14-day meal plan for a family of 5
Cater to the unique needs of your larger family with our 14-day meal plan for a family of five. Offering a range of wholesome and crowd-pleasing recipes, this plan ensures that everyone gets a taste of delicious and nutritious meals. Simplify meal planning for your family of five with this diverse and satisfying menu.
Meal plan grocery list
- Chicken breasts
- Ground beef or turkey
- Whole-grain pasta
- Brown rice
- Mixed vegetables
- Eggs
- Milk
- Cheese
- Greek yogurt
- Whole-grain bread
- Apples
- Bananas
- Broccoli
- Tomatoes
- Potatoes
- Spinach
- Lentils
- Berries
- Olive oil
- Water
Meal plan overview
Cater to the nutritional needs of a larger family with our 14-day meal plan for a family of five. Offering a range of wholesome and crowd-pleasing recipes, this plan ensures that everyone gets a taste of delicious and nutritious meals. Simplify meal planning for your family of five with this diverse and satisfying menu.
Foods to eat
- Family-Friendly Dinners: Opt for meals like sheet pan dinners, casseroles, or DIY taco nights for easy customization.
- Variety of Proteins: Include a mix of proteins such as chicken, beef, fish, beans, and tofu for diverse nutrients.
- Whole Grains: Choose options like quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat pasta for added fiber and sustained energy.
- Colorful Vegetables: Incorporate a variety of vegetables in different colors to ensure a range of vitamins and minerals.
- Homemade Snacks: Prepare snacks like trail mix, fruit skewers, or vegetable sticks with hummus for healthier options.
- Flexible Breakfasts: Offer choices like overnight oats, smoothie bowls, and scrambled eggs for a variety of tastes.
- Family Salad Nights: Build custom salads with a variety of toppings and dressings for a refreshing and versatile dinner.
- Hydration Station: Keep water, infused water, and herbal teas easily accessible for everyone.
- Fruit Desserts: Choose fruit-based desserts like fruit salad or yogurt parfaits for a lighter sweet option.
- Healthy Indulgences: Plan occasional treats like homemade baked goods or frozen yogurt for family enjoyment.
✅ Tip
Incorporate one-pot meals like stews or casseroles, which can be easily scaled up and minimize dishwashing.
Foods not to eat
- Excessive Processed Foods: Minimize reliance on heavily processed snacks and convenience foods for better nutrition.
- Added Sugars: Limit sugary drinks and desserts to promote overall family health.
- Unhealthy Snacking: Be mindful of mindless snacking and encourage balanced snack choices.
- Individual Dietary Needs: Adjust the meal plan based on individual preferences, allergies, and nutritional needs.
- Regular Family Communication: Discuss meal preferences and rotate favorite dishes to keep everyone satisfied.
- Regular Health Checks: Monitor overall family health, including nutritional needs and well-being, regularly.
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: For concerns about family nutrition or individual health, consult with a healthcare provider.
Main benefits
The 14-day meal plan for a family of 5 offers a range of healthy and satisfying meals suitable for larger families. It focuses on wholesome, budget-friendly dishes that cater to various age groups and tastes.
Fat
Carbs
Protein
Fiber
Other
Food alternatives
To feed a larger family, these ingredient alternatives can add variety and nutrition.
- Replace chicken breasts with chicken drumsticks for a more economical option.
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner protein.
- Use whole-grain rolls instead of whole-grain bread for sandwiches.
- Try using sweet potato fries instead of regular potatoes for a fun side.
- Substitute Greek yogurt with plain yogurt for a different taste.
How to budget on this meal plan
Chicken breasts and ground beef or turkey are key ingredients that can be bought in bulk. Whole-grain pasta and brown rice offer variety and are often cheaper when purchased in larger quantities. Mixed vegetables, eggs, and milk can be more cost-effective when bought in bulk. Greek yogurt, whole-grain bread, and apples are also more affordable in larger sizes.
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Extra tips
Any healthy snack ideas?
Snacks that are easy to prepare and serve for a family of five:
- Assorted fruit slices
- Cheese cubes and grapes
- Homemade muffins or scones
- Mixed vegetable platter
- Nachos with salsa and cheese
- Oatmeal cookies
- DIY mini wrap station
What should I drink on this meal plan?
For family health, water is the best hydrating drink. Homemade fruit juices, in moderation, provide vitamins without added sugars. Milk, whether dairy or plant-based, is rich in essential nutrients. Herbal teas like chamomile are suitable for all ages. Smoothies are a great way to combine fruits and vegetables for everyone to enjoy.
How to get even more nutrients?
For family diets, it’s important to cater to various nutritional needs while making meals enjoyable for everyone. Offering a variety of proteins, from meat to plant-based sources, ensures that everyone gets their required intake. Whole grains and a mix of vegetables provide the fiber and vitamins necessary for good health. Incorporating healthy fats from sources like nuts, seeds, and cooking oils can enhance flavor and contribute to heart health, making meals both nutritious and delicious.
