Once, I’m done planning out the week, I’ll add up all the ingredients I need and build a shopping list out of it.

Often, I’ll save leftovers from a dinner and use them for lunch the next day.

From there, I’ll go through and add my lunch items.

I usually eat post-workout so it’s important that I plan these out well.

Once I’m there, I’ll write out what I want for dinner.I’ll plot out my breakfasts first (usually I drink coffee or fast for the morning so that makes things easier).I write out which days I know I have things going on and won’t be able to eat at home.Every Sunday, I sit down and print out a new meal plan template.If you’re brand new to meal planning, you still might feel a bit intimidated by the whole meal planning thing – but it’s really not that tough. It’s simple to use (and best of all) it’s printable! Check it out below How to Use These Meal Planning Templates It’s absolutely free -no gotchas, catches or anything. If you’re wanting a free simple meal plan template to download, just grab yours here. It’s a free printable weekly meal plan from Ultimate Meal Plans with a breakfast, lunch, dinner and snack spot for each day of the week. On a separate tab, you’ll find a list of ingredients you can keep track of as you go to the grocery store and do your shopping.Īlternatively, you can sign up for a free trial and get your groceries delivered to you, but everyone has their own pace. Our free meal plan templates mimic our actual meal plans – minus the recipes, shopping lists, and more – but if you want to try to do it yourself, they’re a good place to start.Įvery template has a space for breakfast/lunch/dinner and a snack. Luckily, not only we do host the best meal planning app on the planet, but we also have a ton of great meal plan templates so you can do some DIY meal planning on your own! Why Use a Meal Planning Template? If that’s you – it’s helpful to have a meal plan template to help you get started Below you can find each month plus the printable for your convenience, we started the printable menus in late November 2012, and then in late 2013, we changed to the calendar form.If you’re just getting started with meal planning – you might want to try it out yourself first to see what you think. There were several readers that asked to have them all in one spot. We have over 3 years’ worth of Monthly Menu Plans. You can also use Pinterest to gather recipe ideas that you would like to serve your family. I like using a Household Binder to keep track of everything. Keep track of your meal plan and take notes.You certainly don’t want to be grilling during a rainstorm or plan a meal to be cooked in the oven when the temperatures are supposed to be high. Also keep the weather in mind, even though it changes fast, you can get an idea of what to expect in the week ahead.When I’m planning meals, I give each day of the week a specific meal, like Mondays are quick and easy, Tuesdays are make-ahead, Wednesdays are Mexican night, Thursdays are Italian, Fridays are kids’ favorites, Saturdays are new recipes and Sundays are comfort food.Here are 50+ recipes for those busy weeknights. Plan an easy Slow Cooker Meal for those nights, then you can eat as soon as you get home from the game. Especially during the school year, when the kids have practice, games, or meetings. It will make your meal planning easier, and cut down on your grocery bill. Keep your pantry stocked with ingredients you will use often.For instance, if cheese is on sale, then plan recipes that use cheese. It’s also a great idea to plan your meals that share common ingredients.When you plan your meals, keep in mind what ingredients are seasonal, they are often less expensive too.I also purchase some things for the whole month, especially if they are on sale, but the majority of the grocery shopping is done weekly. The other nice thing, after each month, is planned for the year, and you are done.

Since I have my recipes and cookbooks out, I find it easier to plan the whole month. Our Budget-Friendly Monthly Menu Plans are sure to help! My Favorite Menu Planning Tips There are lots of different ways to plan your menu, and using them and finding out what works best for you and your family is the best idea. Menu planning is one of the most efficient ways to cut down on your budget and keep yourself organized.

Free printable monthly menu calendar