41 Cheap Meal Prep Recipes You'll Love

Eating well doesn't have to break the bank. With a little creativity and planning, you can whip up delicious meals that are both satisfying and budget-friendly. Here are 41 cheap meal prep recipes that will make your grocery budget stretch further while ensuring you enjoy tasty dishes throughout the week.

From hearty vegetable stews to flavourful grain bowls, these recipes highlight affordable ingredients like lentils, rice, and seasonal vegetables. Consider whipping up a classic chickpea curry, perfect for batch cooking and freezing, or a zesty quinoa salad that stays fresh for days. For those craving comfort, a creamy pasta bake can be easily assembled and eaten in portions over the week.

Each recipe is designed to save you time and money, as well as reduce food waste. By preparing meals in advance, you can avoid the temptation of expensive takeaways and enjoy homemade goodness instead. Dive into these delightful options, and discover how easy it is to nourish yourself without spending a fortune. Whether you’re cooking for one or for a family, these meal prep ideas offer something for everyone.

22 Kid-Friendly Soups That Make Easy Meals for Children

When it comes to feeding our little ones, finding meals that are both nutritious and appealing can be a challenge. Soups often tick both boxes, providing a warming and wholesome option that can be packed with vegetables, proteins, and delightful flavours. Here are 22 kid-friendly soups that make for easy and enjoyable meals, perfect for even the pickiest of eaters.

1. Creamy Tomato Soup: A velvety blend of ripe tomatoes and cream, served with grilled cheese sandwiches for dipping—this classic favourite never goes out of style.

2. Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup: This comforting soup combines tender chicken pieces with sweetcorn and a hint of ginger, ensuring a delightful taste experience for little palates.

3. Vegetable Minestrone: Packed with seasonal veggies and pasta, this hearty Italian soup is not only colourful but also a great way to sneak in those essential nutrients.

4. Pea and Ham Soup: A delicious blend of peas and diced ham, this vibrant soup is full of flavour and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

5. Butternut Squash Soup: Smooth and creamy, this subtly sweet soup is a fantastic way to introduce kids to the joys of autumnal flavours.

6. Chicken Noodle Soup: A warm hug in a bowl, this classic features tender chicken, egg noodles, and a mix of vegetables, making it a go-to for chilly days.

7. Broccoli and Cheddar Soup: This creamy concoction combines nutrient-rich broccoli with the beloved taste of cheese, creating a comforting meal that kids will adore.

8. Coconut and Lentil Soup: A mildly spiced vegetarian option, this soup is rich in protein and brings a hint of tropical flavour to mealtime.

9. Carrot and Coriander Soup: Naturally sweet carrots paired with fragrant coriander make for a bright and tasty soup that can easily win over younger diners.

10. Beef and Barley Soup: A hearty choice, this blend of tender beef chunks, barley, and vegetables creates a filling meal that's comforting and satisfying.

11. Tomato and Basil Soup: Simple yet flavourful, fresh basil adds a lovely twist to this classic tomato soup, making it a hit with both kids and adults.

12. Dahl: A mild lentil soup, dahl can be made kid-friendly by reducing the spices. It’s rich in nutrients and pairs well with rice or naan.

13. Zucchini and Potato Soup: Creamy and full of flavour, this soup is an excellent way to use up seasonal zucchinis while providing a tasty dish perfect for any meal.

14. Fish Chowder: A rich and creamy soup featuring chunks of fish and hearty potatoes, this dish offers a delightful taste of the sea that kids will enjoy.

15. Black Bean Soup: Smooth, spicy, and rich in protein, this soup can be enhanced with toppings like sour cream or cheese for added flavour.

16. Vegetable and Quinoa Soup: A nutritious option, quinoa adds a unique texture to a hearty vegetable broth, ensuring a satisfying meal that promotes healthy eating.

17. Pasta e Fagioli: This traditional Italian soup combines beans and small pasta bites, creating a delicious and filling dish that children will happily devour.

18. Sweet Potato and Chickpea Soup: A rare blend of sweetness and nuttiness, this soup is a fantastic way to incorporate healthy ingredients into a comforting bowl.

