Midweek meal planning 12/31/15 (2026 Guide)

Saving money on midweek meal planning does not need to be complicated. Here is a clear, no nonsense rundown of what works and how to make the most of it.

Key Takeaways

• img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:18.59649122807%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:75.111111111111%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;} Welcome back to Midweek Meal Planning for the week of 12/31/15!
• In Midweek Meal Planning, we plan dinners for the rest of the week while also looking back to see how we've done so far.
• It was all ALDI, all the time over here this week.
• Worth noting: do you also lose the energy to do much couponing during the holidays?

Getting the Most From Midweek Meal Planning

It’s more traditional to meal plan on the weekend, but since our Chicago grocery deals mostly flip on Wednesdays and since midweek is when numerous of us begin running out of steam, we buck the trend here. Especially with the kids off for two weeks and all... but I did find some nice clearance meat deals there, both last week and this week.

Midweek meal planning Sunday: Leftover Chipotle Chili. Monday: Oven roasted chicken and potatoes with a clearance "At no point Any" chicken from ALDI, spinach & arugula salad.

Tips That Make a Difference

More importantly, tuesday: I found clearance winter shaped tri-color pasta at ALDI, too, so threw together some cheesy pasta with spinach, mushrooms, and some of the leftover chicken. The kids ate theirs with hamburger bun garlic bread & fruit.

Wednesday: Clearance ham in the Crock Pot. Yes, also from ALDI...

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Remember that thursday: MashupDad has declared his intention to grill steak for New Year's Eve. Go MashupDad! 🙂 Friday: Large pot of soup with some of the leftover ham.

Saturday: Leftover soup & ham. Your turn How’s your week of meal planning going?

Is Midweek Meal Planning Worth It?

As a rule, are you cooking mostly out of your pantry, or are you taking advantage of this week’s grocery sales? Let’s inspire each other!

And if you’re after additional inspiration, read all the Midweek Meal Planning posts (and others’ comments) here. ... Facebook Twitter Email Messenger.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I save money on midweek meal planning?

Compare prices across a few retailers, look for active coupon codes, and time bigger buys around sales events. Especially with the kids off for two weeks and all... but I did find some nice clearance meat deals there, both last week and this week.

Is it worth shopping around for midweek meal planning?

Usually yes. Midweek meal planning Sunday: Leftover Chipotle Chili.

Smart Ways to Save More on Midweek Meal Planning

• Stack a coupon code with an existing sale whenever the store allows it.
• Sign up for the retailer newsletter to catch first time and seasonal discounts.
• Compare the final price including shipping, not just the headline number.
• Check for student, military, or first order offers you may qualify for.
• Time non urgent purchases around major sale events for the deepest cuts.

Final Thoughts

The bottom line on midweek meal planning: a little research goes a long way. Compare your options, watch for seasonal offers, and never pay full price when a better deal is a click away.

Originally published at mashupmom.com.