Family Budget Meal Plan 139

I've been sharing 5-day meal plans every week for years now, and it's been wonderful to hear from those who have discovered and are regularly using these plans. We also have a month of FREE £25 meal plans.

Each plan features five dinner recipes, each sized to feed around four adults. We've carefully selected these recipes to ensure they appeal to the whole family. Plus, we've mixed things up with a diverse range of meals, so you're not stuck with chicken every single night!

How to use this meal plan

Getting Started:

1. Review the Recipes: Start by looking over this week's meal plan. Get familiar with the recipes and the cooking processes involved.
2. Check Your Pantry: Before heading to Aldi, check your pantry for staples you already have. It's a great way to avoid buying duplicates and save money.
3. Print the Shopping List: Our itemized shopping list is your best friend. It categorizes ingredients by type (produce, dairy, etc.), making your Aldi shopping trip efficient and hassle-free.
4. Prep Ahead: Identify any meal components you can prepare in advance. Chopping veggies or marinating meats ahead can save you precious time during busy weeknights.

During the Week:

1. Follow the Recipes: Each recipe comes with easy-to-follow steps. Don't worry if you're new to cooking – these are beginner-friendly!
2. Storing Leftovers: Our tip sheet includes advice on how to properly store and reheat leftovers, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
3. Be Flexible: Feel free to swap meals based on your schedule or cravings. Our plan is designed for flexibility!

End of the Week:

1. Review and Reflect: What worked well? What didn't? Your feedback is valuable for future planning.
2. Share Your Experience: Join our Facebook Group and share your thoughts, photos, and tips with our community of budget-savvy cooks.

Pantry Staples

Having a well-stocked pantry can make meal preparation easier and more cost-effective. Here are some staples you should always have on hand. Check these weekly and add to your shopping list as needed:

1. Oils & Fats: Olive oil, vegetable oil, and perhaps some butter or ghee for flavor.
2. Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a selection of your favorite herbs and spices.
3. Canned Goods: Think tomatoes, beans, and broths – essentials for quick meals.
4. Dry Goods: Rice, pasta, and flour are versatile bases for many meals.
5. Condiments: Mustard, ketchup, soy sauce, and any other favourites.

This week's budget meal plan recipes

Creamy Lemon Chicken pasta

This lemon chicken pasta is a delicious combination of tender chicken thighs and a creamy lemon sauce, all served over perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Easy Red Lentil Dhal Curry

This red lentil dhal curry is a vibrant, hearty dish, packed with red lentils, butternut squash, spinach, and tomatoes, spiced with Thai red curry paste, turmeric, and cumin. Serve with naan bread and rice for a satisfying meal.

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Crispy Beef In Oyster Sauce

This Beef in Oyster Sauce recipe is a delicious fusion of tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a savoury sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, this dish is sure to become a family favourite.

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Easy Tuscan Bean Soup

This comforting and hearty Tuscan bean soup is easy to make and full of rich, savoury flavours. It's perfect for a cosy meal any time of the year.

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Quick and Easy Sticky Chicken

A sticky chicken recipe that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. A budget-friendly simple recipe that uses Aldi ingredients to make your dinner time delicious, healthy and cheap!

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