I didn’t measure NOTHING but the scoop of meat 😂

When it comes to feeding a high school athlete, especially a running back with a big appetite, flexibility and taste are key. From my experience, strictly measuring every ingredient isn’t always practical, especially when you want to keep meal prep enjoyable and stress-free. Instead, focusing on nutrient-dense and balanced meals that appeal to their taste buds helps ensure they actually eat and enjoy their food. One of my favorite tricks has been combining lean proteins like ground turkey with a little ground beef for both flavor and muscle-building benefits while maintaining a manageable fat content. Adding a bit of taco seasoning brings in bold flavors that keep meals interesting without extra effort. Simple carbs, such as hash browns and corn, offer quick energy for those demanding practice sessions. For snacks, I like to include convenient options like premium white chicken from Harvest Creek and chewy granola bars with peanut butter chocolate chips from H-E-B—these are easy to pack and provide a nice protein and energy boost post-practice. Including fresh fruits like mandarins adds natural sweetness and important vitamins. I’ve learned that it’s also important to stay flexible with timing—sometimes my athlete prefers to eat snacks after practice instead of before, and that’s okay! The main goal is keeping their energy up and supporting their recovery. And yes, while sweets still make their way in occasionally, it’s all part of the balanced approach to fueling a growing, active teen. This meal-prep approach combines practical component choices, a focus on delicious flavors, and a relaxed mindset about exact measurements—perfect for busy parents feeding hungry athletes. Keeping meals packed with protein, carbs, and fat in a way that satisfies appetite and encourages consistent eating is what works best for us.