Our Family's Meal Matrix

WHAT IS A MEAL MATRIX? 

A meal matrix is a reusable framework for food planning that uses preset categories or themes for each day, such as taco night or soup night.

Our meal matrix keeps meal planning super simple. I use the matrix to plan breakfast and dinner. Lunch is usually leftovers or sandwiches, Mac n cheese, snack trays (see below), or chicken nuggets. 

WHY DO YOU USE A MEAL MATRIX? 

Since 2014, I've battled Mast Cell Activation Syndrome. The number one trigger for MCAS is stress, so I've worked hard over the years to find ways to organize my home life to make things as low-stress as possible. One of the ways I've made meal planning easier is a meal matrix! 

As a general rule for myself, I try to do as much as possible off my phone so I can be as present as possible to my children. With that being said, all of my meal planning is done from paper copies of recipes that I keep in binders. I plan the ingredients we will need by circling items from a laminated list I keep on the fridge with all of our typical ingredients and products. 

OUR BREAKFAST MEAL MATRIX:

Here is a general breakdown of our breakfast meal matrix. I like to vary our breakfasts, but it would be much simpler if you like to stick to the same breakfast daily!

BREAKFAST MATRIX 

Monday- Greek yogurt bowls

Tuesday- Oatmeal bar (golden raisins, blueberries, shredded coconut, coconut sugar, sliced bananas, etc.)

Wednesday- Waffles and eggs

Thursday- Bagels and fruit

Friday- Overnight oats

Saturday- Pancakes and sausage

Sunday- Bagel sandwiches or omelets

OUR DINNER MEAL MATRIX:

Here is a general breakdown of our dinner meal matrix. I don't always follow this, and I like to vary seasonal dishes. 

DINNER MATRIX

Monday-Snack/sandwich dinner

Tuesday- Mexican dish (usually crispy tacos and guacamole)

Wednesday- Pasta with broccoli (add in meatballs/sausage)

Thursday- Quick and easy meal (skillet, sheet pan dish)

Friday- Pizza and salad

Saturday- Soup /chili or stirfry, summer grilled chicken

Sunday- Crock pot dish or roast with potatoes 

OUR SNACK MATRIX:

During the school year, I keep a snack matrix because otherwise my children beg for a hundred snacks after school. My snack matrix includes options like popcorn, smoothies, and peanut butter with apples.

I hope this is helpful! I keep a chart on my fridge with the matrix, which my kids love to check to see what’s for breakfast and dinner! Here is the little meal planner worksheet I use to plan each week's meals :)