Master the Art of Meal Prep: Freezable Cheese Sauce for 21 Day Fix & Beyond
Imagine this: A craving for rich, creamy cheese sauce strikes, but you’re short on time or trying to stick to your healthy eating plan. What if you could reach into your freezer and pull out perfectly portioned, ready-to-heat cheesy goodness? Well, now you can! This incredible Freezable Cheese Sauce recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to simplify meal prep, maintain portion control, and satisfy those cheese cravings without derailing their healthy lifestyle. We’re talking about a delicious, versatile sauce that’s ready whenever you are, thanks to the magic of freezing in silicone baby food molds!
The Ultimate Meal Prep Hack: Why Freezable Cheese Sauce is a Must-Have
Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love cheese sauce? It’s the ultimate comfort food, transforming humble ingredients into something extraordinary. But often, making a batch from scratch feels like too much effort for a busy weeknight, and store-bought versions can be loaded with unwanted ingredients or unhealthy fats. This is where our freezable cheese sauce steps in as your culinary superhero.
This recipe isn’t just about making cheese sauce; it’s about making your life easier. By preparing a larger batch and freezing it, you’re investing in future convenience. Think about all the times you’ve wanted a little cheesy topping for your steamed broccoli, a quick dip for some raw veggies, or a creamy addition to a simple pasta dish. With pre-portioned frozen cubes, these desires are just minutes away from becoming a reality. It eliminates the need for last-minute cooking, reduces food waste, and ensures you always have a healthy, homemade option on hand.
Perfect Portions Every Time with Silicone Molds
The secret weapon for this freezable cheese sauce (and many other healthy meal prep staples) is the silicone baby food molds. These aren’t just for baby food! Their individual compartments are ideal for freezing single servings of soups, broths, and yes, cheese sauce. Once frozen solid, the flexible silicone makes it incredibly easy to pop out the cubes. You can then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, freeing up your molds for the next batch.
Using these molds ensures perfect portion control, which is especially beneficial for those following structured eating plans like the 21 Day Fix or 2B Mindset. You’ll know exactly how much you’re consuming with each cheesy cube, making tracking effortless. Plus, the smaller portions thaw much faster, meaning you can go from freezer to plate in a matter of minutes.
Endless Culinary Possibilities: How to Enjoy Your Freezable Cheese Sauce
This isn’t just a sauce; it’s a versatile condiment that can elevate countless dishes. Here are just a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Classic Comfort: Drizzle over baked potatoes, sweet potatoes, or a bowl of whole-wheat pasta for an instant, satisfying meal.
- Veggie Power-Up: Transform plain steamed broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, or green beans into a cheesy delight. It’s a fantastic way to make vegetables more appealing, especially for picky eaters!
- Healthy Nachos: Craving nachos? Melt a cube, add a sprinkle of chili powder and some sliced jalapeños, and you’ve got an instant nacho dip for chips, bell pepper strips, or even roasted sweet potato rounds.
- Casserole Booster: Stir into your favorite casseroles, like a Low Carb Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole, for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
- Cheesy Mac: Make a healthier version of mac and cheese by combining it with whole-wheat pasta or even a cauliflower “mac” base, as seen in our popular Cauliflower Cheeseburger Mac.
- Breakfast Bliss: Add a dollop to scrambled eggs, omelets, or breakfast burritos for a savory morning kick.
- Soup & Chili Enhancer: Stir a frozen cube into a bowl of hot soup or chili for a creamy, flavorful finish. It’s particularly good in tomato-based soups!
- Sandwich & Wrap Spreader: Use it as a spread for grilled cheese, quesadillas, or wraps to add moisture and a cheesy punch.
Adapting for Your Dietary Needs: 21 Day Fix, 2B Mindset, & Dairy-Free Options
One of the best features of this freezable cheese sauce is its adaptability to various dietary preferences and programs. Whether you’re tracking containers, mindful of macros, or avoiding dairy, this recipe can be tailored to fit your needs.
- 21 Day Fix: When made with the recommended ingredients (low-fat cheese for optimal container counts), a 1/3 cup serving counts as 1 Blue container and 1 teaspoon. If you opt for a smaller 2.5 tablespoon serving, it’s 1/2 Blue and 1/2 teaspoon. This makes it an incredibly convenient way to get your healthy fats and treats in!
- 2B Mindset: For those following the 2B Mindset program, this sauce works beautifully. Using low-fat cheese allows it to integrate well with your veggie-heavy meals. If you prefer to use full-fat cheese, simply count it as an accessory. It’s all about making smart choices that align with your goals.
