Speed up grocery trips by knowing exactly what you need and save money by reducing impulse buys. We have broken down the process of creating a meal plan into four easy steps to help you get started.
Benefits of Meal Planning
Minimize the stress of deciding what to eat.
Ensure you have all ingredients on hand.
Reduce quick, unnecessary trips to the grocery store.
Save money by avoiding impulse buys.
All of these benefits sound amazing, but where do you even start? Below, we have broken down the process of creating a meal plan into four easy steps to help you get started.
Step 1: Meal Ideas
Brainstorm and make a list of all the meals and snacks that you normally make. This list will be a great quick reference anytime you feel stuck for ideas. If you’re looking to add in some new recipes, give your children some recipe books to look through and see what catches their eye.
Step 2: Start Making Your Plan
Write out the days of the week or print off a meal planning worksheet.
Write down any holidays, celebrations, or appointments that might be taking place.
Start adding in your meals. Reference your list of meal ideas created in the first step and fill in each day of the week.
Tips:
For busy days, pick meals that are quick and easy.
It's okay to include eating out or ordering takeout.
Consider your leftovers and ways to use them up.
Have ingredients about to expire? Add a meal that will help use them up.
Step 3: Grocery List
Once your calendar is filled with meals, make a list of all the ingredients needed for each meal. Then head to your fridge, freezer, and pantry. Cross off anything you already have. Anything not crossed off is now your grocery list to bring to the store.
Step 4: Prep for Meals
If you are new to meal planning, leave this step off until steps 1-3 feel easy to do. If you are already comfortable with meal planning, it's time to add in a prep day!
Block out some time on the weekend to get organized and prepared for the week ahead.
Here are some prep tips:
Peel and cut veggies.
Precook meats.
Make sauces.
Do some baking.
By following these four steps, you can simplify your meal planning process, save time and money, and reduce the stress associated with meal preparation. Happy planning!
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