Easy & Budget-Friendly Recipes - Budget Bytes

Muffaletta Roll Ups

Jess - Budget Bytes — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 13:30:00 +0000

Any time I can meal-prep lunches for the week, I’m all in! These Muffaletta Roll Ups are a fun twist on the classic New Orleans sandwich. They’re filled with all the traditional flavors of a muffaletta thanks to the layers of Italian salami, ham, cheeses (provolone AND mozzarella!), and a tangy homemade olive salad. But instead of using a loaf of bread, I wrap everything up in pizza dough and bake it until golden brown and crispy! These roll ups are perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or your next game day spread.

While teaching at the Canadian Food & Wine Institute at Niagara College, I volunteered to help with one of their Project Brew events, where the brewery students share their final projects (mmm, craft beer!) with the student body and the public. The class chooses a theme, and the culinary students help cater the event. I was thrilled to learn they had chosen “Brew Orleans” (ha, ha), so I had to bring my A-game regarding New Orleans-themed food.

My students and I chose to make muffaletta roll ups and vegan red beans and rice. The roll ups we made were completely vegan, but for Budget Bytes, I’ll walk you through something a bit more classic for the omnivores out there. However, it’s worth noting you can make this recipe entirely vegan—just find the plant-based meat and cheese substitutes you love the most and skip the egg wash! At home, I usually make one with classic cheese and deli meats for my husband, and then I make a plant-based version for myself. We eat them all week for lunch!

What is a Muffaletta Roll Up?

Muffaletta (or muffuletta) is a wide, round Sicilian bread topped with sesame seeds and a soft texture similar to focaccia or ciabatta. Muffaletta is also a well-loved and popular sandwich made famous in New Orleans. It’s believed the first muffaletta sandwich was created by Sicilian immigrant Salvatore Lupo, owner of Central Grocery in New Orleans, in 1906. The sandwich is traditionally made with Italian cold cuts, cheese, and a special olive salad that gives it its signature flavor.

The bread is almost as important (if not more so, depending on who you speak to!) than the filling. However, finding authentic muffaletta bread outside of NOLA is tricky. So, for this recipe, I wrap the sandwich filling in pre-made pizza dough and bake it for a delicious take on the classic. It’s like a cross between a stromboli, a sandwich, and muffaletta pinwheels!

Here’s what you’ll need to make these muffaletta roll ups:

Green Olives: Olives are the base ingredient for the muffaletta salad, which is truly the star of this recipe! The salad is similar to an olive tapenade. I like green olives for their mild flavor, but you can use any type you prefer. (I found jalapeño stuffed olives, so I opted for those!)
Italian Giardiniera Mix: This mixture of pickled vegetables adds a refreshing crunch and tang to the olive salad. You can find giardiniera mix in the pickle aisle at your local grocery store.
Dried Italian Herbs: Infuses the salad with classic Italian flavors.
Garlic: Adds a delicious kick of flavor that only gets better as it marinates with the other ingredients.
Italian Salami & Thin Cut Ham: These are two of the classic deli meats you’ll find included in a traditional muffaletta sandwich. You can also add other meats or use your favorite veggie/vegan alternative.
Provolone & Mozzarella Cheese: A must-have for any muffaletta recipe! These cheeses melt beautifully and help the roll ups hold together.
Flour: To roll out the pizza dough, if needed.
Pre-Made Pizza Dough: If you can’t find pre-made balls of pizza dough at your grocery store, check the freezer section and ask the bakery staff, too! I have successfully made calzones and pizza with the Pillsbury Dough Pizza Crust in a can, but I haven’t tried it with these muffaletta roll ups yet. You may need to rely on the optional extra flour to roll it out if you try the Pillsbury kind, as I found it to be sticky to work with.
Egg: Gives the roll a beautiful, golden brown finish.
Sesame Seeds: Traditional muffalettas are made with bread that’s topped with sesame seeds. Sprinkling some on your roll ups helps to replicate that classic look and taste.

Tips and Suggestions

Use thin-cut meats and cheeses as they roll up better and won’t make your roll ups too bulky.
Muffaletta salad always tastes better when it has had time to marinate! Make the olive salad the day before and let it sit in the fridge overnight for maximum flavor.
Use pitted or stuffed green olives (I used jalapeno-stuffed olives for an extra kick) so you don’t have to worry about removing the pit before chopping.
Muffalettas are usually left to ‘rest’ before eating so the olive salad juices can soak into the bread. That won’t work for these roll ups, as the added moisture will create lots of steam and make them soggy. I recommend straining the olive salad well before adding it to the pizza dough!

Storage Instructions

Store your roll ups in the fridge for up to 5 days. They’re delicious, hot or cold, as leftovers! You can also try freezing them for up to 3 months by wrapping them in foil or plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight container. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying. Just note that the salad and meat may become watery after thawing.

Our founder, Beth, lived in NOLA for a while. She has some awesome recipes for classics like slow cooker jambalaya and Louisiana-style Red Beans and Rice here on the blog. Check them out! I think you’ll love my Shrimp Po’Boys recipe, too! (Spoiler alert: YUM!)

Muffaletta Roll Ups

These Muffaletta Roll Ups are the best way to enjoy your favorite sandwich outside of NOLA! They're the perfect meal-prep recipe on a budget.

Course Lunch

Cuisine American

Total Cost ($14.14 recipe / $2.02 serving)

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Servings servings (one 2 inch thick slice per serving)

Calories 593kcal

Author Jess – Budget Bytes

Equipment

Ingredients

Muffaletta Salad Ingredients

½ cup green olives* $1.73
½ cup Italian giardiniera mix $0.71
1 tsp dried Italian herbs $0.19
1 clove garlic, minced $0.05

Roll Up Ingredients

1 ball pizza dough $3.49
1 Tbsp flour, if needed for rolling out pizza dough $0.02
11 slices Provolone cheese $1.98
8 slices mozzarella cheese $1.44
10 slices of thin cut ham $1.98
15 slices of thin cut Italian salami $2.19
1 egg, beaten $0.22
1 tsp sesame seeds for garnish $0.14

Instructions

Muffaletta Salad Directions

Add all the salad ingredients to your food processor and pulse until chunky and small.

Roll Up Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Roll out pre-made pizza dough onto a large piece of parchment paper, about 10×14” in size, nice and thin. Use a little flour if necessary to help you roll your dough flat if you find it’s a little sticky.
Top the dough with one layer of cheese slices. Leaving about 1 inch around 3 sides and 2-3 inches at the end so you can seal the dough after all of your layers are done.
Then, on top of your cheese layer, spread out Italian salami
On top of salami, layer the thin cut ham. Spoon the Muffuletta salad over the top. Try to drain any juices before adding the muffuletta salad to your roll up.
Add your last layer of cheese.
Carefully roll up your dough, starting from one short end of the rolled out dough.
Seal the dough gently with your finger tips to create a solid loaf.
Brush egg wash over the entire loaf.
Then, cut 3 slits in the top to help release steam so your roll up doesn’t burst at the seams. (Sometimes it still happens, as you can see from my process photos—don’t worry, it will be fine!) Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Bake for 20-25 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let sit for 5-10 minutes to cool before slicing into 2” portions. You can enjoy your Muffuletta Roll Up hot or cold. This recipe’s leftovers should be refrigerated and enjoyed within 5 days.

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

* I opted for jalapeno stuffed green olives I found at Walmart to give my muffaletta a little extra heat.

Nutrition

how to make A Muffaletta Roll Up – step by step photos

Add ½ cup green olives, ½ cup Italian giardiniera mix, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs, and 1 minced garlic clove to your food processor.

Pulse until chunky and small.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Roll out 1 ball of pre-made pizza dough onto a large piece of parchment paper, about 10×14” in size, nice and thin. Use 1 Tbsp flour if necessary to help you roll your dough flat if you find it’s a little sticky.

Top the dough with 11 Provolone cheese slices. Leaving about 1 inch around 3 sides and 2-3 inches at the end so you can seal the dough after all of your layers are done.

Then, on top of your cheese layer, spread out 15 slices of Italian salami.

On top of salami, layer 10 slices thin cut ham. Spoon the Muffuletta salad over the top. Try to drain any juices before adding the muffuletta salad to your roll up.

Add 8 slices of mozzarella cheese on top.

Carefully roll up your dough, starting from one short end of the rolled out dough. Seal the dough gently with your finger tips to create a solid loaf.

Brush 1 beaten egg over the entire loaf.

Then, cut 3 slits in the top to help release steam so your roll up doesn’t burst at the seams. (Sometimes it still happens, as you can see from my process photos—don’t worry, it will be fine!)

Sprinkle with 1 tsp sesame seeds.

Bake for 20-25 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let sit for 5-10 minutes to cool before slicing into 2” portions. You can enjoy your Muffaletta Roll Up hot or cold. This recipe’s leftovers should be refrigerated and enjoyed within 5 days.

