Back in the kitchen this week and I could not be more excited. Gareth has been repainting the kitchen (which looks amazing!!), so after a full week of takeout, it feels so good to get back into our routine.
This week’s menu is a mix of cozy, easy, and TikTok-inspired recipes:
Monday: Crock Pot Pork Roast, Green Bean Casserole, and Mashed Potatoes
Tuesday: Chickpea Ranch Casserole
Wednesday: Potato Dauphinoise Topped Mince
Thursday: Leftovers or Orange Chicken
Friday: Chicken Pot Pie Skillet
Saturday: Spaghetti
Most recipes are from TikTok, which has been my go-to for quick dinner ideas lately. Hoping for a low-stress, no-takeout week!
... Read moreAfter repainting the kitchen, getting back into the cooking groove with a well-planned meal schedule feels incredibly satisfying. Using TikTok as a source of inspiration has definitely changed the way I approach weekly meal planning. The Crock Pot Pork Roast is a standout—a perfect slow cooker meal that fills the house with inviting aromas throughout the day. I love slicing garlic into the pork shoulder and searing it for extra flavor before slow cooking it with mushrooms, celery, carrots, and beef broth, which makes the meat tender and juicy. Pairing it with green bean casserole and mashed potatoes adds a classic comfort food touch that everyone appreciates.
The Chickpea Ranch Casserole is an excellent vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Dumping ranch dressing, garlic, smoked paprika, broccoli, chickpeas, brown rice, and vegetable broth into a baking dish and topping it with mozzarella and cheddar creates a creamy, hearty dish that feels indulgent yet healthy. It’s quick to prep and perfect for busy nights.
Another of my favorites is the Potato Dauphinoise Topped Mince. This dish uses lean beef mince cooked with Worcestershire sauce, gravy granules, and frozen mixed vegetables, topped with thinly sliced potatoes cooked in cream and garlic for a rich and satisfying meal. Baking it until golden and bubbling truly elevates this humble casserole dinner.
For a fun twist on a classic, the Orange Chicken inspired by Panda Express recipes from TikTok is incredibly easy to make at home with basic ingredients like chicken breast, flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and store-bought orange sauce. The crispy chicken paired with sticky, flavorful sauce is perfect for a weeknight treat.
Finally, the Chicken Pot Pie Skillet combines all the cozy elements I crave—sautéed veggies, shredded rotisserie chicken, a creamy roux-based filling, and a flaky puff pastry topping. The rich filling pairs perfectly with the golden crust baked to perfection in the oven.
This meal plan offers a great balance of protein, vegetables, and comforting carbs, with recipes suited for every skill level in the kitchen. Mixing slow cooker meals with quick oven dishes keeps the week varied and exciting. Plus, trying out TikTok-inspired recipes adds a fun, trending element to cooking. If you’re looking to move away from takeout and enjoy wholesome home-cooked meals, this plan is a wonderful way to start. What’s on your menu this week? Sharing your meal ideas is a great way to stay inspired and keep cooking enjoyable!