18 Cheap Meals For One When You're Lonely and Hungry

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Cheeseburger Sliders

These cheeseburger sliders are the perfect bite-sized treat that packs all the classic flavors of a juicy burger into a fun, shareable form. Each slider features tender, perfectly seasoned beef layered with gooey, melted cheese that oozes with every bite. The soft, golden buns hold everything together, making them easy to enjoy whether you’re at a party or a casual family dinner. Their irresistible combination of savory beef and creamy cheese has turned them into a beloved favorite that everyone looks forward to. Once you’ve had one, it’s nearly impossible not to reach for another.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Sliders

Pizza Burgers

These burgers are bursting with flavor and cooked to juicy perfection, making every bite deeply satisfying. Each one is topped with a generous layer of gooey, melted cheese that adds a rich and creamy touch. It’s the perfect blend of comfort food and indulgence, bringing together two classic takeout favorites in one irresistible meal. Whether you’re craving something hearty after a long day or looking to impress at dinner, this dish delivers the best of both worlds. It’s a mouthwatering combination that feels both familiar and exciting every time you dig in.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Burgers

Cheese Taco Shells

These ultra-crispy taco shells are crafted entirely from rich, melted cheese, offering a deliciously indulgent twist on the classic taco. Each shell is baked to perfection, resulting in a golden crunch that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. Not only are they keto-friendly and completely gluten-free, but they also add an irresistible cheesy goodness to every bite. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or just love cheese, these taco shells make every taco night feel extra special. They truly transform ordinary tacos into a crave-worthy, guilt-free treat you’ll want again and again.
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Taco Bell Beefy 5 Layer Burrito

This Beefy 5-Layer Burrito recipe is the ultimate comfort food for anyone craving that classic Taco Bell taste at home. It’s packed with all the delicious layers you remember—seasoned beef, creamy nacho cheese, cool sour cream, and perfectly melted cheese wrapped in a soft flour tortilla. Making it yourself means you can enjoy all that bold flavor without the drive-thru, and it’s surprisingly quick and budget-friendly to prepare. Each bite is hearty, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, making it an instant favorite for lunch, dinner, or even a late-night snack. Once you try this homemade version, you might never go back to the original!
Get the Recipe: Taco Bell Beefy 5 Layer Burrito

Spam and Eggs

Classic Spam and Eggs is a warm, comforting breakfast that’s both satisfying and affordable. This simple dish combines the crispy, savory flavor of fried Spam with perfectly cooked eggs for a meal that feels nostalgic and hearty. It’s an easy recipe that anyone can make, whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with family. Add a slice of melted cheese on top, and you’ve got a breakfast that’s rich, flavorful, and ready in minutes. It’s the perfect start to your day when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.
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Air Fryer Chicken Quarters

Air Fryer Chicken Quarters make for an incredibly simple, satisfying, and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The chicken turns out wonderfully juicy and tender on the inside, while the air fryer gives it that irresistible golden, crispy skin without the need for excess oil. This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for anyone short on time but still craving a home-cooked dinner. It’s also a versatile recipe that can easily be doubled or tripled for meal prep or for feeding a hungry family. Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, these air-fried chicken quarters deliver flavor, texture, and convenience all in one.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Quarters

French Bread Pizza with Meat Sauce

Turn a plain loaf of French bread into a mouthwatering pizza that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Each slice is topped with a rich homemade meat sauce, gooey melted mozzarella, spicy pepperoni, and crisp, colorful peppers. This recipe combines the satisfying crunch of toasted bread with the comforting taste of classic pizza, making it a perfect option when you’re craving something hearty but easy. It’s quick to prepare, easy on the budget, and ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed get-togethers with family and friends. With minimal effort, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing meal that feels both homemade and special.
Get the Recipe: French Bread Pizza with Meat Sauce

Wet Burritos

Bake these Wet Burritos until they develop a beautiful, golden-brown crisp that gives every bite a satisfying crunch. Once they’re out of the oven, smother them generously with rich, flavorful enchilada sauce and cover them with a hearty layer of melted shredded cheese. The result is a warm, cheesy masterpiece that’s as comforting as it is filling—a true celebration of Mexican-inspired comfort food. With a total cost of around $13.76, this recipe makes six hearty servings at just about $2.29 each. It’s a perfect option for anyone craving a homemade, restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Wet Burritos

Turkey Cranberry Pinwheel Wraps

Get ready to experience a mouthwatering burst of flavors with our Turkey Cranberry Pinwheel Wraps! These delicious wraps are a perfect way to give your leftover turkey new life, turning it into something fun and flavorful. Each bite features tender slices of turkey layered with smooth, creamy cheese and a touch of tangy cranberry sauce, creating a perfect balance between savory richness and sweet zest. Ideal for meal prepping or packing a quick lunch, they’re both budget-friendly and easy to make, saving you time in the kitchen. Whether served at a holiday party, picnic, or as a refreshing twist on your everyday lunch, these wraps are sure to impress everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Cranberry Pinwheel Wraps

