Yes meal planning can be stressful. There use to be weeks where I wanted to pull my hair out trying to figure out what to make, especially with picky eaters. I have learned that even though at times I hate doing it, it is a task that I need to get done. From making our days run smoother, to saving money, to not eating out every night there are so many benefits to doing so.
Meal planning is different for every person. Some people meal plan every meal, some people plan elaborate meals every day... I usually only plan out dinner, some nights are quick and simple other nights other nights are crock pot done in the morning, more and more I am using my instant pot and loving it as well. You have to do what works best for you and your family.
Here are 10 steps to help you take the stress of meal planning for your family.
ONE
Choose a block of time. Come up with a time that you can sit down and make your menu. The first few times it may take 30-45 minutes, but will get quicker the more you do it.
TWO
Keep inventory of what you have on hand. We have a running inventory of our main dishes/meats on our fridge. Whenever I make something I cross it off the list.
THREE
Keep it Simple. Every night doesn't have to be an elaborate meal. Simple, easy, and what everyone will eat works the best. Having themed nights are also fun such as Taco Tuesday, Pizza Friday, and Pasta Monday.
FOUR
Get the family involved. Get everyone's opinions of what they would like for dinner.
FIVE
Make your grocery list at the same time you make your menu.
SIX
Be prepared. When you sit down to make your menu and grocery list have your pen paper, family calendar/schedule, meat inventory, and grocery ads with you.
SEVEN
Plan a light for leftovers.
Eight
Look at your meal plan every morning. If you need to pull meat, or throw something in the crock pot.
SIX
Be prepared. When you sit down to make your menu and grocery list have your pen paper, family calendar/schedule, meat inventory, and grocery ads with you.
SEVEN
Plan a light for leftovers.
Eight
Look at your meal plan every morning. If you need to pull meat, or throw something in the crock pot.
NINE
Your meal plan isn't set in stone. You can always switch it up if something comes up. Having quick grab and go foods in the freezer help when plans changes or you don't have leftovers.
TEN
List. Have a running list of your favorite meals and recipes that you want to make. I have a folder on my computer with recipes I want to try. When I am in a rut for something new I look there first. Also Pinterest is my best friend when it comes to new recipes.
Meal planning does not have to be stressful. Make it simple. It doesn't have to be elaborate or anything pretty. As long as you can read it that is all that matters.
Always appreciative of encouragement in this area!
ReplyDeleteMeal planning isn't the easiest for everyone. It takes dedication and commitment from the whole family
DeleteI've been trying to do meal planning for a bit now but I'm not very good at it!
ReplyDeleteIt takes practice. It easiest I have found to stick with a theme nights.
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