Kellynkay's post about sticking to your menu has got me thinking. I have always done a good job at sticking to my menu, but with starting a new job, I am worried about that just going out the window. I have before worked and still come home and cook dinner. But I always worked during the day. With this new job, I will be working evenings at least three days during the week, plus possibly on the weekends too. Last night was my first night and I left dh in charge of everything. He had to get ds #1 to basketball practice, wrangle with the other two at practice, than feed everyone, bathe everyone and get them all into bed before I got home at 10. He did it all, but they grabbed a pizza on the way home. I didnt have a problem with that at all, but he cant be doing that every night I am working. I AM NOT working so they can eat fast food all week long. Bless my dh, but he is culinary challenged. He has messed up cooking a box of mac and cheese before, ok so that was years ago! Even the boys will tell you he is a bad cook. So I figure I will be relying on my crock pot and casserole recipes even more. I have always done meals like that, but it was for more conveniece than a nessecity (please excuse my horrible spelling). So, tell me what are your favorite crock pot and casserole (preferrably casserole recipes that can be put together in the morning) recipes are. I will really be needing some variety in meals. Preferrably something a little simple, but not too boring. Dh can now make noodles and I have a box of instant mashed potatoes for them too.
Please make a *, if your recipe is already posted so I can take a look. Thank you all so much in advance. I am trying to get things ready since I will start working 20-30 hrs per week after Christmas. So on top of finishing getting everything ready for Christmas, I have to also get meals figured out for my family.

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Nothing is as important as passion. No matter what you want to do with your life, be passionate.
Jon Bon Jovi

sherpherds pie is a great way to use up leftovers and can easily be made even the night before.


manicotti is another pretty easy thing you can whip up ahead.

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I often try to make-ahead for the week. We like baked ziti made ahead (mix it together but don't cook it until the day you want it). Also stuffed peppers are good in the crockpot. When I boil macaroni for the baked ziti, I use the same pot afterward to boil up either some elbow macaroni or tri-color rotini. Then I put it in a ziploc bag with some chopped veggies. The night I want to eat it, I either squirt in some oil,vinegar etc, or some salad dressing, then shake the bag around and voila. Super easy pasta salad.

Chili makes good in the crock pot and if you make a huge batch you can eat it a bunch of different ways, straight chili, in tacos or burritos, frito pie, baked over jiffy cornbread and topped with cheese, over baked potatoes, on top of hot dogs, etc.