Show you care by making new parents, those recovering from surgery, or someone who needs a boost any of these 15 gluten-free recipes to take to someone in need.
From welcoming new babies, to undergoing surgeries – it feels like I’ve been making and taking meals to friends and family in need more than ever lately!
Maybe it’s all in my head, but I rarely feel like I have the right words to comfort someone when they’re going through a difficult or sorrowful time. My heart aches, but my brain can’t quite form the right words to help ease the pain. It’s through food that I’m able to show how much I care, and I think (hope!) people see that.
That said, meal ideas for people who are stuck on the couch after surgery, going through a tough time, or whose family is growing, is one of my most requested post topics and I can’t believe it’s taken me so long to write on the subject because I definitely have a group of recipes I turn to time and time again when these types of situations pop up!
The 15 recipes to take to someone in need that I’m highlighting today all travel well, are easy to assemble by either you or the recipient, and are hearty and comforting yet healthy (for the most part!) I always try and deliver meals with a side dish or something to compliment the meal, so I’ve included a few ideas under each link, too.
Just a tip – be sure to ask the recipient about any food allergies or aversions before deciding what recipe to take over, and definitely don’t forget to print out the recipe so they can see exactly what’s in it and how to make/bake it if applicable.
Finally, if you want to organize a meal train for a friend or family member, I highly recommend this Meal Train service. I was introduced to it last year after a friend gave birth to twin boys who were in the NICU for several weeks, and it is sooo slick!
What are your favorite meals to deliver to friends and family members in need?
Gluten Free Tuna Noodle Casserole
4.8 from 5 votes
Gluten Free Tuna Noodle Casserole is a modernized yet cozy version of the classic. No cream nor condensed canned soup needed!
Loaded Baked Potato Soup is thick, creamy, and loaded with baked potato toppings including bacon, cheese, and sour cream. Each mouthwatering bowl is hearty and satisfying!
Chicken Stew is a slightly thickened stew recipe featuring tender shredded chicken, creamy potatoes, and lots of vegetables in a herby, luxurious, savory gravy.
Gluten free Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is ready in under 30 minutes and made with fridge and pantry staples. The recipe has been in my family for generations!
Crock Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a quick and healthy crock pot recipe that’s perfect for busy nights. Add all the ingredients in the crock pot then push on!
High protein + low fat Turkey Chili is easy to make and packed with craveable flavor. Make a batch on the weekend to reheat for healthy, easy lunches all week long
Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers are perfect for feeding a crowd on game day, or enjoying as a slow-cooked cozy Italian supper at home. Serve in a variety of ways.
Thank you for including side dish ideas! Sometimes I get so focused on the main dish, I forget what to have with it or don’t know what would sound good, ha!
What a great post, Kristin! I love the thought behind this and don’t we all need some ideas for food to share with a friend when they need a hug? In the south we always called it a “food hug” – love this.
~jules
My fiancé and I ALWAYS make your three cheese skillet lasagna for family and friends whenever a major life event happens and it gets rave reviews each time!
Any thoughts on freezing the two casseroles that have rice in them? They look great for fall (yay, fall!) and I’m also thinking ahead for my own meal prep now that school is almost starting.
You know what, I don’t have a lot of experience freezing and reheating rice. ? I think it would hold up ok, but I also would hate to have you freeze then ruin a giant casserole. Maybe make it then save a couple portions to freeze and try before committing to an entire casserole!
This is so timely as I just signed up via Meal Train to take a meal to a friend’s family going through a hard time and they are gluten AND dairy free. I was in a panic trying to figure out what to take and had already started searching your site for ideas and then you posted this! PERFECT. Thanks so much!
I love giving food to people in need too. Usually I got a big crock pot of shredded pork with some bbq sauce, homemade pickles and buns, or my one pan chicken, green bean and potato bake. If the people don’t live within driving distance I’ll send banana chocolate chip bread, homemade jam, muffin mix, coffee, tea, etc. in the mail.
I love this post! As a gluten-free person, I’m often at a loss as to what I should take to other people, as I basically keep only GF food in my house. I have pinned this for future reference.
I’ve often included your Incredible Italian Meatballs when dropping food to someone in need! Package in individual portions/containers for the fridge or freezer with sides of fresh pasta and garlic bread and you’re (they’re) set! ?????
These are great ideas for meals to share with older loved ones, many of whom are struggling with eating disorders, as this article explains: https://superiorseniorhomecare.com/the-dangers-of-eating-disorders-in-seniors-and-how-to-help/
Thank you for sharing, Jennifer!
Thank you for including side dish ideas! Sometimes I get so focused on the main dish, I forget what to have with it or don’t know what would sound good, ha!
What a great post, Kristin! I love the thought behind this and don’t we all need some ideas for food to share with a friend when they need a hug? In the south we always called it a “food hug” – love this.
~jules
My fiancé and I ALWAYS make your three cheese skillet lasagna for family and friends whenever a major life event happens and it gets rave reviews each time!
Any thoughts on freezing the two casseroles that have rice in them? They look great for fall (yay, fall!) and I’m also thinking ahead for my own meal prep now that school is almost starting.
You know what, I don’t have a lot of experience freezing and reheating rice. ? I think it would hold up ok, but I also would hate to have you freeze then ruin a giant casserole. Maybe make it then save a couple portions to freeze and try before committing to an entire casserole!
Good call on separating it out – thanks!
This is so timely as I just signed up via Meal Train to take a meal to a friend’s family going through a hard time and they are gluten AND dairy free. I was in a panic trying to figure out what to take and had already started searching your site for ideas and then you posted this! PERFECT. Thanks so much!
Ahh, it’s fate! I hope the meal helps your friend!
I love giving food to people in need too. Usually I got a big crock pot of shredded pork with some bbq sauce, homemade pickles and buns, or my one pan chicken, green bean and potato bake. If the people don’t live within driving distance I’ll send banana chocolate chip bread, homemade jam, muffin mix, coffee, tea, etc. in the mail.
Anyone would be grateful to receive a home-cooked meal from you, Val! I like the idea of shredded pork too – so versatile.
I love this post! As a gluten-free person, I’m often at a loss as to what I should take to other people, as I basically keep only GF food in my house. I have pinned this for future reference.
Awesome! I hope it comes in handy for you, Cathy!
Such great ideas! Thanks…love your recipes!❤️
Thank you so much, Carolyn – much appreciated! :)
My go to recipe to deliver to folks is your minestrone soup. It is super simpler and super delicious. Always a hit.
Love that one – super hearty and comforting!
I’ve often included your Incredible Italian Meatballs when dropping food to someone in need! Package in individual portions/containers for the fridge or freezer with sides of fresh pasta and garlic bread and you’re (they’re) set! ?????
https://iowagirleats.com/2016/03/28/incredible-italian-meatballs/
Ooo I had that one on the list but had to cut it – LOVE taking this one to people with kids, especially! :)