Back to School Menu Plan
Back to school season means busy schedules for us all. Whether you’re sending kids off to school, returning to an in-person office, onboarding new clients, or all of the above, time-saving meals are the name of the game. To help this first week of September feel a bit less chaotic, we’ve rounded up four weeknight meals that require one-pan or one-pot max. They’re light on meat, full on flavor, and get dinner to the table in about 30 minutes. And because we believe a good sweet solves everything, we’ve included an easy mug cake you can make any time of day—late nights included.
WEEKNIGHT MENU FAVORITES
recipe & photo via Britney Breaks Bread
Garlic and Herb Shrimp with Whipped Feta
We recently stumbled across Britney of Britney Breaks Bread on Instagram, and found a recipe goldmine in the process. She shares her delicious baked goods on the regular, but with plenty of savory meal ideas included in the mix. This week, we’re making her Garlic and Herb Shrimp that feels like a perfect farewell to the summer season. The seasoned shrimp is served on a bed of whipped feta with grilled sourdough bread for dipping.
recipe & photo via The Real Food Dietitians
Sheet Pan Balsamic Chicken Veggie Bake
When you’re short on time but tired of takeout, sheet pan dinners are the answer. We dedicated an entire weekly menu to our favorite one-pan wonders, and this recipe has now earned a spot on the list. It’s made with chicken plus a rainbow of colorful veggies, but you can substitute almost any vegetables you have on hand. The total cook time is around 20 minutes, making your dinner prep easier than ever.
recipe & photo via What’s Gaby Cooking
Cauliflower Rice Veggie Burrito Bowls
Meatless Monday has never looked more delicious, thanks to What’s Gaby Cooking. She’s helping us whip up some veggie-pack burrito bowls with cauliflower rice, black beans, and corn, plus all the yummy guac. This recipe gets your dinner in 20-minutes flat, and you can watch Gaby’s video tutorial for the step-by-step.
recipe & photo via Half Baked Harvest
Creamy Penne Alfredo with Spicy Arugula
A creamy bowl of pasta is the ultimate pick-me-up in the middle of the week. But this pasta involves herby garlic butter, shaved parmesan cheese, and a tossed arugula salad for an unexpected twist. Believe it or not, the meal comes together in a single pot with simple ingredients that pack a flavor punch. Whether you make it on a random Tuesday or save it for a date night, it’s a meal you’ll crave time and time again.
SOMETHING SWEET
recipe & photo via Jessica in the Kitchen
Banana Bread Mug Cake
Sugar cravings tend to strike late at night when we’re not up for baking a complicated recipe. And friends, that’s where this banana bread mug cake comes into play. It’s all made in the microwave using a short, wide mug for the best results. Follow Jessica’s instructions to a T, and you’ll have a single-serve cake in literal seconds.
TO SIP
recipe & photo via All the Healthy Things
Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew Coffee
Pumpkin season is upon us, and we are 100% here for it thanks to Ashlea of All the Healthy Things. However, if you happen to live in a warmer climate, you know steaming hot lattes don’t necessarily sound great in 90-degree weather. Luckily, Ashlea is sharing her secrets to pumpkin cold brew for all those fall flavors on ice. To make, pick up some cold brew coffee at the store, add all your ingredients to the blender, pour over ice, and enjoy.
BY: ANASTASIA CASEY