After a long day, the last thing you want to do is wash a pile of dishes. That’s where cheap one-pot dinner meals for busy weeknights come to the rescue. These recipes not only save you time but also minimize cleanup, making them perfect for families on a budget.
1. One-Pot Chicken and Rice
A simple and satisfying one-pot chicken and rice dish can be prepared with a few pantry staples.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken thighs or breasts ($5.00)
- 1 cup rice ($0.50)
- 2 cups chicken broth ($0.50)
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots ($0.75)
Total cost for 4 servings: Approximately $6.75
Instructions:
- Heat a pot over medium heat and brown the chicken on both sides.
- Add the rice, broth, and vegetables to the pot.
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
2. One-Pot Spaghetti with Marinara
This one-pot spaghetti recipe is a budget-friendly way to enjoy a classic pasta dish without dirtying multiple pans.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 box spaghetti ($0.50)
- 1 jar marinara sauce ($1.50)
- 2 cups water ($0.00)
- Parmesan cheese (optional) ($0.50)
Total cost for 4 servings: Approximately $2.50
Instructions:
- Place the spaghetti, marinara sauce, and water in a large pot.
- Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick.
- Cook until the spaghetti is tender and the sauce is thickened, about 15 minutes.
3. One-Pot Chili
A warm, hearty bowl of one-pot chili is perfect for busy nights when you want something filling but easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef ($4.00)
- 1 can kidney beans ($1.00)
- 1 can diced tomatoes ($1.00)
- 1 packet chili seasoning ($0.75)
Total cost for 4 servings: Approximately $6.75
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot and drain any excess fat.
- Add the beans, tomatoes, and seasoning to the pot.
- Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together.
4. One-Pot Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a family favorite, and this one-pot version keeps it simple and affordable.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni ($0.75)
- 2 cups milk ($1.00)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese ($2.00)
Total cost for 4 servings: Approximately $3.75
Instructions:
- Combine the macaroni and milk in a pot and bring to a boil.
- Stir constantly for about 8-10 minutes until the pasta is cooked and the milk is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in the shredded cheese and mix until creamy.
5. One-Pot Beef and Potato Stew
A beef and potato stew is a comforting dish that requires minimal prep but delivers maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound stew beef ($5.00)
- 4 potatoes, chopped ($1.50)
- 2 carrots, chopped ($0.50)
- 4 cups beef broth ($1.00)
Total cost for 4 servings: Approximately $8.00
Instructions:
- Brown the beef in a large pot and add the chopped vegetables.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat.
- Cover and simmer for 45 minutes to an hour until the beef is tender.
Conclusion
These cheap one-pot dinner meals for busy weeknights are designed to be quick, easy, and affordable. Whether you choose the one-pot chicken and rice, the beef and potato stew, or any other recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen or doing a mountain of dishes. Give them a try and simplify your weeknight cooking!