Oh, the perpetual struggle of cooking for one or two! I know the feeling all too well. You buy a big bunch of spinach for one recipe, and suddenly half of it wilts in the fridge, or you make a hearty casserole that could feed a small army, only to end up tossing half of it days later. It’s frustrating, isn’t it?
I used to feel so guilty watching good food go to waste, not to mention the money flying out of my wallet. That’s why I became obsessed with finding clever ways to cook delicious, budget-friendly meals designed specifically for single servings. It’s truly been a game-changer for my grocery bill and my conscience!
If you’re tired of food waste, bored with takeout, or just looking to simplify your meal prep, you’re in the right place. These 10 single-serving meals are not only kind to your budget but also super easy to make, ensuring every bite is enjoyed and nothing goes to waste.
1. Customizable Sheet Pan Sausage & Veggies
This is my absolute favorite for minimal cleanup! Grab one sausage (chicken, pork, or veggie), chop up whatever vegetables are lurking in your fridge – broccoli, bell peppers, onions, zucchini – toss them with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite spices (paprika, garlic powder are great!).
Spread everything onto a small non-stick baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the veggies are tender and the sausage is cooked through. It’s a complete meal, perfectly portioned, and uses up those odd ends of produce.
2. Deconstructed Buddha Bowl
Buddha bowls are practically designed for using up leftovers! Start with a base of cooked grain (quinoa, brown rice, or farro – even a small amount of leftover rice works wonders). Add a protein like a hard-boiled egg, canned chickpeas, or a scoop of shredded chicken.
Then, pile on any raw or roasted veggies you have: cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, shredded carrots, avocado, or a handful of spinach. Drizzle with a simple dressing like tahini-lemon or a vinaigrette. This is an art form of fridge cleanout!
3. Single Serve Pasta with Pantry Staples
Don’t make a whole box of pasta! I usually cook just a small handful of spaghetti or about half a cup of dry short pasta. While it cooks, sauté some garlic in olive oil, add a can of diced tomatoes (or even half if you have a small can), and a sprinkle of dried herbs.
Once the pasta is al dente, toss it directly into the sauce. A pinch of red pepper flakes and some Parmesan cheese make it feel gourmet. This is such a comforting meal, and perfectly portioned.
4. Loaded Baked Potato or Sweet Potato
A baked potato is the ultimate self-contained meal. Just one medium potato (russet or sweet potato) can be incredibly satisfying. Bake it until tender, then split it open and load it up.
Think chili, shredded cheese, sour cream, chives, leftover roasted vegetables, or even a spoonful of black beans and corn. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and a fantastic way to use up those little bits of protein or veggies from other meals. If you’re looking for more budget-friendly food ideas, I have some great budget-friendly party foods too!
5. Quick Egg & Veggie Scramble
Eggs are a single-serving superstar. Whisk 2-3 eggs with a splash of milk or water, then sauté any small amounts of vegetables you need to use up – diced onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or a handful of spinach. Add the egg mixture to the pan.
Scramble until cooked through, season, and top with a sprinkle of cheese if desired. This makes a super quick breakfast-for-dinner or a light lunch. I often use a digital kitchen scale for perfectly portioned ingredients, especially for my gut health recipes like these delicious gut health breakfast recipes.
6. Speedy Black Bean Burger (from scratch)
Don’t be intimidated! Mash a portion of canned black beans with some breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers), a tablespoon of salsa, and a pinch of cumin and chili powder. Form into one patty.
Pan-fry until golden brown and serve on a bun or lettuce wrap with your favorite toppings. You can freeze the rest of the mashed bean mixture into individual patties for future quick meals, making these a fantastic option for zero waste.
7. Canned Salmon/Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps
When you need something fast and no-cook, a can of salmon or tuna is your best friend. Mix half a can with a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, finely diced celery, red onion, and a squeeze of lemon.
Serve this flavorful salad in crisp lettuce cups (like butter lettuce or romaine hearts) for a light, protein-packed meal that uses up exactly what you need. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner.
8. Leftover Rice Stir-Fry
Do you ever have just a small scoop of cooked rice left? This is its destiny! Heat a little oil in a pan, add any chopped veggies you have (frozen mixed veggies work great!), and a scrambled egg.
Toss in the cold leftover rice, a splash of soy sauce, and a dash of sesame oil. Stir-fry until everything is heated through and well combined. It’s truly the ultimate fridge cleanout meal and so satisfying.
9. Savory Oatmeal or Quinoa Bowl
Forget the sweet stuff! Cook a small portion of rolled oats or quinoa with water or broth. Once it’s cooked, top it with a fried egg, sautéed mushrooms, a handful of greens, and a drizzle of sriracha or soy sauce.
It’s surprisingly delicious, incredibly filling, and uses just a tiny bit of your pantry staples and fresh produce. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty, balanced meal any time of day.
10. Personal Pizza on Tortilla or Pita
Craving pizza but don’t want a whole one? Use a large tortilla, pita bread, or even a sturdy piece of toast as your crust. Spread a little tomato sauce, sprinkle with cheese, and add just a few of your favorite toppings.
Broil or bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. It’s quick, perfectly sized, and a great way to use up tiny amounts of pepperoni, olives, or bell peppers. I swear by having good airtight food storage containers on hand for keeping my unused ingredients fresh for these kinds of spontaneous, single-serving meals.
Say Goodbye to Food Waste & Hello to Savings!
Embracing single-serving meals has truly transformed my kitchen habits. No more sad, forgotten produce in the crisper, and definitely no more guilt over throwing out leftovers. It’s all about being intentional with what you buy and creative with what you have!
I hope these ideas inspire you to cook more, waste less, and enjoy every delicious, budget-friendly bite. Give them a try and let me know your favorite!
Loved these ideas? Pin this post to your meal planning board on Pinterest and share it with friends who also want to cut down on food waste!
FAQs
How can I make my groceries last longer for single servings?
To maximize freshness, focus on proper storage. Store produce in airtight containers or bags, use “first in, first out” for pantry items, and freeze portions of proteins or cooked grains that you won’t use immediately. Planning your meals around ingredients that can be used in multiple ways throughout the week also helps.
What are the best tools for portion control?
A good digital kitchen scale is invaluable for precise measurements, especially when you’re cooking for one. Measuring cups and spoons are essential, and small, single-serving oven-safe dishes or ramekins can help you create perfectly sized meals from the start.
How do I store single-serving meals to prevent waste?
Invest in high-quality airtight food storage containers. These prevent spoilage and keep your food fresh longer. For items like herbs or berries, a paper towel-lined container can absorb excess moisture. For cooked meals, portion them into individual containers immediately after cooling, then refrigerate or freeze.