You’re going to love how quick, easy, and delicious this muffaletta roll up recipe is!

The post Muffaletta Roll Ups appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

Marsha - Budget Bytes — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 13:57:59 +0000

Cinnamon apples are simply my jam, but I especially love them during the Fall when apples are in season. And what better way to enjoy warm, cooked apples than on top of fluffy Apple Cinnamon Pancakes! This easy apple pancake recipe is infused with lots of warm and cozy flavors and simply a treat to enjoy. Sure, you can make regular pancakes this weekend, but why not take them up a notch with these extra fluffy, apple cinnamon pancakes!

These apple cinnamon pancakes are seriously next level and the cooked apple topping really makes them extra special. Here’s everything that you’ll need:

Apples: The sweet apple topping is what makes these pancakes stand out! There are lots of different apples to choose from, but I like to use a sweet or semi-sweet apple like Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp apples.
All-Purpose Flour: Flour is the primary foundation for the pancakes. You can substitute up to half of the flour with whole wheat flour without it making the pancakes too dense.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Both are leavening agents which help make the pancakes light and fluffy instead of dense and gummy.
Sugar: Sugar adds the perfect amount of sweetness to the pancake batter and the apples. I chose granulated sugar for the pancakes and brown sugar to sweeten the apples, but you can certainly use whichever sugar you prefer.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds a touch of sweetness and warmth to both the cooked apples and the pancake batter.
Salt: A little bit of salt helps balance the flavor of the pancakes.
Buttermilk: Buttermilk combines with the flour to add moisture and create the batter. I chose buttermilk for extra fluffy pancakes, but you can certainly use regular milk instead. I’ve also provided some buttermilk alternatives down below.
Egg: The egg helps hold the pancakes together, it gives them a nice springy texture, and also helps leaven the pancakes.
Butter: Butter adds lots of flavor and richness to the pancakes and the apples.
Vanilla Extract: A small amount of vanilla extract adds a wonderful flavor and depth to the pancakes.
Maple Syrup: Of course you have to finish these with a drizzle of pure maple syrup on top!😉

Buttermilk Alternatives

I love using buttermilk when I make pancakes to help make them extra fluffy. But sometimes buttermilk can be expensive, especially if you don’t plan on using it all up before it goes bad. So here are two cheaper options to consider:

Milk + Vinegar or Lemon juice – Mix 1-2 Tbsp of white vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk. Stir and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes. Proceed to use in the recipe in place of buttermilk.

Freezing Buttermilk

Did you know you can freeze buttermilk? If you buy buttermilk from the store, instead of letting the rest go bad in the fridge, try freezing leftover buttermilk to use for later!

Don’t overmix the batter. Stir the dry and wet ingredients together until they are just combined and there are no traces of dry flour left in the bowl. Over-mixing the batter will develop the gluten in the flour and make the pancakes rubbery rather than soft and fluffy.
Control your temperature. Keep the heat between medium and medium-low heat. If the temperature is too high you may burn the pancakes before they’ve had a chance to cook all the way through.
Want even more apple cinnamon flavor? Try adding some store-bought or homemade applesauce to your batter. I didn’t do this step with this recipe, but I love doing this at home to add even more flavor to the pancakes! Gently fold in up to ⅓ cup of applesauce into the batter once the wet and dry ingredients are combined. Again, be sure not to overmix.

Storing Leftovers

These apple cinnamon pancakes can easily be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoyed for up to 4 days. You can store the pancakes and the cooked apple topping separately if you want, but I often store mine together. The apples hold their texture very well. Reheat in the microwave until warmed through or pop the pancakes in the toaster to reheat separately from the apple topping.

Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

Make breakfast extra special with these fluffy and super delicious Apple Cinnamon Pancakes. Perfect to enjoy any day of the week!

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Total Cost $4.22 recipe / $1.06 serving

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Total Time 35

Servings (2 pancakes each)

Calories 482kcal

Author Marsha – Budget Bytes

Equipment

Ingredients

Apple Topping

2 large apples $1.50
2 Tbsp butter $0.28
1/2 tsp cinnamon $0.05
2 Tbsp brown sugar $0.08
2 Tbsp water $0.00

Pancakes

1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour $0.30
1.5 tsp baking powder $0.05
1/2 tsp baking soda $0.03
1/2 tsp salt $0.03
1 tsp cinnamon $0.10
3 Tbsp granulated sugar $0.05
1 cup buttermilk* $0.53
1 large egg, beaten $0.22
1/4 cup butter, melted $0.56
1 tsp vanilla extract $0.30
1 Tbsp butter (for cooking pancakes) $0.14

Instructions

Peel, remove the core, and dice the apples.
Melt 2 Tbsp butter in a small pot over medium-low heat. Add the diced apples, cinnamon, brown sugar and water to the pot. Stir together and allow the apples to come up to a simmer. Cook the apples for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender. Remove the pot from the heat and cover with a lid to keep warm.
While the apples are cooking, start on the pancakes. In a large bowl whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and granulated sugar.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.
Pour the wet ingredients into the same bowl as the dry ingredients. Stir together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this point. The batter will be a little thick.
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once hot add ½ Tbsp of butter and swirl around to coat the surface. Add about ¼ cup pancake batter to the hot skillet. I like to cook two pancakes at a time.
Cook the pancakes until bubbles form over the surface and begin to pop. The edges and bottom of the pancakes will also start to become golden brown (about 60-90 seconds). Now flip the pancakes and cook on the second side until golden brown (about 30-60 seconds).
Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more butter to the skillet between batches or as needed, until all of the pancakes have been cooked. Keep the pancakes warm on a plate under a towel or on a baking sheet in a warm oven until all of the pancakes have been cooked.
Now serve the pancakes with several spoonfuls of cooked cinnamon apples on top and a drizzle of warm maple syrup. Enjoy!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

*You can certainly use regular whole milk instead of buttermilk if that is what you have on hand. I wanted extra fluffy pancakes which is why I chose to use buttermilk.

Nutrition

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Pancakes – Step by Step Photos

Peel, remove the core, and dice 2 large apples.

Melt 2 Tbsp butter in a small pot over medium heat. Add the diced apples, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 2 Tbsp brown sugar and 2 Tbsp water to the pot. Stir together and allow the apples to come up to a simmer.

Cook the apples for approximately 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender. Remove the pot from the heat and cover with a lid to keep warm.

While the apples are cooking, start on the pancakes. In a large bowl whisk together 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 3 Tbsp granulated sugar.

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup buttermilk, 1 beaten egg, 1/4 cup melted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla extract.

Pour the wet ingredients into the same bowl as the dry ingredients.

Stir together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this point. The batter will be a little thick.

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once hot add ½ Tbsp of butter and swirl around to coat the surface. Add about ¼ cup pancake batter to the hot skillet. I like to cook two pancakes at a time.

Cook the pancakes until bubbles form over the surface and begin to pop. The edges and bottom of the pancakes will also start to become golden brown (about 60-90 seconds). Now flip the pancakes and cook on the second side until golden brown (about 30-60 seconds).

Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more butter to the skillet between batches or as needed, until all of the pancakes have been cooked. Keep the pancakes warm on a plate under a towel or on a baking sheet in a warm oven until all of the pancakes have been cooked.

Now serve the pancakes with several spoonfuls of cooked cinnamon apples on top and a drizzle of warm maple syrup. Enjoy these warm, apple cinnamon pancakes with some crispy air fryer bacon on the side. So good!!😋

Cauliflower Tacos with Romesco Sauce

Jess - Budget Bytes — Sat, 31 Aug 2024 13:30:00 +0000

Between working full-time, mom life, and taking care of our farm, I am busy 110% of the time. When my family’s looking for a surefire way to get me to hit the pause button, tacos are always the answer! And these vegan Cauliflower Tacos with Romesco Sauce are a go-to slam dunk for us! The roasted cauliflower is perfectly tender-yet-crisp, and the homemade romesco sauce is tangy and incredibly easy to make. Seriously, this is a flavor combination worth trying—trust me!

What is Romesco Sauce?

