Frugal 30 Minute Meals
I noticed that new frugalites (not sure what to call us) have trouble switching from eating out to eating in. I thought we could help them by posting some 30 minute meal ideas, frugal style. For guidelines, I suggest focusing on ingredients that are easy to find and for which there are frequent sales or coupon opportunities. The less pans and bowls the better. Here's a couple of my regulars. I'll add more later.
Chicken Parmesan
Frozen breaded chicken breast patties
Pasta sauce
Mozzarella or provolone cheese (slices are fine)
Pasta
Broccoli or salad to accompany
Put the chicken in the oven at the temperature indicated on the box. Halfway through the cooking time, turn the patties over. Spoon on pasta sauce to cover. Top with cheese. Place in oven for the remaining cooking time. Serve over lightly buttered pasta.
Sloppy Joes
Ground meat (turkey works fine)
Canned sloppy joe sauce (we like Manwich Bold)
Rolls
Tater tots
Green beans
Place tater tots in oven and cook for recommended time. Microwave green beans for recommended time. Brown meat, add sloppy joe sauce, and simmer for 10 minutes. Serve on rolls. (I also like to add mustard and pickles.)
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