This post may contain affiliate links meaning if you buy from them, I will make a few pennies, at no cost to you. See disclosure here.
This holiday season is going to go by in a flash. This December Meal Plan will help make planning dinners quick and easy.
Are you ready for the busyness of December? We have events planned every weekend.
I know it’s going to go by so quickly but I want to make sure I enjoy it. One way I can eliminate some stress is to actually sit down and plan some meals and grocery lists for the month.
PICTURE
Between all the Christmas cookies and treats, we need some easy, healthy meals that are easy on the budget. Let’s do this.
WHY IS MEAL PLANNING IMPORTANT
Meal planning should be simple. It’s just the act of taking some time to plan out what you’re going to eat for the week. Start on Sunday, pick the meals you’re going to make for the week (family favorite, something meat free maybe, something healthy), then grocery shop for everything you’ll need.
That way when you get home from a long day, you don’t have to think about what to make & if you have the ingredients to make it – it’ll already be decided and ready for you.
Below, each week has seven ideas for main dishes, three ideas for side dishes, and two dessert options. Pick and choose as you see fit.
There are some keto recipes, some paleo recipes, some Whole30 compliant recipes, some Instant Pot recipes, some full fat, comfort food recipes….you get the idea. There is a good variety in hopes that everyone can find something they like.
WEEK 1:
Main dishes
- Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon
- Tequila Lime Shrimp
- Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Naan Pizza
- Easy Chicken Stir fry
- Pasta Bake
- 30 Minute Pork Fajita Bowl
Side Dishes
Desserts
WEEK 2 :
Main dishes
- Instant Pot Pot Roast
- Crock Pot Lemon Chicken
- Instant Pot Beef Stew
- Pierogi Lasagna
- Green Bean Casserole Soup
- Easy Steak Fajitas
- Turkey Noodle Casserole
Side Dishes
Desserts
WEEK 3:
Main Dishes
- Easy Baked Chicken
- Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- Instant Pot Ham Mac & Cheese
- One Dish Baked Salsa Chicken Casserole
- Coconut Chicken Tenders
- Skillet Shepherd’s Pie
- Italian Stuffed Peppers
Side Dishes
Desserts
WEEK 4:
Main dishes
- Meatloaf with Brown Gravy
- Sweet & Sour Pork Meatballs
- Spaghetti Squash Boats
- Easy Swedish Meatballs
- Quick & Easy Chili
- Herb Rubbed Prime Rib
- Quick & Easy Chili
Side Dishes
Desserts
It’s the 2018 finale – I hope you enjoy December!
Love how easy this makes dinner for the fam.
Me too, it’s nice to have ideas gathered together 🙂