Easy Cheap Recipes

Confession time. I actually like those boxed dinners ( look how cute their little hand guy is:) and look for them on sale. I guess its the no-brain-work-involved aspect of it. However, I just tried a homemade version that actually tastes great and is definitely healthier. It is good and if you like that boxed stuff you might want to try this recipe. I did the math and this one comes out cheaper, not to mention it has real tomato sauce (extra veggie there) and you can use whole wheat pasta as well. I buy a pasta that is half white and half wheat. It’s great.

1 lb ground beef

1 tsp salt

Dash pepper

1/2 chopped onion

1 stalk celery diced thinly

1/2 cup frozen peas (or more if you’re big fan)

8 oz can tomato sauce

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 cup water

1 cup noodles ( I used elbow macaroni)

1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese

1 Tblspn butter (optional)

Brown beef, onion, and celery in large skillet with lid.  Cook until beef is done and vegetables are soft. Add tomato sauce, salt, pepper, oregano, water and noodles and bring to boil. Reduce the heat and cover. Let simmer about 3 minutes.  Check the sauce and if its a little thin let simmer while the noodles finish to thicken. Add peas and cheese for last  minute of cooking.  Taste for seasonings. I added a pat of butter at the end to give the sauce a little richness, but it is totally up to you.