When money isn’t a problem, people tend to indulge in all sorts of luxuries they couldn’t afford when they didn’t have excess money to spend. However, sometimes, even when money is easy, there are food items you can’t say “no” to. Here are some of the most addictive, economical meals you can eat, even when money is no issue.
1. Empanadas
Spanish for “to bread,” empanadas carry with them the cultural variations from which they come. Spain, Mexico, Argentina, and even regions within these countries can vary greatly, but empanadas were the go-to frugal food for several online forum users. “You are going to upset the hipsters that now realize they have been getting scammed, paying over $5 for an empanada.”
2. Peanut Butter and Jelly
This classic elementary school staple isn’t just for children anymore. It’s climbed its way up to the big leagues and is commonly known for satiating the sweet tooth of many adults. Not to mention it’s one of the cheapest foods you can make for the money. One respondent makes them a staple food. “I ate it at work for a week, and people legit asked me if everything was ok? I appreciate that they care, but I actually like PB&J.”
3. Beans and Franks
No matter how you refer to this ultimate comfort food, a can of pork-n-beans and hot dogs is as easy as it comes and can feed a whole family on the cheap. One commenter shared how this cheap meal became a highlight of their summer vacation. “Growing up, we went to the YMCA for the summer camp program, and you could buy mini cans of beanie-weenies from a heated vending machine. This scenario was before the days of small, cheap microwaves.”
4. Costco Pizza
Not all great pizza comes from a national chain. Sometimes you find the best pie at a place like Costco; at least, several people think. “Costco pizza is so good. Not even for the price, which is unbeatable. I would take Costco over Dominos, Little Ceasars, or Pizza Hut ANYDAY.”
5. Microwave Popcorn
When you’re poor, popcorn is a real treat and is usually the cook-over-the-stove variety. As someone mentioned, purchasing the microwavable kind is a serious treat. “As a kid, I was amazed when I was at sleepovers, and those parents just used a bag. So convenient! No shaking! No melting butter beforehand! No cleanup! Everyone got their own bag! And it has an exotic, artificial taste, just like the movie theatre!”
6. Kraft Macaroni and Cheese
No matter what you call it, the cheesy goodness of a box of warm, gooey Kraft macaroni and cheese is like none other. It’ll likely bring back childhood memories, even if you’re not a fan. One participant was keen on branding. “I’ve heard it called Kraft Dinner by Canadians, but I’ve never seen that branding in the US. Does it say that on the package where you eat this glorious treat?”
7. Noodles With Butter
Pick a noodle type, cook it tender, and drain. Add lots of salted butter and sprinkle with grated Parmesan or your favorite shredded cheese, and you’ll get comfort in a bowl. Cheap and oh-so-good, this meal is for anyone looking to get full for very little money. One individual even uses this dish to ward off nausea. “Any time I forget to eat and am so nauseous because of that, butter noodles are always the only thing I can eat to make that feeling go away.”
8. Baked Potato
Baked potatoes are a fantastic, cheap, and filling way to make your lunch or dinner. Baked in the oven, they get a soft, fluffy center that begs for butter, salt, pepper, bacon bits, sour cream, chives, and anything else you can imagine sprinkling on a potato. You can experiment night after night for extremely cheap and never get bored. Several contributors agreed that baked potatoes were worth the effort. “Especially when you load it up with butter, salt, sour cream, cheese, bacon bits, chives… I love a good baked potato.”
9. Pierogis
This entry got lots of interest from those who love to make them in bulk and those who were interested in how to make them. Both comments received equal praise, but the bulk cookers were seriously impressive. “I make about 1000 pierogis a month (we have a little cottage industry going on), and I’m always down with pierogis for a quick dinner. Pierogis with sour cream and onions fried with thyme are so good!”
10. Tacos
These gloriously delicious weeknight saviors are a staple dinner at my house. Seriously cheap, especially if you make your seasoning; you can make them exactly to your liking and feed a horde at little expense. “Tacos! They’re always so cheap to make and many times cheap to purchase. Tacos make you feel happy. I don’t know what it is. They also seem to fill you up!”
11. Shepherd’s Pie
No matter how you make your shepherd’s pie, whether you like the mashed potato topping or the biscuit version, the gravy and vegetable filling is the best part of this entire dish. “I used to request this for my birthday meal every year growing up! I have a January birthday, so it was always a top comfort meal.” Different regions apply different fillings or toppings, but no matter how you make it, this meal is top of the line for comfort food, especially when it’s cold outside.
12. Tomato and Mayo Sandwich
One interested party felt like submitting an entry on behalf of their father, who grew up in the South in the 1960s. Back then, money was tighter than ever, and bread and vegetables were easy staple foods. Thus was born the delicious tomato and mayonnaise sandwiches. “Fast forward 60 years; I went to visit him a few weeks ago for his birthday and watched him get home from the gym in a luxury sedan, walk into his nice house, plug his new iPhone into the charger, and promptly make a tomato and mayonnaise sandwich for Saturday lunch. He told me that no matter how far away he gets from his childhood, he’ll always crave that sandwich.”
Source: Reddit.
10 Foods That Have to Be Made A Certain Way Or They Don’t Taste Right
Image Credit: Shutterstock
Food is not only nourishment but also a delight to our taste buds. Yet, some dishes have a secret code to unlock their full potential. These commonly known foods must be prepared with precise techniques and methods, as their taste hinges on the fine balance of ingredients and cooking processes.
10 Dishes You Should Never Eat With Silverware
Image Credit: Shutterstock
Eating with silverware is a common practice in many parts of the world. From forks and spoons to knives, these utensils have become essential tools at the dining table. However, certain dishes should be approached with caution when using silverware. While these dishes may be delicious, their unique textures, flavors, or cultural traditions may call for a different approach.
10 Non-Breakfast Foods That Are Totally Acceptable to Eat For Breakfast
Image Credit: Shutterstock
Breakfast doesn’t have to be limited to traditional morning foods like cereal or toast. Plenty of non-breakfast foods can make a surprisingly delicious and satisfying start to your day. Whether you’re craving a slice of pizza, a burrito, or even a bowl of pasta, these commonly known foods can be enjoyed as breakfast options without guilt.
10 Foods That Always Tasted Better When You Were Little
Image Credit: Shutterstock
Do you ever find yourself craving certain foods’ tastes from childhood? There’s something special about the flavors we experienced when we were little. Those dishes made our taste buds dance with joy and brought us smiles. Whether it was a gooey macaroni and cheese or a simple peanut butter and jelly sandwich, these childhood foods held a magical allure.
You’re In The Minority If You Don’t Think These Fast Food Places Are Overrated
Image Credit: Shutterstock
Many people often choose fast food places when grabbing a quick bite. These familiar chains have become ingrained in our culture with their catchy slogans, iconic logos, and widespread presence. However, popularity doesn’t always equate to quality, and some of the most popular fast-food places out there may not live up to the hype.
This article was initially published and syndicated by The Cents of Money.
