Can You Freeze HelloFresh Meals Before Cooking

Last Saturday, I received a HelloFresh box with delicious recipes. As I unpacked them, I realized I needed to keep everything fresh long enough to enjoy them.

Learning to store groceries and make food last has been difficult. Thankfully, I’ve learned some tricks I will share in this article. Let’s dive in.

Can You Freeze HelloFresh Meals Before Cooking

Yes. You can freeze HelloFresh meals for up to two months. When freezing HelloFresh meals, keep all foods in their original package, airtight container, or a freezer bag with a label indicating the date when it was frozen.

Freezing meals can reduce food waste and save you time. You can defrost a batch of meals when you’re short on time or need a quick lunch.

Are all HelloFresh meals freezable?

Many HelloFresh meals are freezable. However, do not freeze ingredients like lettuce, fresh herbs, and tomatoes if you intend to use them raw. Milk turns yellow when frozen, so don’t let the color change put you off.

Here are some of the meals to freeze and those not to;

CategoryMeals/Ingredients to FreezeMeals/Ingredients NOT to FreezeStorage RecommendationsShelf Life
Boxed MealsKeep in the insulated box for up to 24 hours post-delivery. Refrigerate immediately afterward.Up to 24 hours in the box; refrigerate for 3–5 days.
One-Pot DishesStews, curries, casseroles, soupsDivide into portions before freezing for easy reheating.Up to 2 months in the freezer.
Prepared DishesLasagna, enchiladas, potato-topped piesDishes with sour cream or creamy sauces.Store in airtight containers and label with the freezing date.Refrigerate for 3–5 days; freeze for up to 2 months.
Cooked ProteinsCooked chicken, beef, pork, or seafoodRaw meats left unrefrigerated for too long.Cool to room temperature before freezing in airtight containers or freezer bags.Refrigerate for 3–5 days; freeze for up to 2 months.
Raw ProteinsChicken, beef, pork (freeze immediately upon arrival).Freeze immediately upon delivery or refrigerate for up to 3 days before freezing.Freeze for up to 6 months.
VegetablesCarrots, celery, zucchini, potatoes, peppersLettuce, fresh herbs, and raw tomatoes for salads.Blanch vegetables like zucchini or peppers before freezing for optimal texture.Refrigerate for up to 1 week; freeze for up to 3 months.
Vegan/Vegetarian MealsMeals containing salad kits or cream-based dressings.Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator.Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Seafood MealsFreeze raw or cooked seafood immediately upon delivery.Seafood left unrefrigerated or thawed for too long.Thawed seafood should be cooked within 2 days.Refrigerate for 1–2 days; freeze for up to 3 months.
Other IngredientsBread (for recipes), shredded cheeseSalad kits, cream-based dressings.Bread freezes well; keep cheeses sealed to avoid drying out.Bread: Freeze for up to 3 months; cheese: Refrigerate for 1 week.

Freezing Techniques

  1. Blanching Vegetables: Blanching vegetables before freezing can preserve their color, texture, and nutritional value. This involves briefly boiling them and plunging them into ice water before freezing.
  2. Portioning: Freeze food in portion sizes you’ll use for future meals. This prevents the need to thaw more food than required, reducing waste.
  3. Proper Packaging: Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Removing as much air as possible prevents freezer burn and preserves quality.
  4. Freezing Cooked Food: Allow cooked food to cool to room temperature before freezing. Hot food can raise the freezer’s temperature, affecting other stored items.

Pro Tips:

  • Always use airtight containers or freezer bags to maintain freshness.
  • Label all frozen items with the date to keep track of their shelf life.
  • Avoid freezing ingredients prone to texture loss, like lettuce or raw tomatoes for salads.
  • Thaw frozen items in the refrigerator overnight before cooking or reheating for best results.
  • Keep raw meats separate from other foods to prevent cross-contamination.

