How to plan a week of dinners
How to Plan an Easy and Delicious Weekly Meal Schedule
When feeding your loved ones, nothing simplifies life more than weekly meal planning. A well-thought-out weekly meal schedule not only removes the stress of last-minute decisions but also ensures you have enjoyable, hassle-free dinners, always ready to go.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan meals for the week—from organizing your weekly menu to prepping ingredients in advance. Explore easy meal ideas that fit into your busy schedule, while savouring nutritious, flavour-packed recipes that bring the joy of mealtime into your home. Let’s dive into how to make dinner planning stress-free and fun!
Why Plan Your Weekly Dinners in Advance?
Planning your weekly meals offers several benefits, making dinner time something to look forward to rather than dread.
- It Saves Time and Money
Without a clear plan, you may find yourself wandering around the grocery aisles and throwing random items into your cart—many of which end up unused. When you know how to plan meals for the week, your grocery trips become more efficient, minimizing waste and cutting unnecessary purchases. - It Reduces Stress
Come home after a long day of work or school, and dinner is already decided. With a weekly meal plan in hand, there’s no need to scramble to figure out what to cook. And when you're using pre-selected ingredients, you’ll find the whole process easier, leaving more time to enjoy together. - It Encourages Healthier Eating
Meal planning also promotes healthier choices by balancing your macronutrients—protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. You can also ensure your plate is colourful with plenty of seasonal vegetables and fruits. Plus, you can cater to specific dietary needs, whether that means gluten-free or plant-based options.
How to Prepare an Easy Meal Plan for the Week
Creating a weekly meal plan can be simple. With a bit of practice, you’ll develop a reliable system to map out your dinners in no time.
Tip 1: Start with Family Favourites
Begin by anchoring your meal plan in dishes you already know your family loves. Old El Paso™ Soft Tacos are a fantastic staple for Taco Tuesday or any weekday meal. They’re not only easy to prepare but also versatile. For families with dietary restrictions or allergies, check product labels for allergens and ingredients like gluten or dairy, ensuring your meal meets everyone’s needs.
For example, Old El Paso™ Taco Kits come with seasoning and tortillas that make prepping family dinner a breeze. Just remember to properly cook proteins according to food safety guidelines.
Tip 2: Find a Balance Between Simplicity and Variety
While it’s great to stick to proven recipes, try to include a little variety. Experimenting with new cuisines—like adding different Mexican-inspired dishes into the mix—can keep your meals interesting. Vary your proteins between chicken, beef, seafood, or plant-based proteins like black beans or tofu.
Switching flavours can be as simple as alternating between Stand ‘n Stuff™ Tortillas one night and burrito bowls another.
Tip 3: Plan Around Your Week
Consider how your weekly routine plays out. Do you have more time to cook on the weekends or a quieter evening? On busy days, select easy meals for meal planning, like Beef Burritos, which are quick to assemble. And don’t forget about leftovers!
How to Prep Meals for the Week: Make Your Life Easier
Meal prepping is a game-changer. By doing most of the work upfront (during the weekend or on a less busy day), you free up valuable time during the week.
The Basics of Meal Prepping
Batch Cooking: Cook a big batch of a versatile protein or side dish—like seasoned fajita chicken or Mexican-inspired beef mince. Use it in multiple dishes, such as tacos on one night and nachos later in the week.
Portion Out: After cooking, divide meals into individual servings. This makes it easy to grab and go, whether for a quick reheat in the microwave or popping something in the oven.
Freeze When Needed: Some fantastic meal options—like enchiladas, chilli, or soups—freeze exceptionally well. Double your recipe and freeze half for later.
Remember to always follow food safety guidelines when reheating.
Meals You Can Prep for the Week
Here are some great meal options that you can prep ahead of time for quick and easy dinners throughout the week:
Beef Enchiladas: Prepare the beef filling ahead over the weekend and refrigerate. When you’re ready, roll the filling in Old El Paso™ Soft Tortillas and bake for a quick, satisfying dinner.
Tacos al Pastor: This delicious pork dish can be made on Sunday and enjoyed in multiple meals, like salads, bowls, or tacos later in the week. Just ensure pork is reheated to at least 75°C before eating.
Chicken Fajitas: Season and cook chicken early in the week. You can use Old El Paso™ Fajita Seasoning to add flavour. Cook once, then reheat throughout the week for speedy dinners.
What Meals Can I Prepare for the Week?
Need a little extra inspiration? Here’s a suggested weekly meal plan that strikes the perfect balance between delight and ease. All meals use Old El Paso™ products for that signature, satisfying Mexican flavour:
Monday: Nachos Night
Whip up a quick and easy nacho dinner using an Old El Paso™ Nachos Kit. Layer chips, cheese, beans, and beef, and finish it off with fresh guacamole or salsa. Pro tip: Store leftovers in airtight containers and use them for another meal later in the week.
Tuesday: Taco Tuesday
Grab your favourite Old El Paso™ Taco Kit—whether hard or soft shell—and fill it up with your favourite protein or plant-based option. Try this Easy Fish Tacos Recipe for a fun twist on the traditional taco night.
Wednesday: Burrito Bonanza
Fill up an Old El Paso™ Super Soft Tortillas with beans, stir-fried veggies, and your favourite protein for a hearty burrito. Customize to your liking!
Thursday: Mexican Rice Bowl
Layer leftover taco fillings with rice for an easy, customizable bowl. Add some salsa, guacamole, or even a fried egg for an extra treat.
Friday: Quesadilla Night
Use any remaining week’s leftovers in a cheesy quesadilla. Pair Old El Paso™ Tortillas with beans, veggies, and cheese, and you have a creative and satisfying end-of-week meal.
Take Charge of Your Weekly Meal Schedule
By investing a bit of time in planning, you can transform dinnertime into a stress-free, enjoyable part of your day. Whether it’s simple nachos or delightful burritos, Old El Paso™ has easy-to-use kits bring together delicious Mexican-inspired meals with little to no hassle.
Ready to get started? Browse the Old El Paso™ recipe collection for more inspiration and ideas to help you master your weekly meal plan.
This guide keeps meal planning simple, exciting and aligned with the Old El Paso™ mission of bringing families together around joyful meals. Following FSANZ guidelines ensures that your kitchen stays a tasty, safe, and happy place for everyone.