Romesco is a seriously delicious sauce from the Catalonia region of Spain. It’s traditionally made with red peppers, tomatoes, garlic, and almonds and was originally created by fishermen to pair with their catch of the day. I take this already flavorful sauce one step further by adding smoked paprika, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper, which adds a bright, smoky tang. My easy romesco sauce recipe also uses canned tomato sauce, so we only need to roast some bell peppers and whip everything up in a food processor! I keep the texture chunky because I love the crunch the almonds add to these roasted cauliflower tacos.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this cauliflower tacos recipe:

Cauliflower: Choose the largest cauliflower you can find at the grocery store. More cauliflower florets = more tacos! Avoid cauliflower with soft or brown spots, as that’s a sure sign of being past its prime.
Flour Tortillas: I use the smaller street-style tortillas, but feel free to use any tortillas you prefer.
Red Bell Pepper: Roasted to perfection and adds a delicious sweetness to the romesco sauce.
Olive Oil: Helps the bell peppers and cauliflower florets to crisp up when roasted. I also add some to the sauce to add flavor and emulsify it.
Parsley: Italian flat-leaf parsley adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the tacos. Mince some for the sauce, then sprinkle whole parsley on top as a garnish.
Lemon: Adds brightness and acidity to the sauce. Save some lemon wedges to serve on the side.
Seasonings: Smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper add the best flavor to the cauliflower florets and sauce. They’re also pantry staples that you probably already have on hand!
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic cloves are a must for the romesco.
Slivered Raw Almonds: This is a classic addition to the sauce and adds a delicious nutty flavor. Slivered almonds have been blanched to remove the tannic skins and have a light crunch. You’ll probably find these in the baking aisle at your grocery store. Regular unsalted almonds will also work. If you don’t like almonds or have a nut allergy, you can use sunflower seeds—check my note in the recipe card below!
Tomato Sauce: Canned tomato sauce is an easy shortcut for adding extra tomato-y flavor. I use an 8-ounce can of plain tomato sauce, but you can also use homemade.
White Vinegar: Adds a slight tanginess (and is budget-friendly!). You can also use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Vinegar is one of my favorite secret ingredients to make flavors really pop in almost any recipe!

What Else Can I Add?

I can happily eat these tacos all day long as they are, but I’d never say no to extra toppings or fillings! Here are some ideas to get you started:

Avocado slices, pickled red onions, or chopped kalamata olives for additional toppings
Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, Mexican blend, or a vegan alternative) for a melty finish
Bulk each cauliflower taco up with black beans, white beans, pinto beans, tofu, or your favorite protein
Grilled corn kernels for added smokiness
Or omit the tortilla and serve everything in a lettuce wrap or a roasted cauliflower taco bowl!

Crush the garlic cloves before adding them to the food processor. Doing this makes the garlic flavor even stronger! To crush garlic, place the peeled clove on a cutting board and lightly press down on it with the flat side of your knife (be careful!). You can also use the bottom of a heavy glass or jar.
You can toast the slivered almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes if desired. I don’t normally do this, but it would add a nice toasty flavor.
I like my almonds to remain fairly whole in the romesco, so I only pulse the mixture a few times in the food processor. You just want to chop them up a bit and mix everything together, but you can blend it longer if you want smoother consistency—romesco is very versatile!
Try to keep the cauliflower florets somewhat similar in size. This will help them cook evenly in the oven. Slice larger florets in half/quarters and keep an eye on any smaller ones so they don’t burn. (Although some of the extra crispy ones are addictively delish!)

How to Store Leftovers

Each component in this recipe stores well, so get your meal prep on and make a double batch! Lunch for days with minimal effort? Yes, please! Keep the roasted cauliflower in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, and store the romesco in an air-tight container for up to a week. You can microwave both to reheat, but for the crispest cauliflower, reheat it in the oven or an air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes. Romesco sauce is also delicious when served chilled.

Cauliflower Tacos Recipe (with Romesco Sauce)

My vegan Cauliflower Tacos with Romesco Sauce are perfectly tender-yet-crisp with an easy, tangy sauce. Simple, fresh, and budget-friendly!

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican, Spanish

Total Cost ($10.84 recipe / $2.71 serving)

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 40

Total Time 55

Servings servings (depending on the size of your cauliflower) 3 street tacos each

Calories 438kcal

Author Jess – Budget Bytes

Equipment

Ingredients

1 large cauliflower, separated into bite-size florets $2.86
1 package flour tortillas (I like the street taco size, the small ones!) $1.68
2 red bell peppers $2.96
2 Tbsp olive oil, divided $0.19
1 ¼ tsp smoked paprika, divided $0.04
¼ tsp garlic powder $0.01
¼ tsp salt $0.01
2 large garlic cloves, crushed $0.09
½ cup slivered raw almonds* $1.53
1 8oz can tomato sauce $0.48
2 Tbsp white vinegar $0.04
½ Tbsp lemon juice, about ½ of 1 lemon** $0.64
½ tsp cayenne pepper $0.13
2 Tbsp Italian flat parsley, minced $0.09
1 Tbsp fresh parsley, for garnish $0.09

Instructions

Quarter and seed bell peppers.
In a medium size mixing bowl, whisk together 1 Tbsp olive oil, ¼ tsp smoked paprika, garlic powder and salt.
Add quartered and seeded red bell peppers to bowl and toss.
Transfer red bell pepper quarters to baking sheet and bake in 375 degree oven for 35-40 minutes on the top rack.
Then, to the same mixing bowl, add cauliflower florets and toss until coated. Add an extra sprinkle of salt and spread florets on a lined baking sheet and bake in 375 degree oven on bottom rack for 30 minutes or until tender and golden brown, stopping to shake/flip half way through.
When red bell peppers are done roasting, finish making your Romesco sauce: combine roasted bell peppers, 1 Tbsp olive oil, garlic cloves, tomato sauce, white vinegar, lemon juice, 1 tsp smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt and black pepper in food processor. Pulse until well-combined but still chunky.
Add minced parsley and slivered almonds to the food processor and pulse a few times.
Warm flour tortillas in a dry pan until lightly toasted.
Remove cauliflower from oven. Place 3-4 florets on top of each tortilla and top with warm Romesco sauce. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and slivered almonds if you have them. Enjoy with a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

*Slivered almonds are typically located in the baking aisle. Regular unsalted almonds will work in a pinch. If you have a nut allergy, you can use sunflower seeds, but I would use slightly less so the flavor doesn’t overpower the rest of the sauce.

**Reserve the other half of your lemon and cut it into small wedges to serve with your tacos! I included the full price of the lemon for this purpose.

Nutrition

how to make Cauliflower Tacos with Romesco Sauce – step by step photos

Quarter and seed 2 red bell peppers. In a medium size mixing bowl, whisk together 1 Tbsp olive oil, ¼ tsp smoked paprika, ¼ tsp garlic powder, and ¼ tsp salt.

Add quartered and seeded red bell peppers to bowl and toss.

Transfer red bell pepper quarters to baking sheet and bake in 375 degree oven for 35-40 minutes on the top rack.

Then, to the same mixing bowl, add the florets from 1 large head of cauliflower and toss until coated. Add an extra sprinkle of salt and spread florets on a lined baking sheet.

Bake in 375 degree oven on bottom rack for 30 minutes or until tender and golden brown, stopping to shake/flip half way through.

When red bell peppers are done roasting, finish making your Romesco sauce: combine roasted bell peppers, 1 Tbsp olive oil, 2 crushed garlic cloves, 1 8oz can of tomato sauce, 2 Tbsp white vinegar, ½ Tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, ¼ tsp salt and black pepper in food processor. Pulse until well-combined but still chunky.

Add 2 Tbsp minced Italian flat parsley and ½ cup slivered almonds to the food processor and pulse a few times.

Warm 1 package of flour tortillas in a dry pan until lightly toasted.

Remove cauliflower from oven. Place 3-4 florets on top of each tortilla and top with warm Romesco sauce. Garnish with 1 Tbsp extra fresh parsley and slivered almonds if you have them. Enjoy with a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime!

Bring all the street food vibes to your kitchen with these easy vegan cauliflower tacos and romesco sauce. But be warned—you’ll be making this sauce for everything!

Crispy Baked Beef Tacos

$8.88 recipe / $1.78 serving

Easy Taco Rice

$2.27 recipe / $0.38 serving

Easy Fish Tacos with Cumin Lime Slaw

$9.17 recipe / $2.29 serving

Taco Salad

$17.26 recipe / $2.87 serving

The post Cauliflower Tacos with Romesco Sauce appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Shrimp Po’ Boys

Jess - Budget Bytes — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 13:30:00 +0000

Shrimp Po’ boys are the perfect sandwich… I said what I said! These easy Po’ Boys are crunchy, creamy, and tangy, with soft, chewy French bread and a subtle ocean flavor from the perfectly cooked fried shrimp. Sigh… this recipe takes me back to my college days and my first trip to New Orleans. If you don’t have a trip to New Orleans planned, don’t worry! My homemade take on the classic dish means you can whip up a shrimp po’ boy sandwich any time.

To say New Orleans is a magical place is one of the biggest understatements I can think of as a chef, history buff, and appreciator of the arts. The food is outstanding, the people are full of life, and the pride residents have for the city’s culture is unlike anywhere else in the United States.

The most magical NOLA experience I’ve had was about 15 years ago when I was working with a band destined for South by Southwest in Austin, Texas. After our gig in the French Quarter, we were invited to someone’s house for a crawfish boil. I’m not kidding when I tell you it was the most welcoming and delicious hang I’ve ever been a part of. One of their neighbors was practicing with their jazz band within earshot, and there were fireflies around us in the backyard as we shared the messiest flavor bomb of a meal ever, everyone eating with their hands. Like I said… New Orleans is a magical place.

What Is A Shrimp Po’ Boy?

