This slow-cooker navy bean and ham soup pulls you in with its warm, rustic aroma and no-nonsense charm. Beans soak up rich broth, carrots and celery soften around the edges, and the ham bone stars at the center, turning humble pantry staples into something you can’t wait to taste. Every bowl feels like coming home—hearty, honest, and just the right amount of cozy, exactly how my family liked it. We always called it Bean Soup, and honestly, there’s nothing more comforting on a cool evening.
Category: Main Dishes
The Frugal Ones share main dishes with simple steps, fresh ingredients, and budget-friendly tips. Enjoy family favorites without spending too much.
Frugal Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet [Kid’s Love]
During busy weeknights, one-skillet meals become our dinner saviors. This family-friendly, quick recipe is one of our go-to when we need a satisfying dinner on the table in under an hour. Featuring ground beef, flavorful rice, hearty beans, and lots of cheese, this Mexican beef and rice skillet all comes together in just 30 minutes with minimal prep. It’s a total weeknight dinner win—we won’t blame you if it becomes a staple on your weeknight rotation. Tip: We cook rice at least twice a week, so I always fill the rice cooker and freeze the extra.
How to Make Tender Crockpot Steak for First-Time Cooks
Rich with tangy notes and draped in silky gravy, this crockpot steak turns modest round cuts into slow-simmered comfort—fork-tender bites that melt alongside dreamy mashed potatoes. Even if it’s your first try, that pillow-soft texture and robust flavor will make you look like a pro, no steakhouse secrets required. Ready to make tender crockpot steak?
How to Make Authentic Shrimp Creole at Home [Step-by-Step]
This Shrimp Creole recipe nails that spicy-sweet balance with plump shrimp tucked into a rich tomato sauce, and every bite feels like a warm hug (honestly, you’ll want another helping). The best part is how fast it comes together, delivering bold flavors and real comfort without a lot of fuss.
How to Make Authentic Red Beans and Rice [Step-by-Step]
This authentic Cajun red beans and rice recipe packs rich Louisiana flavor into every bite, using dried red beans, smoky sausage, and simple pantry spices (soak or no-soak both work here). I’ll walk you through creamy results from scratch, with advice on seasoning, cook time, and the best ways to store leftovers—just like locals do it.
How to Make Flavorful Crock Pot Cashew Chicken at Home
Sweet and salty, this crock pot cashew chicken makes dinner both simple and satisfying, with a glossy sauce that clings to every tender bite and a hefty sprinkle of roasted nuts for crunch (I find the leftover sauce is perfect for spooning over rice). The best part—it all comes together in less than ten minutes of hands-on prep, so even on busy nights you can still have something that tastes like real takeout.
How to Make Slow Cooker Mexican Shredded Chicken [Step-by-Step Guide]
Slow Cooker Mexican Shredded Chicken bursts with bold spices, tender texture and a whisper of heat—think juicy pulled chicken ready to star in crisp salads, loaded burritos, cheesy quesadillas or quick weeknight tacos. This recipe is all about low effort, high flavor, and endless style possibilities—just like finding a classic trench you can wear three ways.
How to Make Slow-Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken That’s Always Tender
This creamy slow-cooker lemon herb chicken is soft, fragrant, and deeply satisfying, with chicken breast that gives in at the touch of a fork. Lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs fill the rich sauce with brightness, while a final pour of cream smooths every bite into pure comfort.
How to Make Crock Pot Crack Chicken [Easy Step-by-Step Guide]
Crock Pot Crack chicken gives you a creamy, cheesy mix of tender chicken and rich flavors that tends to wow even picky eaters. It’s a popular weeknight pick at my place (seriously, you’ll want seconds), and I’ve found it pairs just as well with rice or slider buns for easy leftovers.
How to Make Juicy Crock Pot Brisket Every Time
With this crock pot brisket recipe, you get beef that’s so juicy and tender each bite almost falls apart (honestly, the prep couldn’t be easier—just season, set it, and forget it). I like to serve mine with roasted carrots or a pile of mashed potatoes, letting the slow-cooked flavors soak into every side.