Meal Planning for Busy Moms | Simplify Mealtime, Reduce Stress, and Create More Balance and Joy in Your Life

Episode 71 Potluck Panics and How to Avoid Them Plus 5 Potluck Favorites

Hey there, party people and potluck pros! Welcome back to our little corner where we swap tales and tips that make every kitchen escapade a breeze. Today, we're diving into a topic hotter than a July barbecue—potluck panics! Yes, it's that time of year when invites to gatherings are popping up faster than daisies, and the pressure to bring something wow-worthy can really stir the pot. So, buckle up, buttercups, as we tackle how to be the star of your next social soirée without breaking a sweat!
 
**Potluck Perils Be Gone:**
Let’s be real, the idea of whipping up something fabulous enough to travel and charm a crowd can be a bit daunting. But fear not! I’m here to help you navigate these waters with grace and a dash of flair. Here are five tips to soothe any potluck anxiety and boost your culinary confidence.
 
### 1. Smoky Pulled Pork Sliders
 
**Ingredients:**
- 3 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for serving)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Mini buns
- Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
 
**Instructions:**
Rub the pork shoulder with salt, paprika, and garlic powder.
Place in a slow cooker and pour the chicken broth around it.
Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
Once cooked and tender, shred the pork using two forks.
Mix in the barbecue sauce.
Serve on mini buns with a spoonful of coleslaw and a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce.
 
### 2. Sunshine Quinoa Salad
 
**Ingredients:**
- 1 cup quinoa (cooked according to package instructions and cooled)
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
 
**Instructions:**
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
 
### 3. Decadent Chocolate Torte
 
**Ingredients:**
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 eggs
 
**Instructions:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round baking pan.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and chocolate together until smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for about 25 minutes. The center will seem slightly soft.
Cool completely before slicing. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or whipped cream.
 
### 4. Buffalo Chicken Dip
 
**Ingredients:**
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
 
**Instructions:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, combine all ingredients except the cheddar cheese.
Transfer to a baking dish and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
Bake for 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Serve with chips, celery sticks, or carrot sticks.
 
### 5. Caprese Skewers
 
**Ingredients:**
- Cherry tomatoes
- Fresh basil leaves
- Mozzarella balls
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
- Skewers or toothpicks
 
**Instructions:**
Thread a cherry tomato, a fresh basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball onto a skewer or toothpick.
Arrange the skewers on a platter.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
 
These recipes are all perfect for a potluck because they can be made ahead of time and are easy to transport. Enjoy your cooking and the compliments you'll receive at your next gathering!
So pop in your earbuds, and let's do this!  I hope this episode truly blesses and inspires you!
 
 
Xx Blaga
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, and exclusive insider trainings, resources and support that you won’t find in the show!
https://busymamamealplanning.com/page/become-an-insider
Email us: hello@busymamamealplanning.com
 
Have a question? Send me a DM @blagagoertzen

Episode 70 Weekly Meal Plan With 7 Scrumptious Summer Meals and the Best Veggie Dip Ever

Hey, hey,
 
Here to help you keep your sanity this summer with a fun, fresh meal plan that will have your family clamoring for dinner every night. I’m sharing 7 scrumptious summer meals to get you in and out in no time!
 
Now, grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and let's jump into this week’s summer meal plan episode where the secret ingredient is... (drumroll, please) simplicity!
 
Plus I am sharing the best veggie dip ever that will make you the hostess with the mostess, and even picky Uncle Joe will ask for the recipe
 
So grab your coffee, pop in those ear buds and let's do this!
 
Monday- Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Fresh Corn Salad
Tuesday- One-Pan Pesto Tortellini
Wednesday-Mango Salsa Fish Tacos
Thursday- BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with Coleslaw
Friday- Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa and Black Beans
Saturday-Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Sunday- Caprese Pasta Salad with a delightful BBQ Chicken
 
Now, doesn't that menu just scream "happy taste buds"?
 
Hope this episode inspires you!
 
XX Blaga
 
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.
 
Email us: blagagoertzen@yahoo.ca
 
Have a question? Send me a DM @blagagoertzen

Episode 69 Meal Planning as Me Time- Finding Joy and Peace in the Routine of Kitchen Prep

Hey, Hey,
Welcome back to our little culinary corner where today we’re turning the tables on meal planning. If you’ve ever sighed at the thought of figuring out yet another dinner, today’s episode is for you. It’s called Meal Planning as 'Me Time': Finding Joy and Peace in the Routine of Kitchen Prep. We're reframing meal planning from a chore to cherished 'me time.' So, grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and let’s find some joy in those jots and titles of kitchen prep!
 
