Cheap Meals: The Ultimate Guide for Eating Well on a Budget

Cheap meals are my specialty! As a home chef, I’ve always believed that delicious food doesn’t have to break the bank. Everyone deserves to enjoy a satisfying and flavorful meal, regardless of their budget. Today, I’m so excited to share a recipe that’s not only incredibly tasty but also incredibly affordable. My Creamy Tomato Pasta is one of my favorite cheap meals to make on a busy weeknight. It’s comforting, quick, and packed with flavor, proving that frugal cooking can be just as exciting and delicious.

Why You Will Love This cheap meals Recipe

This creamy tomato pasta is a total game changer for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly comforting. The creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta create a bowl of pure bliss. Plus, it’s quick; you can whip up this dish in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need a cheap dinner idea fast.

Remember those broke meals I used to make in college? This is a leveled up version of that! Forget bland and boring, this pasta is bursting with fresh tomato flavor, enhanced by a rich and creamy sauce that’s just irresistible. What makes this recipe extra special is how easy it is to customize. You can add your favorite veggies, proteins, or spices to make it your own.

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Ingredients Needed for This cheap meals Recipe

• 1 pound pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite shape)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

How to Make This cheap meals Recipe

1. 1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. 2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. 3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
4. 4. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Reduce the heat to low and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. 5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. 6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

How to Serve This cheap meals Recipe

This creamy tomato pasta is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple side salad. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top. If you like a bit of heat, add another pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce. Grilled chicken or shrimp would also be delicious additions to this broke meals recipe.

You could also serve this as a side dish with some homemade garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks. For plating, a simple sprinkle of fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil make all the difference. Consider adding a dollop of ricotta cheese on top for even extra creaminess. This frugal cooking recipe is a great way to stretch your budget and still enjoy a restaurant quality meal at home. If you’re looking for inspiration beyond this pasta, be sure to check out these Cheap 5 Ingredient Crockpot Dinners.

How to Store This cheap meals Recipe

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, portion the pasta into freezer safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to keep it moist. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Tips to Make This cheap meals Recipe

• For a richer sauce, use whole milk instead of heavy cream.
• Add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a deeper tomato flavor.
• Use fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano to brighten the dish.
• Don’t overcook the pasta. It should be al dente.
• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
• Always salt your pasta water generously.

Helpful Notes for This cheap meals Recipe

If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. If you’re using canned tomatoes, make sure they’re good quality for the best flavor. For a vegan version of this recipe, use plant based cream and vegan Parmesan cheese. You can use any type of pasta you like, but I recommend spaghetti, penne, or rotini.

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your tastes and dietary needs. If you’re looking for more comforting meal ideas, you might also enjoy my recipe for Irish Stew With Mashed Potatoes.

Variation of This cheap meals Recipe

• Vegetable Packed: Add sauteed vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, chicken, or shrimp.
• Creamy Pesto: Stir in a tablespoon of pesto at the end for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Cheesy Goodness: Add shredded mozzarella, provolone, or fontina cheese for an extra cheesy experience.
• For another simple and satisfying option, consider trying my Irish Guinness Beef Stew for a hearty and flavorful meal.

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