Grandma’s Cheap Recipes: 7 Meals Under $5

Have you ever wondered how Grandma managed to cook such hearty, delicious meals without spending a fortune? Grandma’s cheap recipes were more than just food—they were a masterclass in stretching every dollar while still feeding the whole family.

In today’s world, where grocery prices keep rising, finding cheap meals to make that are both tasty and affordable can feel like a challenge. But don’t worry! You don’t need to sacrifice flavor or nutrition to stick to a budget. With the right ingredients and a little old-fashioned know-how, you can prepare cheap recipes that are filling, comforting, and cost less than $5 per meal.

This article brings you Grandma’s cheap recipes—seven time-tested, budget meals that will keep your wallet happy and your stomach full. Ready to bring back those delicious, money-saving classics? Let’s dive in!

Why Grandma’s Cheap Recipes Still Work Today

With food prices on the rise, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when grocery shopping. But before fast food tempts you, take a page from your grandmother’s cookbook. Grandma’s cheap recipes are proof that you can prepare delicious, budget meals without sacrificing flavor. These classic dishes rely on affordable ingredients, simple techniques, and timeless wisdom to stretch every dollar.

How to Cook Budget-Friendly Meals Like Grandma

Before we dive into the recipes, here are a few smart tips from Grandma’s kitchen to make cheap meals even more affordable:

• Buy in bulk: Staple ingredients like rice, beans, and pasta are cheaper in larger quantities.
• Use seasonal produce: Fresh fruits and veggies are more affordable when in season.
• Repurpose leftovers: A roast chicken today can become soup tomorrow.
• Cook from scratch: Pre-packaged meals are convenient but more expensive.
• Stock up on pantry essentials: Having flour, eggs, and canned goods on hand helps you whip up cheap meals to make anytime.

Now, let’s get into Grandma’s cheap recipes that you can prepare for under $5!

1. Classic Potato Soup ($3.50 for 4 servings)

A warm and creamy budget meal, potato soup is filling, nutritious, and incredibly easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes ($1.50)
• 1 onion, chopped ($0.50)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced ($0.20)
• 4 cups broth (homemade or store-bought) ($1.00)
• ½ cup milk ($0.30)
• Salt and pepper to taste ($0.20)

Instructions:

1. Peel and dice potatoes. Boil them in broth until tender.
2. In a separate pan, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
3. Blend the soup for a creamy texture, or leave it chunky for a rustic feel.
4. Stir in milk, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 5 minutes.

Pro Tip: Add shredded cheese or crumbled bacon for extra flavor!

2. Hearty Beans and Rice ($4.00 for 6 servings)

This staple cheap recipe is a protein-packed, satisfying meal that costs pennies per serving.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried beans (pinto, black, or kidney) ($1.50)
• 1 cup rice ($0.80)
• 1 onion, chopped ($0.50)
• 1 can diced tomatoes ($1.00)
• Spices: cumin, paprika, salt ($0.20)

Instructions:

1. Soak beans overnight, then cook until tender.
2. In a pot, cook onions until soft, then add tomatoes and spices.
3. Stir in beans and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Serve overcooked rice.

Mistake to Avoid: Don’t skip soaking the beans—it reduces cooking time and improves texture!

3. Cabbage Stir-Fry with Noodles ($3.75 for 4 servings)

This quick, cheap meal is packed with fiber and flavor.

Ingredients:

• ½ head cabbage, shredded ($1.00)
• 1 carrot, grated ($0.50)
• 2 packs ramen noodles ($1.00)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce ($0.50)
• 1 tsp sesame oil ($0.25)
• 1 clove garlic, minced ($0.20)

Instructions:

1. Cook ramen noodles and set aside.
2. Stir-fry cabbage, carrots, and garlic in sesame oil.
3. Add noodles and soy sauce and toss well.
4. Serve hot!

Budget Tip: Add scrambled eggs or tofu for extra protein!

Want more budget-friendly meal ideas? Check out Good and Cheap: Eat Well on $4/Day for even more delicious, affordable recipes to fit your wallet!

4. Homemade Vegetable Stew ($4.50 for 6 servings)

A comforting, hearty cheap recipe packed with vitamins.

Ingredients:

• 3 carrots, chopped ($1.00)
• 2 potatoes, diced ($1.00)
• 1 can beans ($1.00)
• 1 can diced tomatoes ($1.00)
• 4 cups water or broth ($0.50)

Instructions:

1. Sauté carrots and potatoes.
2. Add beans, tomatoes, and broth.
3. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Did You Know? Stews taste even better the next day as flavors meld!

5. Old-Fashioned Pancakes ($3.00 for 4 servings)

Who says breakfast can’t be dinner? Grandma’s cheap recipes always included homemade pancakes.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups flour ($0.50)
• 1 egg ($0.30)
• 1 cup milk ($0.50)
• 2 tbsp sugar ($0.20)
• 1 tbsp baking powder ($0.50)
• ½ tsp salt ($0.20)
• Butter or oil for cooking ($0.50)

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients into a smooth batter.
2. Heat a skillet and cook pancakes until golden.
3. Serve with syrup or jam.

Time-Saving Tip: Make extra batter and refrigerate for the next morning!

Want more budget-friendly meal ideas? Check out Good and Cheap: Eat Well on $4/Day for even more delicious, affordable recipes to fit your wallet!

6. Baked Mac and Cheese ($4.75 for 6 servings)

A childhood favorite, this cheap meal is both creamy and comforting.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni ($1.00)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese ($2.00)
• 1 cup milk ($0.50)
• 2 tbsp butter ($0.50)
• 1 tbsp flour ($0.25)
• Salt and pepper ($0.50)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta and drain.
2. Make a cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, then adding milk and cheese.
3. Mix with pasta and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.

Budget Swap: Use breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch!

Want more budget-friendly meal ideas? Check out Good and Cheap: Eat Well on $4/Day for even more delicious, affordable recipes to fit your wallet!

7. Classic Tuna Salad Sandwiches ($3.50 for 4 servings)

This cheap meal to make is quick, healthy, and filling.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans tuna ($2.00)
• ½ cup mayo ($0.50)
• 1 celery stalk, diced ($0.50)
• 4 slices bread ($0.50)

Instructions:

1. Mix tuna, mayo, and celery.
2. Spread onto bread.
3. Enjoy as a sandwich or over lettuce.

Smart Swap: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a healthier version!

You’ll Love These Too:

• Beef Stew 3 Quick Tips for Perfect Dinner
• Moroccan Couscous Chicken: 7 Easy Steps for a Flavorful Meal
• chicken kabob: 3 Quick and Easy Tips for Summer BBQ

Conclusion: Bring Grandma’s Cheap Recipes to Your Kitchen

Cooking delicious budget meals doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Grandma’s cheap recipes prove that with a little creativity and simple ingredients, you can make cheap meals that are both nutritious and satisfying. Whether it’s a warm bowl of potato soup or a hearty serving of beans and rice, these meals will help you stretch your grocery budget without sacrificing taste.

Want more budget-friendly meal ideas? Check out Good and Cheap: Eat Well on $4/Day for even more delicious, affordable recipes to fit your wallet!

Questions About Grandma’s Cheap Recipes

Q: Are these meals healthy?
A: Yes! These cheap recipes focus on wholesome, natural ingredients like vegetables, grains, and proteins.

Q: Can I make these meals even cheaper?
A: Absolutely! Buy ingredients in bulk, use store brands, and substitute pricier ingredients with affordable alternatives.

Q: How can I add variety to these dishes?
A: Experiment with different spices, vegetables, and proteins to keep meals interesting.