Eating on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or nutrition. With some strategic grocery shopping and simple recipes, you can create delicious, budget-friendly meals that cost less than $5 per serving. These cheap and easy meals use affordable ingredients like rice, beans, pasta, eggs, and seasonal vegetables, making them perfect for anyone looking for frugal meal ideas that don’t break the bank.
Tips for Cooking Affordable Meals
Before diving into these cheap and easy meals with few ingredients, here are a few money-saving tips to help stretch your grocery budget even further:
- Buy in bulk – Stock up on pantry staples like rice, pasta, lentils, and oats, which are perfect for cheap one-pot meals and meal prepping.
- Use frozen or seasonal vegetables – Frozen veggies are just as nutritious as fresh ones and often cost less. When buying fresh produce, choose what’s in season for the best prices.
- Choose affordable protein sources – Eggs, canned tuna, chicken thighs, and beans are great options for affordable high-protein meals.
- Plan your meals – Reduce waste and avoid last-minute takeout by planning budget-friendly dinner ideas in advance.
Eating well on a budget doesn’t have to be a challenge—especially when you combine smart grocery shopping with cashback rewards. Apps like Rakuten and BeFrugal allow you to earn cashback on grocery purchases, whether you’re shopping online or in-store. Plus, right now, Rakuten is offering a $30 welcome bonus when you sign up and make a qualifying purchase of $30 within 90 days, while BeFrugal gives you a $10 sign-up bonus once you earn $10 in cashback. Sign up for Rakuten here or join BeFrugal here and start saving today!
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Now, let’s get cooking with these cheap and easy recipes!
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10 Cheap and Easy Meals You Can Make for Under $5
Eating well on a tight budget doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself, these cheap and easy meals prove that delicious home-cooked food is possible—even when you’re watching every dollar. Each recipe in this roundup costs less than $5 to make and uses simple, affordable ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Get ready to save money without giving up the comfort of a good meal.
If you’re looking for even more ways to eat well without spending a fortune, don’t miss our post on How to Make Delicious Budget-Friendly Meals in 2025. It’s packed with updated tips and fresh ideas to help you stretch your ingredients and your dollars all year long.
Vegetable Fried Rice
If you’ve got leftover rice in the fridge and a bag of frozen veggies in the freezer, you’re just 15 minutes away from one of the easiest, most budget-friendly meals out there—Vegetable Fried Rice. I love this recipe because it’s endlessly flexible, loaded with flavor, and a great way to reduce food waste. It’s my go-to on busy weeknights or when I need a fast lunch that’s both satisfying and healthy. Plus, it’s one of the best easy meals with eggs that the whole family will actually eat without complaints!
Fried rice is such a classic pantry meal. You don’t need fancy ingredients, and you can customize it with whatever you have on hand—leftover veggies, bits of meat, even that random half onion sitting in your crisper. This version uses frozen mixed vegetables, making it perfect for when you need something fast, filling, and affordable.
Budget-Friendly Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe (Quick, Easy & Full of Flavor!)
Servings: 2 to 3
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
🍚 Ingredients + Step-by-Step Instructions
What You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked rice (day-old rice works best)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 eggs
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional, but adds a nutty depth)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
How to Make It:
- Scramble the eggs.
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Crack in the eggs and scramble until just set. Remove from the pan and set aside. - Sauté the vegetables.
In the same pan, add the frozen mixed veggies. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes, or until they’re heated through and slightly tender. - Add the rice and seasonings.
Stir in your cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with your spoon. Add the soy sauce and garlic powder. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is warmed through and starting to get a little toasty. - Mix in the eggs.
Add the scrambled eggs back to the pan. Stir everything together until evenly combined. - Finish with sesame oil.
Drizzle a teaspoon of sesame oil over the top for added flavor, and serve hot.
💡 Helpful Tips for the Best Fried Rice
Use cold, day-old rice.
Fresh rice is too soft and can make your fried rice mushy. Leftover rice from the fridge has had time to dry out, giving you that perfect chewy texture fried rice is known for.
No frozen veggies? No problem.
Use any cooked or raw veggies you have—chopped carrots, green beans, corn, peas, spinach, bell peppers, cabbage, or onions. Just sauté them until tender before adding the rice.
