• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
An Off Grid Life
  • Off The Grid
  • Self-Reliance
  • Homesteading
  • Food
  • SHOP
    • Facebook
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Off The Grid
  • Self-Reliance
  • Homesteading
  • Food
  • SHOP
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Off The Grid
    • Self-Reliance
    • Homesteading
    • Food
    • SHOP
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • ×
    Home » Best Of

    19 Homemade Frugal Meals That Prove Eating Well Doesn’t Have To Be Expensive

    Modified: Apr 6, 2025 by Sarita Harbour · Published: Mar 2, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links and Amazon links

    Share!
    XFacebookEmailFlipboardPinterest

    Eating well on a budget can be a real treat. Homemade frugal meals turn everyday ingredients into hearty, flavorful dishes without overspending. Simple staples come together in ways that make each meal feel satisfying and memorable. A little resourcefulness transforms affordable ingredients into something worth making again. These homemade frugal meals prove that smart, delicious cooking is always within reach.

    Big Batch Three Bean Chili Recipe

    Pin
    Big Batch Three Bean Chili Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This hearty chili stretches simple ingredients into multiple meals without breaking the budget. The combination of beans, tomatoes, and spices makes it filling and full of flavor. If you’re looking for homemade frugal meals that can feed a crowd, this one is a great choice.
    Get the Recipe: Big Batch Three Bean Chili Recipe

    Northern Hearty Venison Stew Recipe

    Pin
    Northern Hearty Venison Stew Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This venison stew is packed with rich flavors and slow-cooked tenderness. It’s a great way to make the most of wild game while keeping grocery costs low. If you enjoy homemade frugal meals that are warm and satisfying, this one is worth making.
    Get the Recipe: Northern Hearty Venison Stew Recipe

    Easy Homemade No-Knead Artisan Cheese Bread Recipe

    Pin
    Easy Homemade No-Knead Artisan Cheese Bread Recipe. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    This cheese bread bakes up with a crispy crust and soft center, all without kneading. It’s simple to make and costs far less than store-bought artisan loaves. For those who love homemade frugal meals, this bread is a great way to stretch basic ingredients into something special.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Homemade No-Knead Artisan Cheese Bread Recipe

    Baked Sausage and Sauerkraut

    Pin
    Baked Sausage and Sauerkraut. Photo credit: Low Carb No Carb.

    This dish brings together sausage and sauerkraut for a simple, budget-friendly meal with big flavor. It’s easy to throw together and works well with whatever sausage you have on hand. If you want homemade frugal meals that don’t take much effort, this one fits the bill.
    Get the Recipe: Baked Sausage and Sauerkraut

    Northern Rabbit Stew and Dumplings

    Pin
    Northern Rabbit Stew and Dumplings. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This rabbit stew is a classic way to turn an affordable protein into a rich, comforting meal. The dumplings add extra heartiness without needing fancy ingredients. If you appreciate homemade frugal meals that make the most of what’s available, this recipe is a solid option.
    Get the Recipe: Northern Rabbit Stew and Dumplings

    Turmeric Lentil Soup Recipe

    Pin
    Turmeric Lentil Soup Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Lentils cook up quickly and make a protein-packed, budget-friendly soup. The turmeric adds warmth and depth without requiring expensive spices. If you need homemade frugal meals that are nutritious and simple, this soup is a great pick.
    Get the Recipe: Turmeric Lentil Soup Recipe

    Easy Egg Bites Recipe

    Pin
    Easy Egg Bites Recipe. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    These egg bites are a great way to use up extra eggs and whatever leftovers you have in the fridge. They’re quick to make and perfect for breakfasts on the go. If you like homemade frugal meals that reduce food waste, this recipe is a smart choice.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Egg Bites Recipe

    Three Sisters Soup

    Pin
    Three Sisters Soup. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    This traditional soup combines beans, corn, and squash for a hearty, nourishing meal. It’s a great way to use homegrown or seasonal produce while keeping costs down. For those who love homemade frugal meals with simple ingredients, this one delivers.
    Get the Recipe: Three Sisters Soup

    Chicken Black Beans Salsa Corn Casserole

    Pin
    Chicken Black Beans Salsa Corn Casserole. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This casserole layers chicken, black beans, salsa, and corn for an easy, budget-friendly dinner. Everything bakes together in one dish, making cleanup simple. If you’re looking for homemade frugal meals with minimal effort, this one is a winner.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Black Beans Salsa Corn Casserole

    Crisp Pickled Watermelon Rind Recipe

    Pin
    Crisp Pickled Watermelon Rind Recipe. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    Turning watermelon rinds into pickles is a clever way to use every part of the fruit. The tangy, slightly sweet flavor makes them a great addition to meals or snacks. If you enjoy homemade frugal meals that cut down on waste, this recipe is worth trying.
    Get the Recipe: Crisp Pickled Watermelon Rind Recipe

