Thoughtful Drop off Meals to bring to a Friend
I’m sharing some of my favourite drop-off meal ideas that are perfect—whether it’s to provide comfort during grief or to celebrate the arrival of a new baby.
Life is full of highs and lows. The best way I know how to show support or share in someone’s joy is with a thoughtful, home-cooked meal. When things are hard (or great), bringing a meal is a wonderful way to show love. Drop-off meals are a simple yet impactful way to show you care.
Why Drop off Meals Matter
When life gets overwhelming—whether due to grief, illness, or even the joyful chaos of a new baby—cooking often becomes the last thing on someone’s mind. And yet, staying balanced and eating well is the most crucial things when navigating life’s transition periods.
Drop-off meals provide nourishment and ease one of the daily burdens so that the person you’re supporting can focus on healing or enjoying their new bundle of joy. Plus, there’s something special about receiving a home-cooked meal, knowing that someone took the time to prepare it just for you.
Tips for Drop-Off Meals:
Portion Appropriately: Consider the size of the family and make sure the meal is easy to store or reheat. Individual portions or meals that can be frozen are often appreciated.
Include a Note: A handwritten note with instructions for reheating, as well as a few kind words, can add a personal touch that means a lot.
Think About Sides and Extras: Sometimes, it’s nice to include a little something extra like a fresh salad, a loaf of bread, (store bought is fine!) or even a sweet treat like cookies or brownies. Actually, I think cookies or brownies are always a good idea.
Consider Dietary Needs: If you’re aware of any dietary restrictions, try to accommodate them. If you’re not sure, simple and wholesome dishes that avoid common allergens like nuts or gluten can be a good choice.
the very best drop off meals | Dinner
One-Pan Basil Chicken Meatballs in Risotto // This is delicious and hearty. If you send it in an inexpensive cast iron pan, the recipient can simply cover it in foil and reheat it at 300F for about 20 mins.
Thai Beef Basil Bowls // I love this one because the flavours are impressive and yet so easy to make. You can pack up the components of this dish that your recipient can just lay out and each person can make their own bowl. This dish will stand out in a sea of lasagnas.
Healthy (ish) Turkey Bolognese // This recipe is one of my favourites for so many reasons. First, check out the amount of veggies in this dish! Hidden veggies? Ummm, yes! Also, this recipe makes enough for 10 servings so you have PLENTY for big family or to keep a little for yourself. Send this with dried pasta that they can cook up when they are ready to eat.
Dump and Bake Pasta // This recipe is one of the easiest and most popular on my blog! For good reason! everything goes into one casserole dish and is baked to bubbling perfection. It reheats beautifully and serves a crowd.
Broccoli and Cheddar Soup //. This soup is absolutely delicious…comforting, hearty and nutritious. It freezes well. Send this with some fresh sourdough (store bought is fine!) or some saltine crackers.
Creamy Tomato Soup without Any Cream // This creamy Tomato Soup is the perfect bowl to cozy up with. It’s so simple to make and absolutely delicious. You feel like you’ve been wrapped in a warm hug.
Easy Instant Pot Butter Chicken // Butter Chicken can sometimes be overwhelming but not when you try this Instant Pot version (stove instructions are also available!). Send the rice in a separate container. I love the addition of a little extra spinach, but that’s optional.
Sesame Miso Edamame Salad // Many drop off meals are carb heavy. This salad lasts well in the fridge for several days. I would send the dressing in a separate container and allow them to toss it themselves.
The very best drop off meals | Breakfast and More…
Sometimes overlooked, breakfast, snacks and sweets are always nice to have on hand. Here are a few suggestions:
Make Ahead Breakfast Burritos // This recipe make a LOT of burritos - perfect to stash in the fridge and reheat when needed.
Raspberry Breakfast Bars // These must be healthy because they have oats and raspberries in them, right? Regardless, with a cup of tea for breakfast or a snack, these are absolutely delicious.
Crunchy Granola Clusters // I love having granola on hand at all times. It’s perfect for a nutritious breakfast or to pop into a container to snack on. My version is always filled with superfoods to keep energy up.
Overnight Oats // Overnight oats are my go-to. I meal prep a batch each and every week. You can customize the flavours to what is in season, you can eat them warm or cold and they are choc-full of so much delicious goodness. This recipe is a framework and I have so many variations on my site.
Lastly, cookies! Send the cookie dough with instructions on how to bake them. Use a small cookie scoop (or a spoon) to roll the dough into balls, then freeze them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once frozen, you can transfer them to a ziploc for transport, and they won’t stick together!
They can bake a few at a time which is nice when they are inundated with casseroles.
Crumbl Cookies with Salted Caramel and dark Chocolate
Salted Browned Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
Drop-off meals are more than just food; they’re a way to show love, support, and empathy during life’s pivotal moments. Whether you’re comforting a grieving friend or celebrating new beginnings with a family, the thought and care you put into preparing a meal can make a world of difference. Next time someone you care about is going through a tough time—or a joyful one—consider bringing them one of these meals to help nourish their body and soul.
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