Crock Pot 101

A big thing that keeps me sane in my busy & hectic life is organization. I have posted some easy organization tips with you before, and thought I would share a simple meal plan that I have put into practice the last few months. With Derek having clinical rotations, it is easy to throw something in the crock pot that will be ready when he gets home around 6:00 pm, even the nights I am working until 8:00. Thanks to the wonderful world of internet cooking sites, Pinterest, and my own adaptations, I was able to come up with 8 easy and healthy meals that could easily fit into any families dinner routine. 

 It all starts with 1 major shopping and cooking day. This is where I purchase everything I will need to make these meals, and since I have portioned them out, I get two meals for each recipe. {This works for us because we are a small family. If you have a larger family, just up the ingredients!} I have attached the recipe cards & shopping list  for your pleasure(click the link to download). Most of these ingredients are staples in our house, and of course you can change them to your own liking. When you get home, start prepping. The Taco Soup, Italian, and Mexican ground beef need to be fully cooked, so make sure you let them cool before throwing them in the bags. Write in sharpie the "Instructions for Bag" written below each recipe.Also, make sure you purchase the heavy duty Freezer bags. This is NOT the time to save a couple cents & buy cheapies. 

It's as easy as that! Now you have between 8-16 meals for you and your family to enjoy! I hope this makes your meal planning, preparation, and actual dinner time routine much easier. 

(Photo credit: ringaroundtherosies.net)