Week 17 Weekly Menu Budget-Friendly Family Dinners
Feeding a family of five on a budget? Not a problem! This week's meal plan is designed to satisfy picky eaters and adventurous taste buds alike, all while keeping costs low. Let’s dive into a delicious and cost-effective lineup that’ll make dinnertime a breeze.
Weekly Dinner Menu
Here’s what’s on the menu this week:
This week, we're focusing on kid-friendly classics with a flavorful twist, all within a budget-friendly framework of around $9.50 per meal!
Daily Meal Breakdown
Day 1: Pulled Pork Mac
Flavor Profile: Creamy cheese mac meets savory BBQ pulled pork.
Tips for Staying on Budget:
Use store-brand mac and cheese for savings.
Buy pulled pork in bulk and cook in the slow cooker.
Day 2: Baked Italian Chicken with Potatoes and Carrots
Flavor Profile: Zesty Italian dressing complements tender chicken and cheesy potatoes.
Tips for Staying on Budget:
Opt for bone-in thighs.
Use canned carrots to cut costs (or this week, since we’re using more carrots later - skip the can and only get the fresh!)
Day 3: Pizza Sliders
Flavor Profile: All the classic pizza toppings packed in a sweet slider bun.
Tips for Staying on Budget:
Buy in bulk or on sale.
If you don’t need as many servings, use leftover rolls for next-day sandwiches!
Day 4: One-Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta
Flavor Profile: Bright lemon and rich garlic enhance simple pasta.
Tips for Staying on Budget:
Using pantry staples like pasta and broth help with cost efficiency.
Skip the lemon zest if you have refrigerated lemon juice at home.
Day 5: Minestrone Soup
Flavor Profile: Hearty vegetables and beans in a savory broth. Perfect for warming up on cold days!
Tips for Staying on Budget:
Use canned or frozen veggies.
Make a big batch for leftovers.
Day 6: Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells
Flavor Profile: Creamy cheese and savory spinach wrapped in pasta.
Tips for Staying on Budget:
Use frozen spinach if cheaper.
Buy bulk shredded cheese (I buy in bulk and keep it in the freezer!)
Day 7: Meatball Subs
Flavor Profile: Savory meatballs smothered in marinara and melty cheese.
Tips for Staying on Budget:
Use frozen meatballs if cheaper.
Make extra meatballs if making them and freeze for another meal.
Why This Menu Works for Families
Kid-Friendly Favorites: With dishes like pizza sliders and mac and cheese, picky eaters will be delighted.
Customizable Meals: Each dish allows for ingredient swaps based on preferences and what's on sale. Plus, most sides are left open for you to pick what fits your families needs.
Nutritional Benefits: Incorporating vegetables into soups and pasta boosts nutrition while keeping meals flavorful.
Shopping List
Final Thoughts
This week's menu proves that feeding your family on a budget can be both delightful and diverse. Share your thoughts and favorite budget-friendly meals in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!
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