When you have a new baby, the last thing you want to do is have to cook an elaborate meal. Whether you are prepping for yourself postpartum or want to gift food to a friend, here are the best freezer meals for new moms!
The time right after you have a baby is wild. My babies both slept in 2 hour increments, so I really had no idea when was night and when was day and we definitely didn’t know when was dinner time.
My husband and I joke that no matter what is going on in a day, it’s always time to think about what meal to make next. Our toddler is always hungry and always asking what’s the next meal.
Here are all of our favorite freezer meals for new parents!
Giving frozen meals as a gift to new parents
One of the greatest gifts that you can give to new parents is a delicious meal.
Why make freezer meals for new parents?
The best gifts we ever got after our babies were born was food. Sometimes we had friends send delivery food and that was great.
But having local friends bring meals over just meant that we didn’t have to do meal planning, we didn’t have to think, we just ate. That’s what you really want after having a newborn!
What is a good meal to bring a new mom?
Here are some things I like to keep in mind when bringing food to someone after their baby arrives:
- Do they have other kids? Be sure it is kid/toddler/whoever friendly
- What do they like to eat normally? If you know they love Mexican food for example, that would be a real treat?
- What take out do they get? They are probably ordering takeout right about now, so try to think of something different. If they always order pizza, don’t bring a frozen pizza.
- Do they tend to eat healthy or prefer comfort food?
When in doubt, text or call someone other than the mom (such as the dad, or her family member or a mutual friend) and ask!
Feeling lazy? Here are the best ready-to-eat meals for new parents you can get at Costco!
Don’t forget side dishes + dessert
Beggars can’t be choosers, but especially if you are making frozen meals for new parents as a gift, try to really make it a rounded out meal!
It feels extra special to have extra sides and a dessert. I’ll tell you, after my son was born, someone brought us a meal that included a big pan of brownies. The brownies were such a treat I kept them all to my self!
Sides could be as simple as a frozen veggie or garlic bread, or even a bag of ready-to-eat salad mix. If the new parents already have a small child, you can’t go wrong throwing in a bag of frozen french fries or nuggets!
Things to keep in mind when gifting freezable meal recipes for new moms
- Always use disposable dishes or things you don’t want back. No new parent wants to be washing and returning your casserole dish!
- Be sure to ask if there are any dietary restrictions or special needs. Some breast feeding moms have to go gluten free or dairy free suddenly to deal with newborn digestive issues.
- Check to see if they have a crock pot or instant pot before gifting a frozen meal that requires one.
- If your meal is complemented well with a sauce – like barbecue sauce, sour cream, or salad dressing – throw in a bottle. Nothing worse than having to eat a dry baked potato, and new parent’s fridges aren’t always stocked!
Easy freezer meals for new moms to make themselves
It’s also great to make frozen meals before your baby is born so that you have ready to go meals for yourself. Nothing wrong with that!
When should I make freezer meals during my pregnancy?
Frozen food is generally good for about 3 months. If you want to have food for the first two months after having a baby, aim to make the meals during the final 30 days leading up to your due date!
Try to batch your cooking in one meal prep day and recruit a friend or family member to help!
How many freezer meals should you make before baby?
Honestly, the limit on frozen meals to make before baby arrives is your freezer space. The more meals you have, the better. Remember to leave room in the freezer for breast milk storage if you plan to breastfeed – the first few weeks are really wild.
When you are making meals for yourself, double or triple the recipe. It is no extra work and results in extra nights you won’t have to worry in the future!
Vegetarian friends?
It can be hard to come up with a vegetarian recipe idea if you are used to making food with meat in it. So, hopefully, this guide will help to inspire you!
Meal ideas for new parents
- The best Costco meals for new parents
- Freezer meals for new moms
- Vegetarian freezer meals for new parents
- Paleo freezer meals for new parents
- Dairy-free freezer meals for new parents
- Gluten-free freezer meals for new parents
- Crock pot freezer meals for new parents
- One handed meals for new moms
- Breakfast freezer meals for new moms
- One pot meals for new moms
Here are some of my favorite freezer friendly vegetarian meals to make for new parents!
The Best Vegetarian Freezer Meals for New Moms
Looking for the perfect vegetarian freezer meal idea? Here are a ton to inspire you!
This is a casserole that uses shredded zucchini as the main ingredient. Perfect for summer!
If it's cooler weather or you want more of a comfort food, how about whipping up some chili!
Pair these burgers with buns, sliced cheese, and a bag of frozen fries for a meal that's sure to be a crowd pleaser!
Another family favorite is stuffed shells - stuff them with pumpkin for a savory fall treat!
Lasagna is delicious. Here's a veggie version with pumpkin and mushrooms!
More pasta, yes please! Here's a greek pasta bake that will be a treat for any new parents.
Nothing is more cozy than mac n cheese - here's a vegan version!
This recipe for moroccan white beans would make a great make and freeze side dish!
Here's another chili recipe (I love chili!) but this one is vegan!
This is a delicious curry with lentils! Super hearty and savory.
Impress the new parents with this rainbow colored layered lasagna!
Pasta fagioli is an italian pasta soup. Perfect for hungry new parents to much at midnight!
Pair this soup with a loaf of fresh sourdough bread and a big bagged salad. Delicious!
These potato cakes are a great option for vegetarian new parents.
Baked ziti is a classic for a reason. Here's a vegetarian version.
These lentils are made with moroccan seasoning for big, delicious flavors.
These zucchini roll ups are a lighter take on lasagna and perfect for a comfort meal without the heaviness.
Savory pot pies are super popular for a reason! Here's a veggie version.
Don't forget breakfast! This make ahead oatmeal is great for people who don't want to have to make breakfast.
Here's a curry made with red lentils, sure to be filling and flavorful.
Here's an unusual option - a pumpkin and coconut casserole!
Thanks for reading!
Hey there, I’m Morgan, the creative mind behind CelebratingWithKids.com! As a parent of two lively little ones, I’ve made it my mission to turn ordinary days into extraordinary adventures, sharing playful activities, thoughtful toy reviews, and delightful printables to help families celebrate every moment together. 🎉👨👩👧👦🎈