Say Goodbye to the Drive Through – Thanks to Once a Month Cooking

We have all been there. It’s 5:00pm and you realize you have nothing planned for supper. You have nothing in the fridge that would constitute a real meal. How many times have you resorted to making a run through the drive through out of desperation? And how much does that end up costing you?

What if you had a plan that would allow you to have supper ready every night with very little effort? And what if that plan would also dramatically cut your food budget too? I have an answer that will can save you time AND money and it’s called once a month cooking.

Once a month cooking is a cook ahead method that allows you to “bank” meals in the freezer. You spend a chunk of time preparing food that will go into the freezer. As the month progresses, you get to pull things out of the freezer to eat each night. It takes a bit of planning and organization but it is so worth it!

Once a month cooking is basically a three step process. You plan and then you shop and then you cook.

Planning for your once a month cooking session can be aided by the use of a great oamc guide or cookbook. Gather recipes that freeze well and make a shopping list. Be sure to note items that you already have on hand. Also remember to get any spices you might need. When you’re making your list, take a look at the grocery sale ads and try to work your menu around what’s on sale. This tip can really save you money.

One of the greatest parts of once a month cooking is that you can go to the grocery one time and buy enough for your monthly meals. The only other times you will have to go to the grocery will be to pick up fresh produce, bread and milk. And staying out of the grocery will keep you from spending money as well. When was the last time you got out of the grocery for less than $ 50?!

The only thing left to do is to do your actual cooking. Set aside a day for this. Get something cooking in your slow cooker first. Then progress to start meals that need to cook on your cooking day. Assemble marinades and raw dishes after you get all of your “cook today” meals going.

Package up your meals and you’re all set. Clearly mark your meals so that you can easily find something for dinner. Stack the meals in your freezer. Make a list of all of your meals and post it on your refrigerator.

Now you can sit back and enjoy having meals for a month at your fingertips. Simply defrost a meal in the refrigerator each night and your drive through days are over!