My Menu Planning Method

Lately I've been seeing lots of ideas on how to menu plan.  I thought I'd share what works for me.

In our house, payday comes every two weeks on a Thursday.  That Thursday is also my set Grocery Shopping Day.  So I set my menu planning to that schedule.  I think it is important to tweak things to make them work for your particular and unique needs.

First, I made a simple table to print out.  I made my chart for two weeks and it starts on a Thursday and ends on a Wednesday.  I then slid it inside a sheet protector.  You can also laminate it if you have the supplies.  I use a dry-erase marker so I can easily use this chart over and over.  Stick it on the fridge with a magnet and you have a valuable resource.

I start by checking out what I have in the freezer, fridge and pantry.

I then look through my calendar to see what is coming up within the next two weeks that will effect my meal making.  (Homecoming was Saturday, therefore I didn't have to cook!)

I then count how many meals I need and also what types of meals.  Days that I have a lot going on I may choose to make something quick and easy.  I have meetings every Thursday so after a long day of grocery shopping and errand running it is super easy to stick a pizza in the oven.

So I figure out what I'm making on what days and mark them on my chart.

I also look to see if there is anything special I need to make throughout the two week period.  Get-togethers, church dinners etc.  I also try to plan what I'm making for those.

I then compare what ingredients I have to what ingredients I need and make my grocery list from there.

Actually having a menu to plan my grocery list from really does save money.  It is also nice to not have the great debate every day:

"What am I going to make for supper?!?!"

Linking to:

Making Your Home Sing

Homemaker Mondays

Raising Homemakers Link-up