Budget Eats: 5 Meals Under $2 per Serving
By Rossi Voss | September 3, 2025 | Prep: 10–15 mins | Cook: 20–40 mins | Servings: 4 | Cost: $0.70–$1.70/serving
Eating well doesn’t have to break the bank. With smart shopping and a few pantry staples, you can create filling, nutritious meals for less than $2 per serving. Here are five favorites that prove budget-friendly food can still be delicious.
As someone who’s written 100 Beginner’s Instant Pot Bean and Grain Cookbook (only $0.99!), I’ve spent decades mastering how to stretch every dollar without sacrificing flavor.
1. Black Bean Soup
Simple, hearty, and rich in protein. Use dried black beans cooked in the Instant Pot for the most savings. Garnish with lime and cilantro.
Cost breakdown: Beans $0.40, onion $0.20, spices $0.10. Total ≈ $0.70 per serving.
Pro Tip: Make a double batch and freeze in 1–2 cup portions for future meals.
2. Lentil & Vegetable Stew
Red or green lentils simmered with carrots, celery, and tomatoes make a filling one-pot meal. Freeze portions for later.
Cost breakdown: Lentils $0.50, veggies $0.60, broth $0.40. Total ≈ $1.50 per serving.
Pro Tip: Use low-sodium broth and season with garlic powder, thyme, and a splash of vinegar for depth.
3. Chickpea Grain Bowls
Layer rice or quinoa with roasted chickpeas and seasonal veggies. Drizzle with tahini or a homemade dressing.
Cost breakdown: Grains $0.50, chickpeas $0.40, veggies $0.80. Total ≈ $1.70 per serving.
Pro Tip: Roast chickpeas with olive oil and spices for extra crunch and flavor.
4. Cabbage Stir-Fry with Noodles
A budget classic that’s fast and flavorful. Shredded cabbage and soy sauce tossed with noodles. Add scrambled eggs for extra protein.
Cost breakdown: Noodles $0.60, cabbage $0.50, eggs $0.30. Total ≈ $1.40 per serving.
Pro Tip: Use rice noodles or spaghetti — both work great and are affordable.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes with Beans
Top baked sweet potatoes with seasoned black beans or pinto beans. Add salsa or yogurt for extra flavor.
Cost breakdown: Sweet potato $0.80, beans $0.40, toppings $0.50. Total ≈ $1.70 per serving.
Pro Tip: Bake 4–6 sweet potatoes at once and reheat all week — perfect for meal prep.
Smart Shopping Tips
- Buy beans, rice, and oats in bulk — they’re the cheapest building blocks for meals.
- Cook once, eat twice — freeze leftovers to save both money and time.
- Use seasonal produce — it’s fresher, tastier, and usually cheaper.
- Stock up on frozen veggies — they last longer and are often more affordable than fresh.
- Shop at discount grocers or ethnic markets — they often have better prices on staples.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, but dried beans are significantly cheaper. A 1-lb bag of dried beans costs about $1.50 and yields 6–8 cups cooked.
How long do these meals last in the fridge?
Most last 4–5 days. Store in airtight containers with some cooking liquid to prevent drying.
Can I freeze these meals?
Absolutely! Soups, stews, and grain bowls freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
Budget cooking isn’t about sacrifice — it’s about creativity and smart planning. With a few simple ingredients and a little know-how, you can eat well without spending much.
Want more low-cost inspiration? Try these 10 Freezer-Friendly Recipes for meals that stretch your budget and save time.
For even more wallet-friendly meals, check out my 100 Beginner’s Instant Pot Bean and Grain Cookbook — packed with hearty, healthy recipes for just $0.99 on Kindle.