Hey Mommies!

Its Mommi Shaquanda here with a list of tips on how to make meal time a success without the the stress! Deciding what to cook every day for a family can be one mentally draining task! But by taking a couple hours, one day out the week to properly plan will make a big difference! 

1. How to create a plan

The first thing you want to do when creating your plan is to start with what you already got! That means taking inventory of your fridge and pantry to see what items you already have on hand that you can make a meal out of. This is a big step because it’ll also help you stick to your budget when you head to the grocery store.

2. Create a menu

Creating a menu is easier than it sounds. Start by selecting a theme for each night of the week. This will make it easier for you to find recipe ideas. Here is a list of examples you can use:

(** RECIPES CAN BE FOUND ON MOMMINATION) 

If you don’t want to cook everyday of the week you could definitely include meals that have already been prepared at your local grocery store like rotisserie chicken.

PRO TIP: Left over rotisserie chicken could also be turned into another meal for the week such as shredded chicken tacos.

The key is to think of all the ways you can use one item to make several meals! 

Check out this recipe video tutorial showing how to make 2 meals in 1 day!

I also like to think of meals that are easy for my kids to grab and go on their own! Maybe its premade sandwiches or a pasta they can reheat without your help! So I definitely suggest having meals in mind that don’t require your assistance. 

3. Make Shopping List

Once you have your meals planned out for the week you’re now ready to create your shopping list! Don’t overwhelm your self with too many new recipes at once. As moms we have a lot going on as is so try to stick to simple recipes and maybe one new recipe a week. Keep in mind what you already have on hand.

Pro Tip: Put items in categories to make shopping easier!

 

4. Go Shopping!

Plan out which day of the week you will do all your shopping. You don’t want to end up making unnecessary store runs all week! Shopping in bulk at your local Sams, Costco or BJs is always best when you have a big family! If you’re just picking up a few items then definitely hit up your local grocery store or farmers market. For even more convenience you can do all your shopping online and have them delivered right to your door or even opt for store pickup and they’ll bring it  right out to your car! This has been a lifesaver for me as I have young kids and taking all of them to the store is more hassle than I need in life lol. 

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So whatever you do moms don’t just wing it when it comes to meal planning! It doesn’t have to be stressful at all and proper planning will save you a big headache.

Be sure to get the family involved. Ask your husband for suggestions. Get the kids excited for the themed nights and see what ideas they come up with. Keep a list of meal ideas that were big hits with the fam! Also don’t feel bad if you have picky eaters at home! If you’re not in the mood to make two separate meals it’s definitely ok for them to have a sandwich for dinner! 

So there you have it moms! Meal Planning 101! I hope you found these tips helpful! Happy Planning!

-Mommi Shaquanda