Meal Planning for Busy Moms | Dinner Ideas, Quick, Delicious, Healthy, Easy Meal Prep

Episode 101 Leftovers Like a Pro: Turning Thanksgiving Extras Into Weeknight Dinners

Hey, hey, beautiful Mamas,
 
 In this episode, we’re diving into the world of leftovers and learning how to turn those post-holiday meals into fresh, exciting weeknight dinners. 
 
Whether you celebrated Thanksgiving or not, this episode is packed with creative ways to transform your turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce into dishes your family will actually look forward to eating!
 
We’re talking Turkey Pot Pie, crispy Stuffing Waffles (yes, waffles!), and even Turkey Cranberry Quesadillas for a sweet and savory mash-up. 
 
I’ll share a few personal stories, and there’s even a testimonial or two to inspire you to get creative with what’s in your fridge.
 
Plus, don’t forget—it’s not too late to grab my 15-Minute Meal Plan Fix for free!
 
 You’ll unlock the secret to meal planning in just 15 minutes a week, and when you finish the course, you’ll get some awesome bonuses to save time, reduce stress, and take your meal planning to the next level. Text FIX to 587-602-8878 or click here to get started!
 
So, if you’re ready to make leftovers your new best friend, hit play and let’s get started!
 
Xx Blaga

Episode 100 Weekly Meal Plan, 100th Episode Celebtation and The Big Reveal

Hey, hey, beautiful mamas!
 
Welcome to the BIG 100th episode of the Meal Planning for Busy Moms podcast! 🎉 Can you believe we’ve made it this far together? Whether you’ve been with me since episode 1 or you’re just tuning in now, THANK YOU for being here. I’ve got a super fun and jam-packed episode for you today!
 
Here’s what you can expect:
 
💫 This Week’s Menu – I’m sharing my family’s all-time favorite meals, each one ready in 30 minutes or less. We’ve got everything from Sloppy Joes to French Bread Pizza, plus a little Breakfast for Dinner action (because who doesn’t love pancakes at night?!). Trust me, these are weeknight game-changers.
 
💫 Happy Thanksgiving, Canada! 🍁 – Big love to all my Canadian mamas celebrating Thanksgiving! If you’re still figuring out what to cook, don’t stress! Head over to Episode 98 for a full Thanksgiving meal plan to help you pull it off without the turkey tears. 🦃💧
 
💫 The Big Reveal! 🎁 – Stick around for the BIG reveal of my brand-new, interactive, and totally gamified 15-Minute Meal Plan Fix course! This isn’t your average course—it’s fun, fast, and will have you meal planning like a pro in under an hour. Plus, if you complete the course in 3 days of receiving it, you’ll unlock some sweet bonuses like lifetime access, a 30-meals no-repeat calendar, and mix-and-match taco ideas for Taco Tuesday (the best day of the week, am I right? 🌮).
 
How to Join: Ready to make meal planning a breeze? Text FIX to 587-602-8878 or click here to join the 15-Minute Meal Plan Fix. You’ll be in and out in under an hour, and your dinners will never be the same again—promise!
 
This Week’s Quick & Easy Menu:
Sloppy Joes 🍔 – Messy, delicious, and ready in 30!
Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas 🌯 – One pan = zero cleanup!
Breakfast for Dinner 🍳🥓 – Because pancakes aren’t just for mornings.
Big Mac Salad 🍔🥗 – All the burger vibes, none of the bun!
French Bread Pizza 🍕 – Faster than delivery!
Fettuccine Alfredo 🍝 – Creamy, dreamy, and done in 30.
Chicken Teriyaki Stir-Fry Over Rice 🍚 – Sweet, savory, and simple.
Don’t forget to:
Check out Episode 98 for your last-minute Thanksgiving meal ideas if you need a hand with the holiday cooking!
Text FIX to 587-602-8878 or click here to grab your spot in the 15-Minute Meal Plan Fix. You’ll be so glad you did!
 
