I am a big proponent of meal planning. It’s something I’ve been doing in my own home for four years, and it’s one of the first things I recommend to anyone trying to be more healthily, trying to manage their grocery budget, or wanting to ensure they eat more food at home. It’s a simple task that takes a few minutes of my time every Sunday, keeps me in check at the grocery store, and keeps me from stressing that “what’s for dinner” question every night of the week.
The answer? It’s on the front of the refrigerator.
Thanks to Laura Likes Design, we’re sharing three meal plan worksheets that you can print off and use in your home. With spaces for three meals a day, seven days a week, you’ll never have to wonder what you’re having at breakfast, lunch, or dinner. And we’ve built in space for a grocery list, too! You can take the worksheet to the store with you to help stick to the plan.
Design 1, including a sample weekly meal plan to show you how easy it is to stay on track! Click here to download this PDF.
How does a weekly plan save you money?
You stick to the list! You aren’t aimlessly dropping things in your shopping cart hoping to wind up at home with enough stuff to throw together a meal. Everything that goes in your cart has a purpose. You buy, and therefore spend money on, only those things you need.
How does a weekly meal plan help with weight loss?
For the reasons above. The list doesn’t say anything about potato chips or brownies, or 10 for $10 bargains on cookies. You make a commitment to yourself at the start of the week to eat only those planned meals. It’s really hard to advertise “order pizza” or “stop by burger shop” on the front of your refrigerator.
“I always plan my meals for the week. Doing so is the best way I know to set myself up for success all week long!” – Tweeted @MandaKayMakesIt.
How does a weekly meal plan save time?
There’s no rushing home and scrambling over what to make for dinner. Three days a head of time or the morning of, you know what’s for dinner every night of the week. You also know what’s for breakfast and you’re able to plan for meals that take less than 5 minutes. And when you know you want to take last night’s leftover stir fry for lunch, you can plan to make enough extra to grab a dish from the fridge and go!
Design 2: Click here to download this PDF.
Design 3: Click here to download this PDF.
