Hey there, fellow moms! Welcome to the inaugural post of Budget Bites Brigade (BBB), where we embark on a delicious journey of budget-friendly meal planning for the whole family. I'm Bekky, the founder, and I'm excited to share my journey of affordable grocery shopping with you!

Let's get some quick business out of the way first... Check out my disclaimers page to understand how I may monetize the blog and to read all about how I am not a nutrition expert or financial guru. Then check out the blog's Etsy page to learn all about my Etsy store where you can find both items specifically designed for BBB, as well as items that I've been creating for years. I also have a page where you can learn all about me and why I started this blog.

Now, let's get started with why you're here in the first place!

As a regular mom juggling the chaos of everyday life, I understand the challenges that come with feeding a family of five. With a 14-year-old boy, an 11-year-old girl, and a lively 20-month-old toddler girl, my kitchen is a bustling hub of activity. Oh, did I mention we also have a furry duo – a dog and a cat who are always eager to get a taste of whatever hits the dinner table? That's why budget-friendly meal planning is so important for me, we have a lot of mouths to feed!

Navigating through the demands of a diverse family, I've embarked on the journey of creating meals that are not only cost-effective but also crowd-pleasers. Budget Bites Brigade is born out of the simple idea that good food shouldn't break the bank, and I'm here to share my tried-and-true recipes with you!

In this week's meal planning adventure, I'll be unveiling seven delectable dinner recipes designed to cater to the diverse tastes of my own family. From hearty Spaghetti Bolognese to the quick and flavorful Black Bean Quesadillas, these recipes are tried, tested, and approved by my own kids.

So, whether you're a parent looking for practical meal solutions or someone who simply enjoys whipping up tasty creations on a budget, join me, as we dive into the world of the Budget Bites Brigade. Let's make mealtime a delight without the strain on your wallet! Get ready for a culinary expedition that promises flavorful bites without the budget blues.

1. Spaghetti Bolognese

Let's kick off our budget-friendly meal planning with a classic that never fails to bring smiles to the table – Spaghetti Bolognese. This hearty Italian dish is a staple in my household, loved by both the little ones and the grown-ups.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 16 oz pasta

• 28 oz canned tomatoes

• 1 onion

• 3 cloves garlic

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 5

The beauty of Spaghetti Bolognese lies in its simplicity. I start by browning a pound of ground beef in a pan, letting the savory aroma fill the kitchen. While that's sizzling away, I finely chop an onion and mince three cloves of garlic.

After the beef is browned, I set it aside. I sauté the onions and garlic in a generous helping of olive oil until they're beautifully translucent. Then I add the beef back in and next comes the star of the show – a can of tomatoes. The canned tomatoes bring a rich, robust flavor to the sauce, and they're a wallet-friendly option too.

Once the tomatoes join the party, it's time to season. A pinch of salt, a dash of pepper, and a medley of your favorite herbs – oregano, basil, and thyme work wonders, but most often I use Italian seasoning which brings most of the flavors I want all in one. Simmer the sauce, letting it thicken and develop its full-bodied taste.

While the sauce is doing its magic, I cook up a batch of pasta separately. You can choose your favorite type – spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta that calls your name. Sticking true to the name, this week I am using spaghetti.

Finally, it's time to bring it all together. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring each strand is coated in that flavorful goodness. And there you have it – a piping hot bowl of Spaghetti Bolognese that's not only easy on the wallet but a guaranteed hit with the entire family.

If your budget allows, serve it up with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and perhaps a side of garlic bread or a dinner salad if you're feeling fancy. Trust me; this budget-friendly classic will become a regular in your meal rotation.

2. Chicken Stir-Fry

Now that we've savored the comforting flavors of Spaghetti Bolognese, let's continue our budget-friendly meal plan with another delightful recipe that's a hit in my household – Chicken Stir-Fry. This dish is not only quick to whip up but bursts with vibrant colors and flavors that will make your taste buds dance.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs chicken breast

• 4 cups mixed vegetables (or I used a frozen 20 oz bag of sugar snap pea stir fry)

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 1 tsp ginger

• 3 cloves garlic

• 2 tbsp oil

• Rice for serving

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 5

Chicken Stir-Fry is a go-to in my kitchen when I need a meal that's both nutritious and ready in a flash. The star of the show is 1.5 pounds of chicken breast, sliced into bite-sized pieces. This lean protein source pairs perfectly with an array of colorful veggies.

