Chicken Schnitzel – Budget Bytes

Chicken Schnitzel – Budget Bytes

Schnitzel is an iconic dish that seriously deserves a spot on your plate, not just during Oktoberfest, but any time you’re craving comfort food with a crispy twist! This recipe…
Spaetzle – Budget Bytes

Spaetzle – Budget Bytes

Oktoberfest is right around the corner, which means it’s the perfect time to make a batch of Spaetzle! These little German egg noodles are one of the easiest recipes I’ve…
Baked Spaghetti – Budget Bytes

Baked Spaghetti – Budget Bytes

You might be asking yourself, “Why on earth would I bake spaghetti??” Well, let me tell you. This Baked Spaghetti recipe gives you all the comfort of a casserole but…
Sweet Corn and Zucchini Pie

Sweet Corn and Zucchini Pie

This Sweet Corn and Zucchini Pie has become one of those easy, go-to recipes in my kitchen. I first made it on a whim one evening when I had more…
Cold Brew Coffee – Budget Bytes

Cold Brew Coffee – Budget Bytes

It’s no secret here in the Budget Bytes studio that we’re all addicted to coffee! We trade off whose buying on studio days, and then we all collectively let out…
Elote (Street Corn) Pasta Salad

Elote (Street Corn) Pasta Salad

There’s nothing like the bright, smoky flavors of summer in a dish, and this Elote-Style Street Corn Pasta Salad brings them all to the table. I’m talking sweet corn with…
Classic Vanilla Cake – Budget Bytes

Classic Vanilla Cake – Budget Bytes

This Classic Vanilla Cake recipe keeps things simple while delivering incredible flavor and texture. When I was testing it, I kept getting requests for the recipe because everyone loved how…
Beef Enchiladas – Budget Bytes

Beef Enchiladas – Budget Bytes

I’m telling you right now, these easy Beef Enchiladas are not your average weeknight dinner. They’re bold, a little unexpected, and ridiculously good. The sweet pineapple with spicy jalapeño, homemade…
Zucchini Relish – Budget Bytes

Zucchini Relish – Budget Bytes

If you’re dealing with an overabundance of garden zucchini and thinking, ‘what am I even supposed to do with all this?‘…this recipe is for you. This sweet, tangy, slightly spicy…
Teriyaki Salmon – Budget Bytes

Teriyaki Salmon – Budget Bytes

This Teriyaki Salmon recipe might be a little pricier than some of my usual meals, but it’s worth every penny. Honestly, this is some of the best salmon I’ve ever…
Brazilian Lemonade – Budget Bytes

Brazilian Lemonade – Budget Bytes

Let me introduce you to my new drink of the summer, the Brazilian Lemonade! This 3‑ingredient recipe uses whole fresh limes (yes, limes, not lemons), sweetened condensed milk, and water…
Peach Pie – Budget Bytes

Peach Pie – Budget Bytes

There’s something about peach season that gets me every time. When those ripe, juicy peaches start showing up at the market, I know it’s pie time. And nothing screams summer…
Tomato Butter – Budget Bytes

Tomato Butter – Budget Bytes

I can’t stress enough how delicious this Tomato Butter is. Especially now that it’s tomato season, I’m begging you to make it! Our team in the Budget Bytes studio ate…
Homemade Lemonade – Budget Bytes

Homemade Lemonade – Budget Bytes

There’s nothing more summery than a tall glass of icy cold lemonade. Go claim your favorite porch swing or rocking chair and get ready for a refreshing treat! This easy…
Grilled Okra – Budget Bytes

Grilled Okra – Budget Bytes

If you’re intimidated by okra, let me stop you right there! This super-easy, absolutely delicious summertime Grilled Okra recipe is just for you. Okra is one of those majorly polarizing…
Firecracker Chicken – Budget Bytes

Firecracker Chicken – Budget Bytes

I’m all about simple, one-skillet chicken dinners that don’t break the bank, deliver big flavor, and can win over any crowd. This Firecracker Chicken is my easy spin on the…
Beet Salad – Budget Bytes

Beet Salad – Budget Bytes

Beets are in my top 5 favorite vegetables, for SURE. They’re sweet yet earthy and visually stunning. They can be enjoyed 100 different ways, but my favorite way is simple:…
Air Fryer Zucchini – Budget Bytes

