Feeding a large family can feel like a never-ending marathon—especially on busy weeknights when time is as elusive as a cat on a hot tin roof. But fear not! These quick and easy dinner recipes are here to save the day, bringing everyone to the table with hearty, comforting meals. Plus, with a touch of love and a dash of spontaneity, even the fussiest eater might just surprise you.
Steps
- Cut the beef into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. In a large pot, sear the beef on all sides over medium-high heat until browned, then remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Mix in garlic and paprika, cooking for a couple of minutes to release their flavors.
- Return the beef to the pot and pour in beef broth or water to cover the meat. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about an hour or until the beef is tender.
- Add chopped bell peppers and tomatoes, continuing to cook for another 30 minutes until the vegetables are soft. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the goulash hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley and alongside bread or potatoes for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds stew beef, cut into 1 1/2 inch cubes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large onions, diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons Hungarian paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 (12 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
FAQ
- How can I save time while preparing meals for a large family?
- Opt for recipes that naturally yield six servings or more, such as Hungarian Goulash or Salisbury Steak. These dishes can be made with affordable ingredients and often do not require doubling or tripling.
- What are some budget-friendly dinner ideas for cold days?
- Simple Chicken and Noodles and Winter Lentil Vegetable Soup are both economical choices that are comforting and satisfying on chilly days.
- Are there any vegetarian options among these family meals?
- Yes, Black Beans and Rice is a filling and affordable vegetarian meal that can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for meatless dinners.
- How can I use canned ingredients to make a quick meal?
- The Six Can Chicken Tortilla Soup is a convenient and flavorful option that only requires six canned ingredients, making it a quick and easy meal to prepare.
- What are some classic budget-friendly casserole dishes?
- Classic casserole options include Grandma’s Hamburger Casserole and Best Tuna Noodle Casserole, both of which offer a nostalgic taste while being easy on the pocketbook.
Tips
- When preparing the Hungarian Goulash, consider using more affordable cuts of beef, as they will still become tender and flavorful during the cooking process.
- For the Simple Chicken and Noodles dish, serve it with mashed potatoes for a comforting and inexpensive accompaniment, particularly on colder days.
- To enhance the flavor of Salisbury Steak, make extra sauce to pour over mashed potatoes, creating a richer, more satisfying meal.
- When making Black Beans and Rice, consider using it as a filling for burrito bowls to create a versatile and budget-friendly vegetarian meal.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker – For making Slow Cooker Taco Soup.
- Griddle or Grill Pan – For Cilantro-Lime Grilled Chicken.
- Casserole Dish – For recipes like Easy Taco Casserole, Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole, Hamburger Potato Casserole, and Million Dollar Spaghetti.