In a hot pan, I sauté the chicken until it's golden and cooked through. The key here is to maintain that perfect balance – a slight crispiness on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Next up, I toss in a colorful medley of mixed vegetables. Broccoli, bell peppers, carrots – feel free to get creative with your choices. The more colors, the better! This not only adds to the visual appeal of the dish but also ensures you're getting a variety of nutrients. Personally, most weeks, I like to take a shortcut and buy a bag of frozen stir fry veggies and toss in the whole bag. Check out my shopping list at the end to see exactly what I buy! Buying the frozen mixed veggies is a way that I am able to stick to my budget-friendly meal plan this week. If I had to buy all the veggies separately, not only would I probably have too many veggies, but it would likely cost a lot more, too!

The flavor infusion comes from a delectable mix of 1/4 cup soy sauce, a teaspoon of ginger, and three cloves of minced garlic. This simple yet powerful combination elevates the stir-fry to a whole new level. As the soy sauce sizzles and coats the ingredients, you'll be greeted by an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to the dinner table.

Serve your Chicken Stir-Fry over a bed of rice, and there you have it – a wholesome, budget-friendly meal that ticks all the boxes.

3. Vegetarian Chili

As we continue our flavorful journey with Budget Bites Brigade, it's time to explore a dish that not only warms the soul but also caters to diverse dietary preferences – Vegetarian Chili. This wholesome and hearty chili is packed with a medley of beans and spices, making it a perfect addition to your budget-friendly meal plan.

Ingredients:

• 3 cans beans (your choice)

• 28 oz tomatoes

• 20 oz bag frozen pepper & onion blend

• 3 cloves garlic

• 2 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• Salt to taste

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 5

Vegetarian Chili is a lifesaver in my kitchen, especially when I'm aiming for a meatless yet satisfying option. Going meatless once in awhile really helps to stay on budget! The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility – you can choose your favorite combination of beans. I usually go for kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans for a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

To kick things off, I start by sautéing the frozen pepper and onion blend with minced garlic in a pot. The sizzle of these aromatic ingredients sets the stage for the rich flavors that will unfold.

Next, it's time to introduce the stars of the show – three cans of beans. Drain and rinse them thoroughly before adding to the pot. I love the heartiness that beans bring to this dish, making it a satisfying and protein-packed option for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.

Now, let's talk about the sauce. A 28-ounce can of tomatoes adds a burst of juiciness, while a blend of spices – 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and a sprinkle of salt – transforms the mixture into a flavor-packed chili base. Simmer the chili for about 30 minutes, allowing the ingredients to meld and the flavors to intensify. Please feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder to match your family's tastes. You might not like things as hot as us, or you might be looking for a little more kick!

As your budget allows, serve your Vegetarian Chili with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, or a handful of fresh cilantro for that extra burst of freshness. You actually should have some cilantro this week anyway for the Black Bean Quesadillas below! This budget-friendly recipe is not only wallet-friendly but also a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone satisfied around the dinner table.

4. Tuna Casserole

As we continue our budget-friendly meal planning with Budget Bites Brigade, let's dive into the nostalgic embrace of Tuna Casserole. This classic comfort dish has been a staple in many households, and today, we're putting a budget-friendly spin on it that promises both simplicity and savory satisfaction. If I'm being totally honest, I'm personally not big on seafood or mushrooms! So, if you're like me, swap out the tuna with canned chicken (or shredded from a rotisserie chicken, or from cooking chicken breast in the crockpot which is what I do most often). And then swap the cream of mushroom for cream of chicken and you've got a recipe that's more in line with my tastes. However, my family does enjoy tuna, so here is the tuna casserole recipe!

Ingredients:

• 2 cans tuna

• 16 oz pasta (I use egg noodles)

• 1 cup peas

• 1 can cream of mushroom soup

• 1 cup milk

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 5

Tuna Casserole is honestly not one of my favorites. I do not like tuna, however, the family does! To them, it's the epitome of homey comfort and a reliable option when time and budget are of the essence. To start this budget-friendly meal, I cook up 16 ounces of pasta (I'm using egg noodles) until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. While the pasta is bubbling away, I focus on the other key players in this delightful casserole.

Two cans of tuna take center stage in this recipe, offering a dose of protein that's both budget-friendly and nutritious. Drain the tuna thoroughly, and it's ready to become the star of your casserole.

In a mixing bowl, combine the tuna with a cup of peas – frozen or fresh, depending on what you have on hand. To bind everything together, add a can of cream of mushroom soup. This humble pantry item not only adds creaminess but also infuses the casserole with that classic comforting flavor.

For the perfect texture and an extra layer of gooey goodness, pour in a cup of milk. Mix these ingredients until they form a cohesive blend, and then it's time to assemble the casserole.

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top it generously with two cups of shredded cheese. I often opt for a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for that perfect melt and golden crust.

Bake the casserole in the oven at 375°F for around 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. The result? A steaming hot Tuna Casserole that effortlessly combines simplicity, budget-friendliness, and downright deliciousness.

Serve it up on a cozy evening or for a quick family dinner.

