Category: Recipes under $3

Overnight Oats (Base Recipe plus Variations)

These easy Overnight Oats are the ultimate introduction to budget-friendly meal prep. They’re no-cook, ideal for on-the-go, and customizable!

The post Overnight Oats (Base Recipe plus Variations) appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Overnight Oats are the ultimate introduction to budget-friendly meal prep! With the busy lives we all lead, it’s hard to fit in time for breakfast before rushing out the door, but this no-cook recipe is the magical solution, trust me! My overnight oats base recipe is absolutely delicious as-is but is also the perfect vessel for your favorite toppings. And don’t worry if you’re not feeling particularly creative; I’ve shared 3 of my favorite flavor variations below.

Overhead view of overnight oats with various toppings

I must confess: I almost always skip breakfast if I don’t plan ahead! Then, noon rolls around, and I am hangry. It’s not a good look—just ask my husband! That’s why having this overnight oatmeal in the fridge at all times is a MUST. Oats are full of fiber, which keeps me full until lunchtime, and I love the blank canvas to turn them into a unique treat, depending on my craving that day.

What Are Overnight Oats?

Think of overnight oats as the cooler, more convenient cousin of traditional oatmeal. Instead of cooking the oats on a stovetop or in a microwave, they soak overnight in liquid (usually milk) and soften to the perfect texture without heat. I also add brown sugar, chia seeds, and cinnamon to my base recipe to create a delicious, well-rounded breakfast. Mix it all in a mason jar and let it sit in the fridge overnight for a grab-and-go breakfast in the morning!

Ingredients for Overnight Oats

Here’s what you’ll need to make my easy overnight oats recipe:

  • Oats: I use old-fashioned oats (also known as rolled oats) for my overnight oatmeal. Quick-cook oats and steel-cut oats don’t work as well, as they absorb liquid differently.
  • Milk: I like to make mine with dairy-free milk, but I whipped these oats up a few times with whole milk, 2% milk, and almond milk, so I can tell you this recipe works no matter your preference!
  • Brown Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
  • Cinnamon: You can also use a different spice depending on the toppings you’ll add—pumpkin pie spice, nutmeg, or whatever you like!
  • Chia Seeds: At its core, overnight oats only require two ingredients: oats and milk. But I highly recommend adding chia seeds! They soak up liquid like crazy and create a chia oatmeal pudding-like texture. They’re also nutrient-dense, providing fiber, iron, and omega-3s.
  • Salt: Just a pinch will enhance the other flavors.
  • Toppings: Add any toppings you love to your jar! I’ve listed some of my favorites below, but you really can’t go wrong with any combination.

Are Overnight Oats Healthy?

Oats are a great source of fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals! They’ll keep you full and satisfied for longer, making them a great breakfast option. Adding milk, chia seeds, fresh fruit, and nuts only adds to their nutritional value. You can leave out the brown sugar if you want to reduce the added sugar, but overall, overnight oats with chia seeds can definitely be considered a healthy choice!

Tips and Suggestions

  • The perfect ratio for oats to milk is 1:1, in my opinion. I use ½ cup of oats and ½ cup of milk to make one serving. You don’t need to reduce the milk if you omit the chia seeds.
  • Add fresh fruit just before eating to stop them from getting mushy. The same goes for granola or anything else you want to stay crunchy.
  • Let the oats sit overnight (about 8 hours) for the best texture, but 15 minutes or so is okay if you’re in a hurry. This is enough time for the chia seeds to absorb some liquid and for the oats to soften slightly.
  • Overnight oats are meant to be enjoyed cold, but you can absolutely heat them up if you prefer a warm breakfast. 60-90 seconds in a microwave-safe container should do the trick!

how long do overnight oats last?

These oats can last in the fridge for 4-5 days, making them great for meal-prepping. I prefer enjoying them within 12 hours for the best texture, but they’ll still taste good after a few days—maybe just a bit softer. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh, and don’t add any toppings until you’re ready to eat them.

Overnight Oats Variations

I am super picky when it comes to my oatmeal: 1. I want a lot of varied textures, 2. I want it to be nutrient-dense and have healthy components, and 3. It has to come together FAST! These flavor variations check everything off my list:

Peanut BUTTER and Jelly

Your childhood favorite gets an upgrade with my peanut butter and jelly overnight oat recipe. I layer blueberry jam with crunchy peanut butter AND peanuts for extra crunch. Add a few fresh blueberries and you’re good to go!

Chocolate Raspberry

Will chocolate and fresh berries ever not be a match made in heaven? I don’t think so. You only need some raspberry jam, dark chocolate chips, and fresh raspberries to make a breakfast that tastes just like dessert.

Banana Walnut

Banana bread is my go-to coffee shop snack, so I always have an overnight oat version in the fridge. Simply mix in some walnuts and add sliced bananas on top for a delicious and satisfying breakfast that’ll keep you feeling full all morning!

Side view of overnight oats in mason jars
Overhead view of overnight oats with various toppings
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Overnight Oats (Base Recipe plus Variations)

These easy Overnight Oats are the ultimate introduction to budget-friendly meal prep. They're no-cook, ideal for on-the-go, and customizable!
Course Breakfast
Cuisine Amercian
Total Cost $1.04 serving
Prep Time 5 minutes
Chill Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 5 minutes
Servings 1 8 oz mason jar
Calories 302kcal
Author Jess – Budget Bytes

Equipment

Ingredients

Overnight Oats Base Recipe

  • ½ cup old fashioned oats $0.82
  • ½ cup milk $0.09
  • ½ Tbsp brown sugar* $0.04
  • ⅛ tsp cinnamon $0.01
  • ½ Tbsp chia seeds $0.07
  • pinch of salt $0.01

Peanut Butter and Jelly Variation (total: $1.93 per serving)

  • base recipe $1.04
  • 1 tsp blueberry jam $0.04
  • 1 Tbsp peanuts $0.10
  • 1 Tbsp crunchy peanut butter $0.49
  • a few blueberries, if desired $0.23

Chocolate Raspberry Variation (total: $1.56 per serving)

  • base recipe $1.04
  • 1 tsp red raspberry jam $0.04
  • 1 Tbsp dark chocolate chips $0.11
  • a few raspberries, if desired $0.34

Banana Walnut Variation (total: $1.42 per serving)

  • base recipe $1.04
  • 1 Tbsp walnuts $0.29
  • ⅓ of a banana, diced $0.09

Instructions

  • Combine old fashioned oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, chia seeds, and salt in an 8 oz. Mason Jar.
  • Pour in milk.
  • Stir or shake to combine, making sure all ingredients are mixed in evenly to avoid clumps of chia or brown sugar.
  • Put the lid onto your mason jar and place it in the fridge.
  • Refrigerate for 15 minutes or up to 12 hours before enjoying.

