When you need a fast and easy meal that doesn’t break the bank, we’ve got you covered with seven ideas for fast and easy meals that anyone can do.
1. Crock Pot Chuck Roll (Pot Roast)
- Why it’s great: Chuck roll is an affordable cut that becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked. Plus, you can make a big batch to enjoy for an extra day or two! We ask the butcher at Sam’s Club to slice it up in 1.5 inch thick pieces, which gives you a 1.5 – 2.5 lb steak or roast, which is perfect for my husband.
- Cost: $5.98/lb at Sams Club (as of 10/27/24)
- How to make it:
- Place a slice of chuck roll in the crock pot, season with salt, and cook on low for 8 hours (or high for 4 hours).
- Once it’s done, shred the meat or slice it up for easy portions.
- Bonus: This makes a fantastic base for multiple meals, from simple shredded beef to adding some egg yolk or a little melted butter on top for added flavor.
2. Air Fryer Ground Beef
- Why it’s great: Ground beef is one of the most budget-friendly and versatile meats out there, and the air fryer makes it quick and mess-free.
- Cost:
- Grass Fed Ground Beef: $4.98/lb (10/27/24)
- Regular Ground Beef: $4.48/lb (10/27/24)
- How to make it:
- Place a liner in your air fryer and crumble your ground beef into the liner.
- Cook at 380°F for 16-20 minutes. If you like it crispier, go to 400°F for 15 minutes.
- Pro tip: Make extra and store them in the fridge for a quick grab-and-go meal or snack!
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03/20/2025 02:40 am GMT
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3. Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs
- Why it’s great: Affordable, easy to prep, and perfect for satisfying a craving.
- Cost: $0.50/hot dog and about $0.50/slice of bacon
- How to make it:
- Wrap a slice of bacon around each hot dog (look for all-beef, no-sugar-added varieties).
- Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or cook in the air fryer until the bacon is crispy.
- Tip: Make a batch and keep leftovers in the fridge for a convenient snack or meal.
4. Bone-In Short Ribs (Slow Cooker or Instant Pot)
- Why it’s great: Beef shank and bone-in short ribs are typically cheaper cuts but are full of flavor and nutrients.
- Cost: $7.48/lb (10/27/24)
- How to make it:
- Add the beef shank or short ribs to the slow cooker or Instant Pot, season with salt, and cook low and slow until tender.
- These cuts are loaded with collagen, which can be very satisfying and nourishing.
- Tip: The bones add extra flavor and nutrients, plus you can use the leftover broth as a savory base for other meals.
5. Egg and Beef Scramble
- Why it’s great: Eggs and ground beef are budget-friendly, cook quickly, and can be made in one pan.
- How to make it:
- Brown the ground beef, season with salt, then crack a few eggs directly into the pan and scramble everything together.
- Tip: Top with a bit of shredded cheese (if tolerated) for extra flavor and protein.
6. Chicken Thighs with Skin (Oven-Baked)
- Why it’s great: Chicken thighs are cheaper than breasts and come with delicious, fatty skin.
- Cost: $2.49/lb from Tyson (10/27/24)
- How to make it:
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden.
- Tip: Buy in bulk and cook multiple thighs at once for easy leftovers.
7. Beef Liver and Butter (Pan-Seared)
- Why it’s great: Liver is incredibly nutrient-dense and usually very affordable.
- How to make it:
- Slice the liver, season with salt, and sear it quickly in a hot pan with butter (about 2-3 minutes per side).
- Tip: If liver isn’t your favorite, try mixing small pieces into ground beef to balance the flavor.