If you're like me and don't like tuna, simply swap the tuna out for either canned chicken or shredded chicken breast and it is a chicken noodle casserole that is just as delicious and still a budget-friendly meal!

5. Beef and Vegetable Stew

The next meal in this budget-friendly meal plan is delicious and hearty Beef and Vegetable Stew – a dish that not only warms your kitchen but also provides a comforting embrace for your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs stew meat

• 4 potatoes

• 2 cups baby carrots

• 1 onion

• 4 cups beef broth

• 1 tsp thyme

• Salt and pepper to taste

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 2 hours | Servings: 5

Beef and Vegetable Stew is a quintessential comfort food that I turn to when the weather is chilly or when I simply crave a meal that feels like a warm hug. The key to its rich flavor lies in the slow simmering of tender stew meat, creating a broth that's nothing short of liquid gold.

To start, I brown 1.5 pounds of stew meat in a pot. This step is crucial as it adds depth and a savory kick to the stew. While the meat is browning, I take the opportunity to peel and dice four potatoes and chop an onion. These veggies will soak up all the delicious flavors during the slow cooking process.

Once the meat has achieved that perfect sear, I add in the chopped vegetables and the baby carrots, creating a colorful mosaic in the pot. Pour in four cups of beef broth and sprinkle in a teaspoon of thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the pot simmer away.

The magic happens during the slow simmering process. The stew meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the vegetables absorb the savory essence of the broth. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be nothing short of heavenly.

After a couple of hours (I cook it for 2 hours on low), your Beef and Vegetable Stew is ready to be ladled into bowls and enjoyed. The flavors meld together to create a dish that's not only hearty and comforting but also a testament to the beauty of budget-friendly cooking. You could easily convert this to a crockpot meal as well, I would still brown the meat first and then cook on low 4-6 hours.

Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. Or if you're looking for more of a comfort meal, my favorite is a tub of refrigerated mashed potatoes!

6. Margherita Pizza

Next up, we're stepping into the realm of Margherita Pizza – a dish that exemplifies the beauty of simplicity and the joy of savoring flavors without breaking the bank. It's a fresh flavorful dish that is sure to please the whole family! You'll notice this isn't the first meatless option this week. That's because forgoing the meat a few times a week can really help you stick to your budget-friendly meal planning.

Ingredients:

• Pizza dough

• 4 tomatoes

• 8 oz fresh mozzarella

• Fresh basil

• Olive oil

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 5

Margherita Pizza is a classic that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine. With a handful of quality ingredients, we're about to create a pizza that not only satisfies your cravings but also keeps your budget intact.

Start with pre-heating the oven to 450°F and then grab your favorite pizza dough – store-bought or homemade, whichever suits your schedule (I bought pre-made in a can). Roll it out to your desired thickness, creating the canvas for the flavors to come.

Now, the star of this show – tomatoes. Slice four ripe tomatoes thinly and arrange them on the pizza dough. This not only adds a burst of freshness but also infuses the pizza with the natural sweetness of tomatoes.

Next up, the crowning glory – fresh mozzarella. Opt for an 8-ounce ball, and slice it into discs. Distribute these creamy delights evenly across the pizza, ensuring that each bite is a harmonious blend of cheese and tomatoes.

Now, let's add a touch of aromatic elegance – fresh basil. Sprinkle the basil leaves over the pizza, allowing their fragrance to mingle with the other ingredients. It's a simple yet powerful addition that elevates the pizza to a whole new level.

To finish, a drizzle of olive oil adds a luxurious touch. This not only enhances the flavors but also gives the pizza a golden, crispy crust.

Pop your creation into the oven for about 15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is gloriously melted. The result? A Margherita Pizza that's a testament to the fact that sometimes, less is truly more.

Serve it hot and revel in the simplicity of fresh flavors. This budget-friendly pizza is perfect for a laid-back dinner with friends or a cozy family night in.

7. Black Bean Quesadillas

The final dinner recipe for this week is delicious Black Bean Quesadillas. Another meatless option to help you stay on budget through this budget-friendly meal planning adventure! Get ready for a fiesta of flavors that not only excites your taste buds but also keeps your wallet happy. Vamos!

Ingredients:

• 2 cans black beans

• 10 tortillas

• 2 cups fiesta blend cheese

• Salsa

• 1 tsp cumin

• Fresh cilantro

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Servings: 5

Black Bean Quesadillas are a quick and flavorful option that brings the bold and vibrant tastes of Mexican cuisine to your table without breaking the bank. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you're craving a fiesta of flavors without the fuss.

Start by reaching for two cans of black beans. These little powerhouses of protein and fiber are not only nutritious but also budget-friendly. Drain and rinse them to remove excess sodium.