This sandwich is a staple in New Orleans, served up hot by local restaurants, groceries, and street vendors alike. While it may seem like a simple concept – fried shrimp piled onto French bread and ‘dressed’ with lettuce, tomato, and a tangy remoulade (a mayonnaise-based sauce with mustard and spices) – it’s the history that makes them really special. Extra hot sauce for me, please!

During the 1929 streetcar strike in New Orleans, brothers Bennie and Clovis Martin (of the Martin Brothers’ Coffee Stand) offered free sandwiches to the striking workers to show their support. The original sandwiches were likely loaded with fried potatoes, roast beef gravy, and roast beef scraps. It’s said they would call out, “Here comes another poor boy!” when a striking worker approached—which eventually evolved into the term “po’ boy,” as the sandwiches are known today.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this shrimp po’ boy recipe:

Shrimp: Use shrimp that have been peeled and deveined, either fresh or frozen. I’ve included instructions on safely thawing frozen shrimp in the recipe card below!
Flour: Dip the shrimp in all-purpose flour to help the egg wash and breadcrumb coating stick.
Eggs: Helps the seasoned panko breadcrumbs stick to the shrimp.
Buttermilk: Adding buttermilk to the egg wash helps to tenderize the shrimp and create a light, crispy texture. I highly recommend using real buttermilk (the flavor is unbeatable!), but you can make buttermilk by using milk and vinegar in a pinch. Mix ⅓ cup of milk with 1 teaspoon of white vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These absorb less oil than other breadcrumbs, giving the shrimp a lighter and crispier texture. Use plain panko breadcrumbs with no added seasonings.
Vegetable Oil: For frying the breaded shrimp. Any neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point will work. Canola and grapeseed oil are good alternatives to vegetable oil for shallow frying.
Baguette: Traditional shrimp po’ boys are made with New Orleans-style French bread… but this isn’t always readily available outside of NOLA. I used a fresh baguette, and it was a great substitute!
Seasonings: Tony Chachere’s creole seasoning adds an authentic kick to the shrimp. I also add some Tony Chachere’s to the remoulade, along with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and fresh parsley.
Remoulade Sauce: I make a quick and easy homemade remoulade sauce using mayonnaise, grainy mustard, garlic, dill pickle relish, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, seasonings, and hot sauce (I like the Louisiana brand). If you don’t want to buy a full-size bottle, I recently saw the mini bottles of Louisiana brand hot sauce in the $1 sauce display at Walmart!
Iceberg Lettuce and Roma Tomatoes: Crisp iceberg lettuce and juicy Roma tomatoes add a refreshing crunch to your fried shrimp po’ boy sandwich.

Are Po’ Boys Always Shrimp?

Nope! Shrimp po’ boys are probably the most popular, but you can have any type of filling you desire. A little walk down the streets of New Orleans, and you’ll find po’ boys stuffed with anything from roast beef and gravy to fried oysters or catfish and even alligator sausage! You could make a killer veggie option, too, using fried green tomatoes or BBQ tofu.

Storage Instructions

The fried shrimp will last for 3 days in the refrigerator, but will not be as crispy as when freshly-made. Let the shrimp cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. To reheat, pop them in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-4 minutes, or in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway. Store the shrimp po’ boy sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before serving! It makes a great dip for fresh vegetables, too!

Shrimp Po’ Boys Recipe

This Shrimp Po' Boys recipe is creamy and tangy with crispy fried shrimp and a homemade remoulade sauce. Easy to make and full of flavor!

Course Lunch

Cuisine American

Total Cost ($12.89 recipe / $2.14 serving)

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 4

Total Time 34

Servings sandwiches (about 5 shrimp per sandwich, 6” sandwich per person)

Calories 947kcal

Author Jess – Budget Bytes

Equipment

Ingredients

Fried Shrimp Ingredients

1 lb large peeled and deveined shrimp $5.68
⅓ cup flour $0.05
2 eggs $0.34
⅓ cup buttermilk $0.11
3 tsp Tony Chachere's seasoning, divided $0.06
1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper $0.02
¼ cups plain panko breadcrumbs $0.46
1 cup vegetable oil* $0.89

Remoulade Ingredients

1 ½ cups mayonnaise $1.68
½ tsp hot sauce $0.02
2 Tbsp grainy mustard $0.12
2 cloves garlic, minced $0.05
3 Tbsp dill pickle relish $0.24
1 Tbsp prepared horseradish $0.14
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce $0.01
½ tsp smoked paprika $0.08
⅛ tsp cayenne $0.03
1 Tbsp fresh parsley, minced $0.05

Sandwich Fixin's

¼ head of iceberg lettuce, finely chopped $0.47
2-3 roma tomatoes, diced $0.42
1 baguette** $1.97

Instructions

To prepare your shrimp for frying, thaw them in gently running cold water until soft and pliable, about 15 minutes. You can also thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Always avoid thawing seafood on the countertop, microwave, or using hot water.
While your shrimp is thawing, prepare your remoulade by adding mayonnaise, hot sauce, grainy mustard, garlic, dill pickle relish, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp Tony’s, smoked paprika and cayenne pepper to a mixing bowl.
Whisk to combine and set aside.
In 3 separate mixing bowls, prepare your steps for frying; in bowl #1, you will want to have the flour. Then, in bowl #2, you will want to beat together the eggs and buttermilk. In bowl #3, you will want to mix 2 tsp Tony’s, black pepper, and panko.
First, toss your shrimp in the #1 bowl of flour.
Then, dip the floured shrimp in the #2 bowl of beaten egg and buttermilk.
Finally, toss the shrimp in the panko spice mix. (I like to get all of my shrimp ready to fry at the same time so when it comes time to drop them in the oil, I can focus on the frying shrimp without the risk of burning a batch.)
In a heavy bottomed skillet, heat up the vegetable on medium heat. The oil should be around 350 to 375 degrees, but hotter than that will burn your oil and result in poor flavor. You can use a meat thermometer to check.
Once your oil is ready to fry, use tongs or a fork to place enough shrimp in the oil without overcrowding. Flip after 1-2 minutes with tongs. (Just 1-2 minutes on each side will do!)
Place the fried shrimp onto a plate lined with a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Once your shrimps are all golden fried, make your shrimp Po’ Boys! I recommend you be generous with that remoulade! Enjoy with shaved iceberg lettuce, extra hot sauce, and chopped tomatoes in a sliced baguette.

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

* Other suitable oils for shallow frying include: avocado, canola, corn, safflower, sunflower, and grapeseed oil. Vegetable oil is a budget-friendly blend of oils with high smoke points of 400–450°F and it’s flavor is neutral.

** Po’ Boys are typically served on a freshly made French bread, but the best we can do here that’s widely available in Nashville is a baguette, so hopefully this works for you, too, wherever you call home!

Nutrition

how to make Shrimp Po’ Boys – step by step photos

To prepare the 1lb of shrimp for frying, thaw them in gently running cold water until soft and pliable, about 15 minutes. You can also thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Always avoid thawing seafood on the countertop, microwave, or using hot water.

While your shrimp is thawing, prepare your remoulade by adding 1 ½ cups mayonnaise, ½ tsp hot sauce, 2 Tbsp grainy mustard, 2 cloves minced garlic, 3 Tbsp dill pickle relish, 1 Tbsp prepared horseradish, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp Tony Chachere’s seasoning, ½ tsp smoked paprika and ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper to a mixing bowl.

Whisk to combine and set aside.

In 3 separate mixing bowls, prepare your steps for frying; in bowl #1, you will want to have ⅓ cup of flour. Then, in bowl #2, you will want to beat together 2 eggs and ⅓ cup buttermilk. In bowl #3, you will want to mix 2 tsp Tony’s, 1 tsp black pepper, and ¼ cups plain panko.

First, toss your shrimp in the #1 bowl of flour. Then, dip the floured shrimp in the #2 bowl of beaten egg and buttermilk. Finally, toss the shrimp in the panko spice mix. (I like to get all of my shrimp ready to fry at the same time so when it comes time to drop them in the oil, I can focus on the frying shrimp without the risk of burning a batch.)

In a heavy bottomed skillet, heat up 1 cup vegetable on medium heat. The oil should be around 350 to 375 degrees, but hotter than that will burn your oil and result in poor flavor. You can use a meat thermometer to check. Once your oil is ready to fry, use tongs or a fork to place enough shrimp in the oil without overcrowding.

Flip after 1-2 minutes with tongs. (Just 1-2 minutes on each side will do!)

Place the fried shrimp onto a plate lined with a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Once your shrimps are all golden fried, make your shrimp Po’ Boys! I recommend you be generous with that remoulade! Enjoy with ¼ head shaved iceberg lettuce, extra hot sauce, and 2-3 chopped roma tomatoes in a sliced baguette.

It’s the perfect sandwich that will have you booking tickets to New Orleans during Carnival season in no time!

