What's your favorite frugal meal that doesn't taste cheap?

Frugal Living Forum
21

@Keats
Flat-pack spices are great! And I make spaghetti without meat—just tomatoes, garlic, and lots of herbs.

22

Cleo said:
@Keats
Flat-pack spices are great! And I make spaghetti without meat—just tomatoes, garlic, and lots of herbs.

Potato soup is another cheap and easy meal. I use butter, flour, celery salt, onion powder, broth, and milk. Great with leftover veggies or meat.

23

@Cleo
Edit: I forgot to mention, use 4-5 good-sized potatoes for the soup!

24

Fraser said:
@Hadi
I love using Penzey’s spices but also check my local co-op’s bulk section for fresh, affordable options. It’s a great way to refill spice jars on a budget.

I use a lot of bulk spices too. Makes cooking way more affordable!

25

@Hadi
Have you tried growing lovage? It’s great in soups and has a unique flavor.

26

@Hadi
Nothing beats the flavor of fresh basil. I use it in everything!

27

@Hadi
Oregano and thyme are perennials and super easy to grow. I use them year-round in so many dishes!

28

Spaghetti with garlic and anchovies. Sauté the garlic in the anchovy oil, add the anchovies, then stir in the spaghetti. It’s quick and tastes amazing.

29

Dior said:
Spaghetti with garlic and anchovies. Sauté the garlic in the anchovy oil, add the anchovies, then stir in the spaghetti. It’s quick and tastes amazing.

I’ve been curious about using anchovies but afraid to try it. Does it add a lot of flavor?

30

@Fraser
Anchovy paste might be a good start—same flavor without the whole fish. It melts in and adds a savory kick!

31

@Fraser
I add anchovy paste to my pasta sauce, and it adds a rich, umami flavor without being fishy.

32

Dior said:
Spaghetti with garlic and anchovies. Sauté the garlic in the anchovy oil, add the anchovies, then stir in the spaghetti. It’s quick and tastes amazing.

This is one of my favorite meals too. So simple and flavorful!

33

Dior said:
Spaghetti with garlic and anchovies. Sauté the garlic in the anchovy oil, add the anchovies, then stir in the spaghetti. It’s quick and tastes amazing.

Do you have a favorite anchovy brand?

34

Dior said:
Spaghetti with garlic and anchovies. Sauté the garlic in the anchovy oil, add the anchovies, then stir in the spaghetti. It’s quick and tastes amazing.

I tried it with anchovy paste and loved it! Definitely recommend!

35

My budget meals:

  1. Homemade pizza with crust, store sauce, and whatever veggies I have.
  2. Pancakes—they feel like a treat but are super cheap.
  3. Masala with veggies and rice for a big, affordable meal. Lasts a few days too.
36

@tobias
What type of masala are you using? I’m curious!

37

Blair said:
@tobias
What type of masala are you using? I’m curious!

Probably jarred tikka masala. I find it at my local store too.

38

Asa said:

Blair said:
@tobias
What type of masala are you using? I’m curious!

Probably jarred tikka masala. I find it at my local store too.

That sounds delicious! Thanks for explaining :slightly_smiling_face: