In a world where time is precious and budgets are tight, finding affordable yet delicious dinner options can be quite the challenge. But worry not! I’m here to guide you through three 3 cheap family meals under $10 that not only satisfy your taste buds but also fit snugly into your wallet. All the ingredients for these delightful dishes can be sourced from your local Aldi store, a haven for budget-conscious shoppers. Join me on this culinary journey as we explore easy-to-make recipes that promise to be a hit with the whole family.
Why Save Money On Food?
Before diving into the recipes, let’s take a moment to reflect on why saving money on food is a smart idea. Balancing a budget is crucial for financial stability, and reducing your grocery bill can significantly contribute to this goal. By cooking meals at home using cost-effective ingredients, you not only save money but also have control over the quality and nutritional value of your meals. And where better to embark on this frugal culinary adventure than Aldi, a supermarket known for offering high-quality products at budget-friendly prices?
The Aldi Advantage: Quality and Savings
Aldi’s commitment to providing quality products at affordable prices has made it a favorite among savvy shoppers, like myself. Their streamlined approach to retail allows them to cut down on unnecessary costs, passing on the savings to you. Not only does Aldi offer a wide range of everyday essentials, but they also stock fresh produce, meats, and pantry staples that make whipping up home-cooked meals a breeze.
Don’t have an Aldi near by? No problem, I find that Walmart’s prices are quite comparable! Go ahead and give it a shot! Walmart is another great option for budget-conscious shoppers, offering a variety of products at competitive prices.
Now, let’s get cooking with three delicious and wallet-friendly recipes that you can prepare using ingredients sourced from Aldi:
The Shopping List:
Prices are from Aldi (in NH, USA) July, 2023. YMMV.
- Chicken Thighs Bone in Skin on (4.11lb): $6.53
- Ground Turkey (1.2 lb): $4.19
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs(1.59lbs): $4.75
- 10 Flour Tortillas: $1.45
- Hamburger Buns: $1.29
- Salad Kit: $0.99 (on sale)
- Avocados (3): $1.77
- Black Beans (15 oz): $0.77
- Corn (15.25 oz): $0.64
- Salsa (16 oz): $2.19
- Broccoli Cheddar Rice: $0.99
- Brown Rice Microwave Bag: $1.35
- Steamed Broccoli Florets (12 oz): $0.97
- Cheddar Cheese (8 oz): $1.99
- Sour Cream (16 oz): $1.69
- Pantry Items: Salt, Pepper, Spices, Onion Powder, Ketchup, Worcestershire Sauce, Garlic Powder, Cumin
Total Estimated Cost: Approximately $31.56 (Ok, I was close to $10 each)
Recipe 1: Savory Cheddar Broccoli Rice and Chicken Thighs
For about $9, you can create a delectable meal using chicken thighs as the star ingredient. Head to Aldi and pick up a pack of chicken thighs on sale for $1.59. Alongside it, grab a box of cheddar broccoli rice and a bag of steamed broccoli florets, both priced under a dollar each. You’ll also need a few basic pantry items. Follow these simple steps:
Ingredients:
- Bone in, skin on, Chicken Thighs (4.11 lbs)
- Cheddar Broccoli Rice
- Steamed Broccoli Florets (12 oz)
- Cheddar Cheese (8 oz)
- Pantry Items: Salt, Pepper, Spices,
- Optional Pantry Items: BBQ Sauce, parmesan cheese, lemon juice
How to Make the Chicken Thighs
There are many ways you can cook bone in skin on chicken thighs. I personally love cooking them on the grill and in the oven.
Grilling Instructions:
- Heat your grill to high heat on one burner and either low or don’t turn on a second or 3rd burner.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices or BBQ Sauce.
- Grill over indirect heat (the side that is not on) for about 30 minutes flipping half way through.
- Move the chicken thighs, skin side down, to the hot side of the grill for 5 minutes or so to crisp up the skin, add extra bbq sauce, if you like.
- Make sure the chicken is cooked to 165 degrees F and the juices run clean when cut.
Baking Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices or BBQ Sauce.
- Bake the chicken thighs for about 30 minutes or until fully cooked. The baking time can vary as the size of the thighs can vary quite a bit. For safety, make sure the thighs reach 165 degrees internal temp.
