How I Budget for Meals: My Simple Routine to Save Time and Money

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How I Budget for Meals: My Simple Routine to Save Time and Money

Meal planning is one of those things that sounds a lot harder than it actually is—until you’ve been stuck staring at an empty fridge at 5 pm, wondering why you didn’t plan ahead. Now, every Saturday, I put a system in place that saves my sanity, my time, and—most importantly—my wallet. Here’s my Saturday routine that keeps our meals affordable, quick, and just the right amount of delicious (with minimal stress).





1. Start with the Flyers: The Weekly Treasure Hunt

First things first: I take a look at the weekly flyers from the stores near me. This is where I start my adventure—kind of like a treasure hunt, but without the maps or pirates. I scan for what’s on sale, and I focus on items I know I’ll actually use. If chicken is on sale, great, we’re having chicken. If veggies are discounted, I’m all over it. I make sure I stock up on the essentials like pasta, rice, and seasonings so I don’t end up buying stuff I don’t need (because, wow, does that quickly add up).

2. Find Recipes Based on Sales: The Fun Part

Once I know what’s on sale, the fun begins: recipe hunting! I spend about 15-20 minutes online, looking for recipes that use those sale items. I’ve got my eye out for 6-8 meal ideas, but there’s a catch: they have to use ingredients I already have in my pantry. We’re talking pasta, rice, spices, dressings—the usual suspects. It’s like playing Tetris with my kitchen, where the goal is to make meals without having to buy 15 random ingredients I’ll forget about in a week.

3. Quick & Easy Meals: 10-20 Minutes or Bust

Here’s where I really set myself up for success: I pick recipes that only require 10-20 minutes of prep. No one’s got time for an hour-long meal prep session after a full day of work and life. So, I go for easy meals like stir-fries, pasta dishes, or salads with some protein tossed in. Quick meals are the holy grail of meal planning. It’s like having a fast pass to dinner—you get in, you eat, and then you can relax with zero stress.

4. The Meal Rule: Less Decision-Making, More Eating

Now comes the fun part: I’ve set up some rules for our weeknight meals, and they help keep us organized:

  • Monday: Chicken

  • Tuesday: Vegetarian

  • Wednesday: Pork or Beef

  • Thursday: Salmon or White Fish

  • Friday: Takeout

  • Saturday & Sunday: Leftovers

This plan keeps me sane. I don’t have to overthink it each day. I know exactly what I’m cooking and when. I’ve basically made the decision for myself, so I don’t waste brainpower on whether or not to eat pizza for the fifth night in a row. Spoiler: We don’t.

5. The Grocery List: The Non-Splurge Zone

Once my menu is set, I make a grocery list. This is where I channel my inner grocery ninja: I only buy the ingredients needed for the recipes I’ve picked. I make sure not to wander the aisles and get distracted by all the deliciously tempting (but unnecessary) items like fancy chips or 3-for-1 chocolate bars. If I’m going to splurge, I do it on things that make sense—like fresh produce or organic chicken. Those treats can stay out of the cart.

Favorite Recipes I’m Loving Lately

  • Easy Healthy Banana Oat Pancakes – Filling, healthy, and sweet without being too sweet.

  • Easy Garlic Ginger Glazed Sticky Pork – Tender, flavorful, and totally lick-the-plate good.

  • Greek Orzo Salad – Light, fresh, and perfect as a side or main meal.

  • One-Pan Brown Sugar Pork & Apples – Savory-sweet and cleanup is a breeze.

  • Easy Lemon Butter Fish – Zesty, buttery, and quick for busy nights.

Ps. I’m not affiliated with any of these sites, but I just had to share the love—they’re too good not to!

Why This Routine Works for Me

Life is busy. Between work, family, and everything else, the last thing I want to do is spend hours planning and cooking. This routine gives me a simple, efficient way to stay organized, stay on budget, and still eat like I know what I’m doing. Plus, knowing that we have “Takeout Friday” in the mix really helps me power through the week (No judgment, we all need a break!).

Meal planning doesn’t need to be stressful. With a little upfront planning, I can save time, money, and mental energy. If you haven’t tried meal planning yet or feel like your approach needs refreshing, give my method a shot. Your wallet—and your taste buds—will thank you.

Now, I’m off to enjoy my weekend, because, well, we all deserve a break. 😌

Love, Fabi

Location: Montreal, QC, Canada

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