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

*If you don’t want added sugar, skip it! The ratios in this recipe come out great with or without the brown sugar.

Nutrition

Serving: 18 oz jar (base recipe only) | Calories: 302kcal | Carbohydrates: 48g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 8g | Sodium: 344mg | Fiber: 6g
Side view of 4 jars of overnight oats with a wooden spoon taking some from one of the jars

how to make Overnight Oats – step by step photos

Ingredients for overnight oats

Combine ½ cup old fashioned oats, 1/2 Tbsp brown sugar, ⅛ tsp cinnamon, ½ Tbsp chia seeds, and a pinch of salt in an 8 oz. Mason Jar.

Ingredients for overnight oats in a mason jar with milk being poured in

Pour in ½ cup milk.

A spoon mixing the ingredients for overnight oats in a mason jar

Stir or shake to combine, making sure all ingredients are mixed in evenly to avoid clumps of chia or brown sugar.

Overnight oats in a mason jar before being refrigerated

Put the lid onto your mason jar and place it in the fridge.

Overnight oats in a mason jar after being refrigerated

Refrigerate for 15 minutes or up to 12 hours before enjoying.

Overhead view of 4 mason jars filled with overnight oats

Never skip breakfast again with this easy and satisfying recipe for overnight oats!

More Overnight Oats Recipes

The post Overnight Oats (Base Recipe plus Variations) appeared first on Budget Bytes.

BBQ Grilled Tofu

This smoky, sweet, and perfectly charred BBQ Grilled Tofu recipe will make you forget all about meat—it’s THAT good!

The post BBQ Grilled Tofu appeared first on Budget Bytes.

If you invite me to your cookout and I see you’re serving this BBQ Grilled Tofu, please break it to me gently that I can’t live with you forever… because I’ll try! Tofu is so versatile, but I personally feel like extra firm tofu is always the way to go. The texture is consistent and pleasant (especially if you freeze it first!), and it’ll adopt whatever flavor you tell it to. For this recipe, I add some sticky BBQ sauce and sexy grill marks to make it EXTRA smoky and delicious. Even the most discerning meat lover will want to dig into this budget-friendly veggie option!

BBQ grilled tofu on a plate.

This BBQ grilled tofu is excellent on salads in place of chicken, but it’s a showstopper however you choose to plate it. The soy sauce and smoked paprika give the tofu a savory edge, while the BBQ sauce chars and caramelizes on the grill. And because I press AND freeze the tofu, it always has the perfect bite and doesn’t fall apart when flipped.

What is Tofu Made Of?

Tofu is made from soybeans, water, and a coagulant (an ingredient that helps the tofu solidify) and dates back over 2,000 years ago to China. The soybeans are soaked, ground into a milk-like liquid, and then curdled with the coagulant to separate the curds from the soy milk—similar to how cheese is made. The curds are then pressed to create the tofu we know and love. 

Tofu is high in protein and contains ALL the essential amino acids your body requires to function like a Baywatch lifeguard this summer! It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals. Not to mention, the price (even when you’re buying it organic) can’t be beat!

Ingredients for BBQ Grilled Tofu

Here’s what you’ll need to make BBQ grilled tofu:

  • Tofu: Extra firm tofu is the best option for grilling. It soaks up the marinade flavors and holds its shape well on the grill. Make sure to press and freeze the tofu before marinating to get the perfect texture!
  • Olive Oil: Helps the seasonings stick to the tofu and stops it from sticking to the grill.
  • Seasonings: Sea salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and smoked paprika give the tofu a smoky BBQ flavor before it even touches the grill!
  • Soy Sauce: Adds a savory, salty flavor to the marinade. If you’re gluten-free, tamari will also work.
  • BBQ Sauce: This is where you can have a little fun! Use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own. Sweet, tangy, or spicy—any BBQ sauce will work for this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Choose your favorite BBQ sides to serve with this grilled tofu. My go-to’s are grilled vegetables, stovetop baked beans, or grilled corn on the cob! Anytime I can save on dishes and make a full meal on the grill, I’m all for it.

Top Tip

Pressing the tofu is one of the most important steps for this recipe. However, you DON’T need a tofu press! By all means, if you have one—use it. But the classic clean towel-heavy book combo works just as well. Place the tofu block between two clean towels and pop a heavy object (like a book) on top for at least 30 minutes to remove excess liquid.

Storage Suggestions

Any leftover BBQ grilled tofu can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s great for sandwiches, wraps, and salads! If needed, you can reheat it on the grill or in a pan on the stovetop.

BBQ grilled tofu on a plate with baked beans and pickles.
BBQ grilled tofu on a plate.
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BBQ Grilled Tofu

This smoky, sweet, and perfectly charred BBQ grilled tofu will make you forget all about meat—it's THAT good!
Course Main Course
Cuisine Amercian
Total Cost $2.31 recipe / $1.15 serving
Prep Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Cook Time 9 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 49 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 208kcal
Author Jess – Budget Bytes

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 large block of extra firm tofu $1.69
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil $0.18
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika $0.16
  • ½ tsp sea salt $0.01
  • ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper $0.11
  • ½ Tbsp soy sauce $0.03
  • 2 Tbsp BBQ sauce, divided $0.13

Instructions

  • Press 1 block of extra firm tofu between 2 clean kitchen towels with some heavy cookbooks or a hefty cutting board stacked on top for 30 minutes.
  • Cut tofu in half and then diagonally to make 4 right triangles. Slice shallow marks into both sides to help the yummy flavors permeate.
  • Whisk together the olive oil, smoked paprika, sea salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and soy sauce.
  • Brush the mixture over all 4 wedges of pressed tofu and transfer tofu to heavy duty freezer storage bag, or airtight container. Freeze for at least 1 hour. Remove from freezer and allow to thaw at room temperature or in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.*
  • Preheat grill to 400 degrees. Remove tofu from fridge and brush all pieces of tofu with 1 Tbsp of BBQ sauce. Sear tofu for 4-5 minutes before flipping to sear the second side for an additional 4 minutes, basting with the leftover 1 Tbsp of BBQ sauce after the first flip.
  • Serve grilled BBQ tofu just like you would a chicken breast with whatever sides you love the most.

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

*It’s ok if the tofu isn’t completely frozen or completely thawed. The purpose of freezing is to affect the texture of the tofu to be denser and have a little more bite to it. The tofu will cook through on the hot grill, not to worry! (However, tofu can be eaten raw, so you’re just trying to heat it through to your liking and get those glorious grill marks and and flavor from the char.)

