Features
8 cheap family meals
by Rachel Deeley
published on 18 January 2024, last updated on 5 March 2024
It’s no secret that feeding a family isn’t always easy on the wallet, or a busy schedule. Fortunately, Ashleigh Mogford, the creator behind the hugely popular Cardiff Mum platform, has you covered with her budget- and family-friendly recipes that are quick and easy to cook.
Below, we’ve rounded up some of the brilliant recipes you’ll find in her cookbook, Cardiff Mum’s Thrifty Feasts , including meals to feed the family for £5 or less, air fryer and slow cooker recipes, one-pot wonders, and comfort food with classic flavours.
Meals for £5 and under
Mexican-Inspired Bean Patty Flatbreads
Filling and packed with flavour, these vegetarian flatbreads are a great way to use up store cupboard staples.
Deep Pan Pizzas
A guaranteed crowd-pleaser, this easy pizza recipe is packed with delicious toppings like smoked pancetta and caramelised red onions. The homemade pizza dough also stores well in the freezer, making it a go-to dinner option.
Cheap air fryer and slow cooker recipes
Jalapeño Popper Chicken
Inspired by the flavours of spicy-and-creamy jalapeño poppers, these succulent chicken breasts take just 30 minutes to cook in the air fryer.
White Chicken Chilli
This slow cooker recipe uses tender chicken thigh meat to create a lighter alternative to chilli con carne that’s just as hearty and delicious.
Cheap one-pan meals and traybakes
Hot Honey Salmon Traybake
If you love contrasting sweet, spicy, and umami flavours, this traybake combining salmon, aubergine, and red peppers is the ultimate midweek meal for you.
Caprese Pesto Orzo
Made with roasted cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, pickled red peppers, and a gooey mozzarella topping, this is not your average pasta bake.
Cheap comfort food recipes
Mexican Halloumi Taco Bowls
Who doesn’t love a taco bowl? Recreate this fun restaurant favourite at home, complete with smoky Cajun seasoning, cooling yoghurt and guacamole, and crispy roasted veg.
Smoked Pancetta and Baked Feta Spaghetti
This indulgent pasta recipe uses a creamy feta and tomato-based sauce and onions caramelised in pancetta fat for the ultimate comfort food dish.
View all
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