Thanks again for joining me on this incredible journey to 100 episodes! I couldn’t have done it without YOU. Let’s keep meal planning fun, fast, and fabulous together. 💖
 
Until next time, have a blessed and beautiful week, happy cooking and go rock that dinner menu GF! You Got this!! 👩‍🍳💪
 
Xx Blaga
 

Episode 99 How to Plan Meals for When You Don’t Want to Cook

Hey, beautiful mamas!
In this episode of Meal Planning for Busy Moms, I’m giving you full permission to take a well-deserved night off from cooking—guilt-free! 🙌 With Thanksgiving around the corner for my Canadian listeners (and soon for my American friends), we all need a break. Whether it’s frozen pizza, a quick snack board, or using up pre-prepped meals, I’ve got easy, no-cook ideas that will save you time and stress.
 
Tune in as I share my go-to “night off” meal ideas, plus tips from other moms who have mastered the art of relaxing while still getting dinner on the table. These are simple, fun, and totally kid-approved!
 
What you’ll learn:
How to elevate frozen pizza with minimal effort.
Why snack plate dinners are a game changer for busy nights.
The magic of pre-prepped meals, one-pot wonders, and yes—takeout! 💁‍♀️
Don’t forget—next Sunday, October 13th is my 100th episode! 🎉 It’s going to be a special one, and I want you to join the celebration!
 
Also, if you found today’s episode helpful, be sure to share it with a fellow busy mom who could use a night off from cooking!
 
Check out the Speedy Gourmet Web App to simplify your meal planning even more—quick, customizable meal plans at your fingertips. See you next time!
 
Have a blessed and beautiful week,
xx Blaga
 

Episode 98 Weekly Meal Meal Plan and Bonus Canadian Thanksgiving menu

Hey, beautiful mamas! 
 
In this episode, I’m serving up a quick and delicious weekly meal plan that keeps things healthy and stress-free, with a bonus Canadian Thanksgiving menu thrown in for good measure! You’ll get a variety of proteins, super simple recipes, and even some family-favorite traditions to keep things fun (hint: there’s a $10 smorgasbord involved).
 
Plus, I’m beyond excited to announce my 100th episode is coming up on October 13th! To celebrate, I’m giving away free access to my 15-Minute Meal Plan Fix Expiring Audio mini-course. This course will help you tackle that “what’s for dinner?” dilemma in just 15 minutes a week!
 
This week’s meal plan includes:
Monday – Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Veggies
Tuesday – Turkey Taco Bowls
Wednesday – Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry
Thursday – BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Friday – One-Pot Sausage and Peppers
Saturday – Baked Parmesan Crusted Cod
Sunday – Veggie-Packed Spaghetti with Ground Turkey
 
Bonus: Thanksgiving Menu
 
Because I love you all and want to make sure you’re prepped and ready for Canadian Thanksgiving, here’s my go-to menu for the big day:
 
Herb Roasted Turkey (with plenty of butter, of course!)
Classic Stuffing – because Thanksgiving isn’t the same without it.
Maple Glazed Sweet Potatoes – a little extra sweetness never hurt anyone.
Green Bean Almondine – simple but so good!
Cranberry Sauce – homemade or store-bought, no judgment.
Pumpkin Pie – because, obviously, it’s a must.
Don’t forget to mark your calendars for October 13th, grab your free mini-course, to help you answer the “what’s for dinner?” question in under 15 minutes a week,  and get ahead of Thanksgiving with my early bonus menu. 
 
Let’s make dinner easier and more fun—together!
 
Enjoy the episode, and happy meal planning!
 
Xx Blaga 💕
 
P.S.  Looking to have a little 1:1 support with your meal planning?  Would love to support you!  I have a few spots left on my calendar for a FREE 15-minute assessment!  Just click here to book a time that works for you.
 
P.P.S.  Have you checked out ‘The Speedy Gourmet’ yet? It’s the app I’ve been building just for you. Imagine this: drag and drop to customize meal plans or create your own from over 200+ recipes, searchable by filters like proteins, episodes and cooking methods, makes planning a snap. Plus, an adaptable, clickable grocery list so you never miss a beat—or a beet! 
And because I love my podcast family, here’s a special offer just for you. Try ‘The Speedy Gourmet’ free for 14 days, and if you love it, it’s just $3 a month with the code PODCAST. That’s over 50% off the regular price! Head over to thespeedygourmet.org and start your free 14 day trial today.
Become an insider and get weekly updates, meal plans with recipe links and exclusive insider trainings,  plus resources and support that you won’t find in the show!
 
