Extremely Cheap Meals UK -

Finding ways to prepare affordable meals is essential for many UK families, especially when working with a tight budget. With the current cost of living crisis pushing many families to breaking point, it’s no wonder that so many are looking to find extremely cheap meals to feed their family in the UK at the moment.

The good news is that there is a wealth of easy, extremely cheap meals that don’t skimp on taste or nutrition. In these trying times, eating well without breaking the bank is more important than ever, and this article aims to provide you with practical solutions to make the most of your food budget.

By focusing on budget-friendly family meals and quick recipes, you can ensure that your family is well-fed while controlling your expenses. Additionally, making use of economical cooking techniques, using leftovers wisely, and being creative with store cupboard ingredients can help save money without compromising on taste. A key component in making this work is planning your meals weekly, which can help you prevent waste and maximise savings.

With this article, we’ll explore popular cheap pasta dishes, some extremely cheap meal ideas, and simple sweet recipes that can satisfy your sweet tooth on a shoestring budget. We’ll also address frequently asked questions on how to make the most of your food budget while providing a satisfying and nutritious experience for the entire family.

Key Takeaways

Budget-friendly meals can be nutritious and delicious.
Planning and making use of leftovers save money and reduce waste.
Popular cheap dishes include pasta and simple sweet recipes.

Budget-Friendly Family Meals

Sausage and Broccoli Pasta

One easy and affordable option for a family dinner is Sausage and Broccoli Pasta. This dish combines sausages, broccoli, and pasta, creating a delicious and filling meal. It’s also really quick to make so it’s perfect for a midweek meal. To make the recipe even more economical, consider using a cheaper cut of sausage or look for sales and discounts at the supermarket.

Recipe

Ingredients:

500g pasta
500g sausages
1 head of broccoli
2 cloves of garlic, crushed
4tbsp cooking oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese for topping

Instructions:

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cut the sausage into bite-sized pieces. In a large frying pan or skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
While the sausage is cooking, cut the broccoli into small florets. Add the broccoli to the pan with the sausage and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Add the crushed garlic to the pan and cook for another minute.
Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the sausage and broccoli. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the sauce.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot with cheese on top.

This recipe should serve 4-6 people and can be made for under $£10, depending on the cost of the ingredients. I find the Just Essentials range at ASDA works really well for all the ingredients in this recipe. Enjoy!

Chicken Casserole

A classic, budget-friendly meal that never fails to please a family is the Chicken Casserole. This dish is both nutritious and filling, featuring chicken pieces cooked in a flavourful sauce along with vegetables like carrots, onions, and peas. You can stretch the recipe even further by adding more vegetables or using cheaper cuts of chicken, like thighs or drumsticks.

Casserole dishes are great because you can throw in whatever leftovers you have in your fridge. If you have a can of condensed cream of chicken soup in the cupboard, then you can use this for a really simple, creamy sauce.

Serve the casserole with rice or potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.

Lasagne

Lasagne is another great option for a cheap family dinner. This popular Italian recipe layers pasta sheets with a rich meat sauce, usually made from minced beef and tomatoes, and a creamy béchamel sauce. To save money, substitute half of the minced beef with lentils, or opt for ground turkey as a more budget-friendly meat option. Serve the lasagne with a simple side salad or garlic bread to make the meal go further.

Cottage Pie

Cottage Pie is a classic British dish that can be easily adapted to fit a tight budget. Traditionally made with minced beef, mashed potatoes and vegetables, this hearty meal is both comforting and tasty. To save even more, consider swapping the minced beef for minced pork or turkey, and using frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones. Pair the cottage pie with a simple side dish, like steamed vegetables or a mixed green salad, for a nutritious and frugal family dinner.

Quick Recipes

Vegetarian Chilli

A great option for a quick, budget-friendly family meal is a vegetarian chilli. Packed with flavour and nutrients, this dish is a fun twist on the classic chilli con carne. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers before adding a variety of beans such as kidney beans, black beans, and chickpeas. Combine these with tinned tomatoes and a mixture of spices if you have them including chilli powder, cumin, and paprika. Simmer all ingredients together to let the flavours meld before serving over rice, with tortilla chips or even baked potatoes. Feel free to add more vegetables like sweet corn or courgettes to bulk up the dish and make it even more budget-friendly.

Penne with Arrabbiata

For a quick and easy pasta dish, penne with Arrabbiata sauce is both delicious and purse-friendly. To create the Arrabbiata sauce, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil before adding tinned tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and dried basil. If you prefer a milder flavour, simply reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 20 minutes before tossing with cooked penne pasta. You can further customise this dish by adding mushrooms, spinach, or other budget-friendly ingredients.