    Easy Honey Graham Cornbread Recipe

    Pin
    Easy Honey Graham Cornbread Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This cornbread is lightly sweetened with honey and pairs well with soups, stews, or breakfast spreads. It’s easy to make with pantry staples and keeps well for days. If you want homemade frugal meals that stretch a dollar, this recipe is a great addition.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Graham Cornbread Recipe

    Artisan Sourdough Dutch Oven Bread Recipe

    Pin
    Artisan Sourdough Dutch Oven Bread Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This sourdough bread bakes up with a crisp crust and soft interior using just a few ingredients. The slow fermentation process adds flavor without extra cost. If you love homemade frugal meals that make use of simple staples, this bread is worth making.
    Get the Recipe: Artisan Sourdough Dutch Oven Bread Recipe

    Homemade Vegetable Soup Recipe

    Pin
    Homemade Vegetable Soup Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This vegetable soup is an easy way to turn extra produce into a warm, filling meal. It’s flexible, affordable, and perfect for using up whatever is in your fridge. For anyone focused on homemade frugal meals, this recipe is a smart way to keep costs down.
    Get the Recipe: Homemade Vegetable Soup Recipe

    Easy Sweet Potato Black Bean Soup Recipe

    Pin
    Easy Sweet Potato Black Bean Soup Recipe. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    Sweet potatoes and black beans make this soup both filling and budget-friendly. It’s packed with flavor, comes together quickly, and works well for meal prep. If you need homemade frugal meals that are hearty and simple, this one is a great choice.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Sweet Potato Black Bean Soup Recipe

    Homemade Dumplings

    Pin
    Homemade Dumplings. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

    These dumplings are an easy way to bulk up soups and stews with just a few ingredients. They’re soft, comforting, and made with pantry staples. If you enjoy homemade frugal meals that make the most of what you have, this recipe is a must-try.
    Get the Recipe: Homemade Dumplings

    Frugal Homemade Sandwich Bread Recipe

    Pin
    Frugal Homemade Sandwich Bread Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Baking sandwich bread at home is one of the easiest ways to save money on groceries. This recipe makes soft, sturdy loaves without any complicated steps. If you want homemade frugal meals that include fresh bread without the store-bought price tag, this one delivers.
    Get the Recipe: Frugal Homemade Sandwich Bread Recipe

    Old-Fashioned Easy Sourdough Discard Biscuits Recipe

    Pin
    Old-Fashioned Easy Sourdough Discard Biscuits Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    These biscuits put sourdough discard to good use, turning scraps into something light and fluffy. They’re simple, budget-friendly, and perfect with soups or breakfast. If homemade frugal meals that cut down on waste appeal to you, this recipe is a great option.
    Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Easy Sourdough Discard Biscuits Recipe

    Easy Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe

    Pin
    Easy Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    This soup turns simple ingredients into a rich, filling meal with plenty of flavor. It’s a great way to use up leftover ham and stretch a few potatoes into something hearty. For homemade frugal meals that warm you up without extra cost, this one is a winner.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe

    Easy Mason Jar Soup Mix Recipe

    Pin
    Easy Mason Jar Soup Mix Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Making your own soup mix is a smart way to save money while having a quick meal ready to go. Just add water or broth, and you’ve got a simple, homemade soup anytime. If you love homemade frugal meals that are easy to store and prepare, this recipe is a great choice.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Mason Jar Soup Mix Recipe

    Share!
    XFacebookEmailFlipboardPinterest

    Primary Sidebar

    Sarita Harbour.

    I'm Sarita. My family and I lived off the grid for 11 years in Canada's far north. If I did it, you can too.

    Learn more here →

    Popular

    • a man wearing blaze orange walking in the woods
      10+ Gifts for People Who Love The Outdoors 2025
    • A close-up of a round baked cake with a golden crust and visible clusters of blueberries throughout.
      Old-Fashioned Artisan Dutch Oven Blueberry Bread Recipe
    • Cover of "The Encyclopedia of Country Living" by Carla Emery, featuring text about homesteading, off-grid survival, and living off the land on a rustic background.
      Why The Encyclopedia of Country Living Belongs on Your Bookshelf
    • two young girls outdoors next to a wooden plank with one large fish and fishing gifts
      Fishing Gifts Guide: 9 Options for Every Style & Budget

    Footer

    ^ back to top

    Privacy Policy

    • Privacy Policy
    • Disclosure
    • Terms & Conditions

      Newsletter

    • Sign Up Here
    • Sponsorship

    Contact

    • Contact
    • Media Kit
    • FAQs

    As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2025 Harbour Content Development Inc.

    We improve our products and advertising by using Microsoft Clarity to see how you use our website. By using our site, you agree that we and Microsoft can collect and use this data. Our privacy policy has more details.