As a busy mom, meal planning can be a lifesaver. It not only saves you time and money, but also ensures that your family eats healthier and more balanced meals.

In this article, we will provide you with some helpful tips and tricks for meal planning on busy weeknights.

1. Set Aside a Specific Time

One of the first steps in successful meal planning is to set aside a specific time each week to plan and prepare your meals. Choose a day and time when you are least occupied, such as Sunday afternoon or Saturday morning.

By having a designated time for meal planning, you are more likely to stick to it and make it a regular habit.

2. Take Inventory of Your Pantry

Before planning your meals, take inventory of the items you already have in your pantry and refrigerator. This will help you avoid buying unnecessary ingredients and save money.

Once you know what you already have, you can plan your meals around those items and make a list of only the things you need to buy.

3. Plan Meals in Advance

When it comes to meal planning, the key is to plan your meals in advance. Decide on the recipes you want to make for the week and create a menu. Consider your family’s preferences and dietary needs while planning.

Having a planned menu will save you from the stress of figuring out what to cook each night and will also give you the opportunity to make healthier choices.

4. Keep it Simple

Busy weeknights are not the time to experiment with complex and time-consuming recipes. Stick to simple and quick recipes that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Look for recipes that require minimal ingredients and have easy-to-follow instructions.

This way, you can whip up a delicious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

5. Prep Ahead of Time

Prepping some ingredients ahead of time can save you a lot of time on busy weeknights. Wash and chop vegetables, marinate meats, and pre-cook certain ingredients. Store these prepped ingredients in containers or resealable bags in the refrigerator.

When it’s time to cook, all you need to do is assemble the ingredients and follow the recipe.

6. Embrace Leftovers

Leftovers can be a busy mom’s best friend. When planning your meals, make extra portions that can be used for lunches or dinners later in the week.

This way, you won’t have to cook every single night, and you can enjoy a break from the kitchen. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

7. Use a Slow Cooker or Instant Pot

A slow cooker or Instant Pot can be a game-changer for busy weeknight meals. These appliances allow you to cook meals with minimal effort. You can prep the ingredients in the morning or the night before, and then simply set it and forget it.

By the time you come home from work or pick up your kids from school, a warm and delicious meal will be waiting for you.

8. Make a Grocery List

Before heading to the store, make a detailed grocery list based on your meal plan. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulse purchases.

Organize your list by sections, such as produce, dairy, meats, and pantry items, to make your shopping trip more efficient. Stick to your list and resist the temptation to buy unnecessary items.

9. Get the Family Involved

Meal planning doesn’t have to be a one-person job. Get your family involved in the process. Ask them for their suggestions and involve them in selecting recipes.

This way, everyone gets a say in what’s on the menu, and it can also be a fun family activity.

10. Be Flexible

Finally, remember to be flexible with your meal plan. Life happens, and sometimes things don’t go as planned. Have a backup plan for those days when you don’t feel like cooking or when unexpected events come up.

Keep a few simple and quick recipes in your back pocket that you can whip up in no time.