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 208kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 11g | Sodium: 1139mg | Fiber: 1g
Sliced BBQ grilled tofu on a chopping board.

how to make BBQ Grilled Tofu – step by step photos

A block of tofu being pressed between two towels and cook books.

Place one block of extra firm tofu between two clean kitchen towels, then place some heavy cookbooks or a hefty cutting board on top to press the tofu and remove excess water. This will help the tofu hold its shape better when cooked. Leave the tofu to press for at least 30 minutes.

Tofu cut into triangles.

Cut the block of tofu in half and then cut each half diagonally to make 4 triangles. Using a sharp knife, lightly slice some shallow marks into both sides of the tofu triangles to help the yummy marinade absorb into the tofu better.

Marinade ingredients for BBQ tofu in a bowl.

In a small bowl, whisk together 1 Tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp sea salt, ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper, and ½ Tbsp soy sauce.

Marinaded BBQ tofu triangles in a Ziploc bag for freezing.

Use a basting brush or spoon to generously coat each side of the pressed tofu triangles with the marinade. Place the coated tofu into a heavy-duty freezer bag or container. Pop this into the freezer for at least one hour. After that, let the tofu thaw at room temperature until you’re ready to cook it.* If it’s going to be more than 2 hours, place the tofu in the fridge to keep it fresh.

BBQ grilled tofu being brushed with BBQ sauce.

Preheat your grill to 400°F and brush the tofu pieces with 1 Tbsp BBQ sauce. Place the tofu onto the hot grill and sear for 4-5 minutes.

BBQ grilled tofu being brushed with more BBQ sauce.

Flip the tofu and sear for a further 4 minutes. As it cooks, bast each piece with the remaining 1 Tbsp BBQ sauce.

BBQ grilled tofu on the grill.

Serve the grilled BBQ tofu with your favorite sides, and enjoy!

BBQ grilled tofu on a plate.

This smoky, sweet, and perfectly charred BBQ grilled tofu recipe will make you forget all about meat—it’s THAT good!

More Easy Tofu Recipes

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Stovetop Baked Beans

These Stovetop Baked Beans are super-fast to whip up and taste great. They’re made with pantry staples in just 20 minutes!

The post Stovetop Baked Beans appeared first on Budget Bytes.

No barbecue or cookout is complete without a steaming pot of sweet and tangy baked beans… and the fact that there’s no bacon in these beans means everyone can enjoy them, regardless of dietary restrictions. These Stovetop Baked Beans are super-fast to whip up and taste great. I hope, like us, you already have all of these ingredients on hand, too!

overhead view of a serving of baked beans on a plate with a sandwich and corn on the cob.

We decided this recipe had to go on the blog after seeing it in action… Marsha and I were plating one of our grilled recipes for photos and we realized we didn’t have any canned baked beans on hand—or the time to cook up some bacon and do a more time-consuming oven-baked beans version! (On photography days, we have to move fast!) So, we looked through the pantry and found all of these ingredients right there and threw this together in minutes! We took a bite (because dang! they smelled great!) and knew we had a winner.

Ingredients for Baked Beans

Here’s what you’ll need to make stovetop baked beans:

  • Olive Oil: Helps cook the onions without burning them.
  • Salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the onions.
  • Smoked Paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness.
  • Onion: Add texture and sweetness to the beans.
  • Pinto Beans: While Navy beans are the more traditional choice, we used pinto beans because we always have them on hand. They have a great creamy texture and earthy flavor.
  • Dijon Mustard: Adds a bit of spicy tanginess to the sauce.
  • Ketchup: Adds sweetness, acidity, and umami flavor to the sauce.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the umami flavor of the sauce. You can sub soy sauce for Worcestershire or omit it altogether if you are vegan.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: Enhances the tanginess of the sauce. White vinegar also works well.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of molasses-y sweetness.
  • Water: Prevents the beans from drying out as they simmer.

What Else Can I Add?

If you’re feeling fancy, you can cook up a few slices of bacon or some diced pancetta for a meatier flavor.

Top Tip

Only use enough water to just cover the beans. The water keeps everything loose and moist, but you don’t want the sauce to turn into a soup broth!

Serving Suggestions

These stovetop baked beans are the perfect easy side for any cookout! I love to serve them alongside slow cooker BBQ chicken and grilled corn on the cob.

overhead view of baked beans in a pot.
overhead view of a serving of baked beans on a plate with a sandwich and corn on the cob.
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Stovetop Baked Beans Recipe

These Stovetop Baked Beans are super-fast to whip up and taste great. They're made with pantry staples in just 20 minutes!
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Total Cost ($2.94 recipe / $0.49 serving)
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 6 (1/2 cup each)
Calories 188kcal
Author Jess – Budget Bytes

Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil $0.19
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika $0.16
  • 1 tsp salt $0.05
  • 1/2 onion, diced small $0.47
  • 2 15-oz. cans pinto beans, drained $1.72
  • 1/2 Tbsp Dijon mustard $0.03
  • 1/4 cup ketchup $0.12
  • 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce $0.02
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar $0.01
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar $0.17
  • 1 cup water, plus more if needed $0.00

Instructions

  • Add the olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and diced onion to a medium pot. Stir and simmer on medium heat until the onions are glossy and soft.
  • To the pot, add the drained beans, Dijon mustard, ketchup, Worcestershire, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar.
  • Stir to combine and cook on medium heat for 4-5 minutes.
  • Add water, as needed, until beans are just covered. Simmer on medium heat for 5-7 minutes until completely warmed through.

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

Serving: 12cup | Calories: 188kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 3g | Sodium: 881mg | Fiber: 7g
stirring a pot of stovetop baked beans with a wooden spoon.

how to make Stovetop Baked Beans – step by step photos

seasoned sautéed onion in a pan.

Add 1 Tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 diced onion to a medium pot. Stir and simmer on medium heat until the onions are glossy and soft.

beans, brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard added to a pot with sautéed onions.

To the pot, add 2 15-oz. cans drained pinto beans, 1/2 Tbsp Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 cup brown sugar.

pouring water over stovetop baked beans in a pot.

Stir to combine and cook on medium heat for 4-5 minutes.

stovetop baked beans in a pot.

Add 1 cup water, as needed, until beans are just covered. Simmer on medium heat for 5-7 minutes until completely warmed through.

a serving of baked beans on a plate with a pulled pork sandwich and corn on the cob.

These quick and easy stovetop baked beans will be the hero of your next BBQ!

