Cooking in Bulk

I'm due for a trip to Social Suppers.  I've mentioned it before here, but one of the major things that has fallen through the cracks since I returned to work has been cooking.  I just can't motivate myself to cook every night.  And so we end up eating a lot of random things thrown together or sandwiches. And I will admit it...a lot more take out or restaurant meals. 

One of my saving graces is meal preparation places like Social Suppers.  (There are lots of other ones around, but Social Suppers in Prarie Village is the one that I go to).  If you have never been to one, they are a place where you go to prepare meals for your family that you can throw in the freezer or fridge and use when you need them.  They have all of the ingredients laid out for you along with the recipes and you just throw it all together and then pop it in your freezer!  Most of them can be put in the crock pot or baked in the oven, so it cuts down on all of the prep time. 

The most fun way to do it is to arrange to go with a bunch of friends on a week night...then you get to socialize and cook at the same time!  If you haven't tried it, I highly recommend it. As a "Savvy Shopper" I have to admit that it's not the CHEAPEST option, but the prices per person are comparable to making your own meals from food from the grocery store if you are not a couponer. 

If you are trying to save money, you can always arrange your own "meal prep" day and do the same thing at your own home.  Set aside a day where you will prepare a variety of meals that you can put in your freezer.  Buy all of the ingredients, type out a schedule for the day, and get to work!  You will spend most of the day slaving away in the kitchen, but it will be worth it when you don't have to cook for a week or two!