19. Rainbow Vegetable Soup: A vibrant mix of colourful vegetables, this cheerful soup is not only fun to eat but also packed with vitamins.

20. Cabbage and Sausage Soup: A rustic option, this soup is hearty and the slight smokiness of the sausage makes it irresistible for children.

21. Curried Pumpkin Soup: A slightly spicy and creamy soup that introduces kids to new flavours while remaining comforting and familiar.

22. Egg Drop Soup: Light and silky, this simple Chinese-inspired soup features beaten eggs swirled into a fragrant broth, making for a quick and enjoyable meal.

These soups are not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to adapt to your child’s preferences. With a comforting bowl of soup, meals can be both enjoyable and nourishing, ensuring happy tummies all around!

Kabobs for Kids is a delightful culinary initiative aimed at introducing younger palates to the joys of cooking and healthy eating. This programme encourages children to get hands-on in the kitchen, using colourful fresh ingredients to create their own custom kabobs. With a variety of vibrant vegetables, succulent pieces of chicken or beef, and a selection of tasty marinades, kids can experiment with flavours and textures, all while learning valuable kitchen skills. Not only do these make for a fun family meal, but they also promote healthy eating habits by allowing children to take ownership of their food choices. Each kabob can be a unique creation, sparking creativity and encouraging adventurous eating—all while bringing families together around the dinner table.

20 Slow Cooker Meals in 2 Hours

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding time to prepare nutritious and hearty meals can often feel like a daunting task. But with a little planning and a trusty slow cooker, you can whip up 20 delicious meals in just two hours! Imagine the joy of setting aside a single afternoon to create a week’s worth of comforting dishes that will tantalise your taste buds and nourish your family.

Start with a well-organised kitchen. Gather your ingredients and chop vegetables, marinate meats, and assemble spices in advance. As the slow cooker works its magic, you’ll have the freedom to enjoy your day or tackle other tasks.

Think hearty stews, aromatic curries, and vibrant vegetarian dishes that develop rich flavours over time. From a classic beef and ale stew to a zesty chickpea and spinach curry, the options are endless. A delightful lasagne or a warming potato and leek soup can easily find their way into your line-up too.

By the end of your two-hour prep session, you’ll have an array of meals tucked away in the freezer, ready to be pulled out and enjoyed on those busy evenings. With minimal clean-up and maximum flavour, slow cooking becomes not just a meal prep method, but a beloved approach to family dining. So roll up your sleeves and dive into the world of slow cooking – your future self will thank you!

Simple Meal Planning for Beginners: Step-by-Step Instructions

Embarking on the journey of meal planning can seem daunting at first, but with a few straightforward steps, you can make the process both enjoyable and beneficial for your lifestyle. Here’s a simple guide to get you started.

Step 1: Set Your Goals
Begin by determining what you want to achieve with your meal planning. Are you looking to save money, eat healthier, or simply save time during the week? Having clear goals will help guide your decisions.

Step 2: Create a Meal Schedule
Decide how many meals you need to plan for the week. A good place to start is to plan for dinner and lunches, as breakfast can often be a simpler affair. Be realistic about your schedule; choose days when you’ll have time to cook and days when you can repurpose leftovers.

Step 3: Choose Your Recipes
Select a handful of recipes that align with your goals. Aim for simple, balanced meals that use a mix of proteins, vegetables, and carbs. Consider the seasonal produce available to keep costs down and freshness up.

Step 4: Make a Shopping List
Once you’ve chosen your recipes, jot down the ingredients you’ll need for each meal. Check your pantry and fridge to avoid purchasing items you already have. Organise your list by categories like ‘vegetables’, ‘grains’, and ‘dairy’ to streamline your shopping experience.

Step 5: Batch Cook and Prepare
Set aside some time on the weekend or your chosen cooking day to prepare your meals. Consider batch cooking: make larger quantities that can be easily stored and reheated throughout the week. Invest in some quality containers to keep your meals fresh.

Step 6: Stay Flexible
Life can be unpredictable, so allow for flexibility in your meal plan. If you don’t feel like a certain dish, swap it out for something else using the ingredients you have on hand. The goal is to reduce stress, not add to it.

