I think meal planning works, not only does it make it really easy to stay on budget but it takes the stress of trying to find recipes or think of what to cook each day!  You already have a plan, it’s easy!

This past week I put my own theory to the test, stayed almost on budget and didn’t even cook all the food I had planned because we ended up using food that was left from previous meals.

Here’s a little breakdown:

BREAKFAST – Consisted mainly of smoothies and juices, total cost for the week $16

SNACK – Power cookies, the recipe made 22, some were shared, total cost for the week $8.80

LUNCH – Mainly leftovers so we will calculate the cost in dinner.

DINNER – 6 meals, 1 meal out, total cost for the week $90

**Note:  We still have food left from this week that will carry over for next week!

TOTAL COST FOR THE WEEK: $114.80 OR $8.20 per day per person

I wanted to keep my budget within $100 but I made a more expensive snack this week and we ordered sushi one night.

I still think $8.20 per person per day is affordable, that is most peoples muffin and latte in the morning!

Feel free to print off the free MEAL PLANNER template I made!  I hope it helps you ease the stress of cooking and help you stay on budget!

Affordable budget Cooking Free Template Frugal frugal food Frugal Meals Groceries Meal Planner Meal Planning