As the saying goes, “necessity is the mother of invention” – and for busy weeknights, that means cooking up a storm with minimal fuss. If you’re like many of us, you’re always on the lookout for quick, easy, and delicious meal ideas that won’t break the bank. Enter Walmart’s impressive array of affordable ingredients and ready-to-use recipes! From classic comfort foods to international flavors and convenience-driven meals, we’ve scoured the aisles to bring you our top 20 budget-friendly Walmart recipes for busy weeknights.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Walmart’s store-brand staples and explore how they can be used to create mouthwatering dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From savory stir-fries to sweet treats, we’ve got you covered with our tried-and-true recipes featuring Walmart favorites like Great Value mac and cheese, Sam’s Choice peanut butter, and Marketside veggies.
So grab a pen and paper (or your phone – we won’t judge!), get ready to cook up some culinary magic on the cheap, and let’s get started!
Walmart Rotisserie Chicken Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the convenience of Walmart Rotisserie Chicken with fresh ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 Walmart Rotisserie Chicken, shredded
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, avocado
Instructions:
1. Shred the rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the shredded chicken to the skillet; stir to combine with the vegetables.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the tacos by spooning the chicken mixture onto a tortilla and topping with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Great Value Mac and Cheese Bake
Satisfy your cravings with this classic macaroni and cheese recipe, elevated to a satisfying bake. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Great Value Macaroni
– 2 cups Great Value Shells & White Cheddar Macaroni & Cheese Sauce
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Great Value Macaroni according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, Great Value Shells & White Cheddar Macaroni & Cheese Sauce, milk, and grated cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Dot the top with butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Marketside Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Get ready to delight your guests with this addictive and flavorful dip! Marketside Spinach and Artichoke Dip is a classic party favorite that’s easy to make and always a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.4 oz) container Marketside Spinach and Artichoke Dip
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Transfer the Marketside Spinach and Artichoke Dip to a baking dish.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the dip.
4. Top with chopped parsley and paprika.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve warm with tortilla chips, pita bread, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sam’s Choice Frozen Veggie Stir-Fry
This recipe is a great way to add some nutrients and flavor to your meal using Sam’s Choice Frozen Veggie Stir-Fry. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a delicious and healthy dish ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of Sam’s Choice Frozen Veggie Stir-Fry
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your choice of protein (chicken, beef, tofu, etc.) or additional vegetables
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the vegetable oil and swirl it around to coat the pan.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the Sam’s Choice Frozen Veggie Stir-Fry and stir-fry according to package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, adding your choice of protein or additional vegetables if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes
Equate Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
Combine the natural goodness of bananas with the rich flavor of peanut butter for a satisfying and filling smoothie. This Equate Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie is perfect for a quick breakfast or post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
• 2 ripe bananas
• 2 tbsp Equate Peanut Butter
• 1 cup vanilla yogurt
• 1/2 cup ice-cold milk
• Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, peanut butter, and vanilla yogurt.
2. Add the milk and salt, then blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or thickness as needed.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Marketside Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and refreshing salad featuring grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and tangy Marketside Caesar dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup Marketside Caesar dressing
– 1/2 cup croutons
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, croutons, and shaved Parmesan cheese.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad.
5. Drizzle Marketside Caesar dressing over the top and toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Great Value Canned Chili Cheese Dogs
This recipe takes the comfort food classic to the next level by incorporating Great Value Canned Chili and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick snack or game-day gathering, this easy-to-make dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 hot dogs
– 1 can Great Value Canned Chili (10 oz)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Optional toppings: chopped onions, mustard, relish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook hot dogs according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, combine canned chili and butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Place cooked hot dogs in the skillet and spoon chili mixture over them.
5. Top with shredded cheese and return to the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Walmart Frozen Pizza Supreme
Get ready for a deliciously satisfying meal with this easy-to-make recipe using Walmart’s Frozen Pizza Supreme.
Ingredients:
– 1 Walmart Frozen Pizza Supreme
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional toppings (choose your favorites): pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Remove the pizza from the freezer and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the pizza crust.
4. Add your desired toppings evenly across the pizza.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time:
– 12-15 minutes
Marketside Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
This quick and flavorful recipe combines succulent shrimp with Marketside’s Garlic Butter sauce, served over al dente pasta for a satisfying dinner. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz Marketside Garlic Butter Pasta (linguine-style)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Toss the cooked pasta with the Garlic Butter sauce from the Marketside package, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Combine the cooked shrimp with the pasta and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Great Value Instant Oatmeal Breakfast Bars
Start your day off right with these no-bake breakfast bars made with Great Value Instant Oatmeal. A perfect on-the-go breakfast or snack, these chewy bars are packed with fiber and flavor.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups Great Value Instant Oatmeal
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 cup chopped dried fruit (such as cranberries or raisins)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or almonds)
• Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in the dried fruit and nuts until evenly distributed.
3. Press the mixture into a lined or greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Cut into bars.
Cooking Time: None – no-bake!
Sam’s Choice Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Savor the flavors of Asia with this quick and easy stir-fry recipe, featuring tender beef and crisp broccoli.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and broccoli to the pan. Cook until the broccoli is tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan and stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Equate Yogurt Parfait with Granola
Start your day off right with a delicious and healthy Equate Yogurt Parfait topped with crunchy granola. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for breakfast or as a snack any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Equate Greek Yogurt
– 2 tablespoons granola
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Layer the yogurt mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Add the granola on top of the yogurt layer.
4. Spoon the mixed berries over the granola.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembled in under 1 minute!)
Marketside Three-Cheese Stuffed Shells
This classic Italian-American dish gets a decadent twist with the addition of three rich cheeses: Parmesan, ricotta, and mozzarella. Perfect for a comforting dinner or impressive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Great Value Canned Tuna Salad Wraps
Transform canned tuna into a tasty and convenient snack with these simple wraps.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Great Value Canned Tuna (drained)
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon of chopped celery
– 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 tortilla wraps (your choice of size)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the canned tuna, mayonnaise, chopped onion, chopped celery, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Lay out a tortilla wrap and spoon about 1/4 cup of the tuna salad onto the center of the wrap.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrap up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the wrap into a neat package.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients and wraps.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in just a few minutes!)
Walmart Frozen Chicken Alfredo
Quick and Easy Walmart Frozen Chicken Alfredo Recipe
This recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy Walmart’s frozen chicken alfredo pasta. With just a few extra ingredients, you can turn this convenient meal into a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package Walmart Frozen Chicken Alfredo
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the frozen pasta on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Dot the top of the pasta with butter, then sprinkle with heavy cream.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Marketside Southwest Chicken Quesadillas
Get ready to fiesta with this flavorful recipe that combines the juiciness of chicken with the spiciness of Southwest flavors, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1 cup Marketside Southwestern Ranch Dip
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the chicken and Southwestern Ranch Dip until well combined.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with cheese.
4. Add about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture on 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 is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Great Value Boxed Brownie Mix Cookies
Transform your favorite boxed brownie mix into chewy cookies with just a few simple steps. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or as a fun treat to share.
Ingredients:
– 1 package Great Value Boxed Brownie Mix (13.5 oz)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together brownie mix and 2 eggs until smooth.
3. Add vanilla extract and stir to combine.
4. Fold in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sam’s Choice Frozen Veggie Lasagna
Upgrade your weeknight dinner routine with this simple recipe that combines Sam’s Choice Frozen Veggie Lasagna with fresh flavors and textures. This classic comfort food gets a modern makeover in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 package Sam’s Choice Frozen Veggie Lasagna
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey, cooked and drained
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the lasagna according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce followed by a layer of lasagna, then mozzarella cheese. Repeat two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and chopped basil leaves (if using) over the top layer of cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Equate Oatmeal Raisin Energy Bites
Boost your energy levels with these delicious and healthy oatmeal raisin bites, made with Equate Oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup dried raisins
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats and raisins.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the peanut butter mixture to the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in the chopped dark chocolate chips.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
6. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! These energy bites are no-bake and ready in just a few minutes.
Marketside Classic Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
A hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this classic meatloaf is paired with creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. While the meatloaf is cooking, boil potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with milk and butter.
6. Serve the meatloaf sliced on top of mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cook up a storm without breaking the bank! This article features 20 delicious and budget-friendly recipes using ingredients from Walmart. From tacos and mac and cheese bake to shrimp pasta and lasagna, these meals are perfect for busy weeknights. Try making Walmart Rotisserie Chicken Tacos, Great Value Mac and Cheese Bake, or Sam’s Choice Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry – your taste buds (and wallet) will thank you!
