Description
Discover 35+ affordable and easy-to-make family meals perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Featuring hearty casseroles, one-pot dinners, and customizable options, these recipes offer variety without breaking the bank.
Ingredients
Scale
- Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup mixed vegetables
- Vegetable Stir-Fry with Noodles
- 8 oz noodles (e.g., lo mein or spaghetti)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs
- Boil water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Mix ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
- Sear meatballs in a pan until browned, then simmer in marinara sauce for 15 minutes.
- Serve meatballs and sauce over cooked spaghetti.
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Combine cooked rice, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and vegetables in a large bowl.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly.
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Noodles
- Cook noodles according to package instructions.
- Heat sesame oil in a wok or skillet, sauté garlic, then add vegetables. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes.
- Toss cooked noodles with soy sauce and vegetables. Serve hot.
Notes
- Meal Prep Tips: Chop vegetables and cook proteins in advance to save time.
- Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- Freezer-Friendly Recipes: Casseroles, soups, and stir-fries freeze well for up to 3 months.
- Customization: Substitute proteins, vegetables, or seasonings to suit dietary needs or preferences.
- Prep Time: 10–30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–60 minutes
- Category: Family Meals, Budget-Friendly Recipes, Quick Weeknight Dinners
- Cuisine: American, International
Keywords: Budget-friendly meals, family dinners, quick and easy recipes, one-pot dinners, affordable recipes