Fall is just around the corner, so school, sports, and activities is in high gear. While there’s plenty of fun and excitement during the fall, it’s also stressful for parents and families to stay on track with nutrition.

 

This fall, why not plan sheet pan meals? They are easy, one-step meals that put an incredible dinner on the table every night, ensuring everyone gets the nutrients they need and you save time.

 

Why Consider Sheet Pan Meals

 

You might wonder how sheet pan meals can be a better option for your family. Here’s why.

 

• You cook everything at once in one pan in the oven. It’s simple and fast.

• You can customize sheet pan meals to adjust to your family’s tastes.

• The options are endless, which means less dinner burnout.

• Cleanup is a cinch!

 

What to Include in Sheet Pan Meals

 

Here’s the best part – sheet pan meals can include whatever you want. So, for example, if you find a recipe with shrimp and a bunch of vegetables your family loves, but you aren’t shrimp lovers, you can substitute another protein like sausage or beef.

 

Here’s a quick rundown of what to include.

 

Protein

 

The protein is the ‘shining star’ of the meal. Choose your family’s favorite protein, but also don’t be afraid to try something new. The endless options include ham, farmer sausages, Berkshire sired pork, poultry or seafood. Try different cuts of meat or reuse the same protein and shake up the other ingredients to have some change.

 

Vegetables

 

Next up are vegetables. This is where you can change things often and even sneak in some new veggies for the kids to try. Remember, as you choose your vegetables, they’ll shrink as you cook them, so always include more than you think you need.

 

Include a mixture of dense vegetables like potatoes, squash, cauliflower, carrots, and zucchini. Next, throw in some leafy vegetables, such as broccoli, bok choy, chard, and kale. Don’t be afraid to get adventurous!

 

Oil or Fat

 

You’ll douse your meat and vegetables in oil (or fat), such as olive oil or your other favorite oil. This adds flavor and good fat to your meal for even more nutrition.

 

Seasoning

 

The final step is seasoning. You can use fresh herbs or dried seasonings. Experiment with what your family likes, trying new flavors to make your sheet pan meals feel a little different each time.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Sheet pan meals are a great way to feed the family in the fall. It’s also a great meal when its made with Winkler Meats farmer sausages or Valley Lea Farms Berskshire sired pork. They are hearty, filling, and delicious.

 

Because the options are endless, they are easy for families with picky kids. Whether kids pick out only what they like or you convince them to try new things, it’s a great way to involve the entire family in meal planning and cooking. Sheet pan meals are easy, filling, and fun!