
10 Of Grandpa’s Favorite ‘Cheap’ Meals, According To Our Readers
Not every recipe we make (and sometimes even crave) has to be expensive or overly complicated to pull together. Sometimes those simple, humble, short-on-ingredients dishes are some of our most cherished. From Soup Beans to Pear Salad to easy sandwiches, these are ten of Grandpa’s favorite budget-friendly recipes.
Hannah Hufham, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle
Even though many readers referred to this recipe as “a blast from the past,” it is still warm, comforting, and so delicious today. While it has a simple ingredient list, the flavors are robust and satisfying.
Jessica Furniss
Let the pantry do all of the work. All you need are eight simple ingredients and 15 minutes of hands-on time to perfect these patties. One reader noted: “Found this recipe 40+ years ago and have been making it that long too.I am going to try several of the extra additions next time I make it.”
Greg DuPree; Food Stylist: Ali Ramee; Prop Stylist: Hannah Greenwood
If ever there was a recipe that was truly “comfort in a bowl” it would be this one. Easy, convenient, and filling, this recipe is just as good on cool winter days as it is on warm spring nights. One reader said: “This was awesome! So full of flavor and comfort—even the aroma is comforting.”
Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Sometimes the simple dishes that the kids request time after time are adult favorites too. In just 5 minutes, you can bring pasta, butter, and cheese together in the most delicious recipe.
This recipe has been around for years…and we would not change one thing about this “interesting and unique” concoction. Anything that starts with canned peaches and mayonnaise will always have a spot on our table and in grandpa’s heart.
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
If you have five minutes, you can whip up one of the most unforgettable recipes that starts with two slices of white bread. This is a simple combination that is bursting with flavor, and for many readers, memories as well. One noted: “I grew up in South Carolina. This was my dad’s favorite. I love them too. They are so refreshing on a hot day.”
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Casseroles always make our top favorite recipes, but this delicious dish begins with a can of Chunk light tuna fish. Add noodles, cheese, and magic happens. Everyone raves about how it’s rich, creamy, and incredibly delicious.
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Many readers shared that this recipe reminds them of their childhoods and when ham was too expensive, bologna was the next best option. In under 10 minutes, the meaty bologna stars in a dish that is made with a few pantry staples: mayonnaise, mustard, onions, and pickles. Serve with crackers.
Robby Lozano; Food Stylist: Marianne Williams; Prop Stylist: Tucker Vines
A recipe that requires “zero effort” is music to our ears. Thanks to the transformative, extra creamy Boursin spread, a simple pasta dish explodes with flavor. One reader noted: “OUTSTANDING…and I’m not a cook. Wife was impressed.”
Fred Hardy, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Caleb Clarke
Believe it or not, all you need is 15 minutes to make this family-favorite recipe that’s made for weeknight dinners or weekend lunches. In just five easy steps, you can make a mouthwatering mixture of ground beef, ketchup, mustard, sugar, and spices. One reader notes, “So much tastier than anything store-bought but still so easy!”