Pre-Thanksgiving Weekly Meal Plan
MONDAY
Keep Monday simple with make-your-own pizzas—an easy meatless dinner that’s customizable for the whole family. If you prefer homemade dough, use a reliable Neapolitan-style recipe; otherwise, buy pre-made pizza dough or flatbreads. Keep a jar of marinara on hand or swap in pesto, olive oil, fresh mozzarella, and your favorite toppings. Bake at a high temperature (425–450°F) on a preheated pizza stone or sheet pan until the crust is crisp and the cheese is bubbling. Serve with a shredded Brussels sprout salad or a green side to round out the meal.
TUESDAY
Chipotle lime beef taco bowls are a weeknight winner. Use beef chuck roast in place of chicken in a tinga-style recipe and cook on the beef/stew setting in your pressure cooker. Serve over rice or cauliflower rice with beans, a bright green sauce, and your preferred toppings. Roast cubed butternut squash tossed with cumin, paprika, olive oil, and salt to add a sweet, earthy element. Finish the bowls with shredded cabbage or thinly sliced radish for crunch and brightness.
WEDNESDAY
Serve a batch of weeknight bolognese over roasted spaghetti squash for a cozy midweek dinner. Make the sauce earlier in the week and refrigerate so flavors meld. Roast a tray of Brussels sprouts or broccoli at 425°F, then toss them with lemon juice and zest, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and freshly grated Parmesan. The bolognese is versatile—use ground beef, dark-meat turkey, or a mix of beef and pork—and it freezes well, so you can save a portion for a future quick meal.
THURSDAY
When evenings are busy, set dinner in the slow cooker. A large pot of chicken tortilla-less soup with plenty of toppings—avocado, cilantro, lime, and shredded cheese—makes for an effortless, comforting meal. If you like a heartier texture, stir in a few shredded corn tortillas during the last hour of cooking so they soften and thicken the broth. Alternatively, serve quesadillas on the side for a quick, kid-friendly addition.
FRIDAY
End the week by taking a breath and enjoying a simple, satisfying dinner. Slow-roasted salmon is an easy option that feels a little special without extra work—season and roast gently until just cooked through. Pair it with a bright kale and Brussels sprout salad or another favorite vegetable side. If Thanksgiving prep is on your mind, use this day to organize menus, make a shopping list, and freeze any components that can be prepared ahead. A calm, well-paced approach this week will help you arrive at the holiday feeling ready and relaxed.