19 Struggle Meals That Prove Delicious Doesn’t Have to Mean Expensive
When you have to get creative with the items you already have on hand, or don't have spend a lot of money on, these easy struggle meals can come to the rescue.
This collection will give you some ideas on what to make when you have limited resources and we've also included some tasty budget-friendly dishes that'll feed the family without costing too much.
Make the most of what you already have on hand or learn to stretch ingredients with these struggle meals. Being budget-friendly and versatile, struggle meal recipes are a great way to feed the family and get creative with your meal plans.
Silly Chili Macaroni
Macaroni noodles, cans of chili, and some shredded cheese can go a long way and it's easy (and still affordable) to double or triple the recipe if needed.
Get the Recipe: Silly Chili Macaroni
Pasta and Beans
Pasta, beans, and pasta sauce. It's a cheap and easy meal that you can stretch out and make last for the week ahead.
Get the Recipe: Pasta and Beans
Fiesta Scrambled Eggs
While eggs have jumped in price, they're still one of the more affordable ways to get a meal on the table or to come up with something simple for everyone to eat.
These fiesta scrambled eggs use items you may already have in the fridge along with some canned chili peppers, spices, and milk.
Get the Recipe: Fiesta Scrambled Eggs
Microwave Fried Rice
Use rice to make a filling dinner idea the family can enjoy. Made in the microwave, it's an easy and filling meal that's quick.
Get the Recipe: Microwave Fried Rice
Cheese Quesadilla
Tortillas, cheese, and some spices are all you need to make a light meal idea that's budget friendly. Cheese quesadillas are easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Quesadilla
Air Fryer Kielbasa Bites
Grab some kielbasa and cook it in the air fryer until crispy. Serve it with rice and frozen veggies for an affordable meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Kielbasa Bites
Crockpot White Chicken Chili
The great thing about chili is that it typically makes a large batch that you can eat all week long. Keep the leftovers and you have a quick meal to reheat without spending extra money.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot White Chicken Chili
Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas
Grab some chicken, peppers (fresh or frozen), and tortillas and combine it with some pantry spices to make a delicious dinner idea. If you have an air fryer you can use that or simply toss everything in a pan and cook.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas
Tomato Basil Pasta
A simple combination of pasta, canned tomatoes, and seasonings can go a long way with helping you create an delicious and budget-friendly dinner.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Basil Pasta
American Goulash
A great way to feed the family on a budget is to make goulash. It's also easy to customize with the items you can get on your budget and makes enough to feed everyone throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: American Goulash
No-Peek Chicken and Rice Casserole
Use chicken, rice, and a few cans of creamed soup to make a delicious casserole that's satisfying. Leftovers can be enjoyed throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: No-Peek Chicken and Rice Casserole
Meatball Sub Casserole
Easy to make, this meatball sub casserole is bursting with flavor and can feed the family when you're on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sub Casserole
Slow Cooker Applesauce Chicken
Throw some chicken and apple sauce in the slow cooker for a meal the family will love. You can serve a side of veggies or rice to go with it.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Applesauce Chicken
Sheet Pan Cheeseburger and Potato Medley
Simple, easy to make, and filling, make this cheeseburger and potato medley for a filling dinner idea.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Cheeseburger and Potato Medley
Ramen Noodle soup
Ramen noodles, veggies and some optional toppings turns into a tasty meal you can enjoy on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Noodle soup
One Pot Pasta
One pot and a simple ingredients are all you need to make this filling family dinner. It's a quick dish that's easy to make.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Pasta
Buffalo Chicken Ranch Wrap
One of the classics, you can make your own homemade basil tomato soup with just a few ingredients and a tasty grilled cheese to go with it.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Ranch Wrap
Egg Salad
Whether you need a cheap lunch or dinner, you can't go wrong with egg salad. It's quick, simple, and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Egg Salad
Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks
Pick up some chicken drumsticks and cook it in a savory BBQ sauce to make a tasty meal the family will love.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks
Don't let your tight budget keep you from enjoying some flavorful meals. It's all about getting creative with what you have and what you can afford.
While each budget is different, these struggle meal ideas might just come in handy in the future.
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