Budget batch-cooking recipes

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

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

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

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

Forget ordering takeaway and make your own Thai red chicken curry at home. This classic dish takes just 15 minutes to prep and it's bursting with flavour.

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.

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

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

Try this superhealthy, traditionally spicy recipe

Use whichever beans you have in the cupboard for this richly spiced beef and chipotle slow cooker chilli. It's a perfect meal to prepare for busy weeknights

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

Cook this tasty, budget-friendly vegan curry for an easy family dinner. With spinach and sweet potato, it boasts two of your five-a-day and it’s under 400 calories

Cook braising steak in the slow cooker for really tender meat. Add button mushrooms or smoked paprika for extra flavour – it will be an instant family favourite.

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

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

Make this roasted veg traybake, then use it to create quick meals when you have less time. It's a great way to serve up nutritious and flavourful dinners

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

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

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

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