Lately, we’ve been on a mission to save some money. With three kids and prices skyrocketing, it’s way too easy to spend more than we should on convenience foods. I’m sure a lot of you can relate. I can just picture it now:
It’s Tuesday afternoon. The kids are home from school, already bickering. You’re staring into the fridge, trying to think through the chaos in your mind to figure out what’s for dinner. There’s barely any protein, a few leftovers, and a sad bag of baby carrots. With a dramatic sigh, you throw your hands up in the air and tell everyone to get in the car—it’s time for the drive-thru!
We’ve all been there, right? No plan, a crazy schedule, and the temptation to grab some fast food. Whether you’re heading to an overpriced restaurant or just swinging through a fast-food joint, it’s easy to default to convenience. But let’s be honest—those options aren’t doing your body or your budget any favors. Now, don’t get me wrong, eating out can be great when it’s part of the plan or when you just need a break. But doing it regularly? Not so much.
So, what’s the secret to breaking the cycle? Menu planning! When we first started planning our meals, it felt super intimidating. But over time, we’ve figured out some tips and tricks that have made a world of difference.
If you’ve got any questions or want to share your own tips, drop them in the comments! We’d love to hear from you.
What does your week entail?
Do you have a kiddo with a ballet lesson every Thursday that leaves you scrambling for dinner? Is there a big event coming up and you need to bring a side dish? Maybe you have extra time on Sunday to prep ingredients or pack lunches? Whatever your week has in store, taking a moment to look ahead can help you plan your meals more efficiently.
Keep Breakfast and Lunch simple
Choose two or three things you enjoy for breakfast and lunch, and stock up on those items. Are you a fan of oatmeal? Make sure it’s on your list! You can even buy it in bulk to save a little extra cash. Keeping things simple and having options without overcomplicating it can streamline your day and free up time for what really matters.
Shop the House first
Before making your shopping list, take a quick inventory of your freezer, fridge, and pantry. You’d be surprised at how many ingredients you’ve purchased and forgotten about. A few weeks ago, I planned to make a salad with quinoa, but the day got away from me, and I ended up going with something simpler. This week, I’m going to use that quinoa—and save a few bucks in the process! You can also spot things that are going to go bad soon and use them up before they expire.
Shop Seasonal
We all want to eat more fruits and veggies, right? Not only are they better for us, but they also add a fun variety to the menu. Plus, shopping for what’s in season can save you money while providing higher quality. If you’re craving something that’s out of season, check out the frozen section or canned goods aisle for a more affordable alternative.
Not sure what’s in season? You can find the USDA’s official list here to help you out!
Shop the Sales!
Take advantage of apps and store ads to compare prices across different stores. You can easily see where you can find the best deals, and it might even spark some new recipe ideas! Sure, you may need to make a couple of extra stops, but those savings will make you feel pretty accomplished. Plus, it’s fun to hunt for a good deal!
Need a little more inspiration? We’ll be posting our weekly menu here to give you ideas for your own home soon. Subscribe so you don’t miss out!