Make it your own.
Want more protein? Toss in diced cooked chicken, crumbled tofu, shrimp, or even sliced hot dogs. For extra heat, add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes.
🧊 Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it up in a skillet for best texture or microwave with a splash of water to avoid drying it out.
Vegetable fried rice proves that cheap doesn’t mean boring. This recipe is perfect for stretching leftovers, sneaking in more veggies, and getting a hot meal on the table fast. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just trying to get dinner done before the kids get hangry, this recipe has your back.
And don’t forget—sign up for my free 25 Budget-Friendly Recipes ebook to get more cheap and tasty meals like this straight to your inbox!
Black Bean and Cheese Quesadillas
When time is tight and your grocery budget is even tighter, Black Bean and Cheese Quesadillas are a true lifesaver. This recipe is a favorite in my kitchen because it’s lightning-fast, packed with flavor, and ridiculously affordable. Plus, it uses pantry staples most of us already have on hand—canned black beans, tortillas, and shredded cheese.
These quesadillas are a go-to on nights when I need to whip up something warm and satisfying in less than 15 minutes. They also make great lunches, after-school snacks, or even a no-fuss party food when cut into wedges and served with salsa. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crew, this easy meal stretches your dollar and your time.
Easy Black Bean and Cheese Quesadillas Recipe (A Fast, Budget-Friendly Dinner)
Servings: 1 to 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
🌮 Ingredients + Step-by-Step Instructions
What You’ll Need:
- 2 flour tortillas
- ½ cup canned black beans, drained
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1 tbsp butter or oil (for crisping)
How to Make It:
- Warm the pan and butter.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add butter or oil and let it melt evenly across the pan. - Assemble the quesadilla.
Lay one tortilla flat in the pan. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the surface, then scatter the drained black beans on top. Place the second tortilla over everything like a lid. - Cook until golden and melty.
Let the bottom tortilla cook until golden brown—about 3–4 minutes—then carefully flip and cook the other side for another 2–3 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and both sides are crisp. - Slice and serve.
Remove from the pan and cut into wedges. Serve hot with your favorite salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
💡 Helpful Tips for Quesadilla Success
Use a fork to lightly mash the beans.
This helps them stick to the tortilla and makes flipping easier with less filling fallout.
Switch up the fillings.
Add cooked onions, bell peppers, corn, or jalapeños to stretch the recipe and sneak in more veggies. Got leftover taco meat or rotisserie chicken? Toss it in!
Cheese options:
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican blend all melt beautifully. Use what you have.
🧊 Storage Tips
Leftovers? Let the quesadilla cool completely, then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a dry skillet for best results (microwaving may make it soft).
This Black Bean and Cheese Quesadilla recipe proves that delicious doesn’t have to be complicated—or expensive. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that hits the spot any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking solo or making a meal for the whole family, this is one budget-friendly recipe worth repeating.
Want to take your savings a step further while helping the environment? Check out our post on Zero-Waste Cooking Tips to Save Money and the Planet for practical ways to use every last bit of food and cut down on kitchen waste.
Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil
When your pantry’s almost empty and takeout isn’t in the budget, this Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil—also known as Aglio e Olio—comes to the rescue. It’s a simple, satisfying dish that’s made with just a handful of pantry staples, yet delivers major flavor. This is the kind of meal you whip up when you need something warm, comforting, and incredibly cheap—usually for less than $1 per serving.
Pasta, olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. That’s it. And yet it tastes like something you’d get at a cozy Italian restaurant. This recipe is one of my go-to dinner ideas when I want something quick, meatless, and delicious that won’t blow my grocery budget.
Easy Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil Recipe (Budget-Friendly Aglio e Olio Recipe)
Servings: 2–3
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
🧄 Ingredients + Step-by-Step Instructions
What You’ll Need:
- 8 oz spaghetti (or any pasta you have)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional but tasty)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
How to Make It:
- Cook the pasta.
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water. - Sauté the garlic.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant—don’t let it brown. Stir in red pepper flakes if using. - Toss it all together.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together to coat the pasta in the garlicky oil. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. - Serve and garnish.
