We all know that feeling when payday is still far away and our wallets are feeling a little light. However, this shouldn’t mean sacrificing a healthy and delicious meal
Cooking at home is always a great way to save some money, but it can be hard to think of cheap and tasty meal ideas.
Fear not, as I have collected 33 frugal meals that will not only satisfy your wallet but also your taste buds. So, let’s dive in and start saving some dough!
33 Easy Frugal Meals
1. Lentil Soup
Lentils are a cheap and hearty protein source. Add some carrots, onions, and celery to a pot with lentils and some vegetable broth, and you have a nutritious and delicious soup.
2. Pasta with Tomato Sauce
A classic and cheap meal option. Cook some pasta and heat up a can of tomato sauce with some garlic and olive oil. Top with Parmesan cheese and enjoy!
3. Fried Rice
This is a versatile meal that you can throw together with any veggies and protein you have on hand. Saute some onions and garlic in a pan, add rice and soy sauce, and then add in your extras.
4. Chili
Chili is a great way to use up any leftover veggies and protein. Add some beans, tomatoes, and spices and let it simmer away.
5. Baked Potatoes
A cheap and tasty meal that can be customized to your liking. Top your potato with butter, sour cream, cheese, or any other toppings you have on hand.
6. Vegetable Stir-Fry
A healthy and budget-friendly meal. Add any veggies you have in the fridge to a hot pan with some soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Serve over rice or noodles.
7. Bean Burritos
Beans are a cheap and filling protein source. Cold a can of beans with some spices, wrap it up in a tortilla with some cheese, and you have a delicious and easy meal.
8. Omelette
An inexpensive and protein-packed meal that you can add any veggies to. Whisk some eggs with your favorite mix-ins, cook in a pan, and voila!
9. Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
A classic pairing that is cheap and comforting. Grill some cheese between two slices of bread, and heat up some tomato soup on the side.
10. Tuna Salad Sandwich
A simple and cheap meal that is also heart-healthy. Mix canned tuna with mayo and serve on bread with lettuce and tomato.
11. Pita Pizza
An easy and cheap way to make pizza at home. Toast a pita bread, spread some tomato sauce, top with cheese and your favorite toppings, then pop in the oven until golden and bubbly.
12. Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili
A healthy and filling meal that uses two cheap ingredients. Add some canned tomatoes, chili powder, and garlic for flavor.
13. Quesadillas
A simple and tasty meal that can be customized with any fillings you have on hand. Heat up a tortilla, add cheese and fillings, fold, and cook until melted.
14. Rice Bowls
A versatile meal that can be customized to your liking. Cook some rice and add any veggies and protein you have on hand, drizzle with some soy sauce and sesame oil.
15. Tomato and Mozzarella Salad
A fresh and healthy side dish. Slice up some tomatoes and mozzarella, drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then sprinkle some salt and pepper.
16. Lentil and Rice Casserole
A cheap and hearty meal that can be customized with any veggies you have on hand. Mix rice, lentils, veggies, and broth, then bake until soft and bubbly.
17. Spaghetti Carbonara
An easy and cheap pasta dish that can be whipped up in minutes. Cook spaghetti, toss with some whisked eggs, Parmesan cheese, and bacon.
18. Falafel Wrap
Cheap and vegetarian-friendly, falafel wraps are a tasty and healthy meal. Mix some chickpeas, spices, and flour, shape, then fry or bake until crispy.
19. Tuna Pasta Salad
A cool and refreshing salad that is perfect for hot days. Mix canned tuna, pasta, peas, and mayo then serve chilled.
20. Garlic and Herb Roasted Potatoes
A flavorful and cheap side dish that is easy to make. Cut potatoes into wedges, toss with garlic, herbs, and olive oil, then roast until crispy.
21. Black Bean Soup
Black beans are packed with protein and are an affordable ingredient. Heat some black beans with some broth, onions, and spices then top with sour cream or cheese.
22. Vegetable and Chickpea Curry
Create a delicious curry using canned chickpeas, various vegetables, and a flavorful curry sauce. Serve over rice or with naan bread.
23. Egg Fried Rice
Scramble some eggs and mix them with rice, soy sauce, and veggies for a quick and affordable fried rice dish.
24. Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich
A simple and inexpensive sandwich option. Spread peanut butter on bread, add banana slices, and you have a tasty meal or snack.
25. Caprese Salad
A light and fresh salad made with tomatoes, fresh basil, mozzarella cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
26. Veggie Quesadillas
Similar to regular quesadillas, but filled with sautéed vegetables and cheese for a meatless option.
27. Cabbage and Sausage Stir-Fry
Combine sliced cabbage and sausages with soy sauce and other seasonings for a satisfying stir-fry.
28. Minestrone Soup
A hearty Italian soup made with vegetables, pasta, and beans. It’s a filling and cost-effective choice.
29. Baked Ziti
Layer ziti pasta with marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and bake until bubbly for a budget-friendly Italian dish.
30. Potato and Pea Curry
Create a flavorful curry using potatoes and peas in a spiced tomato sauce. Serve with rice or flatbread.
31. Tofu Stir-Fry
An economical and healthy stir-fry with tofu, assorted vegetables, and your choice of sauce.
32. Greek Salad
Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, then drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar.
33. Baked Beans on Toast
A classic British comfort food. Heat up canned baked beans and serve them on toasted bread.
Final Thoughts,
Eating on a budget doesn’t have to mean resorting to bland or repetitive meals. With a little creativity and some pantry staples, you can whip up delicious meals that won’t break the bank.
These 33 frugal meals are just a starting point – the possibilities are endless! So next time you’re tempted to reach for takeout, consider trying one of these budget-friendly meals instead. Your wallet (and your taste buds) will thank you.
