When it comes to cooking on a budget, thrifty cooking is the way to go. With a little creativity and some simple ingredients, you can create delicious meals without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll share 20 easy and affordable recipes that are perfect for busy cooks who want to save time and money in the kitchen. From hearty stews and casseroles to quick wraps and breakfast dishes, these recipes are designed to satisfy your cravings while keeping your wallet happy. Whether you’re a college student on a tight budget or a family looking to reduce food expenses, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
One-Pot Lentil and Vegetable Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of protein-rich lentils, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic spices. With just one pot to clean, it’s a stress-free meal option for any day of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, water, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Ground Turkey
A comforting casserole that combines the flavors of spaghetti, ground turkey, and melted cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked spaghetti
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
- Combine cooked spaghetti, marinara sauce, and turkey mixture in a large bowl.
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the spaghetti mixture. Top with mozzarella cheese, then repeat layers.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Rice with Fried Eggs
A classic comfort food combination that’s sure to start your day off right. This simple recipe combines fluffy rice with savory garlic butter and a pair of crispy fried eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the saucepan and stir until melted.
4. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the cooked rice and stir until well combined.
5. Crack 2 eggs into a non-stick skillet coated with cooking spray. Cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until the whites are set and yolks are still slightly runny.
6. Serve the fried eggs on top of the garlic butter rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Potato Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavorful chicken, potatoes, and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, potatoes, onion, garlic, peas and carrots, chicken broth, and thyme.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Dot the top of the casserole with butter.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Homemade Veggie Quesadillas
Quickly transform your favorite veggies into a delicious and satisfying meal with these easy-to-make veggie quesadillas.
Ingredients:
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
– 1/2 cup chopped onions
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the chopped bell peppers, onions, and black beans.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the veggie mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Sprinkle with cheese, then fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve hot with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Tomato and Bean Soup with Crusty Bread
This classic soup recipe combines the rich flavors of canned tomatoes, beans, and aromatics for a comforting meal perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices crusty bread (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, and dried oregano. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot with crusty bread slices on the side.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Savory Oatmeal with Mushrooms and Greens
Elevate your breakfast game with this hearty, savory oatmeal dish packed with earthy mushrooms and nutritious greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 cups fresh greens (such as spinach, kale, and collard)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese or chopped scallions for topping
Instructions:
1. Bring the water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the oats and reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 10 minutes.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in the fresh greens and thyme; cook until the greens have wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine the cooked oatmeal with the mushroom-greens mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated cheddar cheese or chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna and Chickpea Salad Wraps
Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional wraps! This recipe combines the protein-rich tuna with fiber-packed chickpeas, crunchy veggies, and creamy hummus.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon hummus
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 whole wheat tortilla wraps
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, chickpeas, cucumber, and red bell pepper.
2. Add the hummus and lemon juice; mix well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the salad onto the center of each tortilla wrap.
5. Fold the bottom half up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrap.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Easy Margherita Flatbread Pizza
Create a deliciously simple flatbread pizza with the classic Italian flavors of margherita, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of flatbread (8-10 inches)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush the flatbread with olive oil on both sides.
3. Top the flatbread with mozzarella cheese, crushed tomatoes, and chopped basil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the flatbread on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cabbage and Sausage Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the sweetness of cabbage with the savory taste of sausage, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, chopped
– 4 Italian-style sausages (sweet or hot), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage slices and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the chopped cabbage to the pan, cooking until it reaches your desired level of tenderness (about 3-5 minutes).
6. Return the cooked sausage to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Microwave Scrambled Eggs with Toast
Start your day off right with this simple and speedy recipe that’s ready in just a few minutes.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter or non-stick cooking spray
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices of bread (white, whole wheat, or your favorite)
– Optional: chopped herbs or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a microwave-safe bowl. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Microwave on high for 30 seconds.
3. Remove the bowl from the microwave and use a fork to scramble the eggs until they’re well mixed.
4. Butter or spray two slices of bread with non-stick cooking spray.
5. Place one slice of toast in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until lightly toasted.
6. Assemble by placing the scrambled eggs on top of the toasted bread.
7. Repeat steps 4-6 for the second slice.
Cooking Time: 1 minute and 15 seconds (including toasting)
Pasta with Garlic, Olive Oil, and Chili Flakes
This recipe combines the simplicity of pasta with the bold flavors of garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp. chili flakes
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the chili flakes to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Combine the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and garlic-chili mixture in a large bowl. Toss to coat, adding salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Tacos
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the warmth of black beans with the sweetness of corn, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tacos shells (corn or flour)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the red bell pepper and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the black beans and corn kernels; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Warm the tacos shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the bean and corn mixture into the shells, followed by any desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Sweet Potato with Hummus and Greens
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet satisfying recipe that combines the natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes with creamy hummus and fresh greens.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade hummus
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce each sweet potato several times with a fork and place on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
4. While the sweet potatoes are baking, prepare your greens by chopping them finely.
5. Once the sweet potatoes are done, slice them in half lengthwise and top each half with hummus, parsley, and cilantro (if using).
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats
A creamy, dreamy breakfast or snack that’s perfect for a busy morning. This recipe combines the comfort of peanut butter and banana with the convenience of overnight oats.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or honey for topping
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container, combine oats, almond milk, and Greek yogurt. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the peanut butter and stir until smooth.
3. Fold in the sliced banana.
4. Cover and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4 hours).
5. In the morning, give the oats a stir and add salt to taste.
6. Serve chilled, topped with chopped nuts or honey if desired.
Cooking Time: Overnight (at least 4 hours)
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Elevate the humble baked potato with this creamy and nutritious recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in each with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the potatoes directly on the middle rack of the oven for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, steam the broccoli florets until tender. Drain and set aside.
6. Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
7. Slice each potato in half lengthwise and fluff the flesh with a fork to create space for the filling.
8. Divide the steamed broccoli among the potatoes, followed by a sprinkle of cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Stovetop Mac and Cheese with Tuna
A comforting twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe adds protein-packed tuna for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the milk, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the cooked macaroni, tuna, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Spinach and Egg Breakfast Muffins
A delicious and nutritious breakfast option that’s perfect for a busy morning. These muffins are packed with spinach, eggs, and cheese, making them a great way to start your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup beaten eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil for greasing the muffin tin
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or oil.
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Add flour, oats, cheese, and spinach to the egg mixture. Stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Divide batter evenly among the muffin cups.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until the muffins are golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Pantry Pasta with Canned Tomatoes and Herbs
A simple and satisfying pasta dish that’s ready in no time, using pantry staples and a few fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add canned tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer the tomato mixture for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Honey-Garlic Roasted Carrots with Lentils
Roast carrots to perfection and pair them with nutritious lentils for a delicious and healthy side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup cooked green or brown lentils
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with garlic, honey, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the carrot mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
5. Toss cooked lentils with olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve roasted carrots alongside cooked lentils. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
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