5 Ways to Feed Your Family for $10 or Less

5 Ways to Feed Your Family for $10 or Less

September is National Family Meals Month — just one more reason to celebrate sitting down to dinner with your loved ones. Fortunately, fresh, delicious food doesn't have to break the bank. Discover five ways to feed a family of four for $10 or less.

1. Meatless Lasagna Rollups

Adapted from a recipe at Delish, this tasty meal satisfies everyone in the family, from lovers of Italian food to vegetarians. Just top one side of cooked lasagna noodles with ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, some chopped fresh spinach, and a sprinkling of shredded mozzarella, and roll up tightly. Place rollups in a casserole dish, drizzle with marinara, top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and bake like a standard lasagna. As they say in Italy, "Delizioso."

2. Leftover Tacos

If you're looking for cheap family meals, you don't have to wait until National Taco Day in October to enjoy zesty Mexican flavors. Tacos are a great way to use up leftover meats anytime, including ground beef, pork, chicken, or fish. Just fill lightly charred corn tortillas with your choice of meat, and add black beans, corn, shredded lettuce, grated cheese, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and your favorite salsa.

3. Create-Your-Own Casserole

According to the folks at Better Homes and Gardens, you can create a hearty casserole for your family using cooked rice, cornbread stuffing mix, creamy soup, and your favorite meats and veggies. For a meaty base, think chicken, ground beef, or sausage, then add veggies like green beans, carrots, corn, broccoli, or onions. Tie the dish together with your favorite creamy soup, from chicken or potato to mushroom or nacho cheese. The only limit to this inexpensive dinner is your imagination.

4. America's Favorite Soup and Sandwich Combo

On a chilly evening, nothing beats the comforting goodness of grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup. When it comes to cheap and easy meals, this one tops the list with a prep time of 15 minutes or less. To dress up your tomato soup, top with croutons and grated Parmesan cheese, or a dollop of sour cream and fresh, chopped chives. Make sandwiches extra scrumptious by adding meats like sliced ham, turkey, pastrami, or bacon.

5. Breakfast for Dinner

Who says you can't have breakfast for dinner? Imagine a Denver omelet and a hearty plate of hash browns rolled into one delicious dish. Just blend frozen hash browns, diced ham, chopped bell peppers, sliced green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese in a large baking dish. Pour in some whisked eggs, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and bake for a breakfast-for-dinner bite bursting with flavor. For a little extra zest, serve with a fresh, chunky salsa.

Looking for more ideas for easy, inexpensive meals? Check out these quick dinner recipes.