 
And as I mentioned on Sunday I just had the privilege of being a guest on a fellow podcast called Master Organized Motherhood. So if you Are you a busy Momma who is craving a bit more peace and organization in your home? Come join Amy, for hours of tips and organizing help at Master Organized Motherhood; a top 3% globally ranked podcast. Behind the scenes Amy is a wife, and work from home mom of 4 young kids. With new episodes released every Wednesday, you will find what you need to help you start to implement simple home organization systems to better manage your young, bustling household. 
 
 
And on that episode dropping today, we have a fun interview, some great ahahs and I share tips to keep the sizzling summer vibes going.
 
 So be sure to pop in your earbuds and give it a listen!!  It's a gooder and you won't want to miss it! Here’s the link!https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/master-organized-motherhood-home-organization-daily/id1711870077
So pop in your earbuds, and let's do this!  I hope this episode truly blesses and inspires you!
 
 
Xx Blaga
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, and exclusive insider trainings, resources and support that you won’t find in the show!
https://busymamamealplanning.com/page/become-an-insider
Email us: hello@busymamamealplanning.com
 
Have a question? Send me a DM @blagagoertzen

Episode 68 Weekly Meal Plan and Kepping It Fresh and Light

Hey, Hey!
 
This is Episode #68, and we're talking about keeping your summer dinners light, fresh, and oh-so-easy. Are you ready to dive into seven scrumptious dinner ideas that mix up proteins and cooking methods, all ready in 30 minutes or less? How Sweet!!! Right?
 
Plus, I’ve got some cool tips to keep things breezy as a beachside picnic! And stay tuned till the end for a special treat for our loyal listeners. 🌟
 
And I just had the privilege on being A guest on a fellow podcast. So if you Are you a busy Momma who is craving a bit more peace and organization in your home? Come join Amy, for hours of tips and organizing help at Master Organized Motherhood; a top 3% globally ranked podcast. Behind the scenes Amy is a wife, and work from home mom of 4 young kids. With new episodes released every Wednesday, you will find what you need to help you start to implement simple home organization systems to better manage your young, bustling household. 
 
And on the episode on her podcast I'll be sharing even more tips to keep the sizzling summer vibes going. It's a super fun conversation with some aha moments and great joy!
 
It'll be dropping on weds so be sure to pop in your earbuds and give it a listen!!  Here’s the link:
 
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/master-organized-motherhood-home-organization-daily/id1711870077
So grab your coffee, pop in those ear buds and let's do this!
 
Monday- Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
Tuesday- Beef and Pepper Stir fry
Wednesday- Cajun Shrimp Skillet
Thursday- Pork Schnitzel
Friday- Turkey Taco Salad
Saturday- Basil Pesto Tilapia
Sunday- Sausage and Peppers Pasta
 
Hope this episode inspires you!
 
XX Blaga
 
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.
 
Email us: blagagoertzen@yahoo.ca
 
Have a question? Send me a DM @blagagoertzen

Episode 67 Crockpot Chronicles: Dump Dinners That Save Your Evenings and Possibly Your Sanity

Hey, Hey!
 
 Today we're getting slow and steady with our trusty Slow cookers aka  crockpots. You know what they say—good things come to those who wait, and nothing says "good thing" quite like coming home to a dinner that's ready to greet you at the door. So buckle up, because we're diving into the magical world of dump dinners, where a little morning prep leads to a lot of evening "ahhh."
 
I’ll be sharing the best tips to use your crockpot and I’ll be sharing 4 dump and go recipes that will make you so “YUM!”!  You want to miss it!
 
So pop in your earbuds, and let's do this!  I hope this episode truly blesses and inspires you!
 
Xx Blaga
 
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, and exclusive insider trainings, resources and support that you won’t find in the show!
https://busymamamealplanning.com/page/become-an-insider
Email us: hello@busymamamealplanning.com
 
Have a question? Send me a DM @blagagoertzen

Episode 66 Weekly Meal Plan and Sizzling Summer Meal Plan Tips

Hey, Hey!
 
This episode is a goldmine of yum because I’m serving up seven dinners with seven different proteins. Yes, you heard that right! Each one is super family-friendly, done in 30 minutes or less, and we're mixing up the cooking methods to keep you on your toes. 
 
Plus I’ sharing 5 Sizzling Tips to help you get set up for summer meal planning! 
 