Vegetarian French Dip Sandwiches

$6.58 recipe / $1.65 each

Cucumber Sandwiches

$5.06 recipe / $0.42 serving

Buffalo Tempeh Sandwiches

$6.90 recipe / $3.45 serving

Classic Tomato Sandwiches

$1.67 each

The post Shrimp Po’ Boys appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Creamy Dijon Chicken

Marsha - Budget Bytes — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 13:30:00 +0000

Get ready friends, because Dijon is having a moment! This Creamy Dijon Chicken starts with quick pan-seared chicken breasts that get covered with a creamy, luscious, Dijon mustard sauce. It’s one of those recipes that feels luxurious and expensive, but is really made with simple inexpensive ingredients. And my secret ingredient to making it extra special…just a hint of Worcestershire sauce. This Dijon chicken recipe is so delicious and guaranteed to be one the whole family enjoys!

This recipe uses one of my favorite ingredient combinations: Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce. And when they’re combined with a little bit of heavy cream and parmesan cheese, it creates the most delicious sauce! So here’s everything that you’ll need:

Chicken Breasts: Chicken breasts are my usual go-to for recipes like these, but you can certainly use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead.
Garlic: Just a couple of garlic cloves infuses the sauce with lots of flavor.
Olive Oil and Butter: Olive oil is used to cook the chicken breasts and a little butter is used to sauté the garlic.
Dijon Mustard and Worcestershire: Dijon mustard is of course the star of the show. Both Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce give the sauce the bulk of its flavor. The tanginess from the Dijon mixed with the savory umami flavor of the Worcestershire is a match made in heaven!
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth is used to help deglaze the pan, scrape up all of those flavorful brown bits, and is the base for the sauce.
Heavy Cream and Parmesan Cheese: Just a little bit of heavy cream and parmesan cheese thickens the sauce and adds a luscious, creamy, rich flavor.
Spinach: I added some spinach for extra greens and a little bit of color.
Seasoning: The chicken breasts are seasoned with a blend of salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder and onion powder. This way every component of this dish is packed with flavor!

Can I Substitute Yellow Mustard For Dijon Mustard?

I don’t recommend substituting Dijon mustard with yellow mustard. Dijon mustard has a more intense, sharp flavor that goes well with sauces compared to yellow mustard that has a milder, less complex flavor.

Not A Mustard Fan?

I get it. But trust me this recipe is not super mustard-y and the flavors are balanced nicely. I tested this recipe a few times with different amounts of Dijon mustard. And I ended up with what I feel is the perfect combination. It’s just enough to taste the tangy, warm flavors of the Dijon, but not too much to where it overpowers the dish. You can always taste the sauce and add a little more mustard if you want a stronger Dijon taste.

Serving Suggestions

We served this creamy dijon chicken over some fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up all of that delicious sauce. But you can also serve it with some buttered noodles, pasta, or over rice. A simple side salad or Caesar salad would also taste great. And you can never go wrong with a side of quick sautéed vegetables like this easy sautéed asparagus recipe.

Creamy Dijon Chicken

Take dinner to the next level with this Creamy Dijon Chicken recipe! Made with an insanely delicious sauce and simple ingredients!

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Total Cost $9.35 recipe / $2.33 serving

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings

Calories 271kcal

Author Marsha – Budget Bytes

Equipment

Color Cutting Boards
Large 12" skillet

Ingredients

1 tsp Italian seasoning $0.10
1/2 tsp garlic powder $0.05
1/2 tsp onion powder $0.05
1/2 tsp salt $0.02
1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper $0.02
2 boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 1.3 lb.) $6.49
2 Tbsp olive oil $0.32
2 Tbsp butter $0.27
2 cloves of garlic, minced $0.16
1 cup chicken broth $0.17
1 Tbsp Dijon mustard $0.04
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce $0.05
1/3 cup heavy cream $0.65
2 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese $0.20
2 cups spinach $0.76

Instructions

In a small bowl mix together the seasoning for the chicken: Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Using a sharp knife, carefully fillet each chicken breast into two thinner cutlets. Season each breast with the seasoning mix on both sides.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and cook on each side until golden brown and cooked through (about 4 minutes per side). Remove the cooked chicken to a clean plate and cover to keep warm.
To the same skillet add the butter and minced garlic cloves. Turn the heat down to medium-low and sauté the garlic for one minute until fragrant.
Next pour the chicken broth into the skillet and add the Dijon mustard and worcestershire sauce. Stir together and scrape up any brown bits that may be stuck to the bottom of the pan.
Now add in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese and stir well. Allow the sauce to simmer in the skillet for 5 minutes. Taste the sauce at this point and add salt and pepper if desired.
Add in the fresh spinach and stir it into the sauce allowing the heat to wilt the spinach.
Finally, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the Dijon sauce over top. Allow the chicken to heat through. Serve hot with your favorite side and enjoy!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

How to Make Creamy Dijon Chicken – Step by Step Photos

In a small bowl mix together 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper.

Using a sharp knife, carefully fillet each chicken breast into two thinner cutlets. Season each breast with the seasoning mix on both sides.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 Tbsp olive oil. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and cook on each side until golden brown and cooked through (about 4 minutes per side). Remove the cooked chicken to a clean plate and cover to keep warm.

To the same skillet add 2 Tbsp butter and 2 minced garlic cloves. Turn the heat down to medium-low and sauté the garlic for one minute until fragrant.

Next pour 1 cup chicken broth into the skillet and add 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard and 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce. Stir together and scrape up any brown bits that may be stuck to the bottom of the pan.

Now add in 1/3 cup heavy cream and 2 Tbsp parmesan cheese and stir well. Allow the sauce to simmer in the skillet for 5 minutes. Taste the sauce at this point and add a pinch of salt and pepper if desired.

Add in 2 cups of fresh spinach and stir it into the sauce allowing the heat to wilt the spinach.

Finally, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the Dijon sauce over top. Allow the chicken to heat through.

Now all that’s left to do is serve this delicious Dijon chicken with some creamy mashed potatoes, pasta, or your favorite side. And don’t forget to spoon some of that yummy sauce over the top! ;)

Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken

$7.58 recipe / $1.90 serving

Chicken Parmesan

$10.61 recipe / $2.65 serving

Chicken Stir Fry

$10.55 recipe / $1.76 serving

Creamy Garlic Chicken

$9.21 recipe / $2.30 serving

The post Creamy Dijon Chicken appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Air Fryer Salmon

Jess - Budget Bytes — Sat, 24 Aug 2024 13:30:00 +0000

Salmon on a budget may sound like an oxymoron, but I’m here to tell you it can be done! This Air Fryer Salmon is quick, easy, and super flavorful. I seasoned Atlantic salmon filets with soy sauce, brown sugar, and spices and tossed them in the air fryer for a super easy weeknight meal. Ready in just 20 minutes, this salmon recipe is sure to be in regular rotation at your house!

My favorite people to cook for are my daughter (almost 3 years old) and my stepdaughter (15). They are both a little picky; they know what they like and don’t like and they aren’t afraid to tell me! If anyone reading this has toddlers or teenagers, I know you understand! If you want to win culinary praise from the most opinionated members of your family, this sweet and savory Air Fryer Salmon is the recipe for you! With its milder flavor and meaty texture, this salmon can turn any fish hater into a seafood enthusiast.

Here’s what you’ll need to make air fryer salmon:

Salmon: I found fresh Atlantic salmon on a good sale, so that’s what I used. I often find frozen salmon to be cheaper– just thaw before using.
Cooking Spray: Helps the salmon brown and crisp in the air fryer.
Soy Sauce: Adds salty umami flavor to the salmon.
Brown Sugar: Adds rich sweetness to the salmon.
Spices: Freshly cracked black pepper and garlic powder enhance the salty-sweet flavor of this salmon.

What’s the Best Way To Thaw Frozen Salmon?

There are three ways to safely defrost salmon: in the refrigerator, in cold water, and in the microwave. I recommend thawing salmon overnight in the refrigerator whenever possible since it gives you a few extra days of storage before you need to cook the meat.

Day of, I recommend thawing in cold water. Leave the tap streaming just enough to keep the water moving, or change out the water every 15 minutes or so, until the fish is fully thawed. Fish thawed this way must be cooked immediately. I do not generally recommend thawing anything in the microwave, as it can negatively impact the texture of the food, although it is technically safe.

Serving Suggestions

I love to serve salmon with a side of fluffy steamed rice and simple sauteed snow peas. It’s also excellent paired with sautéed asparagus and goes great with our lemony cucumber couscous salad or strawberry spinach salad. Salmon also elevates an already decadent Niçoise Salad from “oh, yum” to “woah, fancy!”

Air Fryer Salmon

This Air Fryer Salmon is quick, easy, and super flavorful! Ready in just 20 minutes, this sweet and savory salmon is sure to be a hit.