HelloFresh Ingredients and Expiry Guide

Here’s a breakdown of the storage and expiration timelines for different categories of HelloFresh ingredients:

CategoryStorage RecommendationsShelf LifeNotes
Vegetarian IngredientsStore in the fridge in airtight containers or original packaging.Up to 1 week for most vegetarian meals; cheese and egg-based recipes also last 1 week but require monitoring.Check cheese for color changes or hardening—these indicate spoilage.
Shredded CheeseKeep refrigerated and sealed tightly in its packet.Use within 3–5 days after opening.Shredded cheese spoils faster than block cheese. Prioritize recipes featuring shredded cheese to maintain freshness.
Meat – UncookedFreeze in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed freezer bags immediately upon delivery.Roasts, Steak, Chops: 4–12 months.
Ground Meat: 3–4 months.
Poultry (Whole): 12 months.
Poultry Parts: 9 months.
Ensure all raw meat is in leak-proof containers to avoid cross-contamination.
Meat – CookedStore in the fridge or freeze in airtight containers.– Refrigerate: 3–4 days.
– Freeze: 2–3 months.
Perfect for meal prepping or saving leftovers.
Seafood – UncookedFreeze immediately if not cooking within 24 hours.Frozen: 2–3 months.
Thawed: Cook within 1–2 days when kept in the fridge.
Do not refreeze thawed seafood; cook it immediately for optimal taste and safety.
Seafood – CookedRefrigerate or freeze in airtight containers.– Refrigerate: 3–4 days.
– Freeze: 2 months.
It is best to consume as soon as possible for the ideal flavor.
Root VegetablesStore in a cool, dry place.– Room Temperature: Up to 1 month for root veggies like carrots and potatoes.Avoid refrigeration for veggies like onions and garlic unless chopped.
Greens and HerbsStore in a fridge crisper drawer or wrapped in a damp paper towel.3–5 days for most greens; 1 week for herbs like parsley and cilantro.Freeze fresh herbs like basil and parsley for extended shelf life.
Dry Grains and PastaStore in a cool, dry pantry in sealed containers.It is indefinite if kept dry and away from moisture.No refrigeration is required; it is perfect for stocking up.
Prepared DishesStore in fridge or freezer in portioned, airtight containers.– Refrigerate: 3–5 days.
– Freeze: Up to 2 months.
Label containers with preparation date to track freshness.

Best Way To Freeze Meals

1.     Sort Your Ingredients

  • After receiving your HelloFresh box, identify which items can be frozen, such as raw meats, cooked proteins, and durable vegetables like carrots, celery, or peppers.

2.     Prepare for Freezing

  • For raw meats: Place them directly into airtight freezer bags or leave them in their original vacuum-sealed packaging.
  • Place in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for cooked dishes (like stews, casseroles, or soups).
  • For vegetables: clean and blanch tougher vegetables like broccoli or carrots before freezing.

3.     Pack Properly

  • Use freezer bags or airtight containers, or wrap the original HelloFresh packaging with plastic wrap for added protection.
  • Remove as much air as possible from freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.

4.     Label the Containers

  • Write the name of the meal or ingredient and the date it was frozen to ensure you use it within the recommended timeframe (usually 2-3 months).

5.     Store in the Freezer

  • Place your labeled packages flat in the freezer to save space. Organize by meal type (raw proteins, cooked meals, vegetables) for easy access.

How long does HelloFresh meat last in the fridge?

HelloFresh meat can last up to five days when stored in the refrigerator, although we recommend consuming it within three days.

Set the refrigerator temperature to 4°C or lower to ensure freshness. Check the expiration date of your items and consume the food within the timeframe given.

Can HelloFresh meals be reheated?

Many HelloFresh meals can be reheated, making them perfect for pre-cooking. If you choose meals with the intention of reheating, avoid recipes with non-microwave-friendly ingredients such as eggs, fish, and chicken.

