What's For Dinner {Sept 22nd}

Ah, it's Monday already! Where do the weeks go?!?

I'm not particularly in the mood to plan meals right now, but not doing it throws my week into a tailspin. Yes, it takes a little time, but it's totally worth it in the long run. It's really just a 3-step process for me.

Here's my meal planning routine each week:

Look through my pantry, fridge, freezer to see what's on hand already--especially in the meat dept.
Choose my main dishes accordingly, then any side dishes or desserts
Add any needed items to my shopping list.

This method of meal planning has saved my family countless dollars over the past six years. If you start planning around what you already have you won't spend as much when you go to the grocery store. When I began meal planning I cut our weekly grocery budget of $125 down to $60. We still keep it low--about $70-$80 per week on the average. And that's for a family of 4 (including 2 growing kids!). Not too bad, although I know that we could make some improvements still.

Here's what's on the plan for this week:

Monday: Crispy Tilapia, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, and a Green Salad

Tuesday: {out} with my parents and sister for my birthday!

Wednesday: Tostada Bar

Thursday: {crockpot} Beef Veggie Soup with Popovers

Friday: Cheeseburger Stuffed Peppers

Saturday: Homemade Pizza

This post is linked to Menu Plan Monday at I'm an Organizing Junkie.

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