More Easy Side Dishes

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Avocado Smoothie

This avocado smoothie is my latest obsession. Avocado is packed with healthy fats and the secret to an ultra-rich, dessert-like smoothie!

The post Avocado Smoothie appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Did you know you can freeze avocados? This information was life-changing when I opened my former restaurant, AVO, in Nashville back in 2015; we used frozen avocado in our signature drink, the Avocado Margarita and let me tell you, freezing ripe avocados saved us a bunch of dough! Now, I buy ripe avocados any time they’re on sale, slice them up, and toss them in the freezer for later. This avocado smoothie is the perfect way to use up frozen avocado. I know avocado in a drink might sound crazy, but trust me, it’s the secret to an ultra-rich, dessert-like smoothie. It’s packed with healthy fats and imparts that same creamy texture that avocados (and guacamole) are known for! This is your new favorite green smoothie.

close up of an avocado smoothie in a green glass.

What Is An Avocado Smoothie?

Citrus and avocado are a classic combination. In this smoothie, I add a creamy, ripe banana and a little extra sweetness from agave nectar, making it an instant winner! Super creamy, bright, and fun, this avocado smoothie is the perfect treat with lots of healthy ingredients involved.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make an avocado smoothie:

  • Frozen Avocado: Makes this smoothie lusciously creamy and adds heart-healthy fats, fiber, and omega-3s.
  • Agave: This syrup adds a touch of sweetness to this smoothie to balance out the acidic flavors. Agave is a neutral flavored sweetener unlike maple and honey (which are delicious!) but can sometimes take over flavor-wise.
  • Frozen Banana: Adds flavor, subtle sweetness and creaminess.
  • OJ: Balances the fattiness of the avocado, adding a bright flavor.
  • Lime Juice: Adds a touch of extra acidity to balance out the sweet and creamy flavors.

What Else Can I Add?

This smoothie is a great base to add extra greens or fruit to!

  • I love to add spinach or kale.
  • Frozen blueberries or pineapple make great fruity additions!
  • For a protein boost, add a scoop of peanut butter or vanilla protein powder!
two hands clinking avocado smoothies together.
an avocado smoothie in a clear glass.
Print

Avocado Smoothie

This avocado smoothie is my latest obsession. Avocado is packed with healthy fats and is the secret to an ultra-rich, dessert-like smoothie!
Course Breakfast, Drinks
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 1 drink (about 1.5 cups)
Calories 297kcal
Author Jess – Budget Bytes

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup frozen avocado $1.61
  • 1 Tbsp agave $0.14
  • 1/2 frozen ripe banana $0.41
  • 1/2 cup OJ $0.60
  • 1 Tbsp lime juice $0.04

Instructions

  • Blend ingredients together until smooth. Serve ice cold!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

Serving: 1smoothie | Calories: 297kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 12g | Sodium: 8mg | Fiber: 7g
a hand holding an avocado smoothie in a clear glass with a straw.

how to make An Avocado Smoothie – step by step photos

pouring orange juice over ingredients for avocado smoothie in a blender.

Blend 1/2 cup frozen avocado, 1 Tbsp agave syrup, 1/2 of a frozen ripe banana, 1/2 cup OJ, and 1 Tbsp lime juice together until smooth. Serve ice cold!

blending an avocado smoothie.

This creamy and refreshing avocado smoothie is the best way to start your morning or rescue you mid-day!

The post Avocado Smoothie appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Sheet Pan Pancakes

These sheet pan pancakes make breakfast on weekends a breeze! They’re easy to whip up and they’re freezer-friendly. Perfect for breakfast meal prep!

The post Sheet Pan Pancakes appeared first on Budget Bytes.

I’m always looking for ways to get breakfast and dinner on the table faster and these Sheet Pan Pancakes might just be my new best friend! Not only are they easy to whip up, but they’re super convenient. You can pour the entire pancake batter on one baking sheet and top it with your favorite toppings, or leave it plain and let everyone add their own toppings after it bakes. What I love most about these sheet pan pancakes are that they’re perfect for breakfast meal prep. They freeze perfectly and whenever I need a quick breakfast, I just pop 2 pancakes in my toaster and breakfast is done!🙌

Overhead view of sheet pan pancakes with fresh fruit and maple syrup on the side.

Why Sheet Pan Pancakes?

I’m not sure if your family loves pancakes as much as mine, but it has now turned into our Saturday morning routine. But flipping and making several batches of regular pancakes takes quite a while. And I have to try and keep the first few batches warm in the oven, while I make the rest of the pancakes. Sheet Pan Pancakes keeps you from having to do that back and forth dance. You can make pancakes for the whole family in one big batch, all on one baking sheet, and customize it with their favorite mix-ins and toppings. It’s honestly genius!

Ingredients For Sheet Pan Pancakes

To make these sheet pan pancakes, I used our homemade pancakes recipe as a base foundation and adjusted the measurements to accommodate a larger portion size. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • All-Purpose Flour: Flour adds structure and is the foundation of the pancakes.
  • Baking Powder: Baking powder is what makes the pancakes light and fluffy instead of dense and gummy.
  • Sugar: A little bit of sugar adds the perfect amount of sweetness to the pancakes.
  • Milk: Milk combines with the flour to add moisture and helps create the batter.
  • Egg: Eggs help hold the pancakes together and also helps leaven the pancakes.
  • Butter: Butter adds flavor and richness to the pancakes.
  • Vanilla Extract: A small amount of vanilla extract adds a wonderful flavor and depth to the pancake.
  • Salt: A little bit of salt helps enhance the flavor of the pancakes.
  • Toppings: This is where you can really have fun! I used a combination of my favorite fruits like strawberries and blueberries. And for some variety I added some chocolate chips and peanut butter & raspberry jam.

More Toppings and Mix-in Ideas

My favorite part about making sheet pan pancakes is adding different mix-ins and toppings. I personally love adding fresh fruit, but here are some more topping ideas for you to try:

Close up side view of sheet pan pancakes on a serving plate with maple syrup being drizzled over the top.

Recipe Tips!

  1. Don’t overmix the batter. Stir the dry and wet ingredients together until they are just combined and there are no traces of dry flour left in the bowl. Over-mixing the batter will develop the gluten in the flour and make the pancakes rubbery rather than soft and fluffy.
  2. Grease your sheet pan well. Make sure to generously coat your sheet pan well with cooking spray to keep the pancakes from sticking.
  3. Dry your fruit well. If you’re adding fresh fruit, make sure to wash and dry your fruit well with paper towels to prevent any excess water or fruit juices from bleeding into the pancake batter.
  4. If necessary, use some parchment paper. Sheet pan pancakes seem to work better with baking sheets that aren’t too old. So if your baking sheet is older or a little beat up, you may want to line it with some parchment paper first.