How to reheat Hello-fresh meals

1.     Thaw the Meal:

  • The day before you plan to eat, move your frozen HelloFresh meal from the freezer to the fridge.
  • Allow it to thaw gradually overnight.

2.     Check for Full Thawing:

  • Ensure the meal is fully thawed before reheating to help it heat evenly.

3.     Reheat on the Stovetop (for soups, stews, and stir-fries):

  • Pour the meal into a pan or pot. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the meal is hot.
  • Add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.

4.     Reheat in the Oven (for casseroles, lasagna, or bakes):

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 20-30 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
  • Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes to crisp the top.

5.     Reheat in the Microwave (for quick meals):

  • Place the meal in a microwave-safe container.
  • Cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel to prevent splattering.
  • Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated.

6.     Check Temperature:

  • Before serving, ensure the meal is steaming hot and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Thawing Techniques

a) Refrigerator Thawing

This method is slow but the most recommended. It ensures that food remains at a safe temperature throughout the thawing process.

b) Cold Water Thawing

This method is faster than refrigerator thawing. Keep food in a leak-proof bag and submerge it in cold water, changing it every 30 minutes.

c) Microwave Thawing

This method is quick and ideal when time is short. However, it can lead to uneven thawing. Cook the food immediately after thawing to prevent bacteria from growing.

What to Avoid When Choosing HelloFresh Meals to Reheat

1. Avoid Delicate Proteins

Fish, eggs, and chicken can dry out or become rubbery when reheated, especially in the microwave. When reheated, these proteins may not retain their texture or flavor, so it’s better to choose meals with heartier proteins like beef or pork.

2. Avoid Creamy Sauces

Dishes with creamy sauces, like alfredo pasta or creamy soups, can separate or curdle when reheated. If you prefer these dishes, gently reheat them on the stovetop with some added liquid.

3. Avoid Fresh Greens and Herbs

Meals that include fresh greens (like lettuce or spinach) or fresh herbs may wilt or lose flavor when reheated. It’s best to add these ingredients fresh after reheating.

How to Ensure Food Safety When Reheating HelloFresh Meals

Thaw Properly

Always thaw frozen HelloFresh meals in the fridge overnight to ensure even reheating and avoid bacterial growth risk.

Use a Food Thermometer

When reheating, use a food thermometer to check the meal’s internal temperature. This ensures that the food has reached a safe temperature. For example:

  1. Poultry should reach 165°F (74°C).
  2. Ground meats should reach 160°F (71°C).
  3. Leftovers should be heated to at least 165°F (74°C) throughout.

Check Even Heating

Stir or rotate the food during reheating (especially in the microwave) to ensure it heats evenly. Uneven heating can leave cold spots where bacteria can survive.

Reheat Thoroughly

Make sure the entire meal is hot throughout before serving. If it’s not, continue reheating until it reaches the proper temperature.

Benefits of Using a Meal Kit Subscription Service Like HelloFresh

1. Less Stress

Meal kits remove the need for meal planning and grocery shopping by delivering everything directly to your door, saving time and reducing the mental load of deciding what to cook.

2. More Choice

With HelloFresh, you can access 100+ weekly menus and market items, including dinners, sides, desserts, and more. It offers variety to keep meals exciting and adaptable to different tastes.

3. Flexibility

Options to customize meal preferences, adjust portion sizes, change delivery days, skip weeks, or cancel anytime. Adapts to changing schedules and dietary needs, providing ultimate convenience.

4. Fresh Food

Pre-measured ingredients with seasonal fruits and veggies ensure optimal freshness. It guarantees quality and reduces the chances of food spoilage or waste.

5. Money Saved

Streamlining supply chains to make meal kits more cost-effective than dining out or traditional grocery shopping. This helps manage food budgets while enjoying high-quality, home-cooked meals.

How Does Meal Kits Work?

Once you’ve chosen your meal plan and weekly recipes, you’ll select a delivery day that works best for you, and it will be delivered right to your doorstep.