By following these simple steps, meal planning can become a manageable and rewarding part of your weekly routine, leading to healthier eating habits and less time spent wondering what to have for dinner. Happy planning!

Creating your very own homemade Lunchables is a fun and simple way to pack a delicious lunch tailored to your taste. Start by gathering your ingredients: choose a selection of deli meats like ham or turkey, some cheese, and a variety of crackers. You can add fresh fruit like grapes or apple slices for a sweet touch.

To assemble, begin by cutting the cheese into squares or circles that can easily fit atop the crackers. Arrange the deli meats in a separate section, and don’t forget to wash and slice your fruit into bite-sized pieces. For an added treat, you might include a small container of hummus or a dip.

Use a divided lunchbox or bento box to keep everything neatly organised. This not only looks appealing but also makes it easy to mix and match your flavours throughout the week. With a little creativity, you can customise your Lunchables to suit any palate, making lunchtime a highlight of the day!

20 Healthy Dip Recipes to Elevate Your Snacking

Dips are the perfect way to enhance your snacking experience, whether you're hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home. With these 20 healthy dip recipes, you can indulge guilt-free while treating your taste buds. Each dip is crafted using wholesome ingredients, making them ideal companions for fresh vegetables, wholegrain crackers, or even as spreads on your favourite bread.

1. Avocado and Greek Yoghurt Dip: Creamy avocado blended with tangy Greek yoghurt creates a luscious dip packed with healthy fats and protein. Add a squeeze of lime for a zesty kick!

2. Roasted Beetroot Hummus: A vibrant twist on traditional hummus, this recipe combines roasted beetroot with chickpeas, tahini, and garlic, resulting in a visually stunning and nutritious dip.

3. Spinach and Feta Dip: Spinach, crumbled feta, and Greek yoghurt come together for a creamy, savoury treat that's rich in iron and calcium.

4. Smoky Paprika White Bean Dip: Blend white beans with garlic, lemon juice, and a dash of smoked paprika for a dip that’s both healthy and bursting with flavour.

5. Herbed Cottage Cheese Dip: Blend cottage cheese with fresh herbs such as dill and chives for a protein-packed dip that’s perfect with crunchy veggies.

6. Chilli and Lime Guacamole: A classic favourite, this zesty guacamole combines mashed avocados, lime juice, and finely chopped chillies for a scrumptious dip with a spicy twist.

7. Creamy Avocado Salsa: Avocado blended with fresh tomatoes, cilantro, and onion creates a fresh salsa that's packed with healthy fats and great with tortilla chips.

8. Carrot and Ginger Dip: A delightful mix of roasted carrots and fresh ginger, this dip is sweet, spicy, and wonderfully nutritious.

9. Tzatziki: This refreshing Greek dip made from strained yoghurt, grated cucumber, garlic, and dill is perfect for cooling down spicy dishes or enjoying with pita.

10. Lentil and Mint Dip: Combine cooked lentils with fresh mint, lemon juice, and olive oil for a protein-dense dip that's full of flavour.

11. Sundried Tomato Pesto: Blend sundried tomatoes with basil, pine nuts, and olive oil for a rich, umami-packed pesto that’s perfect for spreading.

12. Cucumber and Yoghurt Dip: A light and refreshing option, this dip combines diced cucumber, Greek yoghurt, and fresh herbs for a cool complement to any snack.

13. Roasted Garlic and Chickpea Dip: Roast a head of garlic and blend it with chickpeas and olive oil for a smooth dip that’s bursting with deep, savoury flavours.

14. Pumpkin and Sage Dip: Cooked pumpkin mixed with fresh sage creates a comforting dip, ideal for autumn gatherings.

15. Mango Salsa: Diced fresh mango, red onion, and jalapeños combined with lime juice create a sweet and spicy salsa that’s perfect for dipping.

16. Zucchini and Basil Dip: Blend steamed zucchini with fresh basil and Greek yoghurt for a creamy dip that’s light and delicious.

17. Black Olive Tapenade: This Mediterranean-inspired dip is made from finely chopped black olives, capers, and olive oil, providing a flavour-packed addition to your platters.

