Make Ahead Meals for a Crowd
A comprehensive guide to crafting delicious and easy make ahead meals that are perfect for any gathering.
Equipment
- 1 large pot for soups or stews
- 1 baking dish for casseroles
- 1 mixing bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken diced
- 1 lb pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
Vegetables
- 1 cup carrots diced
- 1 cup celery diced
- 1 onion chopped
Seasonings
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
Preparation
- Chop all vegetables and dice the chicken. Gather all ingredients and equipment needed for cooking.
- In a large pot, cook diced chicken over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
Cooking
- In the same pot, add a bit of oil and sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened. Return the chicken to the pot.
- Pour in chicken broth and add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- In a separate pot, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and add to the chicken mixture.
Serving
- Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Storage
- Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
Pro Tips: Taste your dishes before storing to adjust seasonings. Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free pasta if needed. How to Serve: Serve hot with a side of garlic bread. Storage & Freshness: Store in airtight containers. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare all components in advance and combine before serving.