Email us: busymamamealplanning@gmail.com
Have a question? Send me a DM @blagagoertzen

Episode 96 Weekly Meal Plan Resest- Lazy and Delicious Dinners for the Busy Tired Mama

Hey, hey,
This week’s episode is all about giving yourself permission to take a break from the overly complicated meal plans and embrace the beauty of convenience foods. I know what it's like to be too tired to cook, and sometimes your meal plan just doesn’t resonate. This episode is a reset for when you’re feeling burnt out, featuring a super simple, delicious meal plan that will save you time and stress. Bonus? You’ll still feel good about what’s on the table—without shredding your own cheese! 🙌
 
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
Why it’s okay to take a break from your usual meal planning routine.
How to whip up quick and easy meals with just a few ingredients (rotisserie chicken, I’m looking at you!).
The importance of giving yourself grace when life gets busy and overwhelming.
A full week of lazy-yet-delicious dinners to help you get through the week.
How to use the extra time you save to focus on you (hello, self-care!).
This Week’s Meal Plan:
Monday: Chicken Caesar Salad/Wraps
Tuesday: Lazy Man’s Lasagna
Wednesday: Chicken Noodle Soup
Thursday: Meatball Subs
Friday: BBQ Chicken Pizza
Saturday: Chopped Asian Salad with Chicken
Sunday: Pre-made Ribs with Noodles
 
My Resources to Help You Stress Less at Dinner Time:
 
✨ The Speedy Gourmet Web App
Feeling overwhelmed with meal planning? The Speedy Gourmet is here to save you time and stress! With over 200 customizable, family-friendly recipes, an easy drag-and-drop meal planner, and an adaptable grocery list, this app will transform how you approach mealtime. Try it FREE for 14 days with the code "podcast"—that’s over 50% off the regular price. Sign up today to make meal planning fast, easy, and fun! 
 
✨ Join the Speedy Gourmet Community
Looking for more tips, tricks, and support on your meal planning journey? Join our Speedy Gourmet Community where busy moms like you come together to share recipes, meal planning hacks, and inspiration. Let’s make mealtime easier together!
 
✨ 1:1 Meal Planning Support
Need personalized help to create a meal plan that works for your family? Book a FREE 1:1 meal planning session with me! Together, we’ll work out a plan that fits your schedule and dietary needs, so you can spend less time worrying about dinner and more time enjoying your evenings. Find the link to schedule in the show notes below! Book Your Free Session
 
https://tidycal.com/blagagoertzen/coffee-chat
 
Key Takeaways:
It’s okay to hit pause on your usual meal plan and try something new.
 
Convenience foods like rotisserie chicken and pre-made salad kits can be your best friends when you’re feeling burnt out.
 
Meal planning doesn’t have to be fancy or complicated—it just needs to work for you!
 
When in doubt, give yourself some grace, mama. You’re doing an amazing job.
 
Loved this episode? Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a fellow busy mama who could use some meal planning inspiration! And don’t forget to tune in to my 100th episode where I’ll be rolling out something super exciting—my 15-Minute Meal Planning Fix!
 
Thanks so much for listening, and remember, when your meal plan isn’t working, it’s time to pivot, regroup, and try something new. You’ve got this! 💪
 
Links Mentioned:
The Speedy Gourmet Web App: Try it FREE with code "podcast"
 
Join the Speedy Gourmet Community: 
 
Book a Free 1:1 Meal Planning Session: Schedule here
 
Menu was inspired by the Lazydish.com
 
Until next time, have a blessed and beautiful week, mama! 💛
 
Xx Blaga
 

Episode 95 The Power of The Instapot Your One Essential Time-Saving Tool

Hey, hey,
 
Welcome to episode 95 of Meal Planning for Busy Moms! 🎉 In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most essential kitchen tools for busy moms—the Instapot! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or it’s been sitting in your cabinet collecting dust, today we’re exploring why the Instapot is a total game-changer for meal planning.
 
Here’s what we cover:
 
Blaga shares her personal journey of overcoming Instapot fears (and a few mishaps along the way).
 
5 reasons the Instapot is a must-have for saving time and reducing dinnertime stress.
 
Delicious and easy Instapot recipes you can make in minutes, like hard-boiled eggs, pulled pork, and frozen chicken breasts.
Plus, Blaga teases something BIG coming in her 100th episode—you don’t want to miss it! Make sure you’re subscribed to catch all the exciting updates.
 
Recipes Mentioned:
 
Hard-Boiled Eggs
Frozen Chicken Breasts
Rice
Pulled Pork
Chili or Stew
 
If you’ve been enjoying the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review! It helps more busy moms like you find this content and makes sure Blaga knows what you’re loving. And don’t forget to tune in for the 100th episode—it’s going to be amazing!
 
Connect with Blaga:
 
Facebook: @BusyMamaMealPlanning
 
Email:: busymamamealplanning@gmail.com
 
Have a question? Send me a DM @blagagoertzen
Thanks for listening, mamas! Have a blessed and beautiful week!
Xx Blaga

Episode 94 weekly Meal Plan That’s Cozy and Comforting

Hey there, beautiful  mamas!
 
Welcome back to another fabulous episode of "Meal Planning for Busy Moms." I'm Blaga, your meal planning bestie, here to turn your weeknight dinner chaos into a culinary playground. With the fall season upon us, I've got a cozy and comforting weekly meal plan that’ll warm your hearts and fill your bellies. So, grab your pumpkin-spiced latte (or your apple cider if you’re feeling festive), and let’s get cooking!
 
Monday- Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs
Tuesday- Thai Peanut Chicken Stir Fry
Wednesday- California Turkey Burgers with Sweet Potato FriesThursday- Taco SaladFriday- Kielbasa or Sausage Sheet Pan
Saturday- Freshly Made Guacamole, Tortilla Chips, Chicken Wings, and Spicy Cauliflower Bites with Ranch Sauce
Sunday- Cozy Roast Chicken with Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Veggies
 
Hope this episode blesses and inspires you! I'll see you in my next episode that drops Weds. 😍
 
Have a blessed and beautiful week!
 
XX Blaga
P.S.  Looking to have a little 1:1 support with your meal planning?  Would love to support you!  I have a few spots left on my calendar for a FREE 15-minute assessment!  
Join the Fun!
We’d love to hear from you! Join our *Meal Planning for Busy Moms* Facebook group where we swap recipes, share kitchen hacks, and support each other through this crazy, delicious journey called life. Plus, tell me what meals you'd like to see in future episodes, or share your funniest kitchen mishaps (because we’ve all been there).
Email us: busymamamealplanning@gmail.com
Have a question? Send me a DM @blagagoertzen

Episode 93 Dump and Go Meals Cause You’ve Got Better Things To Do

Hello, beautiful Mamas,
 
In this episode of Meal Planning for Busy Moms, we're diving into the wonderful world of dump-and-go meals. These are the meals that are practically set-it-and-forget-it, making your life as a busy mom easier than ever. I'll share some of my favorite meal ideas, practical tips, and a real-life story where one of these recipes saved my sanity! Plus, you'll get 11 dump-and-go meal ideas that are quick, delicious, and perfect for your busy weeknights.
 
11 Dump and Go Meal Ideas:
 
Chicken Taco Soup – Throw chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, and spices into the slow cooker. Add toppings like cheese and sour cream when it’s done. Done and delish.
 
Beef Stroganoff – Toss beef, mushrooms, onions, and cream of mushroom soup into the Instant Pot. Serve over noodles.
 
Pulled Pork Sandwiches – Pork shoulder, BBQ sauce, and a slow cooker. Serve on buns with coleslaw.
 
Sausage & Peppers – Sausage, peppers, onions, and marinara in a slow cooker. Serve with crusty bread.
 
