This week I have some delicious comfort foods to warm you up and stick to your ribs. From Hoppin’ John’s and chicken soup to homemade hot pockets that will rock your socks off, this list is a crowd pleaser. I even added a great Super Bowl treat, french onion burgers, that will have your guest bowing down to you and begging for the recipe.
Starting with this post, I will no longer be breaking down the price for every item. After doing this for almost a year, I am confidant in my ability to still make affordable meals without nickel and diming my ingredient list. I will, however, be posting the prices I paid for the main protein as a base for the prices. It has become quite time consuming with my husbands new job and an older toddler to do this each week. Plus the price of produce and other items fluctuates so much based on when you buy and how much you buy and where.
This is my weekly meal plan on $60 or less! (my average prices do not include common spices, butter, oil, etc)
Monday
Hoppin’ Johns
Bacon $1.50 (½ package)
(recipe) I used bacon since I already had it on hand, but chopped ham or even pulled pork would be delicious. Served it up with a side of cornbread (toss in a few jalapenos for some kick!) and enjoy. This dish is very affordable and filling, a southern staple going back hundred of years and for good reason.
Tuesday
Homemade Hot Pockets
Chicken Breast $3.34 ($2.99lb, Fresh Market)
(recipe) I did not use the mayo, just the sour cream to lighten up the calorie count a smidge and also do not use “leftover chicken”. Typically I bake a few chicken breasts during the day to use for dinner, i prefer it fresh. This was definitely a hit with the toddler and you can change out veggies to suit their daily demands.
Wednesday
Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken Breast $3.35 ($2.99lb at Fresh Market)
(recipe) The taste was great, lots of flavor, but I think the noodles were not right for the dish. I would use egg noodles next time, i prefer their texture in my chicken soup. The smell of soup cooking always makes me hungry, so enjoy the delicious scents of your labor.
Friday
Beef Fried Rice
Stir Fry Beef $3.98 (pre sliced)
I marinated the beef for a few hours in soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and sesame oil. Next, I pan seared until cooked through (about 3 minutes per side) and served atop rice with mixed in with frozen veggies from Trader Joe’s ($2.29 per pack). This is great the next day for leftovers too.
Saturday
Cabbage Potato Skillet
Polish Kielbasa $2.50
(recipe) A super hearty dish that definitely fills you up for very cheap. This could also be used as a side dish for corned beef or steaks to bulk up the dish. Yum, Yum! Small warning, the smell of cabbage cooking is quite pungent, but its worth it!
**Bonus**
We tried these amazing burgers over the weekend and I just had to share with you. (recipe) I love French onion soup so french onion burgers just makes sense. I promise you will not be disappointed in these. Onion lovers unite! This would be a great addition to your Super Bowl feast too!