18. Nutty Pesto: Using mixed nuts instead of traditional pine nuts, this pesto is unique and can be enjoyed as a dip or spread.

19. Coconut and Curry Cashew Dip: Blend cashews with coconut milk and curry powder for an exotic dip that's both creamy and satisfying.

20. Sweet Potato and Chipotle Dip: Roasted sweet potatoes mixed with chipotle peppers create a smokey, sweet, and spicy dip that’s utterly addictive.

These healthy dips are not only delightful but also provide a range of nutrients to keep your energy levels up. So, grab your favourite dippers and enjoy a flavourful snacking experience without the guilt!

25 Frugal Meals To Make That Kids WILL Eat (Last Minute, Quick and Easy!)

Mealtimes can often feel like a daunting task, especially when you're trying to balance your budget with the picky preferences of children. Fear not! We've compiled a list of 25 frugal meals that are not only easy to whip up at a moment's notice but are also sure to please even the fussiest of eaters. From pasta dishes to hearty soups, these quick recipes require minimal ingredients and offer maximum flavour.

Imagine a comforting bowl of macaroni cheese, where creamy, cheesy goodness meets a sprinkle of crunchy breadcrumbs—perfectly simple and endlessly satisfying. Or perhaps a one-pot chicken and vegetable stir-fry, tossed together in a flash with whatever odds and ends you have in the fridge.

Each recipe emphasises affordability without compromising on taste, ensuring that meal prep doesn't become a source of stress. Let’s dive into some delicious options, guaranteed to fill hungry tummies while keeping your wallet happy! Whether it's a last-minute dinner solution or a speedy lunch, these meals are designed with both kids and parents in mind, making mealtime a breeze.

5 Things You Should Absolutely Do Ahead for Thanksgiving

As Thanksgiving approaches, the excitement of gathering with loved ones often goes hand in hand with the chaos of preparation. To ensure a smooth holiday celebration, here are five essential tasks you should tackle in advance:

1. Plan Your Menu: Before diving into the cooking frenzy, outline your Thanksgiving menu. Consider traditional dishes like roast turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce, but don’t hesitate to add a personal touch. Write down your recipes and make a shopping list for all necessary ingredients.

2. Shopping and Stocking Up: Avoid the last-minute rush by completing your grocery shopping a week ahead. This not only gives you ample time to find every ingredient you need, but also ensures you can choose the freshest produce and best cuts of meat. Don’t forget to stock up on kitchen essentials like spices and baking supplies.

3. Prepare the Space: Start decluttering and rearranging your home a few days prior to Thanksgiving. Set up the dining area and ensure you have enough seating for everyone. If you’re planning any festive decorations, such as autumnal centrepieces, consider setting those up in advance for a stress-free touch.

4. Cook and Freeze: Many dishes can be prepared ahead of time and frozen, such as casseroles, sauces, and even certain desserts. Dedicate a day to cooking and freezing these items to lighten your load on the actual day. This will also allow you to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere when your guests arrive.

5. Confirm Guest Arrangements: Reach out to your guests to confirm their attendance and any dietary restrictions they may have. This not only helps you with the menu planning, but also ensures everyone feels included and catered for during the festivities.

By completing these tasks in advance, you can enjoy a more organised and stress-free Thanksgiving, allowing you to focus on what truly matters — spending quality time with family and friends.

Introducing the delightful “Make a Pizza - Printable Pizza Toppings Cutouts” by Mrs. Merry! This charming resource is perfect for young chefs eager to create their own culinary masterpieces. Each printable features an array of vibrant toppings, from classic tomatoes and gooey cheese to adventurous options like pineapple and spicy pepperoni.

Designed with both fun and education in mind, these cutouts encourage creativity, literacy, and fine motor skills. Simply print, cut, and let the festivities begin! Whether it’s for a classroom activity or a fun-filled afternoon at home, Mrs. Merry’s pizza toppings cutouts are sure to inspire imaginations and appetites alike. Get ready to personalise your pizza with your favourite flavours and enjoy a slice of creative learning!