These 29 Low Cost Recipes Got Us Through The Chaos Of Moving Week

ByMandy

Moving week can feel like a big mess, but simple meals can make things easier. These 29 low-cost recipes bring comfort during busy days and nights. Each recipe uses easy ingredients that do not cost much and can be made in little time.

Close-up of a bowl of chicken tortilla soup with crispy tortilla strips, avocado pieces, corn, cheese, and herbs in a rich red broth.
Chicken Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Kimchi Stew

Close-up of a wooden spoon in a vibrant kimchi stew with tofu and pork, garnished with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes.
Kimchi Stew. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Moving can be chaotic, but a warm bowl of Kimchi Stew keeps things simple and comforting. Its flavors come together beautifully, making it perfect for quick meals. You’ll appreciate how effortless it is to prepare during busy days. It’s a hearty dish that fills you up without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

A plate with honey chicken tenders, broccoli florets, and mashed potatoes.
Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Busy days call for something easy, and Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders fit the bill perfectly. They’re quick to make and pack bold, familiar flavors you’ll love. Grab a few, and you’ve got an affordable option to keep your energy up for unpacking. These are perfect when time and energy are short.
Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

Lentil Soup

A hearty bowl of savory lentil soup, beautifully garnished with fresh cilantro, a swirl of cream, and an aromatic blend of spices.
Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Starting the week with something like Lentil Soup is a smart way to keep things simple. It’s warm, filling, and made with pantry friendly options, which makes it perfect during moving chaos. The preparation is straightforward and doesn’t need much attention. You get a hearty meal that’s easy on the budget.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

Focaccia Bread

Slices of focaccia bread topped with rosemary and flaky salt, arranged on brown parchment paper.
Focaccia Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Whipping up Focaccia Bread is surprisingly simple and feels like a rewarding escape from moving stress. It’s versatile enough to pair with anything or enjoy on its own. The result is a soft, fluffy bread that won’t take up too much of your time. Plus, it’s affordable and uses basic ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

Korean Burgers

Close-up of a hamburger with a sesame seed bun, beef patty, green onions, and rich brown sauce.
Korean Burgers. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When things get busy, Korean Burgers bring bold flavors to your meals without a hassle. They’re simple to whip up, and you can enjoy them between tasks. Perfect for filling up quickly, they’re made with straightforward ingredients you might already have. Great for adding variety to your moving week.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Close-up of a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup garnished with herbs, seeds, and two slices of seasoned bread. The soup has a swirled texture and a vibrant orange color.
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A bowl of Roasted Butternut Squash Soup is ideal for those moments when you need something warm and tasty. Its creamy texture is both filling and cozy, making it great for chilly evenings spent unpacking. Preparing it doesn’t require much effort, which is a win during busy stretches.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

General Tso’s Chicken

Stir-fried chicken pieces in a spicy sauce, garnished with chopped green onions, served in a round metal dish on an orange placemat.
General Tso’s Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Treat yourself to a meal that feels fun with General Tso’s Chicken during your moving week. It comes together easily with big flavors that feel like a break from the usual. Perfect for recharging after a long day of organizing, this dish is both comforting and cost-effective. You’ll love how quickly it comes together.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

Hot and Sour Soup

Bowl of hot and sour soup with mushrooms, tofu, and sliced green onions, with a spoon on the side.
Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A bowl of Hot and Sour Soup is a smart way to stay energized during tiring days. Simple to make and flavorful, it’s a go to option for a quick and warm meal. Its affordability and easy preparation make it great during moving chaos. You’ll love how it pairs well with small snacks or rolls on the side.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas

Close-up of folded tortillas filled with chicken, cheese, and herbs, garnished with cilantro.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spicy and comforting, Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas are easy to put together for a quick meal. They pack a lot of flavor into every bite and are perfect for keeping things stress-free. You can make them quickly and enjoy them while catching your breath from unpacking.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas

Cattle Drive Casserole

A slice of cheesy lasagna being lifted from a baking dish, topped with melted cheese and parsley.
Cattle Drive Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you need something hearty, Cattle Drive Casserole steps in as the perfect meal. It’s a single-dish option with simple prep, meaning less cleanup during a hectic week. Affordable ingredients make this casserole a great go-to dish for families on tight budgets. With bold flavors, it’s easy to enjoy after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

Orange Chicken

A bowl of crispy tofu coated in sesame sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a bed of lettuce.
Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sweet and tangy, Orange Chicken is a quick, flavorful option when you need dinner in minutes. It’s simple to make and works as a great comfort food during moving week. Perfectly balanced without being complicated, it’s budget-friendly and ideal for busy days. Serve it with rice, and you’ve got a full meal ready to go!
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

With all the chaos of moving, Mac and Cheese is easily the go-to meal for simplicity and comfort. It’s quick, filling, and economical, making it a dependable option. You can make a big batch and keep leftovers for fuss-free dinners later. It’s warm, familiar, and works great when things feel hectic.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Two pieces of fried chicken on a gray plate, garnished with small bits of green herbs.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Crispy and flavorful, Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a sure win when you need an affordable, filling meal. It’s simple, with easy prep steps and bold textures. Whether you enjoy it with sides or on its own, it’s great for keeping meals fun during busy days. Budget-friendly and familiar, this dish is a keeper.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Easy Cornbread Casserole

A portion of a cheesy, golden-brown savory cornbread casserole is being lifted from the dish, showing its flaky crust and gooey cheese filling.
Easy Cornbread Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Turn simple ingredients into a filling meal with Easy Cornbread Casserole during your moving week. It’s a stress-free recipe that feels comforting and quick to pull together. You get something warm and delicious that’s also affordable, making it perfect for tight budgets. Great for sharing or saving leftovers for later.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole

Dinner Rolls

Close-up of freshly baked golden-brown dinner rolls, with one roll partially torn to show its soft, fluffy interior.
Dinner Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Soft and fresh, Dinner Rolls are a quick side that pairs well with almost anything. They’re simple to make and add a little extra to meals without much effort. Affordable and dependable, they’re perfect when you don’t want to spend too much time cooking. Great for grabbing on the go or keeping with soup dishes.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Twice Baked Potatoes

Twice-baked potatoes topped with melted cheese and chopped green onions on a baking sheet.
Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A comforting option that’s perfect when you need something simple yet filling after moving day. These Twice Baked Potatoes offer a hearty twist, loaded with goodness and baked to perfection. They’re easy to prepare and ideal for using up ingredients that are readily available.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

Sesame Chicken

A close-up of glazed chicken pieces with sesame seeds and chopped scallions on a bed of rice.
Sesame Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A straightforward dish with a hint of crunch that pairs wonderfully with any side you like. Sesame Chicken is easy to put together and packs in a flavorful bite that doesn’t need much fuss. It’s a go-to meal that works perfectly when time feels tight. Quickly pan-fried for a tasty end to a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

Pasta Carbonara

A close-up image of spaghetti carbonara topped with grated cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
Pasta Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy and loaded with the perfect amount of flavor, Pasta Carbonara is always a winner. With just a few key ingredients, it’s a meal that finds a way to feel special without needing much effort. Perfect for shaking off the stress after unpacking late into the evening. Simple yet truly comforting in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

Cashew Chicken

Close-up of Cashew Chicken featuring tender chicken, broccoli, edamame, cashews, and red bell peppers. This delightful dish is topped with sesame seeds and served over a bed of rice.
Cashew Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A quick and super adaptable option great for handling that post-move chaos. Packed with a nutty twist, Cashew Chicken hits the right note for something tasty yet easy. Faster to make than a trip to the store and ideal for boosting energy after a busy day. This dish just works well without draining your time or wallet.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Penne Alla Vodka

