15 Cheap Pantry Meals with 4-Ingredients or Less (FREE PRINTABLE!)

Check out this list of 15 cheap pantry meals that use only 4 basic ingredients or less and you’ll have dinner on the table in no time!

15 Cheap Pantry Meals with 4-Ingredients or Less

I’ve always been a big fan of keeping a well-stocked pantry and having a few weeks worth of meals on hand.

With everything that is going on in the world today, I know a lot of people are thinking about how to best take care of their families in times of need and also how to best cook from food that’s already in the pantry.

That’s why today I’m going to share with you 15 cheap pantry meals that you can make using 4-ingredients or less.

I try to eat mostly whole foods and this list will reflect that, however I do keep some convenience foods on hand and I’ve included a couple of them here for that reason, so please don’t leave hate comments just because hot dogs and macaroni and cheese are on the list.

Also, true pantry staples would consist of only shelf stable foods, but I’ve included some fridge and freezer essentials here because unless you are without power, you should have access to these items.

I talk a lot about being frugal around here, so this list is mainly made up of frugal sources of carbs and proteins.

Also, I’m assuming you have some basic cooking knowledge here, such as how to make a quesadilla, cook pasta or scramble eggs without me having to give you the instructions, so this list is pretty basic, you will have to fill in the directions for each meal as needed.

Feel free to leave any questions you might have pertaining to the recipes in the comment section below.

I hope this list of cheap pantry meals is an inspiration to you on how to feed your family homemade food, on a budget, with basic ingredients.

Also, this list is by no means exhaustive, so be sure to leave your ideas and recipes in the comment section below. Lastly, if you want to keep this list of meals handy in your pantry or recipe book, then be sure to download the free printable recipe list here.

Pantry Staples You Will Need:

rice
sliced bread
spaghetti
tortillas
shredded cheese
eggs
hot dogs
boxed shells and cheese (no need for milk and butter)
frozen or canned peas
frozen or canned mixed vegetables
fresh or frozen diced potatoes
canned black beans
canned chili beans
canned baked beans
canned refried beans
canned pasta sauce
canned diced tomatoes
canned tomato sauce
canned chicken
chicken broth
boxed pancake mix
taco seasoning (learn to make your own)
chili seasoning (learn to make your own)