Should You Freeze A Casserole Before Or After You Bake It?

The answer is…both!

Read on to find out why.

Every time you make a casserole ahead of time and freeze it, an angel gets its wings.

Four-Cheese Macaroni

Credit: Iain Bagwell

(Or something like that.)

Everyone can agree that any meal prep done ahead of time is time well spent.

Can You Freeze Casseroles?

Most casseroles freeze beautifully, and will last three to six months in the freezer.

The answer depends on what’s in your casserole.

Line the baking dish with enough aluminum foil so that there is an overhang on all sides.

Wrap the casserole in the foil, then wrap it again in another layer or two.

Label the foil, then store it in the freezer until you’re ready to reheat.

Again, line the empty baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on all sides.

Prepare the casserole in the dish, fold over the foil to cover, then freeze overnight.

To thaw or not to thaw?

It’s up to you, but either way you’ll need a thermometer.

Wait until you are ready to serve.

When covering your casseroles, check that they are airtight.

This step will better protect the texture and freshness of your frozen foods.

Before freezing, ensure your casserole is entirely cool.

Place your container in the fridge before freezing to avoid unwanted condensation from forming.

Meatloaf Casserole- you could have this dinner staple ready to go in your freezer for busy weeknights.

Technically the answer is yes.

However, that doesn’t mean the casserole will hold up to multiple rounds of thawing and reheating.

It’s best to use up the leftovers, instead of refreezing and compromising the quality of the dish.

That said, freezer safe doesn’t mean they are freezer to oven safe.

Glass and ceramic dishes can crack going directly from the freezer into the oven.

That’s because dairy doesn’t freeze well.

The casserole will still be safe to consume, but it won’t be as appetizing.