Cheap Meals for Large Families: Recipes and Tips
Feeding a large family on a budget is a challenge. But with the right recipes and a little bit of planning, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious meals that don’t break the bank.
Looking to find cheap meals for large families and recipes for your budget? This blog is for you! The Family Daily team shares tips and meal ideas to help you stretch your food budget further.
Hearty Chicken Dishes
Chicken is a go-to economical protein choice for large families. It’s one of the most affordable animal proteins in the supermarket. The good news is that you can typically find even further discounted chicken when you know how to look for bargains.
Here are some crowd-pleasing chicken recipes that won't strain your wallet!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Fajitas
This simple recipe combines chicken breasts, bell peppers, and onions with budget-friendly seasonings for a flavorful meal that can easily feed a crowd. Serve with tortillas, rice, and beans for a complete dinner.
Large Chicken Pot Pie
This freezer-friendly recipe makes four pans, perfect for feeding a big family or for meal prepping. Loaded with vegetables and a creamy sauce, chicken pot pie is always a comforting dish that stretches poultry ingredients further.
Chicken Fried Rice
Wondering what to do with those chicken and rice leftovers? Repurpose them into a tasty, filling meal. Chicken fried rice is versatile and can incorporate various vegetables you have on hand, making it a smart option for using up leftovers.
Ground Beef Favorites
Ground beef is another versatile and relatively inexpensive protein. Try these family-friendly recipes that you can stretch to feed a full table.
Slow Cooker Meatloaf
Meatloaf doesn’t have to be a hassle. Create this classic dish that can feed a large group, all with minimal time in the kitchen. Prepare meatloaf and slow-cook it on low, letting it get moist and juicy. Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Taco Bake Freezer Meal
This recipe makes 4-5 pans, perfect for large families or for stocking your freezer. It's a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the flavors of tacos with the convenience of a casserole. Layer tortillas, cheese, ground beef, and your taco fillings of choice. Bake in the oven and serve with a spatula.
Cheeseburger Casserole
Ground beef, noodles, and cheese are common household staples in the U.S., all of which make an easy cheeseburger casserole. This comforting dish brings together the flavors of a cheeseburger in an easy-to-serve casserole format. Plus, it’s a dish that kids especially love.
Vegetarian Options
Meatless meals can be both nutritious and budget-friendly. Here are some vegetarian recipes that can easily feed a crowd during every season of the year.
Double Bean & Roasted Pepper Chili
This hearty vegetarian chili serves eight and is packed with protein-rich beans and colorful vegetables. It's a great way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your family's diet.
Vegetable Curry for a Crowd
A one-pot curry is loaded with vegetables and can be adjusted to suit your family's spice preferences. It's an excellent way to use up various vegetables you have on hand. This dish is not only budget-friendly but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome meal that everyone will enjoy. Serve it with rice or naan for a complete, satisfying dinner.
Tips for Saving Money on Family Meals
No matter what type of budget recipe you decide to try, there are a few “apply all” tips for saving money on large family meals. At Family Daily, we help busy families on a budget simplify their meals and grocery lists with the use of proven strategies and digital tools that work. Here are some of our tips!
Plan Your Meals
Meal planning is crucial for staying within your budget. Take some time each week to plan your meals, considering what ingredients you already have and what's on sale at your local grocery stores.
Buy in Bulk
For large families, buying in bulk can lead to big savings. Focus on non-perishable items and foods your family consumes regularly. Just be sure you have adequate storage space.
Think About Leftovers
Plan for leftovers and find creative ways to repurpose them. For example, leftover roast chicken can be used in sandwiches, salads, or soups.
Use Your Slow Cooker
Slow cookers are great for turning less expensive cuts of meat into tender, flavorful meals. They're also energy-efficient and can help you avoid the temptation of ordering takeout on busy days.
Try More Plant-Based Meals
Beans, lentils, and other legumes are highly affordable and nutritious when you don’t want to splurge on the deli aisle. Try incorporating more plant-based ingredients into your meals to stretch your budget further.
Shop Seasonally
Fruits and vegetables are often cheaper when they're in season. Plan your meals around seasonal produce to save money and enjoy fresher ingredients.
Compare Prices
Don't assume that one store always has the best prices. Compare prices across different stores and consider shopping at discount grocers or ethnic markets for certain items.
Use Coupons and Apps
Take advantage of coupons and money-saving apps. Many grocery stores offer digital coupons that can be loaded directly onto your store loyalty card.
Buy Generic or Store Brands
Generic or store-brand products are often cheaper than name brands and are usually of comparable quality.
Use Common Ingredients
Focus on ingredients that can be used in multiple dishes. For example, potatoes can be mashed, roasted, or used in soups and casseroles. Avoid ingredients that feel limiting and expensive, such as tarragon.
Freeze Extra Produce
If you find a great deal on produce but can't use it all before it spoils, consider freezing it for later use. Many fruits and vegetables freeze well and can be used in future recipes.
Make Your Staple Ingredients
Consider making some staples from scratch, like bread, pizza dough, or sauces. This can often be cheaper than buying pre-made versions and allows you to control the ingredients.
Budget Your Meals With the Family Daily App
Feeding a large family on a budget doesn't have to mean sacrificing flavor or nutrition. By trying cheap meals for large families, recipes, and money-saving tips, you can create satisfying meals that won't break the bank.
Ready to start planning your family's meals more efficiently? Download the Family Daily app today and discover how easy it can be to organize your family's schedule, plan meals, and save money on your grocery bills. With features designed specifically for busy families, Family Daily is your partner in creating delicious, budget-friendly meals that your whole family will love.