To Prepare the sides:
- Prepare the cheddar broccoli rice according to the package instructions.
- Steam the broccoli florets for a nutritious side. I like to elevate the broccoli by adding about 1/2 teaspoon of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, and a few tablespoons of parmesan cheese. This really takes the broccoli up a notch!
- Assemble the dish by serving the chicken thighs over the cheddar broccoli rice, topped with a sprinkle of cheddar cheese.
Recipe 2: Flavorful Turkey Burgers with a California Twist
These turkey burgers are a hit with the family and cost less than $10 to make. Grab a pack of ground turkey for about $4-6 and some hamburger buns. Don’t forget to check out Aldi’s salad kits, which often go on sale for 99 cents. Pick up some avocados and cheddar cheese to complete the meal!
Ingredients:
- 1.2 lb Ground Turkey
- 2 teaspoons Onion Powder
- 2 tablespoons Ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
- Your choice of spices (such as garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper)
- 5 Hamburger Buns
- Salad Kit (it’s great to find one on sale)
- Avocado
- Cheddar Cheese (4oz)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix ground turkey with onion powder, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into 5 burger patties and grill them to perfection.
- Prepare the salad kit for a refreshing side. I like to add to this based on what I have on hand. Sometimes I’ll add extra shredded cheese, bacon bits, or croutons. Really, anything you like in your salad, go ahead and add it, if you want!
- Assemble the turkey burgers on buns, topping them with sliced avocado and cheddar cheese.
These turkey burgers offer a delightful twist on the classic burger experience, with the creamy avocado and melted cheddar adding layers of flavor. The combination of the well-seasoned turkey patty and fresh toppings creates a harmony of textures and tastes that will leave your taste buds satisfied. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a great way to enjoy a restaurant-quality burger in the comfort of your own home, all while staying within your budget. Enjoy your delicious and budget-friendly turkey burgers!
Recipe 3: Hearty Crockpot Santa Fe Chicken
This crockpot dish is a huge time-saver but it’s full of flavor. Grab a pack of boneless skinless chicken thighs and some black beans and corn, both priced under a dollar each. A jar of salsa, along with spices from your pantry, will complete the flavorful mixture.
How to Make Santa Fe Chicken:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lb Chicken Thighs
- 1 can (15 oz) Black Beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15.25 oz) Corn, drained
- 1 jar (16 oz) Salsa
- 2 Avocados, sliced
- 1 cup Rice, cooked
- 8 oz Shredded Cheese
- 16 oz Sour Cream
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a crockpot, combine the drained black beans, drained corn, salsa, and spices (garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin).
- Add the chicken thighs to the crockpot, making sure they are submerged in the mixture.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 3 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and mix it with the bean and corn mixture.
- Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and slice the avocado flesh.
- Cook the rice according to the package instructions.
- To serve, place a scoop of cooked rice on a plate.
- Top the rice with the shredded Santa Fe chicken mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken.
- Add a dollop of sour cream and a few slices of avocado.
- Garnish with additional salsa if desired.
This Really is Amazing…
This Crockpot Santa Fe Chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that delivers a satisfying meal for your family. The combination of tender shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and a touch of spice from the salsa and seasonings creates a comforting and hearty dinner option. Topped with creamy avocado slices, melted cheese, and a dollop of sour cream, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized to your taste preferences. Serve it over rice for a complete and fulfilling meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy the rich flavors and convenience of this budget-friendly recipe!
A Feast of Flavor and Savings!
Aldi (or your local discount grocery store) offers a fantastic variety of affordable ingredients that can be transformed into flavorful and satisfying family dinners. These three recipes not only fit within a budget of around $30 but also provide versatility and deliciousness that will leave your family asking for seconds. So, head to your local Aldi, grab the ingredients, and enjoy these easy-to-make and budget-friendly dinners that are sure to become family favorites.
Watch How To Make All Three Of These Recipes!
And for more budget meals check out these videos:
MORE BUDGET RECIPES TO TRY
- Meals to Make it to Payday!
- $80 Budget Meal Plan for 5 (Viral on Pinterest!)
- 10 Small Budget Meals
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