Meal planning is the best investment of time I can make to keep our family running smoothly. I'd be lost without it. Does it feel overwhelming to start? I'm here to help.
This Family Meal Planning Strategies post is the best place to start if you are new to meal planning. It's my goal to have that post be a one-stop shop for meal planning made simple.
Cooking for picky eaters? Check out this guide to Keeping Peace with Picky Eaters for loads of ideas to plan meals where everyone enjoys the options. Making a meal plan and cooking dinner each night is so frustrating if the kids won't eat what you prepare!
I prepare a weekly meal plan for our family with a dinner menu for 4-6 nights. It is often inspired by my quarterly Seasonal Meal Plans, where I compile a list of recipes to draw from throughout the season.
Seasonal Meal Plans
Sample Meal Plans
Meal plans need to have flexibility and adapt to your family's needs. As your family grows and schedules change the number and type of meals you plan for each week changes too.
Need a good place to start? Check out these sample weekly meal plans for inspiration.
Recipe Collections
These recipe collections can help you plan meals using certain ingredients or for special occasions.
I spend most of my energy in the everyday meals and weeknight dinner categories, but special occasion meals are great fun to plan and execute. I've got game plans for big dinners (see this Thanksgiving Timeline post) to help with preparation, menus, and other tips to keep special events running smoothly.
I hope you find meal plan inspiration here!