Serve warm, topped with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if desired.
💡 Helpful Tips for Perfect Aglio e Olio
Use quality olive oil.
With such a simple ingredient list, good olive oil really makes a difference in flavor.
Don’t overcook the garlic.
Golden is good—burned garlic is bitter and will ruin the dish. Keep an eye on it!
Add protein or veggies (if you want).
Toss in cooked shrimp, white beans, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms to stretch the meal even more.
Make it spicy or not.
Red pepper flakes add a nice kick, but you can leave them out for a milder version.
🧊 Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water or olive oil to keep the pasta from drying out.
This Garlic and Olive Oil Pasta is everything a frugal cook loves: fast, flavorful, and practically free. With just a few ingredients and one pan, you’ve got dinner on the table in under 15 minutes—and no one will guess it came from the pantry.
Lentil Soup
When you’re looking for a warm, comforting meal that’s incredibly healthy and easy on your wallet, this Hearty Lentil Soup checks all the boxes. Lentils are one of the cheapest sources of plant-based protein and packed with fiber, iron, and essential nutrients. They’re also shelf-stable, making them a smart pantry staple for any frugal cook.
This soup is a go-to recipe in my kitchen during cooler months or when I’m prepping meals ahead for busy weeks. It costs just a few dollars to make a big pot, and the leftovers taste even better the next day. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just trying to eat more plants, this one’s a winner.
Hearty Lentil Soup Recipe (Nutritious, Vegan & Budget-Friendly)
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes,
🥕 Ingredients + Step-by-Step Instructions
What You’ll Need:
- 1 cup dried lentils (brown or green)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
- Sauté the aromatics.
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and garlic. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, until softened and fragrant. - Add the main ingredients.
Stir in the dried lentils, canned tomatoes (with juices), vegetable broth, and cumin. Season with a little salt and pepper. - Simmer until tender.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils and carrots are tender. - Taste and adjust.
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for a hearty meal.
💡 Helpful Tips for Lentil Soup Success
Rinse your lentils first.
Always rinse and pick over dried lentils to remove any dust or small stones before cooking.
Add greens if you like.
Stir in chopped spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a boost of vitamins.
Make it your own.
Add diced potatoes, celery, or extra spices like smoked paprika or turmeric for more depth.
Want it thicker?
Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamier texture while still keeping it hearty.
🧊 Storage Tips
This soup stores beautifully! Let it cool, then refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 5 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth if it thickens.
This Hearty Lentil Soup is a true budget champion—filling, healthy, and packed with flavor for less than $1 a serving. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking a cozy dinner at home, this one’s a nourishing go-to that’ll keep your stomach and wallet full.
Loaded Baked Potatoes with Toppings
When you want a hot, hearty meal without spending more than a couple of bucks, Loaded Baked Potatoes are a lifesaver. They’re warm, filling, endlessly customizable, and perfect for using up random leftovers from the fridge. Whether you’re topping them with cheese, beans, chili, or veggies, they always hit the spot.
This is one of my favorite cheap and comforting dinners. It’s great when you want something simple but satisfying. Plus, it’s super easy to scale up for a crowd or meal prep several at once. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend lunch that leaves you full without the fuss.
Loaded Baked Potatoes Recipe (Easy, Filling & Budget-Friendly Meal Idea)
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
🥔 Ingredients + Step-by-Step Instructions
You’ll Need:
- 2 large russet potatoes
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite)
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup canned beans or leftover chili (black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans work great)
- Optional toppings: green onions, hot sauce, salsa, bacon bits, steamed broccoli
How to Make It:
- Bake the potatoes.
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Scrub potatoes clean, pat them dry, and poke a few holes in each with a fork. Place directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until fork-tender. - Prep your toppings.
While the potatoes bake, gather your toppings. Warm up the beans or chili, and shred your cheese if needed. - Assemble your loaded potatoes.
Carefully slice open each potato lengthwise. Fluff the inside with a fork and top with cheese, beans, sour cream, and any other goodies you like. - Serve hot and enjoy!
These potatoes are best served fresh out of the oven while the cheese melts beautifully over the fluffy interior.
