Meal prep that’s flexible, flavorful, and Friday-night-friendly.
If you’ve been around here a while, you know I love a good One Grocery Bag, Five Meals plan. It’s my go-to method for saving time, money, and mental energy, especially during the back-to-school chaos.
This week’s edition: Pulled Pork.
With just one batch of slow-cooked shredded pork, you’ll have the base for four healthy-ish dinners, plus one easy “don’t think about it” frozen meal to round out the week.
🥩 What You’ll Need
Start with 3 - 4 lbs of pork shoulder or pork butt. Season it simply with:
Cook it low and slow (Instant Pot or Crockpot both work!), then shred it up and divide into 4–5 portions (~3–4 oz each) depending on your household size.
🍽 The Meal Plan
1. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Toast a bun or sourdough slice, pile on the pork, and top with coleslaw or pickled onions.
Healthy swap: Skip the bun and use sweet potato rounds or serve in a bowl.
2. Pulled Pork Tacos
Serve in corn tortillas with cabbage slaw, avocado, and salsa.
Healthy swap: Use large romaine or butter lettuce leaves instead of tortillas.
3. Pulled Pork Veggie + Rice Bowls
Layer roasted veggies, shredded pork, and brown or cauliflower rice.
Drizzle with tahini, lime vinaigrette, or coconut aminos.
4. Pulled Pork Quesadillas
Sandwich pulled pork and compliant cheese (if tolerated) or hummus between two tortillas and toast until golden.
Healthy swap: Use a gluten-free tortilla or make into a pulled pork veggie skillet.
5. Friday Night = Frozen Chicken Nuggets + Instant Mashed Potatoes
Because you deserve a break. And let’s be honest — no one is cooking a full meal on a Friday.
🥗 Sides & Lunch Tips
Each dinner idea includes optional side pairings (think: air fryer sweet potatoes, slaw mix, simple salads, or pre-steamed veggies). You can also repurpose leftover pork into:
✅ Why It Works
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Budget-friendly: One protein = multiple meals
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Time-saving: Cook once, eat all week
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Customizable: You can make this as “clean” or comfort-food-style as you like
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Flexible: Works whether you're carb cycling or just trying to get dinner on the table
✨ Real Life Tip:
If you’re following something like Belle Vitale Plan A, sub the pork shoulder with a lean pork loin roast and cook it the same way for a lighter option. It’s just as shreddable and better for your macros.