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Total Cost ($8.79 recipe / $2.19 serving)

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Servings (3.5 ounces each)

Calories 199kcal

Author Jess – Budget Bytes

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

2 7-oz. pieces Atlantic salmon, skin on; thawed if frozen $8.41
Cooking Spray $0.05
1 Tbsp soy sauce $0.06
¼ cup brown sugar $0.17
½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper $0.03
½ tsp garlic powder $0.07

Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. If using frozen salmon, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before cooking. We are cooking salmon from a fresh or fully thawed state in this recipe.
Gather marinade ingredients: soy sauce, brown sugar, pepper, and garlic powder.
Whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, pepper, and garlic powder.
Spoon the marinade mixture over the salmon filets, gently rubbing it onto the salmon until it’s fully coated. A little extra on top is great! The brown sugar will melt during cooking and caramelize, giving your salmon a beautiful color and sweetness.
Spray your salmon and your air fryer crisper plate with your cooking oil of choice and position the salmon skin side down in your air fryer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may have to do this in batches. If you are dividing bigger salmon filets into smaller portions, it’s easiest to do so once it’s fully cooked unless you have a sharp knife that can get through the skin with ease when they are raw.
Air fry for 7-8 minutes to start. At the halfway mark, baste your salmon with more marinade and then continue cooking.*

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

*The cook time for your salmon will vary depending on the thickness of each piece. For a thinner piece of salmon, plan on 7-8 minutes. For a thicker piece of fish, you will probably need to air fry for 9-10 minutes. Fork test your salmon to make sure it’s done to your liking (flaky and delicious!) If it needs more time, you can put it back in for 1-2 minutes.

When I chose the salmon for this recipe, I knew I wanted between a 3 oz serving size and 4 oz serving size per person, so when I found this cut and weight I bought it knowing I could portion it out easily amongst 4 people after cooking.

Nutrition

how to make Air Fryer Salmon – step by step photos

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. If using frozen salmon (2 7-oz. pieces), allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before cooking. We are cooking salmon from a fresh or fully thawed state in this recipe. Gather marinade ingredients: 1 Tbsp soy sauce, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 tsp pepper, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder.

Whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, pepper, and garlic powder.

Spoon the marinade mixture over the salmon filets, gently rubbing it onto the salmon until it’s fully coated. A little extra on top is great! The brown sugar will melt during cooking and caramelize, giving your salmon a beautiful color and sweetness.

Spray your salmon and your air fryer crisper plate with your cooking oil of choice and position the salmon skin side down in your air fryer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may have to do this in batches. If you are dividing bigger salmon filets into smaller portions, it’s easiest to do so once it’s fully cooked unless you have a sharp knife that can get through the skin with ease when they are raw.

Air fry for 7-8 minutes to start. At the halfway mark, baste your salmon with more marinade and then continue cooking.*

This Air Fryer Salmon is quick, easy, and so delicious!

The post Air Fryer Salmon appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Chicken Sausage White Bean Skillet

Marsha - Budget Bytes — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 14:00:00 +0000

I think it’s time I told you about my love for chicken sausage. I don’t know when it started, but it definitely runs deep. This Chicken Sausage White Bean Skillet is made with pre-cooked smoky chicken sausage to save you time and creamy white canned beans to save you money!! And I’m always excited to share a one-pan dinner meal with you, so this is one you’ll want to keep in your back pocket!

Ingredients for Chicken Sausage White Bean Skillet

My goal was to create a quick skillet meal that reminded me of slow-cooked beans and ham. You know the beans that cook for hours in a big pot and soaks up all that delicious flavor from a smoky ham hock bone? Yes, that was the goal. And I think I got pretty close! ;) Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken Sausage: You’ll need 4-5 fully cooked chicken sausage links. Currently my favorite brand is Aidells smoked chicken sausage, but you can use whichever brand you like. I’ve heard great things about Trader Joe’s chicken sausage too!
Onion and Garlic: Diced onion and garlic cooks in the residual fat from the chicken sausage and adds lots of aromatics and flavor to the dish.
White Beans: I love creamy cannellini beans which is what I used, but you can certainly use a different canned white bean like great northern beans or navy beans.
Chicken Broth: A little chicken broth helps warm the beans through and creates a light sauce.
Spinach: I had a half bag of baby spinach leftover from my cheese tortellini and sausage skillet so I decided to add it here to reduce food waste and it gives the dish more color.
Seasoning: Smoked paprika to help achieve that smoky bean flavor, a little bit of salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. That’s all you’ll need!

Keep an eye on the chicken sausage as it browns in the skillet. It only takes 1-2 minutes on each side. So make sure to remove it promptly after it browns to keep it from burning.
I like to use a very large 12-inch skillet when making this recipe so I can quickly brown all of the chicken sausage at one time in an even layer.
Drain the canned beans but DON’T rinse them. The extra starchy liquid that’s stuck to the beans will help create a light sauce.
You can replace the spinach with chopped kale if that’s what you have on hand.
Top this easy one-skillet meal with some freshly grated parmesan cheese or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor!

CAN I USE A DIFFERENT TYPE OF SAUSAGE?

Yes! You can use any type of smoked sausage for this recipe. I just so happen to love chicken sausage, but beef, pork, turkey, or even kielbasa sausage would work just fine. Just make sure you are getting fully-cooked sausage links.

Storing Leftovers

Although the beans will thicken quite a bit after storing in the refrigerator, it will still taste great the next day. So feel free to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat easily in the microwave until warmed through.

Chicken Sausage White Bean Skillet

This Chicken Sausage White Bean Skillet is a quick & easy one-skillet meal that’s filling, budget-friendly and delicious!

Course Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine American

Total Cost $8.69 recipe / $2.17 serving

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings (about 1.25 cups each)

Calories 254kcal

Author Marsha – Budget Bytes

Ingredients

4 fully-cooked chicken sausage links (about 12 oz.) $4.99
2 Tbsp cooking oil, divided $0.08
1 small yellow onion, diced $0.42
2 cloves of garlic, minced $0.16
2 15oz. cans cannellini beans, drained $2.00
1/2 tsp salt $0.02
1/2 tsp dried oregano $0.05
1/4 tsp smoked paprika $0.02
1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper $0.02
1 cup chicken broth $0.17
2 cups spinach, roughly chopped $0.76

Instructions

Slice the chicken sausage into round medallions about ¼ – ½ inch thick.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 Tbsp of oil. Add the sliced chicken sausage to the skillet and brown on both sides. It will only take about 1-2 minutes on each side. So be careful not to burn the sausage. Once the chicken sausage is browned, remove it from the skillet onto a separate plate and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 Tbsp of oil along with the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes or until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Add the drained canned beans to the skillet (do not rinse the beans, the residual starchy liquid helps create the sauce), along with the salt, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and cracked black pepper. Then pour in the chicken broth.
Gently stir everything together and bring the skillet up to a simmer. Simmer for 4-5 minutes.
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, allowing the heat to wilt the spinach, then add the browned chicken sausage. Gently stir with the beans to combine.
Serve hot with crusty bread and some freshly cracked black pepper or red pepper flakes on top. Enjoy!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

If your bean mixture gets a little too thick, feel free to stir in 2 Tbsp of water at the same time when you add the spinach.

Nutrition

How to Make Chicken Sausage White Bean Skillet – Step by Step Photos

Currently this is my favorite brand of smoked chicken sausage, but you can use whichever brand you like.

Slice 4 fully-cooked chicken sausage links into round medallions about ¼ – ½ inch thick.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 Tbsp of oil. Add the sliced chicken sausage to the skillet and brown on both sides. It will only take about 1-2 minutes on each side. So be careful not to burn the sausage. Once the chicken sausage is browned, remove it from the skillet onto a separate plate and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 Tbsp of oil along with 1 small diced yellow onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 3 minutes or until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Add 2 15oz. cans of drained cannellini beans to the skillet (do not rinse the beans, the residual starchy liquid helps create the sauce), along with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper. Then pour in 1 cup chicken broth. Gently stir everything together and bring the skillet up to a simmer. Simmer for 4-5 minutes.

Add 2 cups chopped spinach to the skillet, allowing the heat to wilt the spinach. If your bean mixture has gotten a little too thick feel free to add 2 Tbsp of water at this point.

Now add the browned chicken sausage to the skillet. Gently stir with the beans to combine.

Now all that’s left to do is enjoy with some crusty bread and maybe a quick side salad. A simple one-skillet meal for the win!!🙌

Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Dinner

$9.93 recipe / $2.48 serving

Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi

$8.41 recipe / $2.10 serving

Buffalo Beans and Greens

$6.61 recipe / $1.65 serving

Chicken Cacciatore

$15.17 recipe / $2.53 serving

The post Chicken Sausage White Bean Skillet appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Overnight Oats (Base Recipe plus Variations)

Jess - Budget Bytes — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 13:30:00 +0000

Overnight Oats are the ultimate introduction to budget-friendly meal prep! With the busy lives we all lead, it’s hard to fit in time for breakfast before rushing out the door, but this no-cook recipe is the magical solution, trust me! My overnight oats base recipe is absolutely delicious as-is but is also the perfect vessel for your favorite toppings. And don’t worry if you’re not feeling particularly creative; I’ve shared 3 of my favorite flavor variations below.