The day before your delivery, you’ll receive an email informing you that your delicious meals are coming. In your box, you’ll receive portioned ingredients recipe cards with clear and straightforward instructions, plus expert tips and tricks to help. You’ll also find nutritional and allergy information.

Extra Features

  • Flexibility: Plans are not locked in; you can swap, skip, or cancel meals anytime.
  • Dietary Tags: Look for tags like “Veggie,” “Calorie Smart,” or “Quick” to find meals that suit your preferences.
  • Add-Ons: Choose from protein packs, breakfast options, snacks, and desserts to complement your main meals.
  • Sustainability: HelloFresh focuses on pre-portioned ingredients to reduce food waste.

Types of HelloFresh Meal Plans and Kits

Meal PlanDescriptionIdeal ForCustomization OptionsAdditional Notes
Meat & VeggiesA mix of meats, vegetables, and classic flavors.Omnivores, familiesSwap meals weekly based on preferences.A versatile option offering variety for meat lovers and veggie enthusiasts alike.
VeggieMeatless recipes with fresh produce and plant-based proteins.VegetariansChoose recipes labeled “Veggie” from weekly menus.Perfect for anyone exploring vegetarian meals or reducing meat consumption.
Family FriendlyKid-friendly meals designed for quick prep and easy eating.Families with childrenAdjust portion sizes and switch recipes weekly.Includes meals that appeal to picky eaters and busy households.
Fit & WholesomeCalorie- and carb-conscious meals for a healthy lifestyle.Health-conscious individualsOpt for “Calorie Smart” or “Carb Smart” recipes on the menu.It is designed for those watching their weight or managing specific dietary goals.
Under 20 MinutesQuick-to-cook meals for busy schedules.Busy professionals, studentsSelect meals tagged as “Quick Meals.”Great for nights when you want a homemade meal but lack the time for extensive cooking.
PescatarianSeafood-focused meals featuring fresh fish and other ocean delights.Seafood loversCustomize by adding additional seafood or veggie dishes.Balanced meals with rich flavors are ideal for pescatarians or those who enjoy occasional seafood.

Additional Recipe Categories and Features

CategoryDescriptionExamples
GourmetPremium meals with luxurious ingredients like duck breast, beef tenderloin, or surf-and-turf pairings.Steak & Lobster Tail
One Pot/One PanMeals requiring minimal cleanup with simple preparation.Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
Quick MealsRecipes designed for maximum efficiency, ready in 20 minutes or less.Sweet Chili Pork Bowls
Carb/Calorie SmartHealth-focused meals designed to support weight management.Zucchini Noodle Bowls
Breakfast & BrunchMorning favorites and easy brunch recipes.Egg & Spinach Breakfast Burritos
Desserts & SidesSweet treats and accompaniments to elevate your main meals.Garlic Breadsticks, Chocolate Cake

Meal Kit Sizes and Customization

Household SizeMeals Per WeekCustomization OptionsNotes
Two people3, 4, or 5 mealsAdjust portion sizes, swap recipes, and add extras like sides or desserts.Ideal for couples or small households. Great for leftovers or lunch the next day.
Four people3, 4, or 5 mealsCombine kits for more significant portions or order additional boxes for more variety.Perfect for families or hosting guests.
Single HouseholdsOpt for a 2-person planUse leftovers for next-day meals or meal prep.Meals are shareable with friends or customizable to fit your solo dining needs.
Large FamiliesCombine multiple subscriptionsCustomize to meet specific needs with additional boxes for variety or more portions.Families larger than four can subscribe to multiple boxes for tailored meal planning.

What is Meal Prep?

Meal prep is planning and preparing your meals in advance. This can done by cooking, so you need to heat your food, or pre-cutting and portioning ingredients so they’re all ready to throw in the pan.

How to Meal Prep Like a Pro

Meal prepping can save time, reduce stress, and help you stick to your dietary goals. Follow these simple steps to master the art of meal prep and make your week run smoothly!

