Meal planning can seem like a chore to some people, but it’s a huge time saver during the week. And call me crazy, but making a plan is a great stress reliever for me. Knowing that dinner is taken care of for the week takes a load off my mind and helps me feel like I’m prepared for anything. I hope that you’ve been able to use the original Grocery Bag Menu here on the blog a few times and have found the same is true for you. I’ve recieved lots of positive reviews and emails about that feature so I’ve put together a second Grocery Bag Menu – a week’s worth of meals along with a shopping list for everything you’ll need. Each of these recipes was carefully chosen based on reader feedback, family pleasing potential, and ease of preparation. Just click on each title to view the recipe, then print this page to have your shopping list ready to go. You get all the benefits of a great meal plan without lifting a finger. Now that’s a fabulous way to start off the week!
Keep in mind that these recipes are based on feeding a family of four, so if you’re cooking for fewer people you may want to adjust the quantities of some of the ingredients, or plan to enjoy some of the leftovers for lunch.
Low Fat Beef Chimichangas
Shopping List:
Produce:
cilantro – 1 bunch
scallions
yellow onions, 2 – medium size
carrots, 2 cups
snow peas, 3 cups
garlic
fresh ginger
limes, 2
Meat:
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
one (2 pound) beef chuck roast
1 pound pork tenderloin
Canned/Dry Grocery:
1 box (16 oz) of your favorite pasta
tomato sauce, 28 oz
barbeque sauce – your favorite
beef stock, 2 cups
chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, 1 can
flour tortillas, 8 count burrito size
red chile paste (in the Asian food aisle)
rice (for sweet and sour pork)
rice (for sweet and sour pork)
Refrigerated:
2 packages pre-packaged pizza dough
Mozzarella cheese, 2 cups grated
heavy cream (or half and half), 1 cup
plain yogurt, 1 cup
Check your pantry for the following items, and purchase as needed:
olive oil
vegetable oil
balsamic vinegar
dried basil
cumin
chili pepper spice
bay leaf
crushed red pepper
dried oregano
dry mustard powder
sour cream
salsa
soy sauce
corn starch
ketchup
sugar
brown sugar
wooden or metal skewers for chicken satay
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I was looking for a cupcake recipe for my husband's birthday in June and found the Guinness cupcakes with Bailey's frosting on your blog that I know he will love.
I'm not much of a cook and have been trying to make more of an attempt at it now that my daughter is 2 years old and I just wanted to tell you that I love your blog. I've been finding plenty of recipes on your site that I want to try out so thank you.
Elle, I hope your husband loves the cupcakes as much as we do! I love that you're learning to cook for your family – if there's ever anything I can do to help out don't hesitate to ask!