Are you looking for ways to save money on your grocery bill without sacrificing flavor or nutrition? Look no further! With these 7 meals for $50 or less, you can feed your family tasty and healthy meals without breaking the bank.
1. Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts ($3)
– 1 packet taco seasoning ($1)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed ($1)
– 1 can corn, drained ($1)
– 1 jar salsa ($2)
– 8 corn tortillas ($1)
Instructions:
Place chicken breasts, taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and salsa in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours. Shred chicken and serve on corn tortillas.
Total cost: $9
Serves: 4
2. Vegetable Fried Rice
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice ($1)
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables ($1)
– 2 eggs, lightly beaten ($1)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil ($1)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce ($1)
Instructions:
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. Push vegetables to the side and add beaten eggs. Scramble eggs and mix with vegetables. Add cooked rice and soy sauce and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes.
Total cost: $5
Serves: 2-3
3. Baked Potato Bar
Ingredients:
– 4 baked potatoes ($4)
– 1 can chili ($2)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese ($2)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions ($1)
– Sour cream and butter (optional)
Instructions:
Bake potatoes in oven or microwave until tender. Heat chili in a small skillet and set aside. Cut a slit in each potato and fill with chili, cheese, green onions, and any other desired toppings.
Total cost: $9
Serves: 4
4. Ham and Cheese Quiche
Ingredients:
– 1 refrigerated pie crust ($3)
– 6 eggs ($1)
– 1/2 cup milk ($1)
– 1 cup diced ham ($2)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese ($2)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until well combined. Stir in ham and cheese. Pour mixture into pie crust. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
Total cost: $9
Serves: 4-6
5. Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. spaghetti ($1)
– 1 lb. ground beef ($5)
– 1 jar spaghetti sauce ($2)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley ($1)
Instructions:
Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Meanwhile, brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat. Add spaghetti sauce and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Serve meat sauce over cooked spaghetti and top with chopped parsley.
Total cost: $9
Serves: 4-6
6. Pesto Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. penne pasta ($1)
– 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts ($3)
– 1 jar pesto sauce ($3)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese ($1)
Instructions:
Cook penne pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, grill or pan-sear chicken until cooked through. Slice chicken into thin strips. Toss cooked pasta with pesto sauce until well coated. Top with sliced chicken and grated Parmesan cheese.
Total cost: $8
Serves: 4-6
7. Crock Pot Chili
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. ground beef ($5)
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed ($1)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed ($1)
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies ($1)
– 1 packet chili seasoning ($1)
Instructions:
Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat. Add beef, beans, tomatoes, and chili seasoning to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours. Serve with cornbread or crackers.
Total cost: $9
Serves: 4-6
With these easy and affordable meal ideas, you can enjoy delicious homemade meals without overspending. Try them out and see how much money you can save!
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