Fajitas

Fajitas are a fantastic option for a quick, family-friendly meal that can be customised to suit everyone’s taste buds. For a veggie stir-fry version of fajitas, begin by sautéing sliced bell peppers, red onions, courgettes, and any other preferred vegetables in a bit of oil. Season the vegetables with a mixture of paprika, cumin, chilli powder, and lime juice to give them a delicious Mexican-inspired flavour. Once the vegetables are tender, serve them alongside warm tortillas and a selection of toppings such as grated cheese, salsa, and guacamole.

Again, fajitas can be customised to use up whatever you have in the fridge for a healthy meal that cuts down on food waste.

Economical Cooking from Scratch

Cooking from scratch can be a great way to both save money and increase nutrition. This not only allows better control of ingredients and nutritional values but also saves on the cost of pre-packaged meals. In this section, we will discuss three economical and delicious meals that are easily prepared at home: homemade pizza, chicken curry, and spaghetti carbonara.

Homemade Pizza

My kids love making homemade pizza, and making it yourself is also an affordable way to enjoy this popular dish. The main ingredients needed include:

Recipe

Ingredients:

235g all-purpose flour or oat flour
1 packet instant yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
200ml warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil
120ml tomato sauce
250g grated cheese
Desired toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, ham, sweetcorn, onions, bell peppers, etc.)

Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt.
Add the warm water and olive oil to the bowl and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, until it has doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness and shape.
Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled pizza pan or baking sheet.
Spread the tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the sauce, then add your desired toppings.
Bake the pizza for 12-15 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Slice and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your homemade pizza!

Chicken Curry

Chicken curry is a flavourful and nutritious option for those seeking to cook from scratch on a budget. This versatile dish can easily be prepared with ingredients commonly found in the kitchen. Basic ingredients include:

Chicken
Onion
Garlic
Ginger
Tomatoes
Curry powder or spices
Coconut milk or yoghurt

When preparing chicken curry, different vegetables, such as potatoes or cauliflower, can be added to further stretch the dish and make it more budget-friendly. Serving the curry over rice is another cost-effective way to extend the meal while providing a filling, satisfying experience.

Spaghetti Carbonara

Spaghetti carbonara is a creamy, inviting meal that requires only a few staple ingredients, making it an ideal budget recipe. The key components are:

Spaghetti
Eggs
Bacon or pancetta
Parmesan cheese
Garlic
Black pepper

With these basic ingredients, it’s possible to whip up a delicious and satisfying spaghetti carbonara without breaking the bank. This dish can also be easily adapted to suit various dietary preferences by substituting other forms of protein or choosing a vegetarian alternative.

By embracing the concept of cooking from scratch, families can enjoy these economical and tasty meals without straining their budgets. Discovering various budget recipes and utilising the resource vault can significantly contribute to diverse, nutritious, and budget-friendly meal planning for the entire household.

Clever Use of Leftovers and Store Cupboard Ingredients

Sweetcorn Fritters

Sweetcorn fritters are a versatile and budget-friendly dish that makes good use of store cupboard ingredients and leftovers. Made from tinned sweetcorn, flour, eggs, and seasoning, these fritters are quick and easy to prepare. Simply mix the ingredients together, form into patties, and shallow-fry until golden and crispy. They can be served with a variety of sides such as rice, salad, or even on a sandwich. Sweetcorn fritters are not only delicious, but they reduce food waste and save money by using ingredients that are readily available in your kitchen cupboard.

Weekly Meal Planning for Savings

Budget Meal Planning

Meal planning is a great way to reduce food waste and save money on your grocery expenses. By creating a weekly meal plan, you can allocate your budget to purchase only the necessary ingredients, develop meal ideas, and avoid impulse purchases. Furthermore, focusing on low-cost meals allows you to stretch your money further and cater to your family’s nutritional needs without breaking the bank. Some helpful tips for budget meal planning include:

Shop at discount supermarkets, such as Aldi, for affordable, high-quality groceries.
Use seasonal fruits and vegetables to save money and add variety to your diet.
Minimise food waste by using leftovers and incorporating nutrient-packed side dishes into your plan.
Opt for one-pot meals that encompass multiple ingredients and can last for more than one meal.

