Quick Easy Dinner Recipes for Family

Feed Your Family on a Shoestring: 50+ Budget-Friendly Meal Ideas

50+ Dirt Cheap Meal Ideas to Make on a Budget

Making meals on a budget doesn’t have to be boring or difficult. With a little creativity and some pantry staples, you can make delicious and nutritious meals that won’t break the bank. Here are 50+ dirt cheap meal ideas to make on a budget.

Ingredients:

  • 1 can of black beans
  • 1 can of corn
  • 1 can of diced tomatoes
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon of chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup of cooked rice
  • Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, and/or avocado

Instructions:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper and stir to combine.
  4. Add the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes and stir to combine.
  5. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Serve over cooked rice and top with optional toppings, if desired.

Nutritional Information:

  • Calories: 250
  • Fat: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Fiber: 8g

Additional Tips and Variations:

  • This dish can be made vegan by omitting the optional toppings.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables, such as zucchini, squash, or mushrooms.
  • For a spicier dish, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • For a creamier dish, add a can of coconut milk.

This dish is a great way to make a nutritious and delicious meal on a budget. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and can be customized to suit your tastes. Plus, it’s a great way to use up pantry staples and leftovers. Enjoy!