We're well into October now, and my dinner cravings have officially shifted to all things warm, filling, and easy! This week we've got cheesy lasagna, crispy pork chops, a slow cooker soup, homemade gumbo, and a fall-apart tender roast to finish things off.
There's plenty of variety too, which is always my goal when planning out the week. We're switching up the proteins, flavors, and cooking methods so you don't feel like you're eating the same dinner five nights in a row. Grab your grocery list and let's get this week figured out!
Missed last week's recipes? Head over to Weekly Meal Plan #18 for five more easy family dinner ideas.
On the Menu This Week
Monday: Lazy Lasagna
Monday calls for something easy, and Lazy Lasagna definitely understood the assignment! You get layers of meaty sauce, pasta, and plenty of cheese without spending hours putting together a traditional lasagna. Add some garlic bread and a simple salad and Monday dinner is done.
Tuesday: Ranch Breaded Pork Chops
Tonight we're changing things up with Ranch Breaded Pork Chops. Ranch seasoning, Italian breadcrumbs, and Parmesan create a crispy coating while the pork stays juicy inside. Serve them with mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables for an easy dinner the whole family can enjoy.
Wednesday: Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Halfway through the week means it's time to let the slow cooker take over! Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is loaded with chicken, black beans, corn, tomatoes, green chiles, and plenty of flavor.
Don't forget the toppings! Tortilla chips, shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, and cilantro let everyone finish their bowl just the way they like it.
Thursday: Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
Thursday brings something completely different to the table with Chicken and Sausage Gumbo. Chicken and smoky sausage combine with peppers, Cajun seasoning, and a homemade dark roux for a comforting dinner that's perfect served over a scoop of rice.
This one takes a little more time than some of our other dinners this week, so plan accordingly. The end result is worth it!
Friday: Mississippi Roast
Friday dinner is going straight into the slow cooker! Mississippi Roast combines chuck roast with Ranch seasoning, au jus, butter, and pepperoncini and cooks low and slow until the beef is fall-apart tender.
Serve it over mashed potatoes for a classic dinner, or pile the shredded beef onto rolls for easy sandwiches. Either way, Friday night dinner is taken care of!
Plan Now, Thank Yourself Later
A little prep can go a long way this week. Check your pantry for basics like breadcrumbs, Ranch seasoning, rice, canned beans, and tomatoes before heading to the store. You may already have several ingredients checked off your list!
Wednesday and Friday are your slow cooker days, so keep those in mind when planning around your busiest afternoons.
Thursday's gumbo takes the most hands-on time this week. If Thursday is packed, swap it with another night. Meal plans are supposed to make life easier, not boss you around!
You can also chop vegetables, shred cheese, and prep toppings ahead of time so there's less to tackle right before dinner.
That's Dinner for the Week!
From an easy Monday lasagna to a slow-cooked roast on Friday, we've got five more dinners planned and ready to go. Mix up the days as needed, add your family's favorite sides, and enjoy not having to stare into the refrigerator at 5 p.m. hoping dinner magically appears. Been there! 😂
I hope this week's lineup makes dinner time a little easier! Pick your favorites, make that grocery list, and enjoy having one less thing to figure out during the week. See you next week with five more easy dinner ideas!
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