Photo by Tim Douglas on <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/roasted-chicken-with-vegetables-in-glass-roaster-on-table-with-fir-sprigs-6210747/" rel="nofollow">Pexels.com</a>
With the cost of food rising, you can save a lot by learning to cook some classic recipes rather than eating out. So, here are some of the easiest and cheapest family meals for the weeknights.
Start the Week Well with a Sunday Roast
The Sunday roast is a traditional British meal that is typically served weekly. It is a staple of UK cuisine and is a popular way to gather family and friends for a hearty and comforting meal. It usually consists of roasted meat such as beef, pork, or chicken. However, you can also try these chicken and gravy recipes from Butter Your Biscuit for an American twist. But ensure you always serve with roasted potatoes (roasted in meat fat) and boiled or steamed vegetables.
Go Mexican with Fajitas
This Tex-Mex meal is easy to make and can be changed to fit the tastes of your family. Cut chicken breasts into thin strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes in a mixture of lime juice, chilli powder, and garlic. The next step is to cook the chicken in a pan with sliced peppers and onions until it is fully cooked. Fajitas should always be served with warm tortillas, shredded cheese, and the toppings you like best, like guacamole, salsa, and sour cream.
Meatloaf is Among the Cheapest Family Meals
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food in the United States, and many families eat it every week. It’s easy to make ahead of time for weeknights when you’re busy. And you can even include the kids. Mix together ground beef, bread crumbs, an egg, diced onions, and ketchup for a classic meatloaf base. Use a loaf tin to shape the dough into a loaf, and bake it for 45 minutes to an hour. Traditionally, this would be served with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.
CC0 Licensed Image Courtesy of Pexels
Classic Spaghetti Bolognese for the Kids
Most adults and kids love spaghetti bolognese because it reminds them of good times with family. This classic Italian dish is a hit with people of all ages, and it’s easy to make a lot of it for leftovers. And it’s really easy to make. Just brown ground beef in a large pan, add a jar of your favorite pasta sauce and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Follow the directions on the package to cook your spaghetti, but make sure it is al dente. And always put Parmesan cheese on top.
Everyone Loves Fried Rice
This Asian classic is a great way to use up leftovers and is a hit with everyone. Make your rice, then put it aside. Chinese chefs say to put it in the fridge overnight because if you don’t, it can get mushy. To fry the rice, heat some vegetable oil in a pan and stir-fry peas and carrots that have been cut into small pieces. Add scrambled eggs and cook your favorite protein, like chicken. Add the cooked rice, stir in the soy sauce, and top with sliced green onions.
Summary
Cooking is fun, a skill, and saves money. To save time and cash, some of the cheapest family meals include a British Sunday roast, the classic American meatloaf, and Asian fried rice.