Chicken Alfredo – Dump chicken, Alfredo sauce, and broccoli into the Instant Pot. Serve over pasta.
 
Beef Chili – Ground beef, beans, tomatoes, onions, and spices in a slow cooker. Top with cheese and crackers.
 
Honey Garlic Chicken – Chicken, honey, garlic, and soy sauce in the slow cooker. Serve with rice.
 
Teriyaki Beef Stir-Fry – Beef, teriyaki sauce, and veggies in the Instant Pot. Serve over rice.
 
BBQ Chicken Thighs – Chicken thighs, BBQ sauce, and onions in a slow cooker. Serve with mashed potatoes.
 
Pasta Primavera – Dump pasta, veggies, and Alfredo sauce in the Instant Pot. Done in minutes!
 
Sweet and Sour Meatballs – Meatballs, pineapple, bell peppers, and sweet and sour sauce in the slow cooker. Serve with rice.
 I hope this episode truly blesses and inspires you!
 
Xx Blaga
 
If you loved today’s tips and recipes, don’t keep it to yourself – share this episode with a friend who could use some meal planning magic. And pretty please, leave me a review! It’s the best way to let me know you’re enjoying the content and helps other busy moms find this podcast.
P.S.  Looking to have a little 1:1 support with your meal planning?  Would love to support you!  I have a few spots left on my calendar for a FREE 15-minute assessment!  Just click here, it’ll take you to my calendar to book a time that works best for you!  Can’t wait to connect.
P.P.S.  Have you checked out ‘The Speedy Gourmet’ yet? It’s the app I’ve been building just for you. Imagine this: drag and drop to customize meal plans or create your own from over 200+ recipes, searchable by filters like proteins, episodes and cooking methods, makes planning a snap. Plus, an adaptable, clickable grocery list so you never miss a beat—or a beet! 
And because I love my podcast family, here’s a special offer just for you. Try ‘The Speedy Gourmet’ free for 14 days, and if you love it, it’s just $3 a month with the code PODCAST. That’s over 50% off the regular price! Head over to thespeedygourmet.org and start your free 14 day trial today.
Become an insider and get weekly updates, meal plans with recipe links and exclusive insider training,  plus resources and support that you won’t find in the show!
 
Email us: busymamamealplanning@gmail.com
Have a question? Send me a DM @blagagoertzen

Episode 92 Weekly Meal Plan 7 Meals, 7 Days No Stress

In this fun and casual episode, we’re diving into a no-fail, family-friendly meal plan for the week. If dinnertime feels like a constant battle, this episode is for you! I’m giving you 7 easy and delicious meals that will have even your picky eaters asking for seconds. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, you’ll breeze through the week without the dinnertime stress. Ready to plan out your week? Let’s go!
 
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
 
7 delicious, quick, and family-friendly dinners you can easily whip up in under 30 minutes.
 
How to mix and match leftovers for stress-free lunches.
 
Why planning ahead can transform your evenings (and save your sanity!).
 
Pro tips for keeping dinner healthy, simple, and super tasty.
 
Meal Plan for the Week:
 
Monday – BBQ Chicken Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Quick, customizable, and always a hit with the kids.
 
Tuesday – Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff
Creamy, cozy, and done in 20 minutes with just one pot to clean!
 
Wednesday – Sheet Pan Salmon with Veggies
A fancy yet simple one-pan meal that's perfect for a busy weeknight.
 
Thursday – One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Creamy, cheesy, and cooked all in one pot for a no-fuss, flavor-packed dinner.
 
Friday – Pizza Night (DIY Style)
A fun, family-friendly pizza night where everyone gets to pick their favorite toppings!
 
Saturday – Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Pasta
This creamy, garlicky, sun-dried tomato pasta is a weekend treat that looks impressive but takes less than 30 minutes to make.
 
Sunday – Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Sweet Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts
A simple, balanced meal with all the flavors of Sunday dinner, made easy with one sheet pan.
 