💡 Helpful Tips to Make the Most of Your Potatoes
Speed it up with the microwave.
Short on time? Microwave the potatoes for 8–10 minutes (flipping halfway) instead of baking—then finish in the oven for 10 minutes to crisp the skins.
Mix and match toppings.
Use whatever you have: salsa, leftover roasted veggies, deli meat, or even scrambled eggs.
Make it a meal.
Add protein like shredded chicken, ground beef, or extra beans to turn your potato into a full dinner.
Meal prep tip:
Bake a few extra potatoes and store them in the fridge. Reheat and top throughout the week for quick lunches or no-cook dinners.
🧊 Storage Tips
Store leftover baked potatoes (untopped) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven, toaster oven, or microwave. If topped already, reheat gently to avoid drying out the ingredients.
These Loaded Baked Potatoes are a delicious reminder that simple, budget meals can still feel indulgent. With endless topping options and minimal prep, they’re a must-have in your frugal dinner rotation.
Egg and Cheese Breakfast Burritos
If your mornings are hectic but you still want something warm, filling, and budget-friendly, these Egg and Cheese Breakfast Burritos are the perfect grab-and-go solution. Made with just four ingredients, they’re a high-protein breakfast that takes minutes to prepare—and they’re perfect for meal prepping ahead of time.
This simple burrito is a lifesaver on busy mornings. It’s also super customizable depending on what you’ve got in the fridge. Add salsa, veggies, or even leftover sausage or beans—anything goes. Whether you’re feeding kids before school or need something fast before work, this cheap breakfast recipe delivers flavor and fuel without breaking the bank.
Egg and Cheese Breakfast Burritos Recipe (Quick, Cheap & Protein-Packed)
Servings: 1
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
🍳 Ingredients + Step-by-Step Instructions
You’ll Need:
- 2 eggs
- 1 medium tortilla (flour or whole wheat)
- ¼ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite)
- 1 tbsp butter (or oil)
How to Make It:
- Scramble the eggs.
In a nonstick skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the pan, season with a little salt and pepper, and scramble until just cooked through. - Assemble the burrito.
Lay the tortilla flat and place the scrambled eggs in the center. Sprinkle cheese on top while the eggs are still hot so it melts nicely. - Wrap and heat.
Roll the tortilla tightly into a burrito. Optional: return it to the pan and cook for 1–2 minutes on each side to lightly toast and seal the edges. - Serve and enjoy.
Serve immediately or wrap in foil for an easy, on-the-go breakfast.
💡 Helpful Tips for Burrito Success
Make it ahead.
These burritos freeze beautifully. Let cool, wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and freeze. Reheat in the microwave or toaster oven for a quick breakfast anytime.
Customize with what you have.
Add in cooked bacon, sausage, sautéed peppers, onions, or beans for extra flavor and bulk.
Use smaller tortillas for kid-size versions.
Perfect for little hands or a lighter portion.
Make a batch.
Double or triple the recipe and refrigerate extras for up to 3 days. Great for meal prepping your mornings.
🧊 Storage Tips
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap each burrito in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
These Egg and Cheese Breakfast Burritos are one of the best cheap, high-protein breakfasts you can make with just a few ingredients. They’re easy to prep, freeze well, and help you start your day with something satisfying that costs just over a dollar.
Sloppy Joe Sandwiches
Few dinners are as nostalgic—and affordable—as Sloppy Joe Sandwiches. This messy, meaty, saucy classic has been a go-to cheap meal for families for generations. With just a few pantry staples and some ground meat, you can whip up a hot, satisfying dinner that both kids and adults will devour.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just looking for an easy weeknight meal, this recipe comes together in 15 minutes flat. It’s great for stretching half a pound of meat into two filling sandwiches. Serve with a side of chips, coleslaw, or steamed veggies, and you’ve got a complete dinner under $5.
Sloppy Joe Sandwiches Recipe (Easy, Classic & Budget-Friendly Family Favorite)
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
🍔 Ingredients + Step-by-Step Instructions
You’ll Need:
- ½ lb ground beef or ground turkey
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 hamburger buns
- Optional: chopped onion, garlic powder, or hot sauce for extra flavor
How to Make It:
- Cook the meat.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed. - Add the sauce.