I must confess: I almost always skip breakfast if I don’t plan ahead! Then, noon rolls around, and I am hangry. It’s not a good look—just ask my husband! That’s why having this overnight oatmeal in the fridge at all times is a MUST. Oats are full of fiber, which keeps me full until lunchtime, and I love the blank canvas to turn them into a unique treat, depending on my craving that day.

What Are Overnight Oats?

Think of overnight oats as the cooler, more convenient cousin of traditional oatmeal. Instead of cooking the oats on a stovetop or in a microwave, they soak overnight in liquid (usually milk) and soften to the perfect texture without heat. I also add brown sugar, chia seeds, and cinnamon to my base recipe to create a delicious, well-rounded breakfast. Mix it all in a mason jar and let it sit in the fridge overnight for a grab-and-go breakfast in the morning!

Here’s what you’ll need to make my easy overnight oats recipe:

Oats: I use old-fashioned oats (also known as rolled oats) for my overnight oatmeal. Quick-cook oats and steel-cut oats don’t work as well, as they absorb liquid differently.
Milk: I like to make mine with dairy-free milk, but I whipped these oats up a few times with whole milk, 2% milk, and almond milk, so I can tell you this recipe works no matter your preference!
Brown Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
Cinnamon: You can also use a different spice depending on the toppings you’ll add—pumpkin pie spice, nutmeg, or whatever you like!
Chia Seeds: At its core, overnight oats only require two ingredients: oats and milk. But I highly recommend adding chia seeds! They soak up liquid like crazy and create a chia oatmeal pudding-like texture. They’re also nutrient-dense, providing fiber, iron, and omega-3s.
Salt: Just a pinch will enhance the other flavors.
Toppings: Add any toppings you love to your jar! I’ve listed some of my favorites below, but you really can’t go wrong with any combination.

Are Overnight Oats Healthy?

Oats are a great source of fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals! They’ll keep you full and satisfied for longer, making them a great breakfast option. Adding milk, chia seeds, fresh fruit, and nuts only adds to their nutritional value. You can leave out the brown sugar if you want to reduce the added sugar, but overall, overnight oats with chia seeds can definitely be considered a healthy choice!

The perfect ratio for oats to milk is 1:1, in my opinion. I use ½ cup of oats and ½ cup of milk to make one serving. You don’t need to reduce the milk if you omit the chia seeds.
Add fresh fruit just before eating to stop them from getting mushy. The same goes for granola or anything else you want to stay crunchy.
Let the oats sit overnight (about 8 hours) for the best texture, but 15 minutes or so is okay if you’re in a hurry. This is enough time for the chia seeds to absorb some liquid and for the oats to soften slightly.
Overnight oats are meant to be enjoyed cold, but you can absolutely heat them up if you prefer a warm breakfast. 60-90 seconds in a microwave-safe container should do the trick!

how long do overnight oats last?

These oats can last in the fridge for 4-5 days, making them great for meal-prepping. I prefer enjoying them within 12 hours for the best texture, but they’ll still taste good after a few days—maybe just a bit softer. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh, and don’t add any toppings until you’re ready to eat them.

Overnight Oats Variations

I am super picky when it comes to my oatmeal: 1. I want a lot of varied textures, 2. I want it to be nutrient-dense and have healthy components, and 3. It has to come together FAST! These flavor variations check everything off my list:

Peanut BUTTER and Jelly

Your childhood favorite gets an upgrade with my peanut butter and jelly overnight oat recipe. I layer blueberry jam with crunchy peanut butter AND peanuts for extra crunch. Add a few fresh blueberries and you’re good to go!

Chocolate Raspberry

Will chocolate and fresh berries ever not be a match made in heaven? I don’t think so. You only need some raspberry jam, dark chocolate chips, and fresh raspberries to make a breakfast that tastes just like dessert.

Banana Walnut

Banana bread is my go-to coffee shop snack, so I always have an overnight oat version in the fridge. Simply mix in some walnuts and add sliced bananas on top for a delicious and satisfying breakfast that’ll keep you feeling full all morning!

Overnight Oats (Base Recipe plus Variations)

These easy Overnight Oats are the ultimate introduction to budget-friendly meal prep. They're no-cook, ideal for on-the-go, and customizable!

Course Breakfast

Cuisine Amercian

Total Cost $1.04 serving

Prep Time 5

Chill Time 8

Total Time 8 5

Servings 8 oz mason jar

Calories 302kcal

Author Jess – Budget Bytes

Equipment

8oz. Mason Jars

Ingredients

Overnight Oats Base Recipe

½ cup old fashioned oats $0.82
½ cup milk $0.09
½ Tbsp brown sugar* $0.04
⅛ tsp cinnamon $0.01
½ Tbsp chia seeds $0.07
pinch of salt $0.01

Peanut Butter and Jelly Variation (total: $1.93 per serving)

base recipe $1.04
1 tsp blueberry jam $0.04
1 Tbsp peanuts $0.10
1 Tbsp crunchy peanut butter $0.49
a few blueberries, if desired $0.23

Chocolate Raspberry Variation (total: $1.56 per serving)

base recipe $1.04
1 tsp red raspberry jam $0.04
1 Tbsp dark chocolate chips $0.11
a few raspberries, if desired $0.34

Banana Walnut Variation (total: $1.42 per serving)

base recipe $1.04
1 Tbsp walnuts $0.29
⅓ of a banana, diced $0.09

Instructions

Combine old fashioned oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, chia seeds, and salt in an 8 oz. Mason Jar.
Pour in milk.
Stir or shake to combine, making sure all ingredients are mixed in evenly to avoid clumps of chia or brown sugar.
Put the lid onto your mason jar and place it in the fridge.
Refrigerate for 15 minutes or up to 12 hours before enjoying.

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

*If you don’t want added sugar, skip it! The ratios in this recipe come out great with or without the brown sugar.

Nutrition

how to make Overnight Oats – step by step photos

Combine ½ cup old fashioned oats, 1/2 Tbsp brown sugar, ⅛ tsp cinnamon, ½ Tbsp chia seeds, and a pinch of salt in an 8 oz. Mason Jar.

Pour in ½ cup milk.

Stir or shake to combine, making sure all ingredients are mixed in evenly to avoid clumps of chia or brown sugar.

Put the lid onto your mason jar and place it in the fridge.

Refrigerate for 15 minutes or up to 12 hours before enjoying.

Never skip breakfast again with this easy and satisfying recipe for overnight oats!

Golden Milk Overnight Oats

$0.40 each

Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats

$0.95 each

Double Chocolate Overnight Oats

$1.58 recipe / $0.40 serving

Apple Pie Overnight Oats

$2.26 recipe / $0.57 serving

The post Overnight Oats (Base Recipe plus Variations) appeared first on Budget Bytes.

S’mores Dip

Jess - Budget Bytes — Sat, 17 Aug 2024 13:30:00 +0000

Camping is one of my favorite budget-friendly activities. Whether it’s a girl’s trip or a family affair, count me in! You know what goes hand in hand with camping? S’MORES! And boy, do I have the easiest version of that camping menu classic for you. This skillet S’mores Dip recipe is the cleanest, mess-free way to serve s’mores! Zero mess, zero fuss. All you need is just 3 ingredients and a box of graham crackers; this is the easiest dessert ever!

Here in Tennessee, the weather stays hot until October, so I always associate camping with early autumn. It’s something I look forward to sharing with my daughter now that she’s 3 and a little more adaptable. You already know this s’mores dip will be on the menu for our next camping trip! It gives us all the flavors and fun of s’mores with minimal cleanup. Plus, it’s perfect for little hands (and big hands, too!) to dip and enjoy. Just be careful to not touch the skillet—she’s hot!

What is S’mores Dip?

I think most of us are familiar with traditional s’mores: graham crackers sandwiched with a layer of chocolate and a big toasted marshmallow. Well, with my s’mores dip recipe, we’re ditching the roasting stick and building our s’mores right in a cast iron skillet! I layer semi-sweet chocolate chips AND white chocolate chips for the ultimate indulgence (but on a budget, of course), then top it all off with mini marshmallows. Everything melts together in the oven (or on a hot grill or over a campfire if you have the right set up), and voila! You have a delicious, ooey-gooey s’mores dip to scoop up with graham crackers.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy s’mores dip recipe:

Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: The base of this dip is made with a layer of semi-sweet chocolate chips. You can also use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips, or even a chocolate bar broken into small pieces.
White Chocolate Chips: Adds a creamy, sweeter contrast to the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Mini Marshmallows: I prefer using mini marshmallows as they melt quickly and evenly. You can also use regular-sized marshmallows or jumbo marshmallows cut in half.
Graham Crackers: Honey or cinnamon-flavored graham crackers both work well as dippers—choose your favorite!