How To Store & Freeze Sheet Pan Pancakes

What I love most about making sheet pan pancakes is that they’re extremely easy to store and freeze for later when you need a quick & easy breakfast. To store, let the pancakes cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To freeze, place the cooled pancakes in a freezer safe storage bag, in single layers with parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 3 months. You can easily reheat frozen pancakes in a toaster or in the microwave until hot.

Overhead view of sheet pan pancakes cut into squares with one slice being lifted out.
Overhead view of sheet pan pancakes cut into squares with one slice being lifted out.
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Sheet Pan Pancakes

These sheet pan pancakes make breakfast on weekends a breeze! They’re easy to whip up and they’re freezer-friendly. Perfect for breakfast meal prep!
Course Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine American
Total Cost $2.22 recipe / $0.55 serving
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 (2 pancakes each)
Calories 467kcal
Author Marsha – Budget Bytes

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour $0.40
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar $0.10
  • 1 Tbsp baking powder $0.18
  • 3/4 tsp salt $0.08
  • 1 1/2 cup milk $0.30
  • 2 large eggs $0.33
  • 4 Tbsp butter, melted $0.53
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract $0.30
  • cooking spray

Optional Toppings*

  • fresh strawberries, sliced
  • blueberries
  • chocolate chips
  • peanut butter and fruit jam

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F. In a large bowl whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  • In the same bowl, add in the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk the wet ingredients together with the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over mix.
  • Generously coat a 11×17-inch rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray. Pour the pancake batter onto the baking sheet. Spread the batter evenly around the baking sheet with a rubber spatula or tap the pan a few times on the counter to even out the batter.
  • Visually divide the pancake batter into four equal sections and add your desired toppings on top into each section. I used a combination of sliced strawberries, blueberries, chocolate chips, and a peanut butter and raspberry jam swirl. To make the pb&j swirl, I simply added dollops of natural peanut butter and jam, then swirled the two together using a toothpick.
  • Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Allow the pan to cool slightly, then slice the sheet pan pancake into 8 equal portions. Feel free to make smaller slices if you want to make more servings. Serve warm with syrup and extra toppings if you like. Enjoy!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

*I added about 1/4 cup of chocolate chips and blueberries. For the strawberries and PB&J swirl, I simply eyeballed it until I filled up each section.

Nutrition

Serving: 2pancakes | Calories: 467kcal | Carbohydrates: 66g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 17g | Sodium: 912mg | Fiber: 2g
Overhead view of sliced sheet pan pancakes on two serving dishes with fruit and syrup on the side.

How to Make Sheet Pan Pancakes – Step by Step Photos

Dry ingredients in a bowl for sheet pan pancakes.

Preheat the oven to 425°F. In a large bowl whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 Tbsp baking powder, and 3/4 tsp salt.

Dry and wet ingredients in a bowl for sheet pan pancakes.

In the same bowl, add in 1 1/2 cups milk, 2 large eggs, 4 Tbsp melted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla extract.

Sheet pan pancake ingredients mixed in a bowl.

Whisk the wet ingredients together with the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over mix at this point.

Sheet pan pancake batter poured onto a sheet pan.

Generously coat an 11×17-inch rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray. Pour the pancake batter onto the baking sheet. Spread the batter evenly around the baking sheet with a rubber spatula or tap the pan a few times on the counter to even out the batter.

Sheet pan pancake batter with fruit added on top poured onto a sheet pan.

Visually divide the pancake batter into four equal sections and add your desired toppings on top into each section. I used a combination of sliced strawberries, blueberries, chocolate chips, and a peanut butter and raspberry jam swirl. To make the pb&j swirl, I simply added dollops of natural peanut butter and jam, then swirled the two together using a toothpick.

Finished sheet pan pancakes with four different toppings on top.

Place the sheet pan in the pre-heated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Overhead view of sheet pan pancakes cut into squares with one slice being lifted out.

Allow the pan to cool slightly, then slice the sheet pan pancake into 8 equal portions. Feel free to make smaller slices if you want to make more servings. Serve warm with syrup and extra toppings if you like!

Sheet pan pancakes in a freezer bag.

These pancakes are super easy to freeze! Just place the cooled pancakes in a freezer safe storage bag, in single layers with parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Frozen sheet pan pancakes in a toaster.

You can easily reheat frozen pancakes in a toaster or in the microwave until hot.

Close up side view of strawberry sheet pan pancakes on a serving plate with maple syrup being drizzled over the top.

More Pancake Recipes

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Avocado Toast

A classic avocado toast recipe with 3 easy variations. Perfect for a quick breakfast, lunch or midday snack!

The post Avocado Toast appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Avocado toast was all the rage just a few years ago, but I have good news…this easy 5-10 minute meal never goes out of style. It only requires a few simple ingredients, but you can always spice things up with extra toppings to make it a super filling meal. Today I’m sharing my favorite basic avocado toast recipe along with helpful tips and 3 easy recipe variations. It’s quick and easy which makes it perfect to whip up for breakfast, lunch or a midday snack. And for those of you who are avocado toast experts, like my colleague Jess, then I’m sure you have a few favorite combinations as well. Wanna share? Let’s meet in the comments!😉

Overhead view of avocado toast made 4 different ways.

Ingredients For Avocado Toast

You only need a few simple ingredients to make a classic avocado toast. Here’s what I used:

  • Avocado: Avocado is one of the main ingredients, so you’ll want to choose it wisely. Look for avocados that have a slight give when squeezed, but are not mushy.
  • Bread: You’ll want to choose a good quality, sturdy bread. I like using sourdough or whole grain bread.
  • Garlic: Rubbing a little bit of fresh garlic over toasted bread while it’s still warm adds incredible flavor.
  • Lemon: A small squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a pop of brightness and keeps the avocado from browning.
  • Salt & Pepper: Don’t skip the salt! Just a pinch of salt and pepper enhances the flavor of the avocado toast.
  • Red pepper flakes (optional): This is optional but it adds a kick and a little bit of extra heat to the avocado toast.

