In today’s world, many families are striving to maximize their grocery budgets while still enjoying delicious and satisfying meals. As a parent, I understand the importance of creating meals that are not only nutritious but also enjoyable for the whole family. This challenge can be particularly rewarding when you discover how to prepare a delightful dinner without breaking the bank.
With over two decades of experience in financial writing, I have explored various ways to save on groceries, from identifying the most affordable stores to understanding pricing strategies. However, nothing compares to the satisfaction of leaving the grocery store knowing that I have provided a wholesome dinner for my family for under $10.
This week, I set out to prepare a beloved family dish—egg rolls in a bowl with rice—while keeping the total cost at a mere $10. My goal was to demonstrate that even amidst rising prices, it is entirely feasible to shop wisely and serve a fulfilling meal that rivals the cost of takeout.
This Week’s Budget-Friendly Dinner: Egg Rolls in a Bowl
The meal I selected is a vibrant, vegetable-rich dish inspired by a quick recipe for egg rolls in a bowl. This lighter version of traditional egg rolls aligns perfectly with my family’s desire for healthier options. While my husband and kids enjoy the rice, I often skip it to stretch the meal further. As a busy mom juggling work and family, I truly appreciate recipes that are quick to prepare and cook.
To keep costs down, I streamlined the ingredient list and opted for generic brands. Instead of purchasing ground chicken, I took advantage of a sale on ground beef. I also chose store-brand rice and selected fresh produce that was featured in the store’s weekly promotions. Additionally, I utilized staple items like soy sauce and garlic that I already had at home, further reducing my expenses.
Our Shopping Experience
Here’s a breakdown of what I bought to feed five people for just $9.30:
- 1 pound of 73% lean ground beef ($5.79/lb.)—$5.91
- One organic green cabbage ($2.96/lb.)—$1.75 (after discount)
- One 12-ounce bag of white rice—$0.89 (after discount)
- One small yellow onion ($0.99/lb.)—$0.75
Total: $9.30
For those keeping track, my total grocery bill for this meal was under $10. I managed to stay within my budget for a couple of reasons. Firstly, my state does not impose sales tax on most unprepared food items. Secondly, having essential ingredients at home, such as soy sauce and sesame oil, allowed me to save even more. These pantry staples are invaluable for creating budget-friendly meals without compromising on taste.
Effective Shopping Strategies for a $10 Meal
If you’re interested in preparing your own budget-friendly meal, here are some of my top shopping tips:
- Prioritize sales: I always check weekly ads to find the best deals on pricier items like ground beef before heading to the store. Grocery shopping apps can simplify this process by allowing you to search for local sales right from your phone.
- Choose store brands: Every item I purchased was from a generic brand, and my family couldn’t tell the difference in taste.
- Utilize pantry items: I consistently plan meals around what I already have in my pantry. This habit significantly reduces costs week after week.
Conclusion
Creating a $10 dinner in today’s economy can be challenging, but with thoughtful planning and a bit of creativity, it is absolutely achievable. If you’re eager to try your hand at making low-cost meals without sacrificing flavor, consider strategies like shopping sales, opting for store brands, and utilizing ingredients you already have at home.
Egg rolls in a bowl perfectly encapsulate these principles. This budget-friendly and flavorful dish not only satisfies everyone at the table but also leaves room for seconds or leftovers for the next day.