Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for frugality when it comes to mealtime? Look no further! We’ve got 18 delicious and affordable struggle meals that will satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank. From comforting pasta dishes to international-inspired stir-fries, we’ve rounded up our favorite budget-friendly recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
In this article, we’ll be sharing a range of creative and easy-to-make recipes that won’t put a dent in your wallet. Whether you’re a college student on a tight budget or just looking for ways to stretch your grocery dollars further, these recipes are perfect for anyone who wants to cook up a storm without sacrificing flavor.
So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Garlic Butter Pasta with Parmesan
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a staple for any pasta lover. With its rich and creamy garlic butter sauce, perfectly cooked al dente noodles, and the salty kick of Parmesan cheese, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the remaining 2 tbsp butter to the saucepan. Once melted, stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the saucepan and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with the garlic butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beans and Rice with Salsa
This classic Latin-inspired dish is a staple for a reason – it’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and delicious. Serve it as a main course or use it as a base for other meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Salsa (homemade or store-bought), for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the black beans and cook until heated through.
5. Serve the bean mixture over the cooked rice, with salsa on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ramen Noodle Stir-Fry
Transform your instant ramen noodles into a flavorful and nutritious meal with this easy stir-fry recipe. With just a few additional ingredients, you can add protein, texture, and excitement to your lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of instant ramen noodles
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup of cooked chicken or tofu, diced
– 2 teaspoons of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the frozen vegetables; cook until thawed.
5. Add the cooked chicken or tofu; stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
6. Add the soy sauce, noodles, and scallions (if using); stir-fry until combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Egg and Potato Hash
This hearty egg and potato hash is a simple yet satisfying breakfast or brunch option that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and filling dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and lightly browned.
4. While the potatoes are cooking, crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Once the potatoes are done, pour in the eggs and stir gently to combine.
6. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Toast
Peanut Butter Banana Toast: A Simple yet Satisfying Snack!
Cheesy Tuna Melt Sandwich
A classic comfort food sandwich that’s easy to make and packed with protein and flavor. This tuna melt is a great option for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 slices of white bread
– Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the tuna, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, in the skillet.
5. Spoon the tuna mixture on top of the bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the tuna.
7. Top with the remaining bread slices, butter-side up.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Vegetable Fried Rice
This classic Chinese dish is a staple for a reason – it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. With a medley of colorful vegetables and savory seasonings, you’ll be hooked on this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Push onion mixture aside. Crack in eggs; scramble until cooked through.
4. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
6. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil
This simple yet flavorful recipe is a staple of Italian cuisine. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/3 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly golden.
4. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the saucepan with the garlic and olive oil.
5. Toss the spaghetti in the garlic-infused oil to combine, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Bean Quesadillas
A flavorful and filling Mexican-inspired dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the richness of black beans with the creaminess of cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together black beans, onion, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with cheese and bean mixture.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Microwave Mug Omelette
Start your day with a fluffy and flavorful omelette, cooked to perfection in just minutes! This recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick and easy breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1-2 slices of your favorite cheese (e.g. cheddar, mozzarella)
– Optional: diced ham, bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms
Instructions:
1. Crack the egg into a microwave-safe mug.
2. Add milk, salt, and pepper to the egg.
3. Stir gently with a fork until well combined.
4. Place 1-2 slices of cheese on top of the egg mixture.
5. Microwave on high for 30-40 seconds or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.
6. Carefully remove the mug from the microwave using oven mitts (as it will be hot).
7. Add any optional fillings (e.g. diced ham, bell peppers) on top of the omelette.
Cooking Time: 30-40 seconds
Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting classic: crispy grilled cheese sandwiches served alongside creamy tomato soup. This easy-to-make duo is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 slices of cheddar, American, or your favorite cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 cups tomato soup
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, buttered-side down, in the skillet.
4. Add cheese to the unbuttered side of the bread.
5. Top with the second bread slice, buttered-side up.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve with warm tomato soup and garnish with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including soup preparation)
Chickpea Salad Wraps
A refreshing and healthy wrap filled with protein-packed chickpeas, crunchy veggies, and creamy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz)
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 large flour tortillas
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse chickpeas.
2. In a bowl, mix together chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread about 1/4 cup of the chickpea mixture onto the center of each tortilla.
4. Top with tzatziki sauce (about 1-2 tbsp per wrap).
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly.
6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Hot Dogs
This hearty recipe combines the comforting warmth of macaroni and cheese with the nostalgic charm of hot dogs. A simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or a quick weeknight supper.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 4 hot dogs, sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, hot dog slices, and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Baked Sweet Potato with Butter
This classic recipe brings out the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, paired with the richness of melted butter. Perfect as a side dish or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and dry them with a paper towel.
3. Poke some holes in each sweet potato using a fork to allow steam to escape while baking.
4. Rub the tops of the sweet potatoes with a little bit of salt.
5. Place the sweet potatoes directly on the middle rack of the oven.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
8. Slather each sweet potato with softened butter and serve.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil Soup with Bread
This hearty lentil soup is a perfect comfort food for a chilly day. Made with red lentils, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious and filling meal that pairs beautifully with a crusty loaf of bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Bread (your favorite type), for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, broth, cumin, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Scrambled Eggs with Toast
Start your day off right with this simple yet satisfying breakfast recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– Optional: chopped herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork until they’re fully beaten.
2. Heat the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until melted.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are scrambled to your desired doneness (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Meanwhile, toast the bread until lightly browned.
5. Serve the scrambled eggs on top of the toasted bread, sprinkling with salt and pepper as needed.
6. If desired, garnish with chopped herbs for added flavor and color.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pancakes with Syrup
Start your day off right with a stack of fluffy pancakes smothered in warm, sticky syrup. This simple recipe is a breakfast staple that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Syrup (your choice of flavor and brand)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter if necessary.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with your favorite syrup.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato and Basil Pasta
This simple yet satisfying pasta dish is a perfect blend of summer flavors, featuring juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and al dente pasta. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, this recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves and cook for an additional minute.
5. Drain cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with tomato mixture. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
In this article, you’ll find 18 delicious struggle meals that won’t break the bank. From classic pasta dishes like Garlic Butter Pasta with Parmesan to international-inspired recipes like Ramen Noodle Stir-Fry and Vegetable Fried Rice, these budget-friendly meals are sure to satisfy your cravings without emptying your wallet. Other highlights include Cheesy Tuna Melt Sandwiches, Black Bean Quesadillas, and Microwave Mug Omelettes that are quick, easy, and affordable. Whether you’re a student, working professional, or simply looking for ways to stretch your food budget, these struggle meals have got you covered.