Chipped Beef on Toast

Chipped Beef on Toast, lovingly known as SOS (or “Same Ole Stuff”), is the ultimate expression of homestyle comfort cooking. This timeless dish combines thin slices of salty, dried beef with a velvety, creamy white sauce that’s poured generously over crisp, golden-brown toast. Each bite offers a perfect balance of savory flavor and comforting richness, making it a simple yet deeply satisfying meal. It’s a humble, budget-friendly favorite that has stood the test of time—ideal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. For many, enjoying a plate of Chipped Beef on Toast brings back warm memories of family kitchens and cozy mornings.
Get the Recipe: Chipped Beef on Toast

Melt in Your Mouth Eye Round Roast

Turn this affordable cut of meat into a melt-in-your-mouth roast that tastes like a high-end restaurant dish. By taking your time and using the low-and-slow cooking method, the meat becomes incredibly tender and juicy, infused with deep, savory flavor all the way through. Each bite feels luxurious, as if it cost far more than it did. The gentle, even heat ensures that every slice is cooked perfectly from edge to edge, giving you consistent, succulent results every time. This technique turns a simple ingredient into something truly special and memorable.
Get the Recipe: Melt in Your Mouth Eye Round Roast

Honey Mustard Pork Chops

Honey Mustard Pork Chops are the kind of meal that makes weeknight dinners feel special without the hassle. These juicy pork chops are first pan-seared to lock in their flavor, then coated in a velvety honey mustard sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy. After a quick trip to the oven, they come out tender and perfectly cooked every time. The best part is that this dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it an easy option for busy evenings. With its rich flavor and comforting appeal, it tastes like something you'd order at a restaurant—but for a fraction of the cost.
Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Pork Chops

Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

These mouthwatering drumsticks are a true crowd-pleaser — perfectly seasoned with a savory blend of spices, then grilled until the outside is beautifully charred and the inside stays juicy and tender. They’re incredibly easy to prepare, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights, backyard barbecues, or casual get-togethers. Despite their rich flavor and satisfying texture, they’re surprisingly affordable, costing only about $0.70 per serving. With each bite, you’ll enjoy that smoky, flame-grilled goodness that turns a simple meal into something special.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

Chuck Roast Burnt Ends

Poor Man’s Burnt Ends are a delicious and budget-friendly take on the classic barbecue favorite, swapping out expensive brisket for tender, flavorful chuck roast. This recipe starts by cutting the chuck roast into cubes, seasoning them generously, and smoking them slowly until they’re melt-in-your-mouth tender. Once they’ve reached the perfect texture, the cubes are tossed in a rich, smoky BBQ sauce and returned to the smoker to caramelize beautifully. The result is irresistibly juicy, bite-sized pieces with a crispy, smoky crust and deep, savory flavor that rivals traditional burnt ends. It’s the perfect way to enjoy all the indulgent taste of authentic barbecue without the cost or time commitment of a full brisket.
Get the Recipe: Chuck Roast Burnt Ends

Turkey Tenderloin

Turkey tenderloin is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s both wholesome and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when time is short but flavor still matters. With just a few simple ingredients and a handful of fresh herbs, you can create a dish bursting with rich, savory aromas that fill your kitchen and please everyone at the table. In under an hour, you’ll have tender, juicy turkey that tastes like it’s been cooking all day — without the stress or cleanup. Best of all, this delicious dinner costs only around $10.00 to make, so it’s a great way to enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal without overspending. It’s a simple, budget-friendly option that proves healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Tenderloin

Breaded Panko Pork Chops

These Panko Pork Chops are a delicious and satisfying meal that brings together both comfort and elegance without breaking the bank. Each chop is coated in crispy, golden Japanese panko bread crumbs that give it a light, crunchy texture while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The recipe is simple yet impressive enough to serve for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner. With affordable ingredients and easy preparation, this dish proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps

A truly satisfying lunch should strike the perfect balance between being hearty, flavorful, and effortless to make — and this Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap does exactly that. Packed with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch dressing, it’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet refreshingly simple. This wrap is an ideal choice for busy days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s an excellent way to give leftover chicken new life, making it both convenient and budget-friendly. With its fresh ingredients and irresistible taste, it’s no wonder this has become a go-to favorite for families everywhere.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps

Meatloaf Pizza aka Meatza

Give your classic meatloaf a delicious twist by adding a flavorful “crust” topped with all your favorite ingredients. Imagine the comforting heartiness of traditional meatloaf combined with the customizable fun of your favorite dish—whether it’s pizza, burgers, or tacos. Each bite bursts with savory flavor and a mix of textures that make this meal unforgettable. It’s like enjoying two of your go-to comfort foods rolled into one satisfying, mouthwatering creation.
Get the Recipe: Meatloaf Pizza aka Meatza