Weekly Meal Plan #42 | The Recipe Critic
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Another week, another what’s for dinner? moment, right? This week’s meal plan is all about keeping things simple without skimping on flavor—and yes, leftovers are totally part of the plan!
What’s For Dinner?
Need some easy, family-friendly dinner inspo this week? I’ve got you! This meal plan is packed with comforting, budget-friendly meals your crew will love. Let’s get into it:
Pad Thai
Pad Thai is a Thai stir-fry dish made with tender rice noodles, cooked chicken, crunchy, warm peanuts, scrambled egg and bean sprouts all mixed together with a creamy sweet and spicy sauce. It’s everyone’s favorite Thai dish!
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Meatloaf Casserole
I turned classic meatloaf into the ultimate family-friendly casserole! The secret? A layer of creamy mashed potatoes on top that keeps it extra juicy and flavorful.
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Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Busy week? These air fryer chicken tenders come together fast, with a crispy outside, juicy inside, and kid-approved every time.
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Pork fajitas
These easy pork fajitas are bursting with all your favorite Mexican flavors! The lean pork, fresh peppers and onions, fajita seasonings, and soft tortillas will have you coming back for more!
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Tomato paste
Experience the delicious taste of Italy with this easy Pasta Pomodoro recipe. Cook the pasta and make a flavorful tomato sauce with shallots, garlic, and a hint of red pepper flakes. Top it off with melted parmesan cheese and fresh basil for a mouthwatering dish that will leave you wanting more!
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How Many Does it Feed?
This free weekly meal plan is just what you need to get your week started. It provides five meals that will feed 4-6 (depending on if you are feeding adults or kids), AND it includes a shopping list! With fresh new ideas and easy-to-make recipes, having a weekly menu plan will be a lifesaver.
Why Even Bother With Meal Planning?
- Less Last-Minute Scrambling: No more 5 p.m. panic—just a calm, confident “I’ve got this.”
- Fewer Decisions: Take the guesswork out of dinnertime and save your mental energy for everything else.
- Smarter Shopping: You’ll buy what you actually need and waste less food (and money).
- More Enjoyable Meals: With a plan in place, dinner feels less rushed and more like quality time.
- Healthier Choices: Planning ahead makes it easier to work in balanced, nutritious meals.
Side Dishes for Dinner
My weekly menu plans always include a printable shopping list that is measured out and ready to go. It makes things so easy!
Storing Leftovers for Meal Planning
I only meal plan Monday-Friday because we sometimes have plans over the weekend or I have leftovers that we can have to finish off the week! If you do have leftovers, make sure to store them properly in an airtight container in your fridge.
