Inflation is at an all-time high, and food prices keep rising. and for that reason, it is essential to know how to cook nutritious meals without breaking the bank.
However, when it comes to feeding the whole family, budget-friendly meals can be a challenge. You want to make sure everyone gets enough nutrition, but it can sometimes feel like that requires breaking the bank. Fortunately, there are many delicious meals that you and your family can enjoy without denting your wallet. Kiwiwell brought you 10 budget-friendly meals that your whole family will love.
1. Stuffed Peppers.
Stuffed peppers are a great way to make a nutritious, filling meal that won’t cost you too much money. All you need are some bell peppers, rice or quinoa, and your favorite vegetables. Fill each pepper with the mixture, top with cheese if desired, and bake in the oven for about 20 minutes for an easy, delicious meal.
2. Spaghetti and Meatballs.
Spaghetti and meatballs is another classic meal that you can make for a fraction of the cost of buying it at a restaurant. All you need are some ground beef or turkey, a jar of your favorite spaghetti sauce, and some fresh or dried herbs for added flavor. Serve with spinach and a side of garlic bread for an extra special treat.
3. Baked Potatoes.
Baked potatoes are another budget-friendly meal that the whole family will love. Just bake a few potatoes in the oven, then load them up with your favorite toppings like cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, and vegetables. Serve with some salad or a side of steamed vegetables, and you have a tasty meal that won’t hurt your pocketbook.
4. Krabby Cakes.
If you’re looking for something a little more creative than the usual budget-friendly meals, try out Krabby cakes! All you need are some canned crab meat, a Bisquick mix, butter, and a few spices. Mix it all together to form Krabby patties, then fry them in a pan until golden brown. Serve with some tartar sauce or a side of lemon wedges for an extra tasty meal.
5. Fried Rice.
Fried rice is one of the most budget-friendly meals you can make. All you need is some cooked rice, a few vegetables, eggs, and your favorite seasonings. Stir fry everything together until it’s hot and bubbly, then serve with soy sauce or teriyaki sauce for an extra special treat.
6. Taco Salad.
Taco salad is healthy, delicious, and costs next to nothing to make. Just grab some lettuce, tomatoes, bell peppers, cheese, your favorite salsa or taco sauce, and a can of black beans or ground beef. Top with your favorite salad dressing for an extra special treat.
7. Vegetarian Chili.
If you’re looking for something hearty and nutritious, try out this vegetarian chili. All you need are some beans, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and your favorite herbs or spices. Simmer it all together until the vegetables are cooked through, then serve with grated cheese and a side of cornbread for an extra special treat.
8. Eggplant Parmesan.
Eggplant Parmesan is one of the most budget-friendly meals you can make. All you need are some eggplants, eggs, breadcrumbs, and your favorite cheese. Slice the eggplant into thin slices, dip in beaten eggs then coat with breadcrumbs before frying until golden brown. Layer with tomato sauce and cheese, then bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with a side of spaghetti or some garlic bread for an extra special treat.
9. Turkey Meatloaf.
Turkey meatloaf is another great budget-friendly meal that your whole family will love. All you need are some ground turkey, onion, garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, and your favorite herbs and spices. Mix everything together, shape into a loaf, then bake in the oven until browned and cooked through. Serve with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for an extra special treat.
10. Baked Fish.
Baked fish is a great way to get some healthy protein without breaking the bank. All you need are some fresh fish fillets, a few lemons, butter or olive oil, and your favorite herbs and spices. Drizzle everything with the butter or oil, season to taste then bake in the oven until golden brown and cooked through. Serve with a side of veggies or some rice for an extra special treat.
Making budget-friendly meals doesn’t have to be a chore. With a little creativity, you can make delicious and nutritious meals that your whole family will love, without spending too much money. From tacos and fried rice to eggplant parmesan and turkey meatloaf, there are plenty of options to choose from. Hopefully, these ten ideas have given you some inspiration for creating budget-friendly meals that your family will love. Bon appetit!