://kellyjonesnutrition.com/plant-based-freezer-meals-for-active-families/”>