Cooking for One? Here are 7 Budget Meals You'll Love
Here’s a familiar scenario: you've had another long day at work, you're tired, and the last thing you want to do is cook dinner. But you're also committed to eating budget-friendly meals that are also delicious. You open your fridge and see a bunch of random ingredients, but you're not sure how to transform them into something tasty, nutritious, and easy on the wallet. Well, you're not alone. For those of us living solo, meal planning can feel like a never-ending game of "Chopped."
But don't worry, we've got a solution that's about to change the game — introducing EveryPlate. EveryPlate is your knight in shining apron, on a mission to make delicious dinners accessible to everyone, especially those cooking for one. We believe eating well shouldn't break the bank, and we're here to show you how. Whether you're a kitchen newbie or a seasoned cook, EveryPlate is here to help you whip up budget-friendly, belly-filling, and lip-smacking meals right in the comfort of your own kitchen. So, buckle up and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that's kind to your taste buds, your pocket, and your schedule. Let’s get started!
How Do You Cook for One Person on a Budget?
Cooking for one can sometimes feel like a culinary conundrum. How do you craft a delicious, nutritious meal without ending up with a mountain of leftovers or blowing your budget on single-serving ingredients?
Well, dear reader, we're about to spill the beans on how to cook for one person on a budget without compromising on flavor or quality.
Meal Delivery
Gone are the days of overpriced, complicated meal delivery kits. EveryPlate is on the scene with wholesome, familiar flavors that are easy on the wallet and delicious for you and your besties. No more wasting extra ingredients from huge recipes or spending hours in the grocery store just to fail to eat all of your leftovers yourself.
The Power of Meal Planning
Meal planning is your secret weapon in the kitchen. It's all about strategizing your meals for the week, helping you save time and money and reduce waste. By planning your meals (or getting the ingredients delivered), you can avoid impulse purchases and ensure everything in your fridge gets used before it spoils. Plus, meal prep is a great way to ensure you're eating a balanced diet. Think of it as your personal roadmap to nutritious, wallet-friendly meals.
Bulk Buying and Cooking
Don't shy away from those family-sized packs of chicken breasts or that big bag of rice. Buying and cooking in bulk can be a real budget-saver. Cook once, eat twice (or even thrice)! You can always repurpose leftovers into new meals for the next day. Turn those roasted chicken thighs into a chicken salad, or toss those leftover veggies in a slow cooker. It's all about getting creative in the kitchen!
Ditch the Takeout
We get it: sometimes you just don't feel like cooking. But regularly resorting to takeout can take a hefty toll on your wallet and your waistline. Cooking at home instead not only allows you to control your portions and ingredients, but it also lets you save some serious dough (pun intended). Plus, with EveryPlate's simple and delicious dinner recipes, you'll be looking forward to your home-cooked meals!
The Magic of Store Brands
Think store brands are inferior? Think again! Many store brands offer the same quality as name brands but at a fraction of the price. They can be a real lifesaver when you're trying to keep your grocery bill in check. Give them a try; your wallet will thank you!
Waste Not, Want Not
Being mindful of waste is not just good for the environment but also great for your budget. Try to use every part of the ingredient you buy. For example, the leftover bones from that rotisserie chicken can be used to make a delicious broth, and vegetable scraps can be composted and help you grow your own. As always, storing leftovers well will keep them fresh and tasty for your next meal.
EveryPlate is not just about delivering easy recipes. We're about making your life easier. We help you reduce food waste by providing the exact quantities of fresh, quality ingredients you need. No more buying a bunch of cilantro when you only need a handful or a whole block of cheese when you just need a sprinkle. And let's not forget the time you'll save on grocery shopping trips. With EveryPlate, everything you need is delivered straight to your door. How's that for convenience? Plus, with our rotating menu of weekly recipes, you'll never fall into a food rut. From classic favorites to exciting new flavors, there's always something to look forward to.
The recipes that we talked about earlier? Well, we offer up a unique version of these classics each week! Whether it's a crispy chicken recipe, a comforting pasta dish, or a vibrant grain bowl, we've got you covered. So, if you're a single-person household looking for affordable, tasty, and convenient meal solutions, EveryPlate is your answer. It's time to cross "What's for dinner?" off your worry list and start looking forward to meal times.
7 Budget-Friendly Dinner Ideas for One Person
Who says cooking for one has to be boring? It's time to bust that myth wide open. Get ready to dig into budget-friendly and easy meal ideas perfect for single-person households.
These dishes are not only easy on the wallet but also big on flavor. So, let's get cooking!
1. Meat and Veggies
Say hello to a classic dinner favorite that's simple, nutritious, and budget-friendly. Choose your preferred meat, succulent pork chops or crispy parmesan-crusted chicken, and pair it with two of your favorite veggies. For example, add some zucchini, roasted to perfection, and some garlic mashed potatoes to create a drool-worthy combo.
2. Easy Burger Fiesta
Who doesn't love a good burger? And no, you don't need to hit a fast-food joint to satisfy your craving. Whip up an easy burger fiesta at home with ground beef. Add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and a slice of cheese. Serve it with a side of homemade sweet potato fries for a meal that's sure to delight.
3. Solo Taco Night
Why wait for Taco Tuesday when you can have a solo Mexican fiesta any day of the week? Use a hard-shell taco as the base, pile on black beans, ground beef, or chicken, and top it off with fresh veggies. Don't forget a sprinkle of cheese and a dollop of your favorite sauce for that extra kick. If you’re afraid of making a mess, you can use a soft tortilla instead and create a burrito. Of course, if you’re really feeling adventurous, you can smother this dish in sauce and create an enchilada. The possibilities truly just don’t quit.
4. Pasta Lover's Delight
Pasta is a budget-friendly staple that's versatile and filling. There are countless pasta recipes out there, no matter your pasta sauce preference. Whether you're in the mood for a creamy Alfredo, a robust tomato sauce, or a simple garlic and olive oil dressing, you can cook it to perfection in no time. Sprinkle some parmesan on top for an Italian touch, and serve with a side of garlic bread. Bellissimo!
5. Grain Bowls With a Twist
Grain bowls are a great way to mix and match ingredients and flavors. Start with a base of your favorite grain, like rice or quinoa. Then, add a protein source, such as lentils or chicken. Top it off with veggies and a flavorful sauce, and your grain bowl is ready to slay.
6. Soothing Soups
There's nothing like a bowl of soothing soup to end your day on a comforting note. Whether it's a chicken noodle soup, a hearty vegetable stew, or an Asian-inspired miso soup, homemade soups are easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for a cozy night in.
7. Stir-Fry Magic
Stir-fry is the ultimate quick and easy dinner option. It's versatile, flavorful, and a great way to use any leftover veggies. Just toss your ingredients into a hot pan, throw in some fried rice, add your favorite sauce, and bam — a delicious meal is ready in minutes.
Does EveryPlate Offer Meal Plans for Single People?
The answer is a resounding YES! EveryPlate is all about making mealtimes easy, enjoyable, and inexpensive, especially for single-person households.
We understand that cooking for one can sometimes be a challenge. But with EveryPlate, you can say “byeeee” to the stress of meal planning and the guilt of food waste. Our meal plans are designed to provide you with tasty, easy-to-make recipes that fit right into your budget.