A simple and budget-friendly meal plan.
Feed a family of 4 for $125.
Ever wish someone would just tell you what to cook for the week? Same. But lucky for you, I’m going to tell you what to make this week.
This is what I’d make if I didn’t want to spend the week overthinking what I’m going to eat for every meal. These meals are simple, delicious, and things I absolutely don’t mind eating more than once. Just lots of great food that fits into your week — whether you’re doing way too much, being pulled in too many directions, or just need someone to lay it all out for you.
This meal plan is budget-friendly with some tips and tricks at the end too. There’s meal ideas that are easy to shop for, flexible if you want to make some substitutions, and plenty of room for doubling recipes and so on. Make it fit your needs!
Everything you need is below — recipes, grocery list, and a few notes at the end to help you make it work for your week.
This week’s meal plan includes
1 breakfast
1 lunch
3 dinners
1 snack
There’s some ingredient overlap, but not so much that everything tastes the same. You’ll see basics like garlic, onions, lemon, kale, and pantry staples popping up more than once. We’re keeping the grocery list reasonable without being boring!
Proteins are flexible on purpose. Chicken shows up more than once, along with sausage and a plant-forward pasta dish. But, definitely grab what’s cheapest, use what you already have, and don’t stress exact cuts of meat.
Before shopping, it’s worth checking your pantry so you don’t double up on oils, spices, or staples. Most of these recipes rely on things you probably already use regularly.
All of the full recipes are linked below — click the title or image and you’re good to go.
Serves 8 | Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes
If there’s one breakfast treat that the whole family will love, it has to be my One-Pan Fluffy Mixed Berry Protein Oatmeal. This is not your average oatmeal – it’s light, fluffy, and packed with protein to keep you full and satisfied all morning long. The best part is, it can easily be prepared ahead of time. Simply prepare a big batch of this oatmeal at the beginning of the week and you’ll have a delicious and nutrient-dense breakfast ready in a pinch!
tips & swaps
Fresh or frozen berries work here
Use whatever milk you have
Make vegan by skipping egg whites and using 2 cups of non-dairy milk instead
