As inflationary pressures wage on this holiday season, The Kroger Co. continues to promote affordable and convenient meal planning ideas.
“Our customers have a lot on their plate this time of year," Carlo Baldan, group vice president of center store merchandising, said in a news release. "And we know families are looking to stretch their budgets even further while making the holidays special. As the to-do lists are growing, let us do some of the meal planning during winter break. These delicious and affordable make-ahead meals ensure dinnertime is a breeze after a busy day at work or for kids to reheat for a healthy and filling lunch."
For families looking for easy, affordable meals during winter break, the Cincinnati-based Kroger suggests options to feed a family of four at an average cost of approximately $12 per meal, including:
- Alfredo Turkey Meatballs Pasta Bake — An easy meal that can be prepared and then popped into the freezer to enjoy later, this recipe features Kroger Brand pasta, flame broiled turkey frozen meatballs, traditional alfredo sauce and frozen California style vegetables.
- Sheet Pan Black Bean Quesadillas — Kroger invites shoppers to make dinner meatless with these cheesy, black bean quesadillas full of corn, salsa and sour cream. To make ahead, simply prepare and store in the refrigerator to bake the next day or bake and store in the freezer to be reheated.
- Sausage and Tortellini Skillet — This savory meal requires just a few ingredients — tortellini, sausage and veggies — that can be frozen after prepared for a simple family dinner anytime.
- Slow Cooker Taco Pasta — Let the slow cooker do the work, says Kroger, with this hearty three-step dish including lean ground beef, tomatoes, mild salsa, corn, pasta and cheese.
- Stir Fried Rice — A make-ahead meal featuring a Kroger stir fry teriyaki kit that becomes a complete meal in just four steps. Kroger recommends preparing this stir fry and freezing for a weeknight meal to enjoy this holiday season.
Additionally, Kroger suggests freezing meals in smaller batches to make reheating easier for single servings. For customer's looking for more meal prep ideas, check out these budget-friendly recipes and slow cooker meals.
For customers looking for extra convenience when preparing meals over the holidays, Kroger says its Home Chef line offers a wide selection of fresh prepared foods for easy lunch and dinner options such as, fried chicken, soups, meal kits, pizzas and flatbreads.