There’s something very satisfying about opening the fridge midweek and knowing dinner is already taken care of. Batch cooking turns a bit of forward planning into seven days of easy meals you can simply heat and serve – freeing up time when you need it most.
It’s a practical way to save money and reduce waste, but it’s also about cooking the food you love. With the right recipes, batch cooking fills your fridge or freezer with dishes that feel generous, warming and full of flavour. Cook once; enjoy all week.
Why you’ll love batch cooking
Batch cooking is simple. You set some time aside to prepare larger servings of meals that store well, then portion them up for later in reusable containers. This way, you always have easy midweek meals ready to go – no long lists, no last-minute decisions. It is especially good for dishes that improve with time, where flavours deepen after a day or two.
Cheese-based recipes are ideal for this kind of meal prep. They reheat well, hold their structure and bring a little luxury to even the busiest evening.
Red Devil chilli bean stew
A chilli is one of the most reliable freezable recipes you can make. This one can be cooked with beef or veggie mince, making it a flexible option the whole family will love. Slow-cooked spices develop real depth, while a generous sprinkling of Red Devil Red Leicester adds warmth and a fiery kick that stands up well to freezing and reheating.
Make a big pot, portion it into containers and you have a chilli recipe ready for quick dinners or easy lunches later in the week, served with rice or a baked potato.
Rock Star cottage pie
This Rock Star cottage pie suits batch cooking perfectly. A hearty filling of beef mince and vegetables is topped with cheesy mashed potatoes, then baked until golden and crisp. You can assemble it ahead of time, chill or freeze and cook when needed. A comforting, wholesome meal, it works just as well for busy weeknights as it does for slower evenings at home. All you’ll need to do is steam some fresh green vegetables to serve it with.
Truffle Trove mac and cheese
Mac and cheese is often seen as a make-and-eat treat but it freezes well, too. This luxurious version – made with Truffle Trove extra mature Cheddar with Black Summer truffle – keeps its rich texture and earthy flavour even after reheating. Portion it up for easy lunches or freeze a whole dish to share later. As a main course or a side dish, this mac and cheese recipe is both practical and indulgent.
Cook once. Enjoy all week
Batch cooking is not about cutting corners. It’s about saving your time – and your sanity – while keeping good, home-cooked food at the heart of your week. With these recipes ready to go, midweek meals stop being an afterthought and become something to look forward to.
Find more inspiration for midweek meals in our recipe hub.