Air Fryer Zucchini – Budget Bytes

In my opinion, there’s truly no comparison when it comes to aromatic in-season zucchini and wrapped-in-plastic off-season zucchini. The earthy aroma is one of my favorite characteristics of fresh zucchini……
Red, White and Blue Trifle

Red, White and Blue Trifle

There are two things I know for sure. You can’t come to a BBQ empty-handed, and everyone loves dessert. This Red, White, and Blue Trifle recipe is just the thing…
Bloody Mary Mix – Budget Bytes

Bloody Mary Mix – Budget Bytes

It doesn’t matter if you enjoy a good old Bloody Mary with or without some alcohol; this homemade Bloody Mary Mix recipe is for you. It’s super budget-friendly, uses a…
Page Not Found – Budget Bytes

Page Not Found – Budget Bytes

Sign up for access to our weekly meal plans Skip to content Sign up for access to our weekly meal plans Error 404 It’s possible it’s moved or no longer…
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie – Budget Bytes

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie – Budget Bytes

This is my boyfriend’s favorite pie, and there’s a good reason why. If you’ve never had Strawberry Rhubarb Pie before, consider this your official invitation. Rhubarb is nothing like I’ve…
Homemade Stromboli – Budget Bytes

Homemade Stromboli – Budget Bytes

There’s just something about food that you can slice and share that makes it instantly more fun, right? Stromboli has been one of my go-to “impress without the stress” recipes…
Vodka Sauce – Budget Bytes

Vodka Sauce – Budget Bytes

There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of pasta, and this Vodka Sauce has become a go-to in our house. I’ve made it countless times for my family, and it’s…
Borscht – Budget Bytes

Borscht – Budget Bytes

Fun fact: Borscht is one of my favorite soups of all time! I love beets because of their natural beauty, subtle sweetness, and earthy flavor, so I am excited to…
Homemade Simple Syrup – Budget Bytes

Homemade Simple Syrup – Budget Bytes

Maybe a fancy craft cocktail isn’t in your budget this year (sheesh, mine either), but Simple Syrup should still be a staple in your kitchen! Whether you’re sweetening your morning…
Cowboy Caviar Recipe – Budget Bytes

Cowboy Caviar Recipe – Budget Bytes

This fresh and colorful Cowboy Caviar recipe combines two types of beans, delicious summer vegetables, and a sweet and tangy lime vinaigrette dressing to make a bold and versatile dish…
Orange Rolls – Budget Bytes

Orange Rolls – Budget Bytes

There’s just nothing like homemade Orange Rolls fresh from the oven and a hot cup of coffee to kick off the weekend. Growing up in the South, orange rolls were…
Salmon Patties – Budget Bytes

Salmon Patties – Budget Bytes

This recipe takes me all the way back to my childhood. I vividly remember my mom making Salmon Patties for dinner a few times every month. This easy salmon patties…
Cauliflower Steak – Budget Bytes

Cauliflower Steak – Budget Bytes

There I go again, treating vegetables like they’re steaks! I don’t know if you’ve spent much time staring at the red meat options in the grocery store, but I’m not…
Butter Chicken – Budget Bytes

Butter Chicken – Budget Bytes

If you’ve never experienced the bold, incredible flavors of Butter Chicken, then boy, are you in for a treat! My husband loves Indian food, and this butter chicken recipe is…
Chile Relleno – Budget Bytes

Chile Relleno – Budget Bytes

Mexican night goes fully vegetarian with these crispy, flavorful, budget-friendly Chile Rellenos! The deep flavor from the poblano peppers is perfectly complimented by the subtly spicy homemade salsa, creamy cheese,…
Avocado Margarita – Budget Bytes

Avocado Margarita – Budget Bytes

Let’s be honest: avoiding alcohol altogether is a great way to save money, especially if you’re going out to bars and restaurants a lot. While cocktails are delicious, they’re not…
How to Make Hard Boiled Eggs

How to Make Hard Boiled Eggs

It’s no secret that I’m an egg fanatic (check my logo). Hard-boiled eggs are easy to cook and so extremely versatile. In fact, my favorite budget meal hack has always…
Zuppa Toscana Recipe – Budget Bytes