- Dairy-Free & Vegan: Don’t consume dairy? No problem! This recipe is easily made dairy-free by substituting dairy cheese with a vegan cheese alternative like Daiya cheese and using vegan butter or ghee. The result is just as creamy and delicious, melting beautifully and providing that same satisfying cheese experience without any dairy. My son loves it this way!
Quick & Easy Reheating Instructions
Once you have your perfectly portioned frozen cheese sauce cubes, reheating them is a breeze! This means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
- Microwave Method: For the quickest thaw, place a frozen cube in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 10 seconds, stir well, then heat for another 10 seconds. Repeat this process, stirring between intervals, until the cheese is fully melted and smooth. The stirring is crucial for even heating and to achieve that desirable creamy consistency.
- Stovetop Method: If you prefer the stovetop, place your frozen cheese sauce cube in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously until it melts into a smooth sauce. You can add a tiny splash of almond milk if it seems too thick, to help it reach your desired consistency.
- Incorporating into Hot Dishes: Often, you can simply add a frozen cube directly to a hot dish like pasta, soup, or a casserole towards the end of cooking. The heat from the dish will melt the sauce, distributing its creamy goodness throughout.
Whichever method you choose, you’ll be enjoying warm, delicious cheese sauce in mere moments!
Watch How Easy It Is to Make & Freeze!
Seeing is believing! Check out this video to walk through the simple steps of preparing and freezing this delicious, versatile cheese sauce. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create your own stash of cheesy goodness.
Freezable Cheese Sauce
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ½ tablespoons rice flour or gluten free flour blend
- 2 ½ tablespoons vegan butter butter, or ghee
- 1 ½-2 cups unsweetened original almond milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt
Instructions
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In your skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk together.
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Slowly whisk in 1.5 cups of almond milk, and continue to whisk until the mixture comes to a boil and begins to thicken. Once thickened, remove sauce from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until fully melted, adding salt to taste. If you need to thin it out, add in some additional milk in 1/4 cup increments.
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Add 1/3 cup of cheese sauce to each mold, or measure 2.5 tablespoons if you want to freeze half servings. It’s best to do this when hot!!
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Let cool, cover and then freeze for several hours or overnight. Remove from silicone mold and store in ziplock containers for up to 3 months.
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To thaw, place in refrigerator, or microwave in a microwave safe bowl for ten seconds, stir, and then heat for another ten seconds or until cheese is melted and smooth!
Notes
WW: Green, Blue, Purple – 7 points (per 1/3 cup serving) [Calculated using GF flour, butter, and reduced fat cheese]
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions About Freezable Cheese Sauce
We know you might have a few questions about making and using this incredible freezable cheese sauce. Here are some common inquiries:
- Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! While cheddar offers a classic, creamy flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of your favorites. Just be aware that some cheeses might have slightly different melting properties. For best results, shred your own cheese as pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- How long does this cheese sauce last in the freezer? When stored properly in airtight freezer bags or containers, your frozen cheese sauce cubes will maintain their quality for up to 3 months. Always label and date your bags so you know exactly when you made them!
- What if my sauce separates when reheating? Separation can sometimes occur with dairy-based sauces, especially after freezing. Don’t worry, it’s usually fixable! The key is to reheat slowly and stir vigorously. If reheating in the microwave, stir every 10 seconds. On the stovetop, keep the heat low and whisk continuously. Adding a tiny splash of almond milk or water while reheating can also help bring it back to a smooth consistency.
- Can I make it spicier or add other flavors? Definitely! This basic cheese sauce is a fantastic canvas for customization. For a spicier kick, whisk in a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or some finely diced pickled jalapeños during the last step of cooking. For an extra savory note, add a small amount of garlic powder or onion powder. A teaspoon of Dijon mustard can also add a delightful tang.
- Is it okay to freeze and thaw multiple times? For best quality and food safety, it’s generally recommended to thaw only the portion you intend to use. Repeated freezing and thawing can affect the texture of the sauce.
Conclusion: Your Cheesy Solution Awaits!
This Freezable Cheese Sauce recipe is more than just a culinary delight; it’s a testament to smart, healthy, and convenient eating. By dedicating a small amount of time to prepare this versatile sauce, you’re setting yourself up for success in satisfying cravings, staying on track with your dietary goals, and effortlessly adding a burst of flavor to countless meals. From quick weeknight dinners to healthy snacks, your freezer will become a treasure trove of cheesy possibilities.
So go ahead, whip up a batch (or two!), fill those silicone molds, and revolutionize your meal prep routine. Say goodbye to dull dishes and hello to a world where delicious, healthy cheese sauce is always just moments away. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us on social media using #confessionsofafitfoodie – we can’t wait to see how you enjoy your new favorite freezable cheese sauce!