Meal prepping can save you time and money while keeping your meals healthy and satisfying, from chicken favorites to easy stroganoff versions. Here are 17 easy and affordable recipes that are perfect for preparing in advance. These dishes are simple to make and can be stored for the week, making your busy days a little easier. We know "cheap" can mean different things to different people, so here you will find recipes fitting a variety of budgets - but all without any unnecessarily expensive ingredients.
Caprese Chicken
This 5-ingredient Caprese Chicken is a simple and satisfying one-pan meal. It's a comforting dish that your family will enjoy, and with just five ingredients, it's quick to prepare.
Ground Beef Stroganoff
This flavorful stroganoff is a great dinner option that's quick and easy to prepare. It's perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Pesto Chicken
Pesto chicken is simple and quick to prepare with just two ingredients. You'll enjoy tender grilled chicken breast paired with a rich and tasty basil pesto sauce.
One-Pot Hummus Pasta
Dinner can be simple with just 12 minutes, 5 ingredients, and one pot. This is an easy and affordable meal option that anyone can whip up.
Tater Tot Casserole
This dish features a tasty ground beef filling covered with cheesy tater tots, creating a simple casserole that's ready in just 30 minutes. It's a comforting meal that's great for busy weeknights.
Marinated Chicken Legs
This recipe gives you chicken with a crispy skin and juicy meat. The outside is golden brown while the inside stays tender and flavorful.
Enchilada Bake
This Enchilada Bake is simple to make with ingredients you probably already have at home, and it's delicious enough to be a family favorite. You won't even need to use your oven, as this dish is made in a slow cooker.
Meatloaf
This is a simple and healthier version of meatloaf that skips the breadcrumbs. With just a handful of ingredients, it comes together quickly for a classic dinner that everyone in the family will like.
Instant Pot Chicken & Potatoes
Instant Pot Chicken and Potatoes is a tasty meal that you can whip up in less than 45 minutes. The dish features a flavorful tomato sauce made with fresh tomatoes, tomato paste, and oregano, making it a great choice for busy nights.
Lemon Ricotta Pasta
This pasta dish is incredibly easy to make. It's perfect for a quick meal that won't break the bank.
Cajun Alfredo Pasta
This Alfredo sauce has a spicy kick that gives a new spin to the classic recipe. Using just common powdered seasonings you likely have in your pantry, this is a great option when you're looking to save some money.
Cheesy Beans on Toasted Garlic Bread
Dinner can be ready in just 20 minutes with only a few ingredients. Cheesy beans baked in tasty marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella make a satisfying meal, especially when paired with garlic bread.
Cherry Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Walnuts
This 15-minute Cherry Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Walnuts is a quick and easy dish that packs a lot of flavor. It's great on its own, but adding some mozzarella or burrata cheese takes it to the next level.
Sheet Pan Caprese Gnocchi
This sheet pan dinner is a great meal for summer. It's an easy and tasty way to feed a large family while keeping weeknight cooking simple.
Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables
Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables is a simple way to prepare a complete meal that's both healthy and satisfying. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you want something easy and delicious.
Baked Apricot Chicken
Baked Apricot Chicken is a simple chicken dish that your family will love thanks to its sweet and savory sauce. It comes together in just 30 minutes with only a few ingredients, perfect for busy weeknights.
Creamy Pesto Pasta
This creamy pesto pasta is quick to make with just three ingredients and takes only 10 minutes to cook. The bright pesto sauce combined with Greek yogurt creates a simple and satisfying meal that you'll want to have regularly.
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