I’ve been on an Instant Pot kick lately. Well, let’s be honest, I’m always on an Instant Pot kick. Besides my coffee pot, it’s probably the most used kitchen gadget I have. I hadn’t made a chili in a while so I figured this week I’d make a classic beef & bean chili to last the whole week and to warm me up.

Holiday Season

This time of year it is REALLY hard to stay on track. I get it, there is some much to get done for the end of the year and to top it off there are SO many social obligations. I’m not complaining because I love any excuse to hang out with my friends. However, it can mean that meal prep and healthy food eating gets put on the back burner for some.

Just because you’re busy doesn’t mean that your health has to be put on the back burner. It should actually be the opposite if I’m being honest. I personally am selfish with my health this time of year. I make sure that I a. make it to the gym and b. plan out at least 1-2 healthy meals for myself during the week.

Sure, meal planning can be daunting, but you don’t have to start big. Instead, try thinking about making ONE healthy meal next week. That one healthy meal may help you want to eat healthier the rest of the meals. It’s worth a shot.

How to Meal Plan When Busy

Ok, you may be reading this and thinking I’m crazy to think that one could meal plan & meal prep this time of year. Here’s the thing, if you prioritize it (even a little bit), you will see results. If you continue to let “being busy” take precedence, it will.

Here are a few ways to meal prep/plan during the holiday season:

1. Plan Less. Stop trying to be Martha freaking Stewart. Plan 1-2 dinners, 1 breakfast, and 1 lunch. Keep it simple and get by with less.
2. Get the right tools. Treat yo’self and grab kitchen gadgets that make your life easier, like the Instant Pot or other items I recommend.
3. Batch Cook. Double, heck TRIPLE recipes so you don’t have to make 10 meals. Freeze what you don’t use and you’ll have some for next week!
4. Outsource. Can’t find the time? Find a local meal prep service or an online food delivery service. There’s no shame in this, instead, it will save you time and support your health.
5. Get support. Surround yourself with people who have your best interest in mind and can help whether physically, emotionally, and/or mentally.

Instant Pot Obsession

Speaking of grabbing kitchen gadgets that make life and meal prep easier. The Instant Pot does not pay me to say a dang thing but I am obsessed with it. A member at the gym this morning actually suggested I get a second insert so that I can make rice, set aside and make the rest of the meal.

GENIUS!

If you have someone in your life that is obsessed with their Instant Pot, the second insert might be a good idea for them as well. Work smarter not harder. Use kitchen gadgets to your benefit and get rid of the ones that don’t.

The Best Instant Pot Beef & Bean Chili

I’m sure you’re sick of me gushing over my favorite kitchen gadget. I will stop gushing and start giving you this chili recipe. This Beef & Bean Chili may be one of the best chilis I’ve made to date.

The meat is tender (thanks to the IP) and the veggies are so rich in flavor. I find chili is one of those dishes the whole family can get on board with. Hide a ton of veggies in there and everyone wins. You could also sub the beef with ground chicken or turkey but I’m a beef girl through & through (*gasp* yes a dietitian just said that).

Top this with sour cream (or my favorite greek yogurt), green onions, jalapenos, avocado, and, of course, cheese.

Pro Tip: Add any vegetables you have on hand to this chili to make it your own!

What’s your favorite thing to make in the Instant Pot? 

xoxo,

Sassy

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Pin Now, Chili Later

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