Budget batch-cooking recipes

Whip up a huge batch of bolognese that's fit to feed a hungry crowd, or freeze half for a speedy midweek meal

Make a batch of Mexican-inspired pulled chicken and black bean chilli, which can be easily doubled and kept in the freezer. Serve with rice or tortilla wraps

Feed the family this comforting, budget-friendly sausage ragu with pasta. You can freeze the leftovers for another time and it tastes just as good

Freeze the dhal base of this curry for busy weeknights. It's cheap, easy and really versatile – simply defrost and add prawns, veg or meat

Cook a big batch of this filling spiced lentil and squash soup and freeze the leftovers for a speedy supper another day. It's healthy and low in fat

Batch cooking sieved tomato sauce means you can freeze it in portions and defrost it to use however you please. Perfect for pasta, rice and pizza dishes

Enjoy spiced lamb meatballs with chickpeas and pomegranate seeds in a harissa sauce for an easy midweek meal. Freeze any leftovers for busy weekdays

Make a batch of classic broccoli and stilton soup with the help of a soup maker. It's freezable so you can make ahead for busy days, or a packed lunch

Batch-cook this easy kale, cod and king prawn curry and freeze in portions for busy weeknights. With a coconut milk base and spices, it's full of flavour

Try this slow cooked smoky chicken as an easy alternative to pulled pork. It's best served in a bun or with rice, and makes a simple dish for a family meal

Batch-cook this vegan five-bean chilli, then freeze in portions for busy weeknights. With beans, tomatoes and peppers, it's full of nutritious, filling veg

Make the most of vegetarian mince for this easy veggie bolognese that's low in fat and calories. Cook a large batch ahead and freeze for easy family dinners

Use up any cans of beans you have in the cupboard for this classic French sausage casserole. Made in a slow cooker, it’s a great batch-cook for the freezer

Use the slow cooker to make this nutritious, easy curry and the lamb will melt in your mouth. You can batch cook and freeze the leftovers for another day

Throw a handful of ingredients in the slow cooker at the start of the day and this classic French chicken chasseur will be ready by the time you get home

Make a batch of this stew at the weekend, then chill or freeze it in portions for easy midweek lunches. See our different toppings to keep it interesting

Make this beef curry in a pressure cooker for an easy midweek meal. Serve with rice or naan bread to mop up the juices

As well as being tasty, this aubergine and artichoke is low fat, low calorie and cost effective. Make a large batch and eat it cold the next day

Load soft tortillas with chargrilled veg, beans, tomato salsa and smashed avocado for an easy supper. No cooking is required so they're ideal for summer

This simple vegetable curry is budget-friendly and great for feeding a crowd, served with naan and rice. You can freeze batches for future midweek meals.

Cook a batch of this delicious family favourite and you'll always have a satisfying meal to hand

This microwave banana pudding is a super-speedy dessert that's ready in just 20 minutes. Served with ice cream or yogurt, it's sure to be a hit with the family

A flavourful fish dish that is perfect for a crowd or can be frozen in batches for a handy midweek treat

Try this superhealthy, traditionally spicy recipe