In The Kitchen | Menu Planning | Free Whats Cooking Printable Menu Planner

Free Whats Cooking Printable Menu Planner

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This Free What’s Cooking Printable Menu Planner is a handy freebie for your kitchen! It helps with all your meal planning ideas and is quick and straightforward.

The days are listed to plan the entire week of meals, and there’s a section for you to jot down any notes you might need. Meal planning is meant to be efficient, not hard – and this printable does just that!

Free image of a printable menu planner with decorative borders and labeled sections for each day of the week. The design includes cooking-themed illustrations like rolling pins, scissors, and gears. The title Printable Meal Planner is prominently displayed.

I’ve been meal planning for over a decade now, and it’s a stress-free experience. And it’s safe to say that my whole family loves it too because they know what to expect for meals!

Why do people meal plan?

Meal planning isn’t just for the ultra-organized—it’s for anyone who loves saving time, money, and sanity!

People meal plan to cut down on food waste, stick to their budget, and make healthier choices. Plus, it takes the guesswork out of grocery shopping—you won’t wander the aisles aimlessly anymore. Whether cooking for one or feeding a family, meal planning gives you control and makes life much easier.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I earn a commission when anything is bought. This is at no additional cost to you. 

Shop My Kitchen:

The following items can be found in my kitchen here at Miller Manor. Simply click the image that interests you – yes, they do contain affiliate links.

A collection of black cookware, including pots, pans, and lids, is artfully arranged on a wooden surface in the kitchen. Some lids are glass. The set features a grill pan with a few Brussels sprouts nestled nearby. A gray bottle completes this stylish culinary shop display.
A weathered sign leaning against a tree reads Farmers Market with a cow illustration. Below, it lists Cheeses, Fresh Eggs, Pies, Antiques & Collectibles for your kitchen needs. Grass and a few small yellow flowers surround the sign, inviting you to shop local treasures.
A farmhouse decor arrangement features a framed silhouette of a cow, pig, and chicken stacked; a bearded figure with a patterned hat; a farmhouse sign in cursive; and a felt ball garland in shades of white, gray, and green.
Three kitchen towels with crochet tops are displayed. The towels feature farm-themed designs: one with a cow and text Farm Fresh Milk, another with a rooster and cow, and the third with a rooster and Farm Fresh inside a wreath.

Weekly Meal Plan

If you need a few simple recipe ideas for the week, here are some options to help you get started.

Once you pick and choose your recipes, all left is to head to the grocery store and gather the needed ingredients!

Breakfast

Lunch

       

 

Snack

Dinner

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Dessert

3-Tier 18.5 Inches Gold Metal Cupcake Dessert Basket Stand, Cake Snack Scones Crackers Fruits Appetizers Pastry Tiered Platters Serving Tray for Tea Party, Bridal Shower, Wedding Catered Event3-Tier Bamboo Round Cupcake Dessert Stands, Cake Snack Scones Crackers Fruits Appetizers Pastry Tiered Platters Serving Tray for Tea Party, Bridal Shower, Wedding Catered Event3-Tier Round Porcelain Cupcake Dessert Stand, Cake Snack Scones Crackers Fruits Appetizers Pastry Tiered Platters Serving Tray for Tea Party, Bridal Shower, Baby Shower, Wedding Catered Event - GoldLenox Butterfly Meadow 3-Tiered Server, 4.10 LB, Multi

 

As you can see, picking and choosing from all the yummy options is literally the hardest part. The rest? A breeze!

How often do I need to meal plan?

Honestly, it’s entirely up to you and what works for your lifestyle! Some people love sitting down every Sunday to map out every breakfast, lunch, and dinner for the week ahead. Others prefer to plan just a few days at a time to keep things flexible.

If your schedule tends to be unpredictable, try starting small—maybe plan two or three meals for the week and leave room for spontaneity! The goal is to make your life easier, not stress you out.

What are staple ingredients to have on hand to make meal planning easier?

Think proteins like chicken breast, tofu, or beans for easy-to-make mains. Add pantry heroes like rice, pasta, or quinoa for a quick, satisfying base.

Don’t forget canned tomatoes, broth, or sauces to bring your dishes to life with flavor. Stock up on frozen veggies, fresh herbs, and essential seasonings like garlic, salt, and pepper—they’re the secret to keeping things exciting.

With these go-to ingredients, you’ll always be just a few steps away from a delicious, home-cooked meal. It’s time to check that grocery list!

A hand writes on a decorative free printable menu planner. The planner features sections for different days, adorned with a cookie-themed border. A pencil and rolling pin are in view, setting the tone for cooking adventures. The page displayed is Mondays plan, titled Printable Meal Planner.

How can I involve the family in planning the meals?

Start by holding a “family menu night” where everyone shares their favorite dishes or recipes they’d love to try. Give each person a role, like picking a theme for the week (think Taco Tuesday or Pasta Night!), choosing sides, or finding new recipes online. You can even turn it into a small competition—who can create the most creative meal idea? Bonus points if it’s healthy!

Not only does this create excitement around mealtime, but it also makes everyone feel included and more likely to enjoy their meals.

Shop My Printables

These printables are great for meal planning and organizing! Simply click the image to check out my shop products!

You’re all set to take the stress out of meal planning! This printable is your new best friend for saving time, saving money, and finally confidently answering the “What’s for dinner?” question.

Stick it on your fridge, grab your favorite pen, and plan meals that suit your schedule and budget. You’ve got this—happy planning and even happier eating!

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