20 Cheap Meals for Large Families

1. Look for recipes with specific ingredients - Things like rice, beans, and potatoes are great because they're filling and (for the most part) relatively healthy.
    
2. Casseroles are your best friend - They're great for making big portions of food, they're easy to make, and you can easily substitute various ingredients to make them more filling and last longer.
    
3. Start your meal planning at the grocery store - Look for produce that's on sale, in season, or very inexpensive. Then you can choose, build, or adjust your recipe based on those ingredients.
    
4. Don't be afraid to improvise - Any recipe can become expensive if you have to go to the store to buy every single ingredient on the list. Keep a list of what you have in your pantry, and choose your recipes based on what's the most convenient and affordable. Having the ability to adjust recipes based on what fruits and vegetables are in season, for example, can save you tons of money on your dinners.
    

• READ MORE: How to Save Money on Groceries

The base of this recipe is ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and pasta, and along with a special blend of spices and herbs, so you know you'll get a delicious dinner that's hearty and filling.

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Craving something simple to make, filling, and budget-friendly? This ground beef stroganoff recipe is all that and more. Comfort food is great because it's delicious no matter what your budget is.

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This homemade hamburger helper recipe is the ultimate weeknight meal. It's so simple to make, affordable, and great for busy afternoons.

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Ever had a hobo dinner? This easy-to-make meal is great for when you need to use up a bunch of ingredients. Plus, it's super budget friendly.

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This slow cooker Mississippi Chicken recipe is so simple to make, perfectly spicy, and great for any weeknight meal. If you're craving something uniquely Southern that the whole family will love, this recipe, straight from the recipe boxes of talented Southern chefs, is a must-have.

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This ground beef goulash recipe is a hearty and comforting way to end any day on a great note. Made in the traditional Hungarian style with paprika, this delicious one-pot meal will have your taste buds excited at first bite.

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One of the best ways to save money in the kitchen while also feeding large groups of people is to keep your recipes hearty and filling. That's where this delicious chili recipe comes in. Just a few cans, 30 minutes, and you'll have a family of happy, full tummies.

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This hash brown casserole recipe is the ultimate comfort food after a long day (especially if it’s a little chilly outside). Packed with rich ingredients, including butter, sour cream, and plenty of cheese, this easy dinner is definitely good for the soul.

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Bring this mac and cheese to your next family gathering or even to Thanksgiving, and people will be asking you where you got the recipe.

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This recipe for a simple but filling broccoli and rice casserole is great as a filling side dish. You could also throw in some chicken and turn it into a hearty entree that the whole family will love.

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Grandma's Best Casserole is one of those easy casserole recipes you'll turn to time and time again. This cheesy and comforting pasta casserole is something you'll look forward to eating after a long day.

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It might sound crazy, but plenty of recipes call for potato chips. Adding your favorite salty snack atop a casserole dish easily adds that extra bit of crunch to an otherwise gooey recipe just might need.

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This pasta salad is loaded with vegetables and flavor. It is light and refreshing, perfect for outdoor potlucks during the summer. No matter the occasion, this easy pasta salad will be a new staple for your potluck table.

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This chili recipe is truly magical because it's not just hearty and filling -- it's healthy, too! It comes together in no time at all, and the combination of seasonings and lime make this recipe simply irresistible.

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Making one-pan recipes is an easy way to put together a tasty dinner with little to no time. This yummy option, for example, only takes about 30 minutes to bake. All you need to do to complete this recipe is chop up your desired veggies (feel free to add any more you might enjoy) and toss them in the suggested olive oil and spices.

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When you're at the grocery store, spaghetti squash should be at the top of your shopping list if you're looking to cook for a large group of people on a budget. It's filling, big, and versatile, so even if you don't use the whole squash, you can use the rest of it in a whole variety of different recipes. Give this one a try!

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This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is out of this world. Alfredo sauce is known for its hearty, creamy flavor and its ability to completely transform chicken and pasta into a magical and unique dish

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Tired of boring old lasagna? This recipe is so simple, and it easily breaks your lasagna up into perfectly portioned pieces. Simply throw together, bake, roll it up, and serve for a delicious meal that will have your family coming back for seconds.

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Combining ground beef, beans, and more, this all-American goulash recipe is as tasty as it is easy to make. Consider making this hubby-approved recipe ahead of time and freeze it for a busy evening.

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This Wholesome Zucchini Casserole is a great dish for those trying to eat a little healthier while still enjoying a tasty meal. This super simple casserole recipe is fresh and straightforward, bringing you nothing but goodness in each bite.

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