Zuppa Toscana Recipe – Budget Bytes

Zuppa Toscana is probably one of the richest, most hearty soups out there and is definitely one of my favorites. This creamy soup with tender potatoes and flavorful Italian sausage…
Slow Cooker Steel Cut Oatmeal

Slow Cooker Steel Cut Oatmeal

I’m not sure there’s anyone who loves steel cut oatmeal more than I do! This Slow Cooker Steel Cut Oatmeal is a great option when you want to make a…
Cobb Salad – Budget Bytes

Cobb Salad – Budget Bytes

You already know my love for salad runs deep, and there’s nothing better than a hearty dinner salad…especially as the days are getting warmer! A classic Cobb Salad is a…
Gumbo – Budget Bytes

Gumbo – Budget Bytes

There are SO many ways to make a soul-warming, homemade Gumbo, but this recipe is the one I always make for my family. I use andouille sausage, chicken thighs, and…
Banana Muffins – Budget Bytes

Banana Muffins – Budget Bytes

Banana Muffins are an absolute favorite in our household. I bake these muffins at least twice a month because my daughter loves them, but also because they’re SO easy to…
Cabbage Casserole – Budget Bytes

Cabbage Casserole – Budget Bytes

Cabbage casserole is one of those old-fashioned Southern recipes that always hits the spot. It’s warm, creamy, and SO easy to throw together. In less than an hour, I’ve got…
Cabbage Steaks – Budget Bytes

Cabbage Steaks – Budget Bytes

Look at us crunchy hippies, calling all kinds of vegetables steaks. I know it seems far-fetched, but these Cabbage Steaks really do hit the spot—and for pennies! The deep flavors…
One Pan Mushroom Steak Dinner

One Pan Mushroom Steak Dinner

I am so excited to share this super easy vegan recipe with you because it’s one of my favorites. This One Pan Mushroom Steak Dinner makes prep and clean up…
Brunswick Stew – Budget Bytes

Brunswick Stew – Budget Bytes

Friends, it’s time for an oldie but goodie! Brunswick Stew is a hearty stew made with tender roasted meat, lots of vegetables, and barbecue sauce. It’s one of the quickest…
Poutine – Budget Bytes

Poutine – Budget Bytes

Maybe I’m wrong, but I think Poutine is to Canada as hot chicken is to Nashville nowadays. It’s one of the first foods people think of when they think of…
Loaded Cauliflower Bowls – Budget Bytes

Loaded Cauliflower Bowls – Budget Bytes

This Loaded Cauliflower Bowls recipe is one of my family’s weekly go-to meals. We all love cauliflower and enjoy customizing this to fit everyone’s preferences. The cauliflower is perfectly tender…
Bangers and Mash – Budget Bytes

Bangers and Mash – Budget Bytes

Whether it’s served in a cozy pub or around a family table in the countryside, Bangers and Mash is a dish that speaks to Britain and Ireland’s hearty history and…
Potato Corn Chowder – Budget Bytes

Potato Corn Chowder – Budget Bytes

I don’t know about you, but nothing beats a big bowl of homemade soup—especially when it’s creamy, hearty, and made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients. Whenever I make this easy Potato…
Air Fryer Hard Boiled Eggs

Air Fryer Hard Boiled Eggs

Confession time: I made these Air Fryer Hard Boiled Eggs out of lazy desperation one day in the studio when I was testing other recipes. I was starving but didn’t…
Carrot Soup Recipe – Budget Bytes

Carrot Soup Recipe – Budget Bytes

Fresh carrots are one of the most budget-friendly and versatile ingredients at the grocery store. So when money is tight, grab a bag of carrots and make this truly outstanding,…
Steak Marinade – Budget Bytes

Steak Marinade – Budget Bytes

A good Steak Marinade is a lifesaver when you are cooking tougher cuts of steak. It not only tenderizes the steak but it also infuses it with so much flavor.…
Black Bean Dip – Budget Bytes

Black Bean Dip – Budget Bytes

Mexican nights at our house are always a favorite. My family loves them because it’s so easy to customize the menu to everyone’s preferences; we always put a vegetarian twist…
Spanish Rice – Budget Bytes

