As grocery prices continue to rise, many people have turned to the creative and often humble world of struggle meals to make ends meet. From instant ramen to grilled cheese sandwiches, the allure of these quick, inexpensive dishes is undeniable. Not only do they provide comfort and satisfaction, but they also speak to a universal experience of making the best out of tough circumstances. In fact, “struggle meals” have become something of a cultural phenomenon, particularly on social media where people share their favorite low-budget recipes with the hashtag #strugglemeals.
What makes a meal a “struggle meal” is largely subjective. For some, it’s about saving money by making dishes that require little to no preparation or cleanup. For others, it’s about time—having a dish that can be thrown together quickly, especially when energy or motivation is low. Ultimately, struggle meals are born out of necessity, but they also possess an undeniable charm. Some rise above mere survival fare to become beloved comfort foods, appreciated not only for their simplicity but also for their ability to hit key flavor points like salt, umami, and heat.
Here, we’ve compiled a definitive ranking of the most popular struggle meals, breaking down their appeal, and offering ideas on how to elevate these humble dishes for maximum satisfaction.
7. Cheesy Tortilla Rolls
Appeal: Tortillas, cheese, and salsa—what’s not to love? This meal is as simple as it gets but offers a gratifying, melty bite. Whether you’re in a rush or just craving something warm and comforting, cheesy tortilla rolls will do the trick.
Many people know them as a budget-friendly substitute for Taco Bell’s famous Cheesy Rollups, which have become a comfort snack in their own right. But whether you’re at home, school, or in a dorm room, you can easily recreate these cheesy morsels for a fraction of the price. Just place a quarter cup of cheese on a flat tortilla, microwave for 20 seconds until the cheese melts, and you’ve got yourself a quick, cheesy treat.
The Upgrade: If you’ve got an extra few minutes and want to take things up a notch, spread a little mayo on one side of your tortilla and cook it in a hot skillet, mayo-side down. This will give you a crispy, golden exterior and a melty, cheesy interior. Add some salsa on the side to boost the flavor—and voilà! A super-simple upgrade that feels indulgent without breaking the bank.
6. Instant Ramen with a Twist
Appeal: Instant ramen is perhaps the most classic struggle meal of all. Its low cost, quick prep time, and ability to be tailored with different flavors make it a go-to for anyone in need of a fast and filling meal.
But just because it’s a cheap meal doesn’t mean it has to be plain or boring. Many people have elevated ramen by adding proteins like an egg, leftover chicken, or even a handful of spinach. The beauty of ramen is its versatility—it can be as basic or as complex as you like.
The Upgrade: For a simple upgrade, crack an egg into the simmering broth just before the noodles are done cooking. This will create a creamy texture in the broth, giving you a more luxurious experience. You can also try adding soy sauce, miso paste, or a few dashes of hot sauce for an extra flavor boost. For a more filling dish, add some leftover meat or even a bit of sautéed garlic and ginger for an authentic touch.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Appeal: Grilled cheese is the epitome of a comfort meal. It’s satisfying, quick, and delicious. There’s just something about the crisp, golden bread and the melty cheese that always hits the spot. It’s simple but effective, and it doesn’t need any special ingredients to shine. You can make a classic grilled cheese with nothing but butter, bread, and cheese, but there are plenty of ways to mix it up for more flavor and flair.
The Upgrade: Take your grilled cheese to the next level by using better cheese—like sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or even brie. Add some caramelized onions, sliced tomatoes, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar to add depth of flavor. You could also swap out the standard white bread for something like sourdough or a hearty multigrain for extra texture. If you have a little extra time, try making a garlic butter spread for the bread instead of regular butter for a savory twist.
4. Beans on Toast
Appeal: Beans on toast is a classic British dish that has found its way onto many tables worldwide. Simple, cheap, and filling, it’s a dish that gets you the most bang for your buck. The comforting, savory beans are piled on top of a slice of toast, creating a hearty meal with just two ingredients. It’s a perfect go-to meal when you’re running low on groceries, but still need something substantial to eat.
The Upgrade: Try using baked beans in tomato sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Top your beans with a fried or poached egg to add protein, or throw on some grated cheese for richness. You could also use a whole grain or sourdough bread for a more complex texture. A few dashes of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce could add a touch of heat and depth.
3. Mac and Cheese
Appeal: The beauty of mac and cheese lies in its comfort factor and simplicity. The classic combination of pasta and cheese sauce is irresistibly satisfying. While boxed mac and cheese is often the go-to for those in need of a quick, cheap meal, there’s no need to settle for subpar flavors.
The Upgrade: Instead of using the powdered cheese sauce, make your own creamy cheese sauce by combining butter, flour, milk, and your favorite cheeses. Add bacon bits, sautéed onions, or even some roasted vegetables to elevate this dish. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking will give you that perfect crispy crust. If you’re feeling fancy, a dash of truffle oil can make the dish feel gourmet without breaking the bank.
2. French Toast
Appeal: French toast is another iconic struggle meal, and for good reason. It’s cheap, easy to make, and always delicious. The basic ingredients—eggs, bread, and butter—come together to create a satisfying breakfast, lunch, or dinner. French toast is flexible, too: you can go sweet or savory, depending on your mood.
The Upgrade: If you want to go the sweet route, drizzle your French toast with maple syrup or add a sprinkle of powdered sugar. For a savory spin, top your French toast with cheese and bacon, or add some avocado for extra creaminess. You could also try using a richer bread, like brioche or challah, for a more decadent version.
1. Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich
Appeal: The ultimate struggle meal, the PB&J is the meal that truly stands the test of time. It’s beloved for its simplicity, its comfort, and the fact that it’s easy to make even when the pantry is nearly empty. Peanut butter is rich and filling, while jelly adds a burst of sweetness, making the combination perfect for any time of day.
The Upgrade: To take your PB&J to the next level, try using freshly ground peanut butter or even almond butter for a more complex flavor. Swap out your standard jelly for something like fig jam, cherry preserves, or even honey. If you’re feeling a little extra, throw in some sliced bananas or dark chocolate for an indulgent twist.
Conclusion
Struggle meals aren’t just about surviving on a budget; they’re about creating something satisfying and comforting from the limited resources at hand. Whether you’re making instant ramen or indulging in a grilled cheese sandwich, these meals are all about making the most of what you have and finding joy in the simplest ingredients. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a few tweaks and upgrades can turn these humble dishes into something even more delicious and nourishing for both your body and soul.