Meal plan suggestions
14-Day Meal Plan for a Family of 2
This meal plan is designed to provide balanced nutrition for a family of two, incorporating a variety of foods for optimal health.
Day 1
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and tomatoes, whole-grain toast
- Lunch: Grilled chicken salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and olive oil dressing
- Dinner: Spaghetti with ground turkey marinara sauce, steamed broccoli
Calories: 2200 Fat: 75g Carbs: 250g Protein: 150g
Day 2
- Breakfast: Greek yogurt parfait with mixed berries and granola
- Lunch: Turkey and cheese sandwiches on whole-grain bread, carrot sticks
- Dinner: Baked salmon with roasted potatoes and mixed vegetables
Calories: 2300 Fat: 80g Carbs: 260g Protein: 160g
Day 3
- Breakfast: Oatmeal topped with sliced bananas and almonds
- Lunch: Lentil soup with whole-grain crackers, mixed green salad
- Dinner: Stir-fried tofu with brown rice and stir-fry vegetables
Calories: 2100 Fat: 70g Carbs: 240g Protein: 140g
Day 4
- Breakfast: Whole-grain pancakes with fresh berries and maple syrup
- Lunch: Grilled cheese sandwiches on whole-grain bread, tomato soup
- Dinner: Beef stir-fry with bell peppers and broccoli served over brown rice
Calories: 2200 Fat: 75g Carbs: 250g Protein: 150g
Day 5
- Breakfast: Yogurt smoothies with spinach, banana, and Greek yogurt
- Lunch: Chicken Caesar salad with whole-grain croutons and Caesar dressing
- Dinner: Vegetable lasagna with whole-grain noodles and side salad
Calories: 2300 Fat: 80g Carbs: 260g Protein: 160g
Day 6
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with cheese, whole-grain toast, and fruit salad
- Lunch: Turkey wraps with hummus, spinach, and sliced tomatoes
- Dinner: Grilled chicken skewers with quinoa and grilled vegetables
Calories: 2100 Fat: 70g Carbs: 240g Protein: 140g
Day 7
- Breakfast: Greek yogurt with honey, nuts, and sliced apples
- Lunch: Vegetable and bean burritos with salsa and guacamole
- Dinner: Baked cod with roasted potatoes and green beans
Calories: 2200 Fat: 75g Carbs: 250g Protein: 150g
Day 8
- Breakfast: Whole-grain waffles with mixed berries and Greek yogurt
- Lunch: Quinoa salad with mixed vegetables, feta cheese, and balsamic vinaigrette
- Dinner: Beef burgers on whole-grain buns with sweet potato fries
Calories: 2300 Fat: 80g Carbs: 260g Protein: 160g
Day 9
- Breakfast: Veggie omelettes with whole-grain toast
- Lunch: Chicken Caesar wraps with romaine lettuce and Caesar dressing
- Dinner: Shrimp stir-fry with brown rice and snap peas
Calories: 2100 Fat: 70g Carbs: 240g Protein: 140g
Day 10
- Breakfast: Breakfast burritos with scrambled eggs, cheese, and salsa
- Lunch: Tomato basil soup with grilled cheese sandwiches on whole-grain bread
- Dinner: Baked chicken thighs with quinoa pilaf and roasted vegetables
Calories: 2200 Fat: 75g Carbs: 250g Protein: 150g
Day 11
- Breakfast: Greek yogurt parfaits with granola and mixed berries
- Lunch: Turkey and avocado wraps with spinach and whole-grain tortillas
- Dinner: Vegetable stir-fry with tofu and brown rice
Calories: 2300 Fat: 80g Carbs: 260g Protein: 160g
Day 12
- Breakfast: Whole-grain bagels with cream cheese and sliced tomatoes
- Lunch: Spinach and feta salad with grilled chicken and vinaigrette dressing
- Dinner: Beef and vegetable kebabs with quinoa and grilled corn on the cob
Calories: 2100 Fat: 70g Carbs: 240g Protein: 140g
Day 13
- Breakfast: Breakfast sandwiches with scrambled eggs, cheese, and spinach on English muffins
- Lunch: Lentil and vegetable curry with brown rice
- Dinner: Baked salmon with mashed sweet potatoes and steamed green beans
Calories: 2200 Fat: 75g Carbs: 250g Protein: 150g
Day 14
- Breakfast: Smoothie bowls with Greek yogurt, mixed berries, and granola
- Lunch: Chicken and vegetable stir-fry with noodles
- Dinner: Vegetable and bean chili served with whole-grain cornbread
Calories: 2300 Fat: 80g Carbs: 260g Protein: 160g
These values are approximate and can vary slightly based on specific portion sizes and preparation methods.
Want to learn more?
⚠️ Keep in mind
As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.
