Simple, Thrifty Meals

Cheryl Tallman

Here are some affordable meal ideas to help you get dinner on the table each night without too much time or effort.

Casseroles
Casseroles are an all-time favorite comfort food and can be inexpensive one-dish meals. Here are two recipes that are crowd and wallet pleasers.

Classic Tuna Casserole:
Ingredients:
1 yellow onion, minced
2 Tbsp butter or margarine
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
1/2 cup frozen green peas
1 can cream of celery soup
3/4 cup milk
1 5-oz. can tuna in water, drained
3 to 4 cups flat egg noodles
1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Directions: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Prepare the egg noodles according to the package directions and drain in a colander. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and saute' until soft (about 4 minutes), and then add in the mushrooms and peas. Cook for another minute and turn down the heat to low. Mix the soup, milk, and tuna in a separate bowl and add to the skillet. Stir until blended together. Combine the noodles and the contents of the skillet into an oven-proof casserole dish. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs. Bake 25-30 minutes. Let stand for 10-15 minute before serving.