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Garlic Butter Pasta with Canned Tuna
A flavorful and satisfying twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines the richness of garlic butter sauce with the protein-packed goodness of canned tuna.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 can (5 oz.) tuna in water, drained and flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and stir to deglaze (about 30 seconds).
4. Stir in canned tuna, breaking up any large chunks with a spoon.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter sauce, and tuna mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Ramen Noodle Stir-Fry with Frozen Veggies
Transforming a package of instant noodles into a nutritious and flavorful meal is easier than you think! This recipe combines the convenience of ramen noodles with the nutritional benefits of frozen veggies for a satisfying and healthy stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of instant ramen noodles
– 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the frozen vegetables and cook until thawed and tender.
6. Combine cooked noodles with the vegetable mixture and stir to combine.
7. Season with soy sauce (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bean and Rice Burritos with Hot Sauce
Savor the flavors of Latin America with this hearty and spicy burrito recipe, packed with fiber-rich beans, flavorful rice, and a kick of hot sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 tortillas (flour or corn)
– Hot sauce of your choice (e.g., sriracha, hot sauce, or chipotle peppers)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by spooning the bean-rice mixture onto each tortilla, adding hot sauce to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Potato and Onion Hash with Fried Eggs
A hearty and satisfying breakfast or brunch option, this recipe combines the sweetness of caramelized onions and potatoes with the richness of fried eggs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown.
3. Add the sliced onions and continue cooking for another 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently, until both the potatoes and onions are golden brown and caramelized.
4. Make 2-3 wells in the potato mixture and crack an egg into each well.
5. Cook the eggs over low heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired doneness.
6. Serve the hash with the fried eggs on top, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Peanut Butter Noodles
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional noodles, this recipe combines the richness of peanut butter with the heat of chili flakes for a mouth-watering dish that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. noodles (such as rice noodles or soba)
– 2 tbsp. creamy peanut butter
– 1 tbsp. soy sauce
– 1 tsp. honey
– 1/4 tsp. chili flakes
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and chili flakes. Blend until smooth.
3. Add water to the mixture and blend until well combined.
4. Add cooked noodles to the peanut butter mixture and toss until coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons
Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons Recipe
A classic comfort food gets a delightful twist! This creamy tomato soup is elevated by the addition of crispy grilled cheese croutons, adding a satisfying crunch and flavor to each spoonful.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Meanwhile, preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Grill the bread slices, buttered side down, until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Once the soup has finished cooking, use an immersion blender to puree it to your desired consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and basil to taste.
6. Serve the hot soup with grilled cheese croutons on top, perfect for dipping.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Microwave Mac and Cheese with Hot Dogs
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, cheesy, and indulgent microwave recipe that combines the classic comfort of macaroni and cheese with savory hot dogs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup elbow macaroni
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 hot dogs, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain water.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine cooked macaroni, milk, butter, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
3. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture is hot and bubbly.
4. Add sliced hot dogs to the mac and cheese mixture. Stir gently to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to melt the cheese and warm the hot dogs.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Egg Fried Rice with Leftover Veggies
Transform leftover veggies into a flavorful and nutritious meal by combining them with scrambled eggs, rice, and aromatics. This recipe is perfect for using up any vegetables you have on hand and making a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed leftover veggies (e.g., peas, carrots, corn, bell peppers)
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Push the onion mixture aside and crack in the eggs. Scramble the eggs until cooked through, breaking them up with a spatula as they set.
4. Mix the cooked rice into the skillet or wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Add the mixed leftover veggies and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and optional soy sauce to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Lentil and Carrot Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that combines the nutritional benefits of lentils with the sweetness of carrots, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the lentils, carrots, cumin, and paprika (if using). Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Tuna Salad Sandwich with Pickles
This classic tuna salad gets a tangy boost from the addition of crunchy pickles, making it a perfect lunchtime treat. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying a delicious sandwich in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 cup of thinly sliced pickles
– 4 slices of whole wheat bread
– Lettuce leaves and tomato (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and chopped dill. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in the sliced pickles.
3. Divide the tuna mixture among the four slices of bread.
4. Top with lettuce leaves and tomato if desired.
5. Assemble the sandwiches and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pancakes with Cinnamon Sugar
Begin your morning with a warm and comforting treat that’s easy to make and delightful to eat. This recipe for pancakes with cinnamon sugar is a classic breakfast favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your household.
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
– Cinnamon sugar mixture (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
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. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mixture and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Oatmeal with Banana and Peanut Butter
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious Oatmeal with Banana and Peanut Butter!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: honey or maple syrup to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they reach your desired consistency.
3. Once cooked, stir in the sliced banana and peanut butter until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with an optional drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Black Bean Quesadillas
Get ready for a flavorful twist on the classic Mexican dish! These black bean quesadillas are perfect as an appetizer, snack or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. In a pan over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the black beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Place a tortilla in the pan and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the black bean mixture onto half of the tortilla.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese melted. Flip and cook an additional minute.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil
This simple yet flavorful recipe brings out the best of spaghetti, garlic, and olive oil. With just a few ingredients and quick cooking time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. When the spaghetti is cooked, drain and return it to the pot. Add the garlic-infused olive oil and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and toss again.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cornbread and Chili Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the warmth of chili with the crunch of cornbread, perfect for a cozy night in. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1 cup chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh scallions
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the chili according to package instructions or heat it up if using leftover.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Add the cornbread mix and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly toasted.
5. Transfer the cornbread mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Pour the cooked chili over the cornbread.
7. Top with shredded cheese and chopped scallions.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Scrambled Eggs with Toast
Start your day off right with this simple yet satisfying recipe that combines fluffy scrambled eggs with toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– Butter or non-stick cooking spray for toast
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork until they’re well-beaten.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the egg mixture and cook, stirring constantly, until the eggs are set to your desired doneness (about 3-4 minutes).
3. While the eggs are cooking, toast the bread. You can use butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
4. Once the eggs are done, serve them hot over the toasted bread.
Cooking Time: About 5-6 minutes
Homemade Pizza with Tortilla Base
Looking for a twist on traditional pizza? Try using tortillas as the base instead of dough! This recipe yields a crispy and flavorful crust that pairs perfectly with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup pizza sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Toppings of your choice (e.g. pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook tortillas over medium heat for 30-45 seconds on each side, until crispy and pliable.
3. Spread pizza sauce evenly over each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. Add your desired toppings.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Baked Potatoes with Canned Beans
A simple and satisfying recipe that combines the comfort of baked potatoes with the convenience of canned beans, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, or diced tomatoes for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the potatoes directly on the middle rack of the oven for 45-60 minutes, or until they’re soft when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, heat the canned beans in a pan over medium heat until warm.
6. Once the potatoes are done, slice them open and top each one with warmed black beans, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Add any desired toppings and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Summary
Tough times don’t have to mean tough meals! This collection of 18 budget-friendly recipes proves that deliciousness can be achieved even on a shoestring. From classic comfort foods like garlic butter pasta and mac and cheese, to international-inspired dishes like bean and rice burritos and lentil stew, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? These struggle meals are easy on the wallet and quick to prepare, making them perfect for when times get tough. Try out these creative recipes and discover that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for affordability.