Tips For Making The Best Avocado Toast

  1. Choose your bread wisely: Use a good quality, sturdy bread for the base of your avocado toast like sourdough, multigrain or whole grain bread. Toasted, sturdy bread holds the mashed avocado and any extra toppings a lot better than white sandwich bread.
  2. Picking the perfect avocado: When picking your avocado, look for blackish, dark-green skin, which indicates the avocado has ripened. Also give the avocado a gentle press with your finger, the flesh should give slightly under pressure. If it’s mushy, its time has passed.
  3. Don’t skip the extras! Yes, rubbing your toast with a fresh garlic clove may seem like an unnecessary step, but it adds SO much flavor and compliments this simple meal perfectly. Also the small squeeze of lemon juice gives just the right about of brightness and the pinch of salt makes all the flavors pop!

Topping Ideas

There are lots of fun ways to enjoy your avocado toast! In addition to the recipe variations listed in the step-by-step photos below, here are a few more ingredients and topping ideas for you to try:

Overhead view of avocado toast made 4 different ways with parsley, avocado, and a napkin on the side.
Overhead view of avocado toast made 4 different ways with parsley, avocado, and a napkin on the side.
Print

Avocado Toast

A classic avocado toast recipe with 3 easy variations. Perfect for a quick breakfast, lunch or midday snack!
Course Breakfast, Lunch, Snack
Cuisine American
Total Cost $2.61 recipe / $1.30 serving
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 2 slices
Calories 338kcal
Author Marsha – Budget Bytes

Ingredients

  • 2 slices sturdy bread $1.00
  • 1 clove of garlic, peeled $0.08
  • 1 medium avocado $1.33
  • 1 tsp fresh lemon juice $0.14
  • 1/8 tsp salt $0.02
  • 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper $0.02
  • pinch of red pepper flakes $0.02

Instructions

  • Cut 2 slices of sturdy bread. Toast the bread in a toaster or in a skillet on the stovetop until golden brown.
  • Rub the peeled garlic clove over the top of the warm toasted bread, making sure to fully cover the entire surface area.
  • Next, halve the avocado and remove the pit. Scoop out the avocado flesh from both halves and place it in a bowl. Add a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice (about 1 tsp), salt and pepper to the bowl and mash the avocado with a fork. I recommend leaving it just a little chunky.
  • Divide the avocado mixture and spread it on top of each slice of toast. Top with a pinch of red pepper flakes and a pinch of sea salt (optional).

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice | Calories: 338kcal | Carbohydrates: 43g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 16g | Sodium: 539mg | Fiber: 8g
Overhead view of 2 pieces of plain avocado toast on a white plate.

How to Make Avocado Toast – Step by Step Photos

Overhead view of sourdough bread sliced on a cutting board.

Cut 2 slices of sturdy bread. Toast the bread in a toaster or on the stovetop until golden brown.

Toasted sourdough bread with a garlic clove being rubbed over the top.

Rub 1 peeled garlic clove over the top of the warm toasted bread, making sure to fully cover the entire surface area.

A hand holding a fork and mashing avocado in a white bowl.

Next, halve 1 avocado and remove the pit. Scoop out the avocado flesh from both halves and place it in a medium bowl. Add a small squeeze of lemon juice (about 1 tsp), 1/8 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper to the bowl and mash the avocado with a fork. I recommend leaving it just a little chunky, but you can certainly mash until it’s completely smooth. It’s up to you!

Overhead view of 2 pieces of plain avocado toast on a white plate.

Divide the avocado mixture and spread on top of each slice of toast. Top with a pinch of red pepper flakes and a pinch of sea salt (optional). Enjoy as is or try out one of the recipe variations listed below.😉

Avocado toast with sliced tomatoes and balsamic glaze drizzled on top.

Recipe Variation 1: If you love juicy, ripe tomatoes then this variation is just for you! Top your avocado toast with two slices of tomatoes, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and freshly cracked black pepper. This combo is perfect for the summer when tomatoes are in their peak season. So delicious!

Two slices of avocado toast with a hard boiled egg and soft scrambled egg on top.

Recipe Variation 2: My absolute favorite way to enjoy avocado toast is by adding some scrambled eggs, a fried egg, or hard boiled egg on top. You can even take it a step further and add a little chili crisp on top too!

Avocado toast with cottage cheese on top.

Recipe Variation 3: And for all of my cottage cheese lovers out there, try topping your thick crusty bread with a spoonful or two of small curd cottage cheese, 1/2 avocado sliced, salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Enjoy!

Overhead view of avocado toast made 4 different ways with parsley, avocado, and a napkin on the side.

More Easy Breakfast Recipes

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Orange Julius

This perfect Orange Julius recipe is refreshing, easy-to-make, and packed with creamy citrus flavor for a quick summer treat or healthy snack.

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I know it’s still spring, but the days are getting warmer, the sun is starting to shine, and I am ready for summer and all of its cold, fruity drinks. And let me tell you, this Orange Julius is going to be the drink of the summer for me. It only takes a few minutes to whip up this super easy Orange Julius recipe and is the perfect cold and creamy treat to make me feel like I’m vacationing somewhere in the tropics (a girl’s gotta dream). Not to mention, there are so many ways you can vary this Orange Julius recipe to make it more dessert-like, more healthy like a breakfast smoothie, or even turn it into an afternoon cocktail, so I’m truly going to be sipping this one all. summer. long. Don’t miss my variation suggestions below!

overhead view of two glasses full of orange juilius with straws and orange slices.

What is An Orange Julius?

Orange Julius is a refreshing and creamy orange drink made with orange juice, milk, sugar, vanilla, and egg whites which create a super frothy texture. The drink was invented by Julius Freed at his Los Angeles juice stand in 1926 and has been a summertime favorite ever since. The drink grew in popularity over the years and was even deemed the official drink of the 1964 World’s Fair Exposition. In the decades since it has become a staple in shopping malls and on Dairy Queen’s menu. Today’s it’s usually made without egg white, but it’s still just as dreamy and creamy as ever. And the best part? You don’t have to shell out $6 per Julius at an ice cream stand because these deliciously creamy citrus drinks are so easy to make at home!

Ingredients for Orange Julius

You’ll only need four simple ingredients to make a homemade Orange Julius (plus ice). Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

  • Frozen Orange Juice Concentrate: This is the secret ingredient for making a super citrusy Orange Julius without it getting too watery. The orange juice concentrate adds a ton of sweet-tart orange flavor while allowing the smoothie to stay thick and frothy.
  • Milk: Whole milk is added to balance the acidity in the orange juice and give the Orange Julius its characteristic creamy flavor. While you can use a lower fat milk, it will affect the creaminess of the drink. Whole milk is recommended.
  • Sugar: A little bit of sugar helps balance the acidity and bitterness in the orange juice concentrate so the Julius has a deliciously sweet and smooth finish.
  • Vanilla: Vanilla adds to the creamy flavor profile and gives the drink an orange creamsicle-like flavor.
  • Ice: Ice makes the Orange Julius super cold and helps create a deliciously thick and frothy texture. You can increase or decrease the ice to make the smoothie your desired texture.