Step 1: Set Your Goals

  • Decide why you’re meal prepping: Is it to eat healthier, save time, or reduce food waste?
  • Consider dietary needs: Are you aiming for vegetarian, vegan, low-carb, or high-protein meals?
  • Plan your meals: Determine how many meals you’ll prep for the week, from breakfast to snacks.

Step 2: Plan Your Menu

  • Choose recipes that fit your goals and taste preferences.
  • Add variety to avoid getting bored while maintaining balanced nutrition.
  • Include meals you can repurpose, like roasted chicken for salads or wraps.

Step 3: Create a Shopping List

  • Write a detailed list based on your menu.
  • Organize it into categories (produce, proteins, pantry staples) to make shopping quicker.
  • Stick to the list to avoid impulse buys and unnecessary items.

Step 4: Prep Your Tools

  • Stock up on airtight food storage containers for the fridge and freezer.
  • Invest in kitchen tools like measuring cups and sharp knives to make prepping easier.
  • Check your fridge and freezer space before starting.

Step 5: Set Aside Time

  • Pick a dedicated time for meal prep (like Sunday afternoon).
  • Block this time on your calendar to make it a weekly habit.

Step 6: Batch Cook Like a Pro

  • Cook in large batches to save time:
    • Proteins (chicken, tofu, beans)
    • Grains (rice, quinoa)
    • Vegetables (roast, steam, or grill)
  • Use multiple cooking methods to prepare several components simultaneously.

Step 7: Portion and Store

  • Divide meals into individual or family-sized portions.
  • Use airtight containers to keep everything fresh, and label with dates for easy tracking.
  • Store prepped meals in the fridge for 3–5 days or freeze them for up to two months.

Step 8: Mix, Match, and Enjoy

  • Assemble meals throughout the week using your prepped ingredients.
  • Combine proteins, grains, and vegetables, then customize with sauces, spices, or fresh toppings.
  • Mix things up to keep your meals exciting and flavorful.

Tasty Meal Prep Recipes with HelloFresh

Recipe NameMain IngredientsCooking TimeDietary OptionsTips for Meal Prep
Beef Rogan JoshBeef, crispy potatoes, crème fraîche40 minutesHigh-ProteinPrepare the spice mix and chop vegetables in advance. This dish can be portioned and frozen for up to two months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Irish Beef MeatballsBeef meatballs, rice, tomato, spinach sauce35 minutesFamily-FriendlyBatch-cook meatballs and freeze them separately. The tomato spinach sauce can also be frozen. Combine with freshly cooked rice when ready to serve.
Sweet Chili ChickenChicken, sweet potato chips, side salad30 minutesLow-Calorie, High-ProteinMarinate chicken ahead of time and refrigerate. Sweet potato chips can be cut and stored in water in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
Baked Greek-Style CheeseGreek cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, bulgur25 minutesVegetarianAssemble ingredients in advance and store them separately. Combine and bake when ready to eat. A refreshing side salad completes this Mediterranean dish.
Pan-fried chive Butter SalmonSalmon, roast potatoes, broccoli30 minutesPescatarianPre-portion and freeze salmon fillets. Roast potatoes and blanch broccoli in advance, then reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick, nutritious meal.
Crispy Cauliflower DahlCauliflower, lentils, rice, naan bread40 minutesVegetarian, High-FiberCook lentils and rice in advance for easy reheating. Roast cauliflower and store it separately to maintain crispiness. Perfect for batch cooking and freezing.

Top Meal Prep Tips

a) Pre-Marinate Proteins

Before freezing, prepare proteins like chicken, beef, or pork by marinating them with your favorite seasonings, sauces, or spice blends.

