Budget-Friendly Weeknight Meals with Only 5 Ingredients
Finding time to prepare delicious and affordable meals during a busy weeknight can be tricky, especially when you’re on a budget.
The solution? Simple recipes with only 5 ingredients that are both satisfying and easy to make.
Here’s a collection of dishes that are light on your wallet and perfect for your schedule.
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Cheesy Baked Ziti
This hearty pasta dish is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort and ingredients.
- Ingredients: Ziti pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
- Mix the cooked pasta with marinara sauce and ricotta cheese, then layer in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly.
Pro Tip: Pair with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
These flavor-packed quesadillas are quick to assemble and perfect for a weeknight.
- Ingredients: Flour tortillas, shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, shredded cheese, and green onions.
- Mix the chicken with BBQ sauce and green onions.
- Place the mixture on a tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, and top with another tortilla.
- Cook in a skillet over medium heat until golden and the cheese melts.
Pro Tip: Serve with a dollop of sour cream or salsa for extra flavor.
Sausage and Veggie Sheet Pan Dinner
This one-pan meal is simple, nutritious, and easy to clean up.
- Ingredients: Smoked sausage, potatoes, bell peppers, olive oil, and Italian seasoning.
- Chop the sausage, potatoes, and peppers into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss with olive oil and Italian seasoning, then spread on a baking sheet.
- Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Pro Tip: Swap in seasonal vegetables for variety and savings.
Caprese Salad Wraps
For a light and fresh meal, these wraps are perfect.
- Ingredients: Tortillas, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and balsamic glaze.
- Layer mozzarella slices, halved cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves on a tortilla.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze and roll it up tightly.
Pro Tip: Add grilled chicken for extra protein if desired.
5-Ingredient Fried Rice
Transform leftovers into a quick and satisfying dish with this recipe.
- Ingredients: Cooked rice, eggs, frozen mixed vegetables, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Heat sesame oil in a pan and scramble the eggs.
- Add the rice, vegetables, and soy sauce, then stir-fry until heated through.
Pro Tip: Use leftover rice for the best texture.
Tomato Basil Soup
This comforting soup is rich in flavor and easy to prepare.
- Ingredients: Canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, garlic, fresh basil, and heavy cream.
- Sauté minced garlic in a pot, then add canned tomatoes and broth.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, blend until smooth, and stir in heavy cream and basil.
Pro Tip: Serve with grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic pairing.
Pesto Chicken Bake
A simple baked chicken dish that’s full of flavor.
- Ingredients: Chicken breasts, pesto, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and olive oil.
- Place chicken in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and spread pesto on top.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and sprinkle with mozzarella.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Pro Tip: Serve with rice or a side salad for a complete dinner.
Keep Dinner Affordable and Delicious
With these budget-friendly meals, you can enjoy a variety of dishes that are quick to prepare and easy on your wallet.
Cooking with just 5 ingredients not only simplifies your routine but also proves that you don’t need a long shopping list to create flavorful dinners.
Try these recipes, and make weeknight cooking stress-free and enjoyable!
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