This is only my second month freezer meal planning. I’ve tried in the past but always gave up after some point because I just couldn’t handle it. It was too much for me and I would always forget half of the things I needed from the store the first trip… so I made way more trips to the store then I would before. I would give up. Put the paper down, and just do what I always do: figure out what to make that day.
Just making whatever wasn’t working anymore. Not only was I getting bored, but I didn’t feel like I was being spontaneous with the meals. I hadn’t made something new in months. I wasn’t the only one who noticed it, even the boys were like “Oh this again?” Something had to change.
For now, its working. I search new recipes on pinterest and make a list of meals I want to make for the month. My goal is always 16 meals: only because there maybe a day where I don’t want anything frozen… plus most of the meals have enough leftovers that we can have a leftover day every week. I hate wasting food.
My recommendations for Meal Planning?
- Don’t forget to add freezer bags to your shopping list! I did this wayyy too many times and had to head back out to get more supplies.
- Write down every ingredient that you might need from the store then go through your pantry to see if you have it. This also keeps away another unwanted trip to the store.
- Make sure all meals are packed within a couple days of the purchases. I hate when my meat goes bad because I just didn’t have time to do all the meals at once.
- Take your time packing everything up. It is supposed to take hours. But have fun because this will make life easier in long run.
This month went way better than the first month and I fully expect it to only get easier. I am loving it right now, especially since I can spend part of the day playing with my sons instead of prepping for dinner.
What is your recommendation for doing meal planning?