Stir in ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Let simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful. - Assemble the sandwiches.
Spoon the mixture onto hamburger buns and serve hot. Enjoy as-is or top with pickles, cheese, or even coleslaw.
💡 Helpful Tips for Perfect Sloppy Joes
Stretch it further.
Add cooked lentils, chopped mushrooms, or shredded zucchini to the meat to make it go further and sneak in veggies.
Make it spicy.
Add hot sauce, chili powder, or diced jalapeños if you like some heat.
Toast the buns.
To prevent soggy sandwiches, lightly toast the buns in a dry skillet or under the broiler for a few minutes.
Make it a freezer meal.
Cook and cool the meat mixture, then freeze in a labeled container. Defrost and reheat for quick lunches or dinners.
🧊 Storage Tips
Leftover Sloppy Joe filling can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick.
These Sloppy Joe Sandwiches are a fast, flavorful, and affordable dinner idea that never goes out of style. With a short list of ingredients and a quick cook time, it’s the kind of recipe every budget-conscious cook should have in their back pocket.
Peanut Butter and Banana Oatmeal
When you need a healthy breakfast that keeps you full, doesn’t cost a fortune, and takes less than 10 minutes to make, Peanut Butter and Banana Oatmeal is a total win. It’s creamy, naturally sweet, protein-packed, and incredibly comforting on busy mornings.
This is one of those budget breakfast recipes I keep coming back to—especially when I’m meal prepping or trying to eat clean without spending extra. With just four ingredients, it’s a powerhouse meal that fuels your day and satisfies those early cravings..
Peanut Butter and Banana Oatmeal (Healthy, Cheap & Satisfying Breakfast)
Servings: 1
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
🍌 Ingredients + Step-by-Step Instructions
You’ll Need:
- ½ cup rolled oats
- 1 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tbsp peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- 1 banana, sliced
How to Make It:
- Cook the oats.
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine oats and water (or milk). Cook according to the package instructions—usually 1–2 minutes in the microwave or 5 minutes on the stovetop. - Stir in the peanut butter.
Once the oats are hot and creamy, stir in the peanut butter until fully melted and incorporated. It adds richness and protein that makes this breakfast extra satisfying. - Top with banana slices.
Slice a ripe banana and layer it over the oatmeal. You can also mash half the banana into the oats while cooking for more natural sweetness. - Serve and enjoy.
Eat it warm with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon or drizzle of honey if desired.
💡 Helpful Tips for Oatmeal That Hits the Spot
Use milk for creamier oats.
Cooking your oats in milk (or almond, oat, or soy milk) gives them a richer, smoother texture.
Add mix-ins or toppings.
Try chia seeds, ground flax, cinnamon, nuts, or a few chocolate chips for variety.
Mash the banana in.
For sweeter oats without added sugar, mash half of the banana into the oats while cooking.
Make it ahead.
Cook a batch of oatmeal for the week and portion it into containers. Reheat with a splash of milk and top with fresh banana in the morning.
🧊 Storage Tips
Fridge: Store cooked oatmeal in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Add banana just before eating.
Freezer: Portion plain cooked oats into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat and top as desired.
This Peanut Butter and Banana Oatmeal is a budget breakfast MVP—easy, filling, nutritious, and under $1 per serving. It’s a smart choice for frugal meal preppers or anyone who wants a satisfying breakfast without the sugar crash.
Cabbage and Noodle Stir-Fry
When you’re low on groceries but still want something warm, filling, and flavorful, this Cabbage and Noodle Stir-Fry comes to the rescue. It’s a humble dish with Eastern European and Asian flair—simple ingredients, minimal prep, and zero meat needed.
If you’re on a budget or trying to eat more plant-based meals, this is a fantastic go-to. Just a small amount of cabbage, a handful of noodles, and a splash of soy sauce turn into a cozy and surprisingly addictive dinner under $2 per serving.
