It’s officially December! I feel like these are the forgotten weeks between Thanksgiving and serious crunch time leading up to the big day. It’s a time I like to eat a little thriftier and a little easier so I can really enjoy my days before things get too crazy.
For the remainder of 2023, I’m providing free weekly meal plans. 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! I hope you have a great Thanksgiving and enjoy these recipes!
Monday: If you want to try meatless Monday, you can make this Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup Recipe ham free. However, if you have a leftover ham bone waiting for you in the freezer, this is the perfect time to use it! This recipe is great for that package of dried peas that might have been in the cabinet for a little too long (guilty!).
Tuesday: Mini chicken quesadillas are super fun for taco Tuesday! My kids just like how cute they are! Feel free to customize them and use any fillings you prefer!
Wednesday: I think we are far enough out from Thanksgiving to get back into the poultry game. These chicken leg quarters are so delicious and so inexpensive! It’s a great way to save during a time you’re spending more on other things.
Thursday: Any baking mix will do with this chicken pot pie, and you can use leftovers from the chicken leg quarters! Or, if you don’t have leftovers, use canned chicken, if you don’t have fresh!
Friday: I’m feeling like an easy ravioli bake this Friday night. Serve it with a salad on the side and maybe some garlic bread (homemade or from the freezer).
Saturday or Sunday (choose one day for leftovers): I love to cook up a warm chili and some mac n cheese on a cold weekend day! Whether it’s Saturday or Sunday, both these recipes are the hearty meal you’re looking for!
For Breakfast: Quiche is one of the recipes that has saves us $100’s of dollars this year. By making breakfast ahead, and at home, we are prepared and don’t end up buying breakfast out.
For a sweeter breakfast option, try this recipe where you only need 2 ingredients! Apple pie filing meets cinnamon rolls and they become best friends! It’s too easy not to try!
For a Sweet Treat: If you try these browned butter pecan cookies, I guarantee they will be a new favorite in your house. They are everything delicious about a pecan sandy with all the texture of a delicious chocolate chip cookie!
I hope you have a wonderful 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!
MORE WEEKNIGHT RECIPES TO TRY:
- Instant Pot Chicken and Potatoes
- Cheesy Tortellini Bake(My Kids LOVE THIS!)
- Rotisserie Chicken Enchiladas! (These are SO EASY!)
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