Can You Make Orange Julius with Orange Juice?

The recipe below uses frozen orange juice concentrate to deliver a really strong orange flavor while keeping the smoothie thick and rich. You can substitute about 2 cups of fresh orange juice in place of the orange juice concentrate, but it will make the Julius much less thick and the flavor will not be as bold. For the richest, boldest flavor, definitely buy orange juice concentrate. The remainder of the can can be easily stored in your freezer for your next Orange Julius, so it’s worth purchasing!

Orange Julius Variations

I love a simple classic Orange Julius, but there are so many fun ways you can change the recipe to make it your own. Here are some other ingredients you can add to an Orange Julius for variety:

  • Fruity Flavors: Try adding banana, mango, or pineapple for a tropical twist, or strawberries for a summery flavor.
  • Vegan Orange Julius: Make it vegan by replacing the whole milk with canned light coconut milk (not the kind in a carton that is intended as a milk substitute).
  • Protein Julius: Turn it into a protein smoothie by adding vanilla Greek yogurt or your favorite vanilla protein powder.
  • Green Julius: Add a handful or two of baby spinach to make a creamy, citrusy, green smoothie.
  • Boozy Orange Julius: Add vodka or rum to make a fun “adult” Orange Julius.
Side view of two glasses full of Orange Julius with striped straws and orange slices.
Overhead view of two glasses of orange julius with straws and orange slices.
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Orange Julius

This perfect Orange Julius recipe is refreshing, easy to-make, and packed with creamy citrus flavor for a quick summer treat or healthy snack.
Course Beverage, Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine American
Total Cost $1.87 recipe / $0.94 serving
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 2 (12oz. each)
Calories 253kcal
Author Beth – Budget Bytes

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup frozen orange juice concentrate $1.16
  • 1 cup whole milk $0.20
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract $0.45
  • 3 Tbsp granulated sugar $0.06
  • 1 cup ice $0.00

Instructions

  • Place all of the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth and frothy.
  • If your Orange Julius is not thick enough, add more ice. If the Julius is too thick, add a little water or milk and blend again until you reach the desired consistency. Serve immediately and enjoy!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

Serving: 12oz | Calories: 253kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 4g | Sodium: 58mg | Fiber: 1g

How to Make An Orange Julius – Step by Step Photos

Ingredients being added to a blender.

Add ½ cup frozen orange juice concentrate, 1 cup whole milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 3 Tbsp granulated sugar, and 1 cup ice to a blender.

Blended Orange Julius in a blender from above.

Blend everything together until it is smooth and frothy. Adjust the consistency of your Orange Julius by adding more ice to make it thicker or adding a little water or milk to thin it out.

Orange Julius being poured from the blender into a glass.

Pour the homemade Orange Julius into a large glass and enjoy immediately!

Side view of an Orange Julius in a glass with a striped straw and orange slices.

More Smoothie Recipes

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Air Fryer Carrots

These Air Fryer Carrots are savory, super easy to make, inexpensive and the perfect compliment to any weeknight dinner meal.

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Lately I’ve been loving how easy it is to cook vegetables in the air fryer. Just prep, season, and air fry. It’s almost too easy. And carrots are a great inexpensive vegetable to cook any time of the year. Plus, they last a long time in the fridge…WIN! We have lots of roasted carrots recipes on our site, but these Air Fryer Carrots are my new favorite. They’re seasoned with a savory and herby seasoning mix and they’re the perfect compliment for any weeknight dinner meal.

Overhead view of cooked carrots in a black air fryer basket.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Carrots

Here’s everything you need to make these easy Air Fryer Carrots:

  • Carrots: Look for whole carrots that are fairly even in length and girth so they’ll cook more evenly. You can either scrub or peel the carrots, however I prefer to peel them. 
  • Olive Oil and Butter: I used both olive oil and butter for this recipe to keep the carrots moist and to combine with the seasoning mix. And I just love the flavor that you get from using both butter and olive oil.
  • Seasoning: A simple seasoning mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried dill is all you’ll need. And I decided to double down on the dill by adding a little fresh dill at the end to garnish. You can certainly omit the dill if you want, although it does add a nice herby and savory flavor to the carrots. In case you want to switch things up, I’ll share a few more seasoning options below.

Can You Air Fry Baby Carrots?

To make this recipe super easy, you can certainly use baby carrots instead of peeling and cutting whole carrots. Just use the same seasoning mix for a pound of baby carrots and adjust the cook time. Air fry baby carrots at 370°F for approximately 8-10 minutes or until tender to your liking.

Seasoning Ideas

I used a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried dill for these carrots, but there are so many flavors and spices to choose from. Here are some other seasoning ideas for your air fryer carrots:

What To Serve With These Air Fryer Carrots

Air Fryer Carrots are so versatile and can be served with a number of meals. Try them with our Air Fryer Chicken Breasts, salmon, pork chops, or juicy Pan-Seared Chicken Breasts. And you can easily pair them with another side dish like these Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts or Steamed Green Beans to make a meal!

Overhead view of Air Fryer Carrots in a white serving dish.
Overhead view of Air Fryer Carrots in a white serving dish.
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Air Fryer Carrots

These Air Fryer Carrots are savory, super easy to make, inexpensive and the perfect compliment to any weeknight dinner meal.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Total Cost $2.51 recipe / $0.62 serving
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Total Time 24 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 105kcal
Author Marsha – Budget Bytes

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Wash, peel, and cut the carrots diagonally into 1-inch pieces. Add the carrots to a large bowl.
  • In a separate small bowl, add the butter and melt in the microwave. Then add the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried dill to the same bowl. Stir everything together to combine.
  • Pour the butter mixture over the carrots. Toss or stir to coat all of the carrots.
  • Add seasoned carrots to the air fryer basket. Air fry at 370°F for 12-14 minutes until tender, shaking the basket halfway through. Once done garnish with fresh chopped dill (optional).

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 105kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 7g | Sodium: 537mg | Fiber: 3g
Close up side view of Air Fryer Carrots in a white serving dish.

How to Make Air Fryer Carrots – Step by Step Photos

Carrots being chopped on a cutting board.

Wash, peel, and cut 1 lb. of carrots diagonally into 1-inch pieces. Add the carrots to a large bowl.

Butter, oil, and seasoning mixed together in a bowl.