Spanish Rice – Budget Bytes

We’re particularly lucky in Nashville, having so many international restaurants all over the city. My family’s favorite splurge is going out for Mexican food! My daughter can be a picky…
Mississippi Pot Roast – Budget Bytes

Mississippi Pot Roast – Budget Bytes

If you’ve ever been nervous about cooking an entire chuck roast, this delicious crock pot Mississippi Pot Roast recipe is seriously fail-proof and perfect for beginners! I use 5 simple…
Matzo Ball Soup – Budget Bytes

Matzo Ball Soup – Budget Bytes

It’s been almost 10 years since I first shared this recipe for Matzo Ball Soup, and to this day, it’s still one of my favorite dishes for when I’m tired,…
Roasted Garlic – Budget Bytes

Roasted Garlic – Budget Bytes

Garlic is one of my favorite ingredients. Being a member of the allium family, along with my favorite ingredient of all time (onions), this should come as no surprise! It’s…
Crockpot Beef Stew – Budget Bytes

Crockpot Beef Stew – Budget Bytes

Whoa. Just, WHOA. I’ve never smelled anything as lovely and drool-inducing as this Crockpot Beef Stew. The incredible aroma had my mouth watering for hours as the tender chunks of…
Crockpot Beef Stew

Crockpot Beef Stew

Whoa. Just, WHOA. I’ve never smelled anything as lovely and drool-inducing as this Crockpot Beef Stew. The incredible aroma had my mouth watering for hours as the tender chunks of…
Greek Salad – Budget Bytes

Greek Salad – Budget Bytes

Listen, I know it’s probably weird, but if I had to choose a last meal, it would be a salad, 100%! Not a steak, burger, or fried chicken…a crispy, fresh,…
One Pot Chicken and Rice

One Pot Chicken and Rice

You guys know how much I love my one pot meals. They’re easy, cozy, and always satisfying. This Chicken and Rice one pot meal is the kind of comfort food…
How to Make Smoothie Bowls

How to Make Smoothie Bowls

Whenever I can make a recipe that’s healthy and suitable for a wide range of dietary requirements—all while sticking to a budget—I’m all in! These delicious, creamy, and super thick…
Creamy Rice Pudding – Budget Bytes

Creamy Rice Pudding – Budget Bytes

There isn’t a more creamy and dreamy budget-friendly dessert than Rice Pudding with its warm flavors of cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg. I only use a few basic pantry staple ingredients,…
Homemade Chex Mix – Budget Bytes

Homemade Chex Mix – Budget Bytes

Whether you’re preparing a spread for a football game, having friends and family over for Christmas or New Year, or just bingeing your favorite Netflix show, having some crunchy-salty snacks…
Sugared Cranberries – Budget Bytes

Sugared Cranberries – Budget Bytes

These 3 ingredient Sugared Cranberries are the perfect budget-friendly way to immediately elevate any holiday spread! Everyone who sees them will comment on how beautiful they are. Then, they’ll try…
Peppermint Bark – Budget Bytes

Peppermint Bark – Budget Bytes

Have you ever not been a fan of something unless it was cooked or made a certain way? That’s how I’ve always felt about peppermint. Oh, but I absolutely love…
Candied Bacon – Budget Bytes

Candied Bacon – Budget Bytes

Calling all bacon lovers! Take your regular bacon up a notch with this easy Candied Bacon recipe. This is one of my favorite things to order at restaurants, but it’s…
Baked Ziti – Budget Bytes

Baked Ziti – Budget Bytes

As soon as the weather turns cool, I grab the cozy sweaters and start cooking all the comfort food, like this Easy Baked Ziti recipe. It’s rich and gooey with…
Chocolate Mousse – Budget Bytes

Chocolate Mousse – Budget Bytes

You are four ingredients away from heaven! When it comes to a perfectly luscious and light dessert, it doesn’t get much simpler than this deeply flavored easy chocolate mousse recipe.…
Sugar Cookies (with Royal Icing)

Sugar Cookies (with Royal Icing)

Homemade Sugar Cookies are budget-friendly, simple to make, and a delicious way to create memories that will last a lifetime. Whipping up a batch of this sugar cookie recipe and…
Hot Cider – Budget Bytes