What Else Can I Add?

This is one recipe you really can’t mess up! Feel free to get creative and add your own twist. Some fun ideas include:

Peanut butter or butterscotch chips
A drizzle of caramel sauce on top
Dollops of peanut butter between the chocolate and marshmallow layers
Chopped nuts (peanuts, almonds, pecans) mixed in with the chocolate chips
Instead of graham crackers, try dipping with cookies, fruit, or pretzels/Ritz crackers (salty and sweet is always a winning combo!)

Do I Need a Cast Iron Skillet?

Cast iron heats up evenly and stays hot for a long time, making it the perfect vessel for this s’mores dip. The chocolate melts quickly and stays melted for longer in a cast iron skillet. However, you can make this recipe in any oven-safe dish or pan. Just keep an eye on the dip, as it may cook a bit faster or slower, depending on your dish.

Chocolate can burn and become grainy if heated for too long. Evenly layer the chocolate chips and marshmallows, and switch to broil very briefly once the marshmallows start to puff up. The chocolate will continue melting from the residual heat without overcooking! If you’re doing this over a campfire or on a grill, you won’t get the toasty marshmallow appearance but they will still become gooey and warm. Yum!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

One of my favorite things about this s’mores skillet dip is how it can be reheated multiple times so nothing goes to waste. Just pop it back in the oven until warmed through and melty. You can also store any leftover dip in the fridge for 3-4 days in a microwave-safe container and reheat as needed.

S’mores Dip

This oven baked S'mores Dip recipe is the cleanest, mess-free way to serve s'mores year-round! Zero fuss with just 4 ingredients.

Course Dessert

Cuisine Amercian

Total Cost ($5.59 recipe / $0.69 serving)

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Servings servings, 6 crackers dipped per person

Calories 384kcal

Author Jess – Budget Bytes

Equipment

9'' Cast Iron Skillet

Ingredients

1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips $2.22
½ cup white chocolate chips $1.42
1 cup mini marshmallows $0.84
½ box Graham crackers $1.11

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spread semi-sweet chocolate chips on the bottom of your cast iron skillet.
Then, spread white chocolate chips across the top of the semi sweet chocolate chips.
Top with mini marshmallows.
Bake at 350 degrees until marshmallows on top have puffed up and are starting to brown, about 8 minutes.
Turn oven on broil for 2 minutes, or until the marshmallows on top are toasted to your liking.
Remove from oven and serve hot with graham crackers! Be careful, the cast iron skillet stays hot for a while. Scoop with care.

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

how to make S’mores Dip – step by step photos

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spread 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips on the bottom of your cast iron skillet.

Then, spread ½ cup white chocolate chips across the top of the semi sweet chocolate chips.

Top with 1 cup mini marshmallows. Bake at 350 degrees until marshmallows on top have puffed up and are starting to brown, about 8 minutes.

Turn oven on broil for 2 minutes, or until the marshmallows on top are toasted to your liking. Remove from oven and serve hot with ½ a box of graham crackers! Be careful, the cast iron skillet stays hot for a while. Scoop with care.

No camping trip or bonfire necessary; this easy skillet s’mores dip is a year-round treat I’ll be making on repeat!

The post S’mores Dip appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Cheese Tortellini And Sausage Skillet

Marsha - Budget Bytes — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 13:30:00 +0000

Well school is back in session for my kiddos and I’m back on the quick & easy weeknight meals train. This one pot cheese tortellini and sausage skillet was a huge hit with my family and now they have requested it two weeks in a row! It’s full of cheese tortellini pasta, Italian sausage, lots of herbs and spices, and a super flavorful sauce. A full meal all in one pan. Dinner doesn’t get any better than this!

What You’ll Need

Here are the ingredients that you’ll need to make this hearty tortellini and sausage recipe:

Italian Sausage: I chose mild Italian sausage for this recipe as it’s already pre-seasoned with lots of herbs and spices. You can also use ground beef or ground turkey, however you may need to add a little more seasoning if you do choose ground beef or turkey.
Onion and Garlic: Diced onion and garlic adds lots of aromatics and flavor to this dish.
Cheese Tortellini: I like using refrigerated tortellini because you can quickly cook it in the sauce, but you can also use frozen tortellini if you prefer. You may need to boil the frozen tortellini first according to the package instructions.
Marinara Sauce: Marinara helps create the sauce for this recipe. It includes crushed tomatoes and lots of extra herbs and spices.
Chicken Broth: The cheese tortellini cooks in the chicken broth and marinara sauce, making this a one pot meal!
Spinach: A couple handfuls of spinach adds color and extra vegetables to the dish.
Seasoning: A simple mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano add a little more flavor to the jarred marinara sauce and the rest of the dish.
Mozzarella Cheese: And I topped everything off with some gooey mozzarella cheese because…why not?!

You can often find refrigerated cheese tortellini in two sizes, a small 9-10oz. bag and a larger 20oz. family size bag. Most of the time the family size is the better deal and will save you some money. So grab the bigger bag! You’ll only need 10oz. of tortellini for this recipe and you can freeze the rest and save for later.🙌
If you happen to have a can of tomatoes in your pantry, you can switch out the marinara sauce for one 14oz. can of diced tomatoes.
And if you really want to save even more money, use just ½ lb. of Italian sausage for this recipe and freeze the rest for later. This dish will still be very filling and you can cook the rest of the sausage with the rest of the cheese tortellini that you saved. You may also still have half a jar of marinara, some spinach, and more mozzarella cheese leftover. Now look at what we just did. We’ve easily just created another meal! #winning

Serving Suggestions & Variations

This dish is perfect to serve with a side of crusty garlic bread and a simple side salad or Caesar salad.
Wanna make it creamy? Add about ½ cup of heavy cream at the same time as the chicken broth for a creamy tortellini skillet meal.
And if you want to add some spice, add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes at the end for a little kick!

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The sauce mixture will thicken a little bit with time, but you can easily reheat it in the microwave until warmed through for a delicious lunch or dinner.

Cheese Tortellini And Sausage Skillet

This one-pot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage Skillet is hearty and packed with flavor. A quick & easy one skillet meal? Count me in!

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Total Cost $12.56 recipe / $3.14 serving

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Servings

Calories 730kcal

Author Marsha – Budget Bytes

Ingredients

1 Tbsp cooking oil $0.05
1 lb. Italian sausage $4.99
1 small yellow onion, diced $0.42
2 cloves of garlic, minced $0.16
1/2 tsp salt $0.02
1/2 tsp garlic powder $0.05
1/2 tsp dried oregano $0.05
1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper $0.02
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce $1.50
1 cup chicken broth $0.17
10 oz. refrigerated cheese tortellini $3.75
2 cups spinach $0.76
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese $0.62

Instructions

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the oil. Brown the Italian sausage.
Once the sausage has browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Continue to sauté over medium heat until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Next add the salt, garlic powder, oregano, black pepper, marinara sauce, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine.
Bring the skillet up to a simmer and add the cheese tortellini. Stir the tortellini into the sauce and cook for 5-6 minutes until the tortellini is tender.
Add the spinach to the skillet and stir to combine, allowing the heat to wilt the spinach.
Now top the skillet with the shredded mozzarella cheese and allow the heat to melt the cheese.
Serve hot with fresh garlic bread and some freshly cracked black pepper or red pepper flakes on top. Enjoy!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

How to Make Cheese Tortellini And Sausage Skillet – Step by Step Photos

Heat a large deep skillet over medium heat and add 1 Tbsp oil. Brown 1 lb. Italian sausage.

Once the sausage has browned, add 1 diced yellow onion and 2 minced garlic to the skillet. Continue to sauté over medium heat until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Next add 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper, 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce, and 1 cup chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine.

Bring the skillet up to a simmer and add 10 oz. refrigerated cheese tortellini. Stir the tortellini into the sauce and cook for 5-6 minutes until the tortellini is tender.

Add 2 cups spinach to the skillet and stir to combine, allowing the heat to wilt the spinach.

Now top the skillet with 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.

Allow the heat from the skillet to melt the cheese.

Serve hot with fresh garlic bread and some freshly cracked black pepper on top. Now get ready to enjoy a super hearty and delicious dinner meal!

Chicken and Dumplings

$7.26 recipe / $1.21 serving

Chicken Sausage White Bean Skillet

$8.69 recipe / $2.17 serving

Southwest Lentils And Rice Skillet

$5.65 recipe / $1.41 serving

Tuscan Orzo

($7.54 recipe / $1.88 serving)

The post Cheese Tortellini And Sausage Skillet appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Easy & Budget-Friendly Recipes - Budget Bytes

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Tips and Suggestions

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Do you love this New Orleans-inspired recipe?

Muffaletta Roll Ups

Equipment

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Roll Up Ingredients

Instructions

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Roll Up Directions

Notes

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how to make A Muffaletta Roll Up – step by step photos

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