Listener love:
“Blaga, I can’t even begin to tell you how much your meal plans have saved my sanity! Before I found you, I was totally winging it—last-minute grocery store runs, frozen pizzas on repeat, and so. much. stress. Now, my week is planned out, and I actually enjoy making dinner because it’s not a total disaster every night. My kids are even excited about dinnertime! Who knew?! Thanks for giving me my evenings back!”
—Jessica, busy mom of three
 
I’ve got a few things I’d love for you to do if this episode brought you some dinner-saving joy:
 
Share this episode!
If you know another busy mom who’s feeling the dinnertime dread, send this episode her way! Whether it’s on social media, in a group chat, or by word of mouth, let’s spread the meal-planning magic.
 
Subscribe!
Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode full of tips, tricks, and meal ideas to keep your kitchen running smoothly. We’ve got lots of fun and helpful content coming up!
 
Book a 1:1 Meal Planning Session!
Need more personalized help with your meal planning? I’ve got you covered. Book a free 15-minute meal planning session with me using this link . Let’s transform your mealtime stress into mealtime success!
 
Join the Speedy Gourmet Community!
Looking for even more resources, meal plans, and support? Be sure to check out the Speedy Gourmet Web App. You’ll get access to 300+ customizable recipes and tools to make meal planning a breeze. Try it free for 14 days!
 
Stay Connected!
Don’t forget to join my Facebook group, ‘Meal Planning for Busy Moms,’ where we share meal plans, mishaps, inspiration, and wisdom. Let’s keep the conversation going and meal planning fun!
 
Now you’re ready to rock this week with a stress-free meal plan that your family will love! Thanks for tuning in, and I’ll see you in the next episode!
 
Have a blessed and beautiful week!xx Blaga

Episode 91 The Fail-Proof Way to Meal Plan: My Tried and True Method for Busy Moms

Hey, hey beautiful Mama,
 
Meal planning doesn’t have to feel like climbing Everest, mama! In this episode, I’m spilling the tea on my foolproof (aka can’t-screw-this-up) method for planning meals like a pro. We’ll chat about checking calendars, avoiding dinner disasters, and why trying a new recipe every week is way overrated. If you’ve ever stared into your pantry like it’s a black hole, this one’s for you. Let’s get those dinners planned without the stress—and maybe avoid the takeout temptation this week. Grab your notebook, your sense of humor, and let’s get this meal planning party started!"
 
Special Heart-to-Heart Offer: If you’ve been feeling stressed or overwhelmed with this whole meal planning thing—whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been at it for a while—listen up! I’ve decided to open up my calendar for free 1:1 meal planning sessions. Yep, you heard that right! Free, no strings attached coffee chatI’d love to help you get those meal plans sorted, without the stress.
 
If this feels supportive for you, don’t hesitate—book a time using this link.. We’ll chat, I’ll guide you through your meal planning process, and we’ll take the overwhelm down a notch. I’ve got your back, mama!
 
Final Thoughts: So there it is—my fail-proof, stress-free method for meal planning. If this episode inspired you or made you think, “Hey, I can totally do this,” then please leave me a review and share it with a girlfriend! It really means the world to me, and it lets me know I’m on the right track with what I’m sharing.
 
Alright, mama, I see you, I hear you, and I’m here for you, and don't be shy book your free coffee chat! I can't wait to meet you! Be sure to tune in on Sunday where I drop my weekly meal plan!
 
 I hope this episode truly blesses and inspires you!
 
Xx Blaga
P.P.S.  Have you checked out ‘The Speedy Gourmet’ yet? It’s the app I’ve been building just for you. Imagine this: drag and drop to customize meal plans or create your own from over 200+ recipes, searchable by filters like proteins, episodes and cooking methods, makes planning a snap. Plus, an adaptable, clickable grocery list so you never miss a beat—or a beet! 
And because I love my podcast family, here’s a special offer just for you. Try ‘The Speedy Gourmet’ free for 14 days, and if you love it, it’s just $3 a month with the code PODCAST. That’s over 50% off the regular price! Head over to thespeedygourmet.org and start your free 14 day trial today.
Last, but not least:
Email us: busymamamealplanning@gmail.com
Have a question? Send me a DM @blagagoertzen