Now, let's add a kick of flavor. Mash the black beans in a bowl and sprinkle in a teaspoon of cumin. This earthy spice adds depth to the beans, creating a filling that's not only tasty but also satisfying.

Grab your tortillas – corn or flour, your choice! I use flour. Spread the mashed black beans generously over half of each tortilla. Next up, a generous sprinkle of cheese – because, let's be honest, who can resist the gooey, melty goodness of cheese?

Fold the tortilla in half, creating a delicious pocket of goodness. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook each quesadilla until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are golden and crispy.

Serve your Black Bean Quesadillas hot, topped with your favorite salsa and a handful of fresh cilantro. The result? A flavor fiesta that's as budget-friendly as it is delicious.

Whether you're enjoying these quesadillas as a quick family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe proves that you don't need to compromise on taste when watching your budget.

Shopping List

Here's where the magic is! To show you how impressive our budget-friendly meal planning adventure is, I've cultivated the shopping list for all seven of these dinners for you! I've also included real life pricing for them at my local grocery store! I did not include salt and pepper on this list, as I am assuming you have those. Here's what you'll need:

Proteins:

• 1 lb ground beef $3.97

• 1.5 lbs chicken breast (I buy a 3 lb bag which gives me extra for next week!) $9.74

• 1.5 lbs stew meat $9.35

Dairy:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese $2.22

• 2 cups fiesta blend cheese $2.22

• 8 oz fresh mozzarella $3.98

• 1 cup milk $2.66 per gallon (I buy whole milk because of my one year old, but please feel free to use whatever milk you normally buy)

Produce:

• 5 tomatoes $2.98 (for two pack of tomatoes - need 3)

• 1 onions $0.86

• Ginger $0.90

• Fresh basil $1.78

• Fresh cilantro $0.97

• 4 potatoes $3.47 (I buy a 5 lb bag)

• 2 cups baby carrots $1.34

Frozen:

• 20 oz pepper & onion blend $2.58

• 12 oz bag sweet peas $0.98 (you'll have extra left)

• 20 oz Sugar Snap Pea Stir-Fry Veggies $2.54

Canned Goods:

• 3 cans beans (kidney ($0.82), black ($0.82), pinto ($0.82), or a mix)

• 2 cans black beans (in addition to above selections) $0.82 each

• 2 cans 28 oz canned tomatoes $1.48

• 1 can cream of mushroom soup $0.68

• 2 cans tuna $0.96 each

• 32 oz beef broth $1.37

Pantry Staples:

• 2 Pasta (16 oz) $0.98

• Rice $2.88

• Pizza dough $2.64

• 10 tortillas $1.98

• Olive oil $5.78

• Soy sauce $1.58

• Spices: garlic, thyme ($2.24), chili powder ($1.12), cumin ($1.28), herbs of your choice

Condiments:

• Salsa $1.77

Optional for Serving:

• Sour cream $1.18

• Parmesan cheese $2.98

• Bread (or garlic bread) $2.38

• Bagged salad and dressing $2.98 each

• Tub of mashed potatoes $4.98

There are certain items I tend to always have on hand, so for this week, I didn't have to buy all of them. Some items I tend to keep readily stocked are: oils, seasonings, minced garlic, and parmesan cheese. So ensure to check your pantry for any existing ingredients and adjust quantities based on your family's preferences and dietary needs. That is one of my biggest budget-friendly meal planning tips as well: Check what you already have at home! If you skipped a meal one night, you might have forgotten you have ingredients already at home, especially in the freezer and pantry! Use those items up first before buying new!

I did not need to buy: minced garlic, thyme, cumin, chili powder, herbs (I used Italian seasoning I had on hand), oil, parmesan cheese, sour cream, or soy sauce. So that saved me a bit of money. I did opt to buy a loaf of garlic bread, 2 bags of salad (one for with the Margherita Pizza and one for with the Spaghetti Bolognese), and a tub of mashed potatoes. I already had dressing at home for the salad as well. So I did not include those items in my total, but I did include pricing above and in the shopping list graphic in case you need to purchase them. Keep in mind, all prices are from the store local to me, so they may vary. My total for this week: $90.36! Talk about a budget-friendly meal plan! If you need the items I did not need, it is still super budget friendly coming in at $110.24+tax at my local store.

If you want to print out a cute weekly meal menu or shopping list, I do have them available in my Etsy shop for only $1 and you can reuse them week after week! Happy cooking! Check out my Facebook group to see my printed menu and shopping list for the week (keep in mind, I did already have some of the items on hand!) Stay tuned for more culinary delights from Budget Bites Brigade. Our journey continues next week with more wallet-friendly wonders. If you want to follow along all week including pictures of the meals and join our budget-friendly meal planning community, come join our Facebook Group!