10 Budget-Friendly Meal Prep Recipes
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10 Budget-Friendly Meal Prep Recipes
Meal prepping not only saves you a ton of time (no more having to spend hours in the kitchen after a long work day!), but it can be pretty cost-efficient, too. Plenty of make-ahead recipes require minimal prep and incorporate inexpensive ingredients, like beans, chicken thighs, and fresh produce. The best part? Although these dishes offer big savings, they don’t skimp on taste. It’s a win-win! Here are some of our favorite wallet-friendly recipes that are perfect for meal prepping.
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Sheet Pan Citrus-Glazed Chicken
Sheet pan recipes are not only effortless but also allow for the easiest cleanup. This recipe calls for Brussels sprouts, but go ahead and add in any other vegetables you may be a fan of.
Get the recipe for Sheet Pan Citrus-Glazed Chicken from Delish.
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Shepherd's Pie
Who doesn’t love shepherd’s pie? Loaded with ground beef, potatoes, and corn, this cost-friendly dish is perfect for meal prepping.
Get the recipe for Easy Shepherd’s Pie from Delish.
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Beef Stew
Beef chuck, baby potatoes, yellow onion, and garlic come together to create an inexpensive meal that takes practically no effort to make. Serve with a side of chopped salad or enjoy as-is.
Get the recipe for Beef Stew from Delish.
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Classic Chili
Seasoned with paprika, cumin, and oregano, this tasty, customizable recipe is made with easy-to-find ingredients.
Get the recipe for Classic Chili from Delish.
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Black Bean Soup
Prepare a large pot of this black bean soup, and you’ll be set all week long. Be sure to top it with sliced avocado, diced onion, and sour cream for an added flavor boost.
Get the recipe for Black Bean Soup from Delish.
The Washington Post - Getty Images - 7/11
Caprese Pasta Salad
Pasta, cheese, and Italian dressing—what’s not to love? Pack this as a to-go meal or store it in the fridge for a quick weekday lunch.
Get the recipe for Caprese Pasta Salad from Delish.
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Pineapple Fried Rice
Chicken thighs, which are often cheaper than chicken breasts, star in this recipe that combines diced fresh pineapple, chopped nuts, and red bell pepper. Be sure to add two large eggs to the mix for some extra protein.
Get the recipe for Pineapple Fried Rice from Delish.
The Washington Post - Getty Images - 9/11
Braised Chicken Thighs
These tasty braised chicken thighs can be enjoyed in a dozen different ways. Served with rice, placed atop salads, or made with vegetables—a cheap (and easy) meal is just minutes away.
Get the recipe for Braised Chicken Thighs from Delish.
The Washington Post - Getty Images - 10/11
Chicken Noodle Soup
Need a hearty meal that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg to make? Enter chicken noodle soup. This delicious recipe is packed with shredded chicken breast, filling egg noodles, and nourishing vegetables.
Get the recipe for Chicken Noodle Soup from Delish.
The Washington Post - Getty Images - 11/11
Italian Meatballs
These ground beef and sausage meatballs can be made ahead and stored in the freezer. This dish would work well with spaghetti, sautéed vegetables, or a salad. Pro tip: Ditch the sausage if you want an even more affordable meal.
Get the recipe for Italian Meatballs from Delish.
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