Easy Meal Prep
A couple of weeks ago my husband and I decided to do some simple basic meal prep for our lunches through the week— and well in evolved into what we didn’t expect… in a good way!
A Sunday we decided to throw some chuck roast into the crock pot (it was two small chuck roasts actually) into the crockpot with some basic seasonings broth (garlic, salt, and pepper) and Broth. We decided to make some shredded beef and kept it basic so it was more versatile to use.
Well the week GOT BUSY and where the plan was to use it for lunches— it ended up being used for dinners all week long and the leftovers were used for lunches.
I wanted to share some of the recipes with you that I used during the week. I adapted these recipes to fit our needs and what not but I hope these help you with some solid ideas.
Before I get to the recipes I just want to point out a few things.
Shredded beef can pretty much be used like ground beef. Almost anything you use ground beef for there is an equivalent to the shredded beef can be used for. Ground beef is easy to use on any week night and you can also prep that in advance… but I personally think shredded beef can last a little longer in the fridge prepped (think of it like pulled pork)
This is a great way to meal prep around your protein. Especially if you know you have a busy or unpredictable schedule for the week. Just make some meat that you know will last 3-4 days in the fridge or for 3-4 different and don’t be afraid to use leftovers. It takes less time to cook your actual meals for dinner and honestly helps with the questions “what do you want for dinner?” The most dreaded question of all marriages.
Meal 1: bbq beef bowls over rice.
There really is no recipe for this one— make some rice, put your beef on top, and top with some bbq sauce— I also suggest a veggie on the side or to mix in the bowl. Some sautéed squash and zucchini or broccoli go great inside a bowl like this!
Meal 2: Shredded beef lasagna
I obviously used/added meat in this recipe and I swapped out Cottage Cheese for ricotta (it’s cheaper lets be honest)
And due to my gluten sensitivity I do my best to stay away from gluten and the Jovial noodles are one of my favorite brands.
Meal 3: Shredded beef tacos
The trick here is to use corn tortillas and get those corn tortillas a little crispy. I didn’t really follow this recipe to a T, but it gives you a good ideas of what you can do. I just used a chunk of our already shredded beef and heated up on the stove and added the spices/seasoning and other ingredients to it.
Meal 4: Tater-tot Casserole
A classic (especially a midwest classic). I used Cream of Chicken Soup and not Cream of mushroom. This was an absolute hit all around, and bonus it was a fun to have my toddler help with!
Meal planning can be exhausting and at the end of the day you really don’t want to make another decision about anything— especially dinner. I get that. SO if you are stressing and struggling try this out and some of the recipes as well!
As always thank you for being here!