Groceries can be quite costly nowadays, and according to the USDA, prices are projected to keep rising in 2025. However, preparing meals at home is generally less expensive than dining out, making it a smart way to save money. Yet, some people find it challenging to be inventive with low-cost ingredients. In a discussion among frugal individuals online, a member named samdaz712 asked others about their favorite inexpensive meals. They shared their own go-to meal of rice, eggs, and frozen mixed vegetables with soy sauce and chili flakes, noting how affordable and quick it is to prepare. The member encouraged others to share their favorite budget-friendly meals that they enjoy, rather than meals they eat just to save money. They expressed their interest in discovering new affordable recipes.
Many frugal individuals responded with their own tasty and inexpensive meal ideas. Here are 30 meals that they love and never grow tired of:
Beans, lentils, and legumes – One person shared that they regularly make refried pinto beans, adding cheese and spreading them on toasted torta bread with avocado. Leftovers can be used in eggs or burritos later. – Another mentioned a simple pot of pinto beans with kielbasa sausage and cornbread. – A third suggested cooking rice and lentils together. – Someone else enjoyed a basic sweet potato and black bean burrito, noting it’s even better with caramelized onions and cumin. – Another individual highlighted easy and healthy options like half rice and half red lentils with veggies and crushed tomatoes or coconut milk.
Pantry staples that remain favorites – A user stated their love for PB&J sandwiches, even sharing a fancier version with banana and honey that they toast in butter. – Another celebrated nachos as a great meal. – Pasta with butter, sometimes topped with grated parmesan, was also mentioned. – Others included quesadillas, toast, overnight oats, and even Costco’s affordable hot dog and drink. – A participant noted that green bean casserole is quick to make and lasts for several meals.
The versatile potato – One member described “hobo-potatoes,” which are diced potatoes and onions cooked in foil over a campfire, suggesting they pair well with any protein. – Another simply enjoyed baked potatoes for their affordability and taste. – A user shared several combinations, including baked beans, fried eggs with potatoes, or rice with beans and eggs. – They also mentioned using rotisserie chicken to make soup, emphasizing the importance of mastering rice, beans, and potatoes.
Rice, eggs, and whatever’s available – A member echoed the idea of rice and eggs, highlighting their favorite way to prepare them with a crispy egg on sushi rice and seaweed.
What affordable meals do you enjoy?
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Source: Upworthy, by Emily Shiffer