Hot Cider – Budget Bytes

You may recall from my apple crumble blog post that my family’s favorite tradition is going apple picking together every year. This Hot Cider brings those fond memories back right…
Chocolate Truffles – Budget Bytes

Chocolate Truffles – Budget Bytes

Are you looking for a dessert that is equally as delicious and easy to make? Look no further! These Chocolate Truffles are chewy, creamy, decadent little bites of heaven! This…
Bruschetta – Budget Bytes

Bruschetta – Budget Bytes

Sure, you could wrap everything in bacon for your holiday appetizer spread if you wanted to, but when you offer something fresh and colorful, I find it always disappears first!…
Sausage and Cheese Hand Pies

Sausage and Cheese Hand Pies

My family loves a savory breakfast, and these Sausage and Cheese Hand Pies are the easiest grab-and-go option for busy mornings! They combine two classic breakfast flavors—sausage and cheese—but instead…
Baked French Toast – Budget Bytes

Baked French Toast – Budget Bytes

It’s my professional opinion that whenever you dust a baked good with powdered sugar, it becomes instantly classy. So, while you can find all the ingredients needed for my decadent…
Coffee Cake – Budget Bytes

Coffee Cake – Budget Bytes

If you’ve never made Coffee Cake before, then boy, are you in for a treat! This breakfast cake is buttery, moist, and topped with a super delicious streusel crumb topping.…
Marinated Olives – Budget Bytes

Marinated Olives – Budget Bytes

These homemade Marinated Olives will bring your next gathering to a whole new level! They’re the perfect appetizer for just about anyone, despite most dietary restrictions, and the flavors are…
Turkey Pot Pie – Budget Bytes

Turkey Pot Pie – Budget Bytes

Nothing beats Thanksgiving leftovers, but eventually, even the best turkey sandwiches get old. If you don’t want to see any of that perfectly cooked turkey breast go to waste, you…
Turkey Sliders – Budget Bytes

Turkey Sliders – Budget Bytes

Need something to do with all of that leftover Thanksgiving turkey? I’ve got the perfect solution. These Turkey Sliders are a quick & easy way to repurpose turkey into tasty…
Mashed Potatoes – Budget Bytes

Mashed Potatoes – Budget Bytes

Is there anything better on earth than a big bowl of buttery Mashed Potatoes? I mean real, homemade mash. It’s the original, budget-friendly comfort food that’s quick to make and…
Thanksgiving Bowls – Budget Bytes

Thanksgiving Bowls – Budget Bytes

I love a hearty salad with a variety of delicious toppings and a homemade dressing…and these Thanksgiving Bowls are just that! They’re one of my favorite salads to make after…
Pecan Pie – Budget Bytes

Pecan Pie – Budget Bytes

I’ve been on a bit of a dessert kick recently, so I think it’s about time to share my go-to recipe for Pecan Pie! This delicious and indulgent dessert is…
Turkey Gravy – Budget Bytes

Turkey Gravy – Budget Bytes

I’ve been watching my mother make homemade Turkey Gravy for years. It always came together so quickly and easily. And the flavor of homemade is 10x better than store-bought! All…
Green Bean Casserole (From Scratch)

Green Bean Casserole (From Scratch)

What’s Thanksgiving without a homemade Green Bean Casserole?…a pretty sad turkey day if you ask me! That creamy mushroom sauce, tender green beans, and fried onion topping are a match…
Mashed Potato Casserole – Budget Bytes

Mashed Potato Casserole – Budget Bytes

Potatoes: one of the most filling budget-friendly foods out there! This recipe for Mashed Potato Casserole will fill up everybody’s holiday plate for pennies. Even better, I can make this…
Sausage Stuffing – Budget Bytes

Sausage Stuffing – Budget Bytes

Whether you call it stuffing or dressing, this apple Sausage Stuffing recipe needs a permanent spot on your holiday menu! It’s rich, savory, and made completely from scratch (while still…
Creamed Kale – Budget Bytes

Creamed Kale – Budget Bytes

There are plenty of kale haters out there, but I’m not one of them. Quite the opposite, in fact! I LOVE kale. But if you share your table with some…
Squash Casserole – Budget Bytes

