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Budget Bean & Rice Bowl

Vegetarian, high in fiber and protein, and one of the cheapest real meals you can make — often under $1.25 a serving.

20 min · ~$1.20/serving · 4 servings · Everything on this list is available at any major grocery store (Walmart, Aldi, Kroger, etc.)

General suggestion, not medical or nutritional advice. Always check ingredient labels for allergens and consult a physician or registered dietitian before making dietary changes. You use this recipe at your own risk.

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Everything on this list is available at any major grocery store (Walmart, Aldi, Kroger, etc.)

Who's eating?

Adults4full portion
Teens0~85% portion
Younger kids0~50% portion

Feeding 4 people · Est. total: $4.80 (prices vary by store and region)

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
  2. In a saucepan, warm the black beans, corn, salsa, and cumin together over medium heat, 5-7 minutes.
  3. Spoon the bean mixture over rice.
  4. Top with cheese and a squeeze of lime if using.

Cost estimate last checked 2026-08-09. Actual prices vary by location and store — this is a planning estimate, not a guarantee.