How to freeze leftovers

Foods that don't freeze well

Cake or quick-bread batter, cooked potatoes, cream- or custard-based pies, gelatins, lettuce, pasta-based soups, tomatoes

4. Spread out. Freeze small, loose foods, such as meatballs and ravioli, in a single layer on a baking sheet. When solid, transfer to freezer bags.

5. Go flat. Pour soups, stocks, purées, and sauces into heavy zip-top bags, squeeze out any excess air, and freeze flat. When solid, stack and store horizontally or vertically to save freezer space. Because of increased surface area, these will also thaw quickly in a bowl of warm water.