Easy and Simple Tips for Meal Planning For Couples

Between work, errands, and the chaos of daily life, I know how easy it is to feel like there's no time to sit down and plan meals for the week. Meal planning takes effort, and when one person isn't as invested, it can be tough to stick with it.

But over the last few years, meal planning has become an integrated part of our life. It saves us time, saves up money, we feel less stressed, and it reduces food waste.

chicken and bell peppers in black pepper sauce in a skillet

chicken curry, rice and broccoli on a plate

2 Different Approaches

One Person Doing the Planning: One person takes charge of meal planning and shopping. With this approach it's important to communicate with your partner what the plan is.
Both People Doing the Planning: Both of you pitch in to choose meals together, sharing the workload. This approach can take a bit more time, especially if you're working around busy schedules.

Its also easy to liven up leftovers during the week and have them for lunch the next day.

One Person Doing the Planning

This is pretty much the approach we use. By planning ahead, I can make sure I'm cooking balanced meals that we both enjoy, while avoiding those last-minute decisions that lead to unhealthy choices. It also makes it easier to prep ingredients in bulk, so cooking throughout the week becomes a lot more efficient.

Set a planning time - I set aside 20 minutes on Sunday to plan out our meals for the week.
Pick a mix of meals - I choose a few new recipes to try, but mostly stick to our favorite, easy-to-make dishes.
Write it down and stick it up - I write the plan on a sheet of paper and put it on the fridge so we can all see it.
Do a one-stop shop - I make a list of everything we need, then do the grocery shopping all in one go.
Share the cooking load - While I cook, my husband helps with chopping, setting the table, or cleaning up. We take turns in the kitchen during the week.

Both People Doing the Planning

When both people are involved in meal planning, it makes the process more collaborative and fun. You both get a say in what's for dinner, which can help avoid the "I don't know, what do you want?" back-and-forth.

It also means sharing the workload-whether it's deciding on meals, making the shopping list, or divvying up cooking duties. Plus, it can help keep both people motivated and invested in sticking to the plan.

Set a planning time - Schedule 20 minutes on Sunday to sit down and decide what to eat for the week.
Pick a mix of meals - Each person suggests one or two new recipes to try, but balance it with easy, familiar dishes.
Write it down and stick it up - Write the plan together and stick it on the fridge for easy reference.
Do a one-stop shop - Make a grocery list together, and then do the shopping together, getting everything you need in the one shop.
Share the cooking load - Decide who will cook each night, and the other person helps with prep or cleanup.

What to Watch Out For

Overcomplicating meals: Don't pick too many new or complex recipes in one week. Stick to a mix of easy favorites and one or two new dishes.

Ignoring preferences: Make sure both people's likes and dislikes are considered. It's a team effort, so everyone should feel involved.

Not communicating: If one person is doing all the planning, it can lead to frustration. Regular check-ins help keep both of you on the same page.

Skipping the prep: Don't forget to do the shopping and prep before the week starts. Last-minute trips to the store or scrambling to get dinner together adds stress.

Neglecting leftovers: Don't let leftovers pile up or get wasted. Plan for them to be used in the next few days or for a quick lunch.

The key to getting good at meal planning as a couple is communication and flexibility. It's all about keeping it simple, sticking to a routine, and being willing to adjust when things come up.