Squash Casserole – Budget Bytes

I’m pretty certain this easy Squash Casserole recipe will be the only one you make from now on! Why? The texture is perfect, thanks to the crumbled crackers, melt-in-your-mouth ribbons…
Creamed Corn – Budget Bytes

Creamed Corn – Budget Bytes

One of my favorite sides to load up on at the holiday dinner table is Creamed Corn! This budget-friendly side dish is made with minimal ingredients and is so easy…
Pear Galette – Budget Bytes

Pear Galette – Budget Bytes

As we say goodbye to peaches in the summertime, I stay positive and look forward to the next season… pear season! Pears are one of my favorite fall fruits, and…
Peanut Butter Pie – Budget Bytes

Peanut Butter Pie – Budget Bytes

You’ll be hard-pressed to find another flavor combination more beloved than chocolate and peanut butter! This creamy, light Peanut Butter Pie is a great way to use extra Halloween candy,…
Roasted Acorn Squash – Budget Bytes

Roasted Acorn Squash – Budget Bytes

Acorn Squash is one of my favorite varieties of squash. It’s pretty dynamic, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find someone who hates the flavor. It’s mild, nutty, and so pleasing…
Pumpkin Brownies – Budget Bytes

Pumpkin Brownies – Budget Bytes

Aside from breaking out your sweaters and fuzzy socks, what screams “Autumn has arrived!” more than gooey Pumpkin Brownies? This rich combination of dark chocolate and warming pumpkin spice flavors…
Shakshuka – Budget Bytes

Shakshuka – Budget Bytes

Maybe it’s an unpopular opinion, but I prefer a savory breakfast to a sweet breakfast 10/10. I’m even happier when my breakfast has a spicy kick to it, and this…
Pumpkin Butter – Budget Bytes

Pumpkin Butter – Budget Bytes

If you don’t know already, I’m a bit of a rookie homesteader; my husband and I grow our own vegetables, spoil our chickens and ducks, and give homemade gifts to…
Sweet Potato Black Bean Skillet

Sweet Potato Black Bean Skillet

Quick and easy one-skillet meals are always my favorite and this Sweet Potato Black Bean skillet is no exception. It’s nutritious, veggie-packed, perfect for cleaning out the fridge or pantry,…
Pot Roast – Budget Bytes

Pot Roast – Budget Bytes

If you’re looking for a hearty fall or winter meal that’ll fill up everyone’s bellies, look no further than this easy Pot Roast recipe. While beef is expensive no matter…
Grilled Vegetables – Budget Bytes

Grilled Vegetables – Budget Bytes

There is no summertime meal that cannot be improved with a heaping side of perfectly Grilled Vegetables! These grilled veggies take very little prep time, and they’re the best option…
Barley Salad – Budget Bytes

Barley Salad – Budget Bytes

I love a healthy salad with tons of texture, and this Barley Salad recipe is a fresh and juicy flavor bomb! I combined the bold Mediterranean flavors of tomatoes, olives,…
Zucchini Boats – Budget Bytes

Zucchini Boats – Budget Bytes

I love recipes that seem fancy but are surprisingly easy to make like these stuffed Zucchini Boats! They’re one of my favorite ways to use up all of the zucchini…
Watermelon Gazpacho – Budget Bytes

Watermelon Gazpacho – Budget Bytes

Chilled soup?! No way! To this reaction, I say, “Yes way!” If you haven’t tried gazpacho yet, this vibrant, savory-sweet Watermelon Gazpacho is a great place to start. I love…
Grilled Corn On The Cob

Grilled Corn On The Cob

Nothing says summer to me quite like fresh, juicy Grilled Corn on the Cob. I have great memories as a child of horseback riding along a local cornfield and trying…
Fried Green Tomatoes – Budget Bytes

Fried Green Tomatoes – Budget Bytes

I absolutely love making my crispy fried green tomatoes with a tangy buttermilk batter. I spent hours testing different versions until I found the perfect recipe. The crispy batter fried…
Strawberry Cookies – Budget Bytes

Strawberry Cookies – Budget Bytes

Summer is strawberry season, and you better believe I am always out picking farm-fresh strawberries the first day the U-pick farms open. My favorite thing to do with strawberries (besides…