Cheap Easy Meals for One: 20+ Delicious Solo Recipes That Save You Money
Introduction: Why Cheap Easy Meals for One Are a Game-Changer
Finding ways to make cheap easy meals for one has been a personal mission of mine since I moved out on my own years ago. Like many people living solo, I quickly realized how fast my food expenses could skyrocket if I wasn’t careful. Cooking for one doesn’t mean boring meals or bland leftovers—it means freedom. Freedom to create, experiment, and save money while enjoying truly delicious food.
This guide is your all-in-one resource for cheap easy meals for one. Whether you’re a student, a busy professional, or simply looking to reduce waste and spending, you’ll find tips, tricks, and recipes that fit your lifestyle.
Pantry Staples to Build Cheap Easy Meals for One
10 Must-Have Pantry Staples for Solo Cooking on a Budget
Cheap easy meals for one start with a well-stocked pantry. These basics are not only affordable but also versatile enough to make dozens of dishes.
Rice – Ideal for stir-fries, soups, and burrito bowls.
Pasta – A go-to for quick dinners with endless variations.
Canned Beans – Great for salads, soups, and wraps.
Lentils – A protein-packed favorite in stews and curries.
Canned Tomatoes – Use them in sauces, soups, and casseroles.
Frozen Veggies – Save money and avoid waste.
Eggs – Cheap, nutritious, and incredibly versatile.
Peanut Butter – Add to toast, sauces, or smoothies.
Oats – For breakfast or savory dishes like oat risotto.
Spices – Garlic powder, paprika, and Italian herbs go a long way.
Why Pantry Staples Make Cheap Easy Meals for One Possible
Cooking with pantry staples means you’re never more than 15–20 minutes away from a satisfying meal. They reduce food waste and eliminate last-minute store runs. It’s about convenience without compromise.
One-Pot Cheap Easy Meals for One That Impress
One-Pot Tomato Chickpeas and Orzo
This creamy, rich dish comes together with pantry staples and is ready in under 30 minutes. It’s vegan, high-protein, and incredibly satisfying.
Lentil Stew with Potatoes and Carrots
The definition of comfort food, this one-pot wonder is hearty, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. Add a slice of crusty bread and you’re set.
Crowd Favorites: Community-Inspired Cheap Easy Meals for One
BuzzFeed and Reddit’s Most Loved Cheap Easy Meals for One
Online communities are goldmines for ideas. Favorites include:
Microwave scrambled eggs in a mug
Quinoa salad with canned beans
Ramen with added veggies and egg
Tuna rice bowls with soy sauce and avocado
These meals are cheap, fast, and filling—perfect for solo cooks.
Lazy Day Dinners: No-Fuss Cheap Easy Meals for One
15-Minute Stir-Fry with Frozen Vegetables
All you need is a bag of mixed frozen veggies, soy sauce, and a bit of garlic. Serve over rice for a complete meal under $2.
Microwave Mug Dinners for One
From lasagna to mac & cheese, the mug dinner trend proves that cheap easy meals for one can be fun and fast. Bonus? Cleanup takes seconds.
Budget Comfort Food for One
Roasted Tomato Soup from Pantry Staples
Canned tomatoes, garlic, and onion come together for a creamy soup that tastes gourmet but costs less than $1 a bowl.
Rotisserie Chicken 3 Ways
Stretch one rotisserie chicken over three meals:
Chicken tacos
Rice bowls with veggies
Chicken soup
Breakfast-for-Dinner Cheap Easy Meals for One
Eggs, Pancakes, and Toasted Goodness
Breakfast staples like eggs and pancakes aren’t just for mornings. Try:
Egg fried rice
Savory oats with eggs and greens
French toast with day-old bread
These are filling, fast, and incredibly affordable.
Cheap Global-Inspired Meals for One
Taco Bowls and Burritos on a Budget
Use rice, beans, salsa, and a sprinkle of cheese. Optional toppings: avocado, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
Fried Rice and Stir-Fry Noodles
Cheap easy meals for one don’t get more flexible than this. Use leftovers, frozen veg, and any protein you’ve got. Don’t forget the soy sauce!
Meal Prepping Cheap Easy Meals for One Without Waste
Cook Once, Eat Twice
Batch cooking saves time and money. Think:
A pot of chili split into 3 portions
Pasta bake eaten fresh and frozen
Freezer-Friendly Solo Meals
Freeze soups, pasta sauces, or cooked rice in single servings. Pull out when you’re short on time or energy.
Affordable Sweets for One
Microwave Mug Brownie or Cookie
In 2 minutes, you have a rich dessert with ingredients you probably already have.
Banana Ice Cream and Fruit Crisp
Use overripe bananas or canned fruit. Add oats and a bit of sugar for a warm treat that costs under $1.
Where to Buy Ingredients for Cheap Easy Meals for One
Discount Stores and Smart Shopping Tips
Shop at Aldi, Lidl, Dollar Tree, or use apps like Flashfood for discounted grocery items. Look for in-season produce and weekly specials.
Must-Have Kitchen Tools for Cooking Solo
Top 5 Tools That Make Solo Cooking Easy
Microwave-safe bowls
One nonstick skillet
Rice cooker or Instant Pot
Small baking dish
Freezer-safe containers
These tools make it easier to whip up cheap easy meals for one consistently.
Food Waste Hacks That Save Cash
Smart Storage and Leftover Tips
Store chopped veggies in jars
Label freezer meals with dates
Use leftover rice for stir-fry the next day
Cheap Easy Meal Plan for One: 5-Day Sample
| Day | Dinner Idea | Cost (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Mon | Chickpea orzo soup | $1.50 |
| Tue | Fried rice with egg and veggies | $1.20 |
| Wed | Pasta with canned tomato sauce | $1.00 |
| Thu | Lentil curry with rice | $1.30 |
| Fri | Breakfast-for-dinner (eggs, toast) | $1.00 |
Conclusion: You’ve Got This—Eat Well and Save More
Cooking cheap easy meals for one isn’t just about saving money—it’s about reclaiming your independence and learning how to feed yourself with love. With the tips and recipes in this guide, you’re ready to make every meal matter without breaking the bank.
FAQs About Cheap Easy Meals for One
What are the best cheap easy meals for one?
One-pot pasta, stir-fries, and egg-based dishes are top picks.
How do I keep grocery costs low when cooking for one?
Shop smart, buy in bulk, use pantry staples, and freeze extras.
What are good tools for cooking solo?
A nonstick skillet, rice cooker, and microwave-safe containers are key.
How can I avoid wasting food?
Plan your meals, store leftovers properly, and embrace freezer-friendly dishes.
Are cheap easy meals for one boring?
Absolutely not! With a bit of creativity, they’re exciting and delicious.