Meal Planning for a family of 6.

With 6 mouths to feed, sometimes it can be tricky making sure everyone eats and is satisfied. Honestly, sometimes I don’t care if they eat and are satisfied. What’s for dinner is what’s for dinner!

However, for the most part, I do like to ask my family what they want for dinner when it’s my turn to cook (my husband and I take turns rotating each week-when he doesn’t forget). Once I have an idea of what everyone wants to eat, on Sundays, I sit down and make a menu. See below for our menu this week.

Sunday-Turkey Pepperoni Pasta, Salad

Monday-Fried Fish, Jasmine Rice, Red Beans, Salad

Tuesday-Meatloaf, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans

Wednesday-Lasagna, Garlic Bread, Broccoli

Thursday-Salmon, Lemon Linguine with Spinach

Friday-Yellow Rice, Vegan Sausage, and Peas Casserole

Saturday-Pizza (we order pizza most Saturday nights)

So, once my first step is out of the way and my menu is made, I make a list of all the ingredients that I need for each meal. Then I go to the pantry and see what items I already have on hand. I cross off each item that is either in the pantry or fridge that I already have.

After that, I take my list to the grocery store and get to shopping. I’ve done this for YEARS because I don’t like the “what’s for dinner” feeling and the “I need to run to the store” habit.

The menu isn’t set in stone. We do switch the meals up at times or eat out at times. But having a solid meal plan makes the week so much smoother.