Freezer Hack for Ground Meat, Tomato Paste, and Garlic
This freezer hack combines ground meat, tomato paste, and garlic in flat freezer bags scored into individual portions, allowing you to save space and defrost only what you need.
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This freezer hack combines ground meat, tomato paste, and garlic in flat freezer bags scored into individual portions, allowing you to save space and defrost only what you need.
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For ground meat, place it into a gallon-sized freezer bag. A helpful trick is to flip the bag partially inside out to grab the meat and pull it into the bag cleanly.
Seal the bag most of the way, then press the meat into a thin, even layer, pushing out any excess air before sealing completely.
Label the bag with the contents and the date using a permanent marker.
Using the back of a butter knife, gently press into the meat to score it into your desired portion sizes (e.g., quarters).
Repeat the same process for tomato paste: spoon it into a freezer bag, flatten, seal, label, and score.
For garlic, place peeled cloves into a blender and blend until it forms a paste.
Transfer the garlic paste to a freezer bag and repeat the process of flattening, sealing, labeling, and scoring.
Lay the bags flat in the freezer and allow them to freeze completely.
Once frozen, you can easily bend and snap off portions along the score lines as needed for recipes.
Store the frozen bags vertically in freezer bins to save space and keep your freezer organized.
Freeze flat in labeled freezer bags for up to 3–4 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight or cook from frozen in a skillet over low-medium heat.
freezer bags (gallon or quart size) · permanent marker for labeling
Up to 3–4 months when stored properly in airtight freezer bags at 0°F or below.
Yes, you can combine plant-based ground meat, ground beef, and ground turkey in one batch, or freeze them separately depending on your meal plans.
Break apart frozen portions along score lines and thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or defrost directly in a skillet over low heat.
Use for pasta sauces, tacos, chili, shepherd's pie, bolognese, or any recipe calling for browned ground meat with garlic and tomato base.
This recipe freezes raw ingredients, so you'll brown the meat after thawing for best texture and flavor.
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