In a separate small bowl, add 1 Tbsp of butter and melt in the microwave. Then add 1 Tbsp olive oil, 3/4 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp dried dill to the same bowl. Stir everything together to combine.

Carrots mixed with butter and dill seasoning in a bowl.

Pour the butter mixture over the carrots. Toss or stir to coat all of the carrots.

Uncooked carrots added to the air fryer basket.

Add seasoned carrots to the air fryer basket. Air fry at 370°F for 12-14 minutes until tender, shaking the basket halfway through.

Cooked Air fryer carrots in an air fryer basket.

Once done garnish with 1 tsp fresh chopped dill (optional) and enjoy!

Overhead view of Air Fryer Carrots in a white serving dish.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

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Deviled Eggs

This easy Deviled Eggs recipe is perfect for parties, potlucks and holidays. They’re guaranteed to disappear fast!

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Deviled Eggs are a classic appetizer that’s always fun to serve at parties, Easter, potlucks, and during the holidays. It’s one of my mom’s favorite dishes to make for family gatherings and it always surprises me how fast they disappear! But it doesn’t have to be a special occasion to make these tasty little bites. They’re easy enough to make any day of the week and they’re a lot cheaper to make homemade. Keep the toppings simple or play around with some of our favorites listed below!😉

Overhead view of deviled eggs on a platter with different toppings.

What Are Deviled Eggs?

Deviled eggs are eggs that have been hard-boiled, cut in half, then the yolks mixed with other ingredients before stuffing them back into the whites. They can be basic, super fancy, or anywhere in between. They’re perfect for parties, potlucks, family gatherings, and during the holidays. Or during the week when you just have a craving for some tasty deviled eggs! There are so many options and different toppings to choose from when making deviled eggs, which makes them a LOT of fun!

Ingredients For Deviled Eggs

To make things easy we followed the same formula as our small batch deviled eggs recipe, that we already love, with one extra addition. So here’s everything you’ll need:

  • Eggs: We use large eggs and boil them following our easy how-to guide on How To Make Hard Boiled Eggs.
  • Mayonnaise: Mayo gives the filling a creamy, smooth texture.
  • Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard adds great tang and flavor to the deviled eggs.
  • Seasoning salt: To season the egg mixture we use Tony Chachere’s Creole seasoning, but you can use any brand of seasoning salt like Lawry’s, Morton’s, or even a generic store brand. 
  • Dill relish: Relish is the extra added ingredient and my personal favorite! It adds lots of great dill flavor and some much-needed texture to the filling.

How Long Should You Boil Your Eggs?

When it comes to how long to boil eggs for deviled eggs, I followed our step-by-step guide on How To Make Hard Boiled Eggs and the eggs came out perfect!

The short answer is – boil large eggs for about 12 minutes to make hard boiled eggs. But there are a few other factors to keep in mind. I’ll share more details below.

Topping Ideas

This is where it really gets fun! We topped our deviled eggs with some chopped air fryer bacon, sliced green onions, and a little bit of paprika. But you can use all sorts of other toppings to make them your own or just to use up different ingredients in your fridge. Here are some more ideas for deviled eggs toppings:

How To Store Leftovers

If you don’t eat them all in one sitting, you can store any leftover deviled eggs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Side view of deviled eggs on a serving platter.
Overhead view of deviled eggs with different toppings on a serving platter.
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Deviled Eggs

This easy Deviled Eggs recipe is perfect for parties, potlucks and holidays. They’re guaranteed to disappear fast!
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Total Cost $1.73 recipe / $0.29 serving
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 6 (2 halves each)
Calories 129kcal
Author Marsha – Budget Bytes

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Add the cold eggs to a saucepot. Add enough water to the pot to cover the eggs by one inch.
  • Place a lid on the pot and bring the water up to a boil over high heat. Once the water reaches a full rolling boil, turn the heat off and leave the pot on the burner (with the lid on) for about 12 minutes.
  • After 12 minutes, transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water and chill the eggs for about 5 minutes.
  • Next, peel the eggs then slice them in half. Pop the yolks out of the white and place them in a bowl. Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, seasoning salt, and dill relish and mash everything together to combine.
  • Spoon the seasoned yolk mixture back into the whites or place the mixture in a sandwich or freezer bag, snip off one corner of the bag, and pipe the filling into the egg whites.
  • Garnish the deviled eggs with your favorite toppings like paprika, chopped bacon, or sliced green onions. Serve and enjoy!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

*We used Tony Chachere’s Creole seasoning to season our egg mixture, but you can use any brand of seasoning salt like Lawry’s or Morton’s.

Nutrition

Serving: 2halves | Calories: 129kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 11g | Sodium: 253mg | Fiber: 0.1g
Overhead view of deviled eggs on a platter with different toppings.

How to Make Deviled Eggs – Step by Step Photos

Six eggs in a pot of boiling water

Add 6 large cold eggs to a sauce pot. Add enough water to the pot to cover the eggs by one inch. Place a lid on the pot and bring the water up to a boil over high heat. Once the water reaches a full rolling boil, turn the heat off and leave the pot on the burner (with the lid on) for about 12 minutes.

Hard boiled eggs being placed in an ice bath.

After 12 minutes, transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water for about 5 minutes.

Six hard boiled eggs peeled on a cutting board.

After the eggs have chilled, carefully peel the eggs then slice them in half.

The filling ingredients for deviled eggs in a small mixing bowl.

Pop the yolks out of the white and place them in a bowl. Add 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 3/4 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/4 tsp seasoning salt, and 1 Tbsp dill relish.

Deviled eggs filling ingredients mixed together.

Mash the yolks together with the rest of the ingredients to combine.

Hard boiled eggs cut in half with deviled egg ingredients being pipped inside.

Spoon the seasoned yolk mixture back into the whites or place the mixture in a sandwich or freezer bag, snip off one corner of the bag, and pipe the filling into the egg whites.

Overhead view of deviled eggs on a platter with different toppings.

Garnish the deviled eggs with your favorite toppings like paprika, chopped bacon, or sliced green onions. Serve and enjoy!

Side view of deviled eggs on a serving platter.

More Easy Egg Recipes

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Glazed Carrots

Five ingredients and 20 minutes is all you need to make these easy & delicious Glazed Carrots. Perfect for busy weeknights or holiday meals!

The post Glazed Carrots appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Easy and inexpensive side dishes like these Glazed Carrots are my go-to during busy weeknights. They’re super simple to make, they have the perfect amount of sweetness, and they pair well with so many different meals. They’re not only great for weeknight dinners, but they’re also perfect for special occasions and holidays like Easter and Thanksgiving. This recipe is a favorite in my household, and the best part is…five ingