A practical guide to living a simple and competent lifestyle
Looking for an easy, delicious breakfast that doesn’t require a long list of ingredients? These easy breakfast quesadillas are a fun twist on traditional breakfast burritos! Made with soft scrambled eggs, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas, they’re a simple and satisfying way to start the day.
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Toast is one of those simple foods that can turn into a delicious and filling meal with just a few ingredients. When money is tight or you are trying to use up leftovers, a few slices of toast can become the perfect base for a quick breakfast, lunch, or easy dinner. Here are three frugal ideas for turning everyday ingredients into something warm and satisfying.
One of the best ways to use up leftover chicken, turkey, roast beef, pork, or even hamburger is to make a simple gravy. Chop or shred the leftover meat and warm it in a skillet. Make a quick gravy using drippings or butter, flour, and milk, broth, or water. Add the meat back into the gravy and season with salt and pepper.
Spoon the hot, creamy mixture over a couple of slices of toasted bread for a comforting meal that makes leftovers feel brand new. You can also toss in leftover vegetables, such as peas, carrots, or green beans, to stretch the meal even further.
For an inexpensive meal that feels a little special, try a soft-boiled egg over toast. Cook an egg until the white is set but the yolk is still soft and runny. Place it on a slice of buttered toast and break the yolk so it runs over the bread.
Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper, or add a pinch of garlic powder or shredded cheese. If you have leftover vegetables, avocado, or even a slice of tomato, add those too. Eggs are an affordable source of protein, and this simple meal is ready in just a few minutes.
Another great way to use up small amounts of vegetables is to make a simple creamed vegetable topping. Leftover peas, corn, broccoli, mushrooms, or mixed vegetables all work well. Make a basic white sauce with butter, flour, and milk, then stir in your cooked vegetables.
Spoon the creamy vegetables over warm toast for an easy and filling meatless meal. You can add a little cheese on top if you have some to use up.
Toast is much more than a breakfast food! With leftovers and a little creativity, you can turn simple ingredients into a frugal, delicious meal while wasting less food in the process.
Eggs are one of those foods that become even more valuable when prices at the grocery store start coming down and backyard chickens are laying heavily. This time of year, many families suddenly find themselves with cartons overflowing in the fridge or baskets full of fresh eggs on the counter. And honestly, that’s not a bad problem to have. Eggs are one of the most affordable protein options you can buy, and they’re incredibly versatile for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and baking.
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There’s something so satisfying about making homemade refried beans from scratch — especially when it’s this easy! With the help of your Instant Pot, you can turn a bag of dried pinto beans into creamy, flavorful refried beans in under an hour. There is no soaking required. This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, meal prep days, or anytime you want a hearty, budget-friendly side dish ready to go.
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