Meal planning is a major pain. No matter how much you keep your food stocked, you will run out of something at some point. That’s why many consider a meal plan calendar in their daily lives.
But there is a surefire way to cut out some of the hassles. Keep reading to learn how to simplify family meal planning. You’ll start feeling less stressed in no time!
Table of Contents
1. Consider Your Family’s Needs and Preferences
The entire process of meal planning can become simpler. Determine what types of meals the family enjoys. Make sure to include alternative options for any distinct dietary requirements.
Ask the family to provide input on which recipes they would like to try. Let them know that meals can be rotated over time to ensure that everyone is getting the nutrition and foods they need.
2. Plan Ahead
Planning ahead is one of the best ways to simplify your family meal planning. Set aside a specific day each week to plan and shop for meals.
Make a master grocery list for easy shopping. This will help you plan meals ahead of time and make sure you have all the necessary ingredients when meal prepping.
For busy households, you can look into ready made meals through meal delivery services or subscription boxes for easier weekly meal planning.
3. Use a Meal-Planning Template or App
The template or app should allow you to select meals for the week, store grocery items, and schedule tasks and time for preparation. Having everything stored in one place allows you to view all meal plan information in one spot.
Doing this saves you time, energy, and money since you are able to effectively plan ahead and buy all of your groceries in one trip based on the various meal times laid out in the template or app.
4. Make Use of Leftovers
One of the best ways to simplify it is to make use of leftovers. Try to plan meals where leftovers can easily be put to use. For example, if you are roasting a chicken, plan ahead and make the meal double the size to use the half part for a different meal or the same meal the following day.
Soups, stews, casseroles, and chili can all be made ahead in bulk and frozen for another day. Even diced veggies and prepared sauces can be stored in the freezer and used whenever you need them. Making use of leftovers ensures you are saving time and money and prevents unnecessary food waste.
5. Be Flexible
Flexibility is a key component when it comes to meal planning for the whole family. Consider having a one-dish dinner at least one night each week that can include a variety of components so that everyone can choose what to put on their plate.
Have some staple ingredients to mix and match during the week, such as grains, proteins, and vegetables. Store-bought rotisserie chicken is also a great time-saver and can be used for different dishes throughout the week.
Start Family Meal Planning Today
Family meal planning can help save money and time and reduce stress. With handy tips such as utilizing your resources, using online meal planners, and creating meal schedules, you can simplify the meal planning process.
Get started today and discover the many benefits of meal planning for your family!
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