Cabbage and Noodle Stir-Fry Recipe (Easy, Cheap & Meatless Meal You’ll Love)
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
🥬 Ingredients + Step-by-Step Instructions
You’ll Need:
- ½ small cabbage, shredded
- 8 oz noodles (spaghetti, egg noodles, or ramen all work)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oil (vegetable, olive, or sesame oil)
How to Make It:
- Prep the noodles.
Cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside. - Cook the cabbage.
In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add shredded cabbage and stir-fry for 5–6 minutes until tender and slightly golden. - Combine and season.
Add the cooked noodles and soy sauce to the pan. Toss everything together and cook for another 2 minutes until heated through and well coated. - Serve and enjoy.
Serve hot as a main dish or alongside dumplings or tofu for extra protein.
💡 Helpful Tips to Make It Even Better
Use what you have.
No cabbage? Use shredded Brussels sprouts or coleslaw mix. No noodles? Rice or leftover pasta works great.
Add flavor boosters.
Stir in garlic, onion, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of sesame oil to enhance flavor. A splash of rice vinegar or lime juice can brighten it up, too.
Make it a full meal.
Add scrambled eggs, pan-fried tofu, or a handful of edamame to bump up the protein and make it more filling.
Batch it up.
Double the recipe for easy meal prep. It keeps well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.
🧊 Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Not ideal, as cabbage gets watery. Best eaten fresh or refrigerated.
To reheat, toss in a hot skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen it up.
This Cabbage and Noodle Stir-Fry is comfort food at its finest—cheap, easy, and totally satisfying without needing meat or fancy ingredients. It’s a flexible recipe you can make your own, whether you’re meal prepping or just cleaning out the fridge.
Chili with Rice
When you’re craving comfort food that’s hearty, satisfying, and easy on the wallet, this Chili with Rice is a go-to favorite. Made with pantry staples like canned beans and tomatoes, it’s one of the best cheap and easy meals under $5—perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or when you just want something warm and filling without spending much.
Whether you’re stretching ground meat or trying to use up leftover rice, this simple chili bowl hits the spot every time.
Chili with Rice Recipe (Budget-Friendly Comfort Food Under $5)
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
🌶️ Ingredients + Step-by-Step Instructions
You’ll Need:
- 1 can beans (black, kidney, or pinto)
- ½ lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp chili powder (or to taste)
- 2 cups cooked rice
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional)
How to Make It:
- Cook the meat.
In a large skillet or pot, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Drain excess grease if needed. - Add beans and tomatoes.
Stir in the drained beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper if desired. - Simmer it all.
Let everything simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors combine and everything is heated through. - Serve over rice.
Scoop the chili mixture over warm, cooked rice and enjoy a hearty, budget-friendly dinner.
💡 Helpful Tips to Stretch Your Chili Further
Use what you have.
Swap ground meat for lentils or more beans to make it vegetarian. Add corn, chopped onions, or bell peppers for extra bulk and flavor.
Make it spicier.
Kick it up with a dash of cayenne, hot sauce, or jalapeño slices if you like a little heat.
Turn it into a bowl bar.
Let everyone customize their bowl with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or avocado.
Prep ahead.
Chili keeps great in the fridge or freezer, so make a double batch and save time later in the week.
🧊 Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store chili and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze chili (not rice) for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat, then serve with fresh or reheated rice.
Making Cheap and Easy Meals Work for You
When it comes to saving money in the kitchen, simple ingredients and smart planning go a long way. These 10 budget-friendly meals are proof that you can eat well without spending a fortune. Try a few this week and see how easy it is to stretch your dollars while still enjoying hearty, home-cooked food. And if you’re looking for even more ways to lower your grocery bill, don’t forget to check out our post on 10 Budget-Friendly Cooking Hacks to Save Money Without Compromising Taste for practical tips that make every dollar count.
Stretching your grocery budget goes beyond just finding affordable recipes—it’s about making every dollar work harder for you. By using cashback apps like Rakuten and BeFrugal, you can save even more on essential ingredients and everyday household items. Take advantage of their limited-time bonuses and start earning cashback on purchases you’re already making. Click here to join Rakuten or sign up for BeFrugal here and watch your savings grow!
With these cheap and easy meals, you can enjoy delicious food while sticking to your budget. Which one will you try first? Let me know in the comments!