When ready to cook, thaw the marinated protein in the refrigerator overnight for a quick, flavor-packed dinner. This works great for grilling, roasting, or stir-frying, saving time and boosting flavor.

b) Homemade Freezer Burritos

Create burritos using seasoned meat, beans, rice, cheese, and your favorite toppings like sautéed peppers or corn.

When ready to eat, pop one in the microwave or oven for a quick, satisfying Tex-Mex meal. These are perfect for customizing with different fillings to suit individual preferences.

c) Component Cooking

Batch-cook versatile ingredients like rice, quinoa, pasta, roasted vegetables, or proteins. For instance, cook a large batch of meatballs and use them throughout the week in various dishes such as spaghetti, subs, stir-fries, or salads. This strategy reduces cooking time during the week and offers flexibility in meal planning.

d) Pre-Cut and Bag Veggies

Wash, peel, and chop vegetables like carrots, celery, bell peppers, broccoli, or cucumbers beforehand. Store them in individual bags or containers for easy access.

Pre-cut veggies are perfect for snacking, adding to stir-fries, or tossing into salads. Use airtight containers to keep them fresh for longer.

e) Salad Bar at Home

In separate containers, prepare various salad ingredients such as leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, cucumbers, grilled chicken, nuts, seeds, and dressings.

This allows family members to mix and match their favorite combinations, encouraging healthy eating while minimizing prep work during busy evenings.

f) Stuffed Bell Peppers

Prepare bell peppers stuffed with cooked rice, protein (ground meat or beans), and vegetables. Top them with cheese if desired, and store them in the fridge or freezer when it’s time for dinner. Reheat them for a balanced, hearty meal with minimal effort.

g) Batch-Cooked Soups

Make large soups like vegetable soup, chicken noodles, or chili. Portion them into individual containers or freezer bags and freeze them. These are excellent for quick, comforting meals—thaw and reheat for a warm, satisfying dinner.

FAQs

1. How does HelloFresh meal prepping help you save money and time?

HelloFresh provides pre-portioned ingredients and step-by-step recipes, saving you planning, shopping, and meal prep time. It reduces waste and limits grocery trips, making it a cost-effective solution for home-cooked meals.

2. Do HelloFresh meal kits include vegetarian options?

Yes, HelloFresh offers a variety of vegetarian recipes, such as veggie curries, burritos, stews, salads, roasted veggies, and protein-packed legumes and grains. All ingredients come pre-portioned and ready to cook.

3. Who offers meal kits?

HelloFresh is America’s #1 meal kit, praised for its variety, convenience, and affordability. It features over 100 weekly menu options designed by chefs and nutrition experts, with add-ons like appetizers and desserts.

4. Why are meal kits so popular?

Meal kits are convenient and affordable, saving planning, cooking, and cleaning time. They help create delicious, restaurant-quality meals at home, offering more time to spend with loved ones.

5. How can I meal prep with HelloFresh?

You can plan and select meals ahead of time. HelloFresh delivers pre-portioned ingredients to your door, and easy recipes let you prepare meals quickly with minimal effort.

6. What does a HelloFresh food box come with?

A HelloFresh food box includes pre-portioned ingredients and recipe cards for your chosen meals. Everything is organized and ready to cook, simplifying meal preparation.

7. How should I store HelloFresh meals?

Keep ingredients in their original packaging and refrigerate at 4°C or below. Freeze uncooked meals if you won’t eat them within a week. Store cooked meals in airtight containers for a few days in the fridge.

8. Do HelloFresh meals come frozen?

No, HelloFresh meals are delivered fresh. However, you can freeze ingredients for up to two months to prolong their shelf life. Avoid overfilling containers when freezing liquid items.

9. Can you freeze HelloFresh meals?

Yes, HelloFresh meals can be frozen for up to two months. Some ingredients, like bread and certain vegetables, may lose quality after freezing but are still safe to eat.

10. Are HelloFresh meals safe after the expiration date?

No, consuming HelloFresh meals past their expiration date is not recommended, as the quality and safety may be compromised.

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