So grab your coffee, pop in those ear buds and let's do this!
 
Monday- Sizzling Salmon Tacos
Tuesday- Stir-Fry Sensation 
Wednesday- Perfect Pan Seared Pork Chops
Thursday- Beef And Broccoli Bonanza 
Friday- Shrimp Scampi Fiesta
Saturday- Turkey Burger Delight 
Sunday- Veggie Packed Beef Chili 
 
Hope this episode inspires you!
 
XX Blaga
 
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.
 
Email us: blagagoertzen@yahoo.ca
 
Have a question? Send me a DM @blagagoertzen

Episode 65 Supermarket Sweep: Mastering the 30- Minute Grocery Run Without Losing Your Mind

Hey, Hey,
 
Today we're tackling the grocery store gauntlet. Ever feel like your simple shopping trip turned into an episode of "Survivor"? Well, no more! I'm here to arm you with strategies to conquer your grocery run in 30 minutes flat—without losing your sanity or your shopping list.
 
We’ll be diving into Why speed matters at the supermarket,  how to create an efficient shopping list, and the tool that make meal planning fun, fast and fabulous!
 
So pop in your earbuds, and let's do this!  I hope this episode truly blesses and inspires you!
 
Xx Blaga
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, and exclusive insider trainings, resources and support that you won’t find in the show!
https://busymamamealplanning.com/page/become-an-insider
Email us: hello@busymamamealplanning.com
 
Have a question? Send me a DM @blagagoertzen

Episode 64 Weekly Meal Plan and Prep List For Easier Dinners

This week, I’ve cooked up something special that’s close to my heart and, hopefully, will be filling your homes with delightful aromas and full bellies. Remember, this meal plan is a mere muse to inspire your weekly grind. Feel free to swap things up to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs. 
 
I also share a prep list to make your meal planning even faster!
 
Alright, let’s break it down, day by day:
 
Monday- BBQ  Chicken Sliders.
Tuesday- Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs
Wednesday- Sheet Pan Chicken with Mediterranean veggies.
Thursday- Slow Cooker Beef Tacos
Friday- Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken
Saturday- Stuffed Bell Peppers or (Vegetarian Version)
Sunday- Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies.
 
Hope this episode inspires you!
 
XX Blaga
 
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.
 
Email us: blagagoertzen@yahoo.ca
 
Have a question? Send me a DM @blagagoertzen

Episode 63 The Freezer is Your Friend: How to Embrace the Art of Freezing Meals for Those’Just Can’t Even Days’

**Why Your Freezer is Your Best Friend:**
 
Let’s face it, some days are just a whirlwind, aren't they? Between school runs, work deadlines, and that impromptu science project your kiddo "forgot" to mention, cooking is the last thing on your mind. This is where your freezer steps in, like the superhero we didn't know we needed. Freezing meals in advance is not just about saving time; it's about preserving your peace of mind. Imagine always being just one "defrost" away from a delicious, homemade meal. Dreamy, right?
 
In this episode we're diving into one of my favorite life-saving strategies: using our freezers! Yes, you heard right. That chilly box isn't just for ice cream and forgotten veggies; it's your secret weapon for those days when the idea of cooking from scratch sounds as appealing as a root canal.
 
Hope this episode blesses and inspires you!
 
Xx Blaga
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, and exclusive insider trainings, resources and support that you won’t find in the show!
https://busymamamealplanning.com/page/become-an-insider
Email us: hello@busymamamealplanning.com
 
Have a question? Send me a DM @blagagoertzen

E#62 Weekly Meal Plan and 5 Tips to Make Meal Planning Fun

Hey, Hey!
 
Okay, let’s face it—meal planning can feel like a drab chore, right?. But what if I told you it can actually be... wait for it... a blast? Yes! This week, not only am I serving up a scrumptious weekly meal plan, but I’m also going to sprinkle in some fun-fetti with tips to make meal planning something you look forward to! Are you Ready to dive into a week of mouth-watering meals that’ll make your tastebuds dance? Let’s get the party started!
 
Weekly Meal Plan:
Monday- Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Tuesday- Pad Thai
Wednesday- Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas.
Thursday- Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo 
Friday- Slow Cooker Chili
Saturday- BBQ Steak and Veggies,
Sunday- BLT Sandwiches. 
 
Hope this episode inspires you!
 
XX Blaga
 
P.S. Have you checked out ‘The Speedy Gourmet’ yet? It’s the web 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.
 
Email us: blagagoertzen@yahoo.ca
 
Have a question? Send me a DM @blagagoertzen