Two bowls of penne alla vodka, with Parmesan by the side.
Penne Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bold flavors with a creamy kick make this item perfect for a comforting dinner. Penne Alla Vodka offers an inviting touch of richness, served nice and warm. The best part? It’s simple to whip up while your boxes wait to be unpacked. Look forward to a meal that’s both filling and relaxing.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Roasted chicken thigh with herbs, served on a bed of roasted vegetables.
Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

All-in-one recipes are a lifesaver when chaos takes over, and this one’s no exception. Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe keeps things meaningful without being overwhelming. Toss everything together, bake it, and you’re left with a filling meal without much cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Garlic Knots

Close-up view of freshly baked garlic knots with parsley and seasoning, resting on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Garlic Knots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Warm and fluffy, these aren’t just another side dish they bring comfort during hectic times. Garlic Knots are easy to make and toss in the oven while focusing on other things. They’re perfect for grabbing a quick bite or serving alongside something more. A touch of garlic in every bite adds all the simplicity you’re looking for.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Sausage Casserole

A baked dish containing sliced sausages, potatoes, and green beans in a white casserole dish with a serving spoon.
Sausage Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Hearty, effortless, and great for leftovers during stressful moves, this dish is a winner. Sausage Casserole mixes flavors that are comforting without requiring much time or thought. Just toss it together, let it bake, and you’ll have something filling in no time. Perfect for when meal prep feels overwhelming.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Casserole

Lemongrass Chicken

Grilled chicken with herbs on white rice, garnished with shredded carrots and cabbage.
Lemongrass Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Great for those moments when you’re craving something flavorful but simple to make. Lemongrass Chicken has the perfect touch of freshness that makes it stand out nicely. It’s pan ready and doesn’t demand lots of effort, plus cleans up quickly afterward. Perfect for turning busy nights into something a bit easier.
Get the Recipe: Lemongrass Chicken – PFR

White Bean Soup

A bowl of hearty white bean soup topped with melted cheese and a slice of toasted bread, garnished with fresh parsley.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A one-pot wonder that’ll make the chaos of moving feel less overwhelming. White Bean Soup is light yet filling enough for any time you need something warm and easy. Just bring together a handful of ingredients for something truly simple. Great for those busy weeks when energy feels low.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Tuscan Pasta

A close-up of a plate of Creamy Tuscan Pasta topped with a rich white sauce, grated cheese, and garnished with chopped parsley.
Tuscan Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Just the right mix of hearty flavors without a long prep time this dish simplifies dinnertime. In Tuscan Pasta, the flavors all come together effortlessly in one pot. It’s ideal for moments when you’re rushing around but still need something warm on the table. Plus, it’s a comforting option that feels homemade without being complicated.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta

White Chicken Chili

A bowl of creamy White Chicken Chili with chunks of chicken, sliced avocado, green jalapeño peppers, white beans, and fresh cilantro.
White Chicken Chili. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Smooth and packed with light yet filling elements, this option is ideal for hectic moving days. White Chicken Chili combines simplicity with flavors that are easy to cozy up to. Throw it together on a stovetop without much work, and enjoy something warm after settling down. It’s the perfect meal for when energy feels stretched thin.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Chili

Roasted Tomato Soup

Close-up of a bowl of roasted tomato soup topped with toasted bread chunks, fresh thyme, and a sprinkle of black pepper.
Roasted Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Roasting tomatoes adds warmth to a recipe that’s perfect for easy evenings when things feel chaotic. Roasted Tomato Soup is quick, using items that tend to be on hand even after a move. Blend it up, heat, and serve with minimal effort required. Great for dipping bread or enjoying solo while relaxing.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Soup

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Close-up of a bowl of chicken tortilla soup with crispy tortilla strips, avocado pieces, corn, cheese, and herbs in a rich red broth.
Chicken Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Packed with flavor and super manageable to prepare, this makes for a great meal to cook mid week. Chicken Tortilla Soup offers an easy way to enjoy a warm, hearty dinner without a lot of fuss. Combine simple ingredients together and let the flavors take care of themselves on the stovetop.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortilla Soup

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