Merry Christmas, dear friends! It’s incredible how time seems to sprint towards Christmas, and here we are, just 2 days away from the festivities. I’m eagerly anticipating the joyous moments spent with family. May your holiday be filled with laughter, warmth, and the embrace of loved ones. I’m sending you heartfelt wishes, gratitude, and thoughts of joy now and always!
I will continue to provide free weekly meal plans through January 2024! Each plan follows the design of my “Stick to Your Budget Checklist” and includes 3 pantry friendly meal options (at least one of which is vegetarian), 3 budget conscious recipes, and assumes 1 leftovers day. There are also 2 breakfast options and a sweet treat to try!
Monday: I have a whole list of inexpensive Christmas Dinner ideas but, for me, one in particular stands out. This Cranberry Balsamic Chicken is such a treat and will make your holiday feel very special!
If you need help planning the big day, download my FREE Christmas Planning Sheets here!
Tuesday: Since Christmas was yesterday, and the snacking was heavy, Tuesday is going to be leftovers day. And, If you have leftover mashed potatoes give these potato pancakes a try!
Wednesday: It feels like a really good week to detox with some soup. I’m going to make up a batch of this Minestrone and eat it for lunches the next few days too.
Thursday: Instant Pot Chicken and Potatoes is an easy dinner for a long day. With the kids on Christmas vacation, I need this. It’s simple enough and everyone likes it too!
Friday: I know I’ll have leftover chicken from the night before so I might as well make this Waldorf Chicken Salad Sandwich for something I don’t need to turn the stove on for. This is a pantry friendly meal because you can easily use leftovers OR canned chicken. You can swap ingredients in and out based on what you have. It’s also a great way to use leftover dinner rolls, wraps, or bread!
Saturday: It’s time for more soup. I feel like after Christmas, I’m constantly chasing a soup high. This Canned Chicken and Corn Soup is ridiculously pantry friendly. It’s made with canned chicken and corn. If you don’t have fresh potatoes, use canned or add in instant mashed potatoes to thicken it up! This recipe is full of swaps, so check it out!
Sunday: For New Year’s Eve, I always do Appetizers! I recommend inventorying your cabinets and picking a recipe based on what you already have. The fewer ingredients you need to purchase, the better! Browse my appetizer ideas here!
For Breakfast: Christmas morning in my house is all about the canned cinnamon roll. I have made delicious casseroles through the years but I’m keeping it old school this year and whipping out the Pillsbury Grands!
I’m probably going to wait until Tuesday to make these Egg Bites. I’m going to need something lighter to get me through this indulgent week.
For a Sweet Treat: If you’re looking for the perfect thing to make for Christmas, or even an after Christmas, Party, try this crock pot fudge!
I hope you have a magical Christmas week!
FOR MORE INEXPENSIVE FAMILY RECIPES CHECK OUT THESE VIDEOS:
- 3 Delicious Pantry Friendly Meals
- 105 Meals for $115 – Feeding My Family For a week
- The Top 10 Secrets to saving big on food!
CHECK OUT THESE PREVIOUS MEAL PLANS:
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