Getting meals on the table each week for your family isn’t easy! Especially if you work full-time. I have MANY busy families that purchase our freezer meals to help with quick breakfasts + lunch – but I know that’s not an option for all of you (location!). I wanted to share a few tips that seem simple, but really help me!
Make a Plan each week
This is harder than it seems sometimes! Sunday night or Monday morning – make out your list of dinners. It doesn’t have to be fancy- include a leftovers, pizza nights, frozen meal options. Not every night has to be home cooked- but just having a plan will keep you ‘on track’, reduce food waste and save money!
Pictured below is the worksheet I created, laminated and added a magnet to – to stick on our fridge and *try* to complete each week (some weeks I do better then others!) I cannot believe how much money I save by having a plan for the week – no more mindless over spending at the store.
I have a digital down load linked here – meal planning worksheet – that you can purchase, print each week or laminate like I did! Best $2 you may spend this week.
Create a ‘go to’ list of foods your family likes!
It’s 3 PM and you ask yourself this question – what’s for dinner tonight?! I hate that! This tip will help navigate those situations- sit down with your family and have them help you create a list of favorite meals. Stick it on your fridge – when you are creating your weekly meal plan, or need a last minute meal refer to this list.
I believe it’s important to include your family in this step – even if you think you know what they love- you will be surprised what they come up with for food ideas!
I created the worksheet, below, to use with my family – I sorted it be protein source to help organize (like if you have pork you need to use up!) and just help with brainstorming.
You can find this digital download of my worksheet – favorite go-to meals – here!
Freezer meals make meal planning easy!
I will touch on this SO much more another day- but next time you’re making a casserole plan to make a double and freeze! I will have a freezer friendly cook book coming, soon!
One of my favorite freezer meals – ground beef & egg noodles casserole. (Pictured below)
Meal Plan Minute series
Follow us on instagram – @recipesfromfrenchcreek to follow along on our bi-monthly ‘Meal Plan Minute’ series – I save them in my highlights too on instagram!
I want to hear from you!
Did this info help you?! What is your most difficult meal planning challenge?! Let me know in the comments below!
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