Meal Plan

A well-rounded weekly meal plan should involve a balance of nutritious, low-cost meals that cater to your family’s preferences. Here is an example of a seven-day meal plan:

Monday:

Breakfast: Porridge with seasonal fruit
Lunch: Tuna and sweetcorn pasta salad
Dinner: Lentil and vegetable curry

Tuesday:

Breakfast: Toast with peanut butter and sliced banana
Lunch: Egg and mayonnaise sandwich
Dinner: Spaghetti Bolognese with hidden vegetables

Wednesday:

Breakfast: Yoghurt with granola and honey
Lunch: Cheese and tomato toasties
Dinner: Baked chicken drumsticks with rice and green beans

Thursday:

Breakfast: Scrambled eggs on toast
Lunch: Leftover vegetable curry with pitta bread
Dinner: Homemade vegetable soup with crusty bread

Friday:

Breakfast: Cereal with milk and fresh berries
Lunch: Ham and salad wrap
Dinner: Fish finger sandwiches with sweet potato fries

Saturday:

Breakfast: Pancakes with syrup and sliced fruit
Lunch: Leftover soup and bread
Dinner: Chilli con carne with rice

Sunday:

Breakfast: Yoghurt and fruit parfait
Lunch: Cheese and tomato pizza
Dinner: Roast chicken dinner

By incorporating budget meal planning and a weekly meal plan, families can save money and enjoy a diverse range of delicious, low-cost meals without compromising on taste or nutrition.

Popular Cheap Pasta Dishes

In this section, we will explore some popular cheap pasta dishes in the UK. These dishes are easy to prepare and are budget-friendly, making them perfect for families or individuals looking to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank. Below we will delve into three popular pasta dishes: Spaghetti Bolognese, Carbonara, and Pasta Bake.

Spaghetti Bolognese

Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic pasta dish that can be easily prepared on a budget. The key ingredients include mince (typically beef or pork), onions, garlic, tomatoes, and of course, spaghetti. To add more flavour, consider adding a sprinkling of herbs such as basil, oregano or thyme. This dish is both comforting and satisfying, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners.

Pasta: Spaghetti
Sauce: Mince (beef or pork), onions, garlic, tomatoes
Optional Additions: Herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)

Carbonara

Another popular pasta dish that can be made inexpensively is Carbonara. This creamy dish traditionally features spaghetti, although other types of pasta such as linguine, fettuccine or penne can be used. The sauce is made from eggs, Parmesan cheese, and pancetta or bacon. A proper Carbonara contains no cream; the silky texture comes from the eggs combined with some cooking water of the pasta and the melted cheese.

Pasta: Spaghetti, linguine, fettuccine, or penne
Sauce: Eggs, Parmesan cheese, pancetta or bacon

Pasta Bake

Pasta bakes are versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes and budgets. The base usually consists of pasta – often in the form of rigatoni, penne, or fusilli – combined with a flavoursome sauce and various other ingredients. Some popular pasta bake versions include:

Tuna pasta bake: Tinned tuna and sweetcorn with a creamy white sauce, topped with cheese
Sausage pasta bake: Sausages, onions, peppers, and tomatoes in a rich tomato sauce, topped with cheese
Vegetarian pasta bake: A selection of vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, and peppers in a tomato or cheesy white sauce, topped with cheese

The versatility and adaptability of pasta bakes make them an ideal option for those looking to cook a delicious meal without spending a fortune.

Extremely Cheap Meals

Chilli Con Carne

One popular choice for an extremely cheap meal in the UK is Chilli Con Carne. This hearty and comforting dish can be made on a budget while still being nutritious and delicious. The main ingredients are minced beef, onion, garlic, canned tomatoes, kidney beans, and various spices. To make this dish more economical, consider substituting minced beef with a cheaper alternative like minced turkey or soya mince for a vegetarian option. Serve with rice or bread, both of which are wallet-friendly choices.

Vegetarian Recipes

For vegetarians or those looking to increase their intake of plant-based meals, there are numerous extremely cheap meal options.

Lentil curry is a tasty and filling choice, made with red or green lentils, onion, canned tomatoes, coconut milk, and spices like ginger, cumin, and turmeric.
Stir-fried vegetables can be customised according to seasonal produce, helping keep costs down while adding variety to your diet. Combine vegetables like carrots, peppers, and broccoli with a simple sauce made of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Serve with rice or noodles.
Pasta dishes are another affordable and versatile option. A simple tomato-based sauce can be made using canned tomatoes, garlic, onions, and basic herbs like basil and oregano. Add in vegetables like peppers, courgettes, or mushrooms for a more nutritious meal. You can also try using whole wheat pasta for added fibre and nutrients.

When planning extremely cheap meals in a UK kitchen, it is vital to prioritise cost-effective ingredients and adjust recipes to accommodate seasonal produce and supermarket deals. Utilising a variety of spices and techniques will ensure that budget-friendly meals retain their flavour and novelty. Remember to focus on dishes that can cater to different dietary preferences to ensure your extremely cheap meal repertoire is diverse and inclusive.

Simple Sweet Recipes

Apple Cinnamon Traybake

A delightful dessert option that’s not only simple but also budget-friendly is the Apple Cinnamon Traybake. This recipe brings together the comforting flavours of apples and cinnamon in a warm and easy-to-prepare dish. To make this traybake:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and grease a square baking tin.
Peel and dice apples, then toss them in a bowl with some cinnamon.
In a separate bowl, combine self-raising flour, sugar, and butter. Mix until you achieve a crumbly texture.
Add one beaten egg to the flour mixture and combine it well.
Press half of the flour mixture into the prepared tin, creating an even layer.
Layer the cinnamon-coated apples on top of the flour mixture.
Crumble the remaining flour mixture over the apples, making sure to cover them evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.

This fuss-free recipe is perfect for those who are looking for a warm dessert option without breaking the bank. Serve it with a dollop of custard or vanilla ice cream and you have a satisfying, flavoursome treat.

Chocolate Budget Desserts

Indulging in chocolate desserts doesn’t have to break your budget. With a variety of creative and cost-effective recipes, you can satisfy your sweet tooth without overspending. Here are two wallet-friendly chocolate dessert ideas:

Chocolate Rice Pudding

Transform a simple rice pudding into a chocolate delight with the addition of cocoa powder. To prepare this dish:

Cook rice in milk over low heat, stirring frequently, until creamy.
Add sugar, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt to the cooked rice, mixing until well combined.
Allow the pudding to cook for a few more minutes, allowing the flavours to meld.
Serve warm or cool, with a sprinkle of chocolate chips or grated chocolate on top.

Budget Chocolate Mousse

A rich and velvety chocolate mousse can be made using budget-friendly ingredients like marshmallows and instant coffee. Follow these steps:

Melt 200g of dark chocolate with 50g of butter and 2 tablespoons of instant coffee in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 200ml double cream and 200g of marshmallows until smooth.
Fold in the melted chocolate mixture into the marshmallow cream.
Pour the mixture into serving dishes, then refrigerate until set.

These chocolate budget desserts prove that you can enjoy a delicious and indulgent treat without spending too much. Experimenting with affordable ingredients can lead to surprisingly delightful results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most affordable family meals under £5?

There are numerous meal options for families on a tight budget. Some examples of affordable family meals under £5 include spaghetti bolognese with lentils, vegetable curry with rice, and jacket potatoes with baked beans. Combining inexpensive ingredients like lentils, beans, potatoes, and pasta can lead to cost-effective yet delicious meals.

What recipes can feed a family of 6 on a budget in the UK?

Budget-friendly recipes for a family of six in the UK can consist of dishes like lasagna made with minced beef and canned tomatoes, shepherd’s pie with lentils and potatoes, and chilli con carne with rice. By using fillers like rice and beans, you can stretch the meal to feed larger families without spending much on ingredients.

How can I make a week’s worth of low-cost meals for one person?

For a week’s worth of low-cost meals for one person, consider incorporating inexpensive ingredients like tinned vegetables, beans, lentils, rice, and potatoes. Meal ideas could include pasta with tomato sauce, vegetable stir-fry with rice, lentil soup, and an omelette with veggies. Additionally, planning meals ahead of time and buying groceries in bulk can help save on costs.

What are some budget-friendly meals for two in the UK?

Some budget-friendly meals for couples in the UK include a vegetable stir-fry with noodles, baked beans on toast, and a simple frittata with seasonal vegetables. These affordable meals utilise low-cost ingredients that are easy to find in local supermarkets.

What inexpensive dishes can I cook for a large family?

Inexpensive meals for large families can be made with frugal ingredients like beans, lentils, rice, and pasta. Some crowd-pleasing options include chilli with rice, pasta bake with vegetables, and bean casserole with crusty bread. These dishes are not only budget-friendly but also nutritious and filling.

How can I create a meal plan with £1 meals?

Creating a meal plan with £1 meals is possible by focusing on simple, inexpensive ingredients and minimising waste. Look for low-cost staples like rice, pasta, lentils, beans, and tinned vegetables, as well as bargain deals and reduced items in supermarkets. Consider preparing meals in batches that can be easily repurposed for different dishes throughout the week to maximise savings and maintain variety in your meals.