Nutrition is still necessary during questionable times, so we’re focusing on some inflation-friendly meals that’ll still fill you up. Whether you’re cooking for a couple, a crowd, or looking to create cheap student meals, you can always adjust our recipes to enjoy. Some of the dishes are seasonal, while others are just budget-friendly recipes that you can make anytime.
Canadian Bacon Fried Cabbage
There are so many benefits to this cruciferous vegetable; if you’re not integrating this into your meals, you’re truly missing out. It’s one of the lighter, more affordable comfort foods we’re sharing, yet you can use it in many other dishes, such as Coleslaw, soups, or wraps. It’s super easy to prep, quick to cook, and lends an intensified flavor with whatever herbs, spices, and enhancements that you add while cooking. Health benefits include better energy and digestion, because it’s loaded with fiber and various vitamins.
Baked Canned Salmon Patties
A cheaper way to enjoy salmon that’s also super quick and easy to put together. They’re nostalgic, so if your family likes seafood, this’ll be great for the kids, too! Pantry and fridge ingredients combine well to create a healthy dish full of protein and omega-3s that will disappear faster than it takes to make.
Stovetop Turkey Spaghetti
An ultimate favorite for most humans, as it brings a feeling of home comfort. It’s like Mom used to make – or better – because you can customize it any way you please! If you’re lucky, you might have leftovers, which always seem to taste better the next day.
Fully Loaded Ground Turkey Tacos
Family-friendly balanced meal since you have your protein (turkey), veggies (lettuce, tomatoes, onions), and carbs included. Tacos are like spaghetti; you can customize them however you like for regular meals, parties, or meal planning.
Lentil, Butternut Squash, Spinach Stoup with Leftover Turkey
If you’re looking for meatless, omit the leftover turkey; if you’re using leftovers, use whatever meat you like. You’ll still get your protein, fiber, iron, and minerals with all of the other nutritious ingredients. This is very much like spaghetti; it tastes better the next day and freezes well for dinner later.
One-Pan Tomato-Free Turkey Chili
A comfort classic that’s always fulfilling, warming, and very healthy. Customizable with a variety of beans and vegetables, while still providing a load of protein and fiber. Chili is an ultimate crowd pleaser, serving as the perfect meal for games, gatherings, or just grubbing at home with the family.
Shrimp Stir Fry with Vegetables & Noodles
A tasty way to use whatever vegetables you have on hand that works with any protein you have. It’s quick to make, fresh to eat, and colorful as you want it! Thanks to the vegetables and protein you choose, it’s nutritious, delicious, and as customizable as you want it.
Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Another classic comfort food that just warms the heart and stomach. Full of vegetables of your choice, whatever meat you want (not a lot either), and creamy mashed potatoes as the topping. It’s a great meal to create with leftovers, and amazingly, have leftovers.
To better reduce the stress of your meal planning, we suggest shopping at grocers like Aldi’s (if you’re lucky), a great place to get the best bang for your buck. Your money tends to stretch a little further, and you can get some great high-quality ingredients to create cheap Aldi dinners or meals for any part of the day. So, even when it seems tight, know that you can still create something with what you got!
