3 Easy Dinners with Ranch-Style Flavors (MM#37)
Ranch seasoning is one of my favorite spice blends because it works in so many different kinds of meals. It pairs just as well with meat as it does with veggies or starches, which makes it incredibly useful for budget-friendly cooking.
This week’s mini menu uses ranch seasoning in three different dinners, each with a totally different flavor profile, while still keeping costs low. With just 14 grocery items, the total came to $27.52 at Walmart, making this an easy win for busy weeknights on a budget.
Grocery Items Needed for the Mini Menu
If you want to see the full shopping list on Walmart in your area, all you have to do is click my Walmart Grocery list and change the zip code to your area. *This is an affiliate link, and I do make a small commission on any purchases, but at no additional cost to you!*
**** Please note, that every once in a while, an item that I pick turns out to be regional. This means that it may be a much higher price in some areas. Always double check the list and if you see an item that is much higher than normal, just adjust as needed.
Ranch Chicken Pasta
Tender ranch-seasoned chicken is tossed with penne pasta, milk, parmesan, and peas for a creamy, comforting dinner. Swap penne for rotini or shells, use leftover cooked chicken if you have it, or stir the peas directly into the pasta instead of serving them on the side.
Mississippi-Style Ranch Chicken Tacos
Slow-cooked ranch chicken is simmered with gravy mix, butter, and peppers, then shredded and tucked into warm tortillas with corn and refried beans. Use banana peppers if you don’t have pepperoncini, swap corn for any veggie on hand, or serve the chicken over rice if tortillas aren’t your thing.
Ranch Chicken & Broccoli Over Rice
Skillet-cooked ranch chicken is paired with tender broccoli and served over rice for an easy, balanced dinner. Swap broccoli for another frozen veggie, use leftover rice to save time, or turn this into a bowl-style meal with extra sauce spooned over the top.
Free Printable List & Recipes
Here is a 1-page cheat sheet that includes the grocery list as well as all the recipes you need to make this budget mini menu work!
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