Last month, I introduced my top 3 tips for getting dinner on the table in a hurry. I focused on how planning ahead, making more of something than you will eat, and grabbing a rotisserie chicken at the grocery store can help save dinner on those nights when you are so busy, you need something quickly.
Now, I am going to reveal a few more of my tried and true tips and tricks for those busy days when getting dinner on the table just doesn’t seem possible. Add these to your arsenal for a stress-free dinnertime.
Tip #3: Taco night to the rescue.
This has to be my favorite tip of all, honest. It is a great way to use leftovers and you can be really creative with it. On nights when I am out of ideas, I clean out the fridge and put the leftover meats (chicken, pork or beef) into taco/quesadilla shells. Top with shredded cheese and the kids go crazy for it! My kids are totally obsessed with tacos right now. My 4-year-old begs for them. I know I have a win when this is on the dinner menu. If I want to put a tiny bit more effort in, I open a can of black beans or refried beans, a jar of salsa and some pre-made guacamole for my husband and I.
Tip#4: The slow cooker is your friend.
Ok, so I know this one requires a bit more planning, but I did mention that planning was key in Tip #1 last month. The thing I love about the crockpot is that it requires no effort. I am super picky when it comes to crockpot recipes. I want something with minimal ingredients and minimal prep. I don’t want to have to dirty a frying pan to sear my roast before I put it in the slow cooker. As part of my planning for the week, I make sure to find a recipe that will work well for my crockpot and my lifestyle. I really like the recipe I shared with you in this post. I use it often and the leftovers come in handy for the aforementioned taco night!
Tip#5: Ask for input.
Every so often I ask my kids what they would like to see on the menu for dinner that week. I do this for two reasons: first, I want them to feel as though they have input and second, I know they will eat what they suggest. If you have picky eaters, this is a great way to get their buy-in at dinnertime. I usually get the kid-friendly responses of chicken nuggets, hamburgers, french fries, etc. But I make sure to offer broccoli and carrots along with their hot dogs and ketchup. In the end, we have a peaceful dinner and most of it ends up in their bellies.
I really hope that these tips inspire you to get dinner on the table with as little stress as possible. Do you have any tips to add?
LOVE these tips! I also recently discovered that my four year old is pretty good at picking dinners. Sometimes I’m completely stumped and she will suggest something that is perfect!
You’re lucky Suanne! My four year old yells “hot dogs” at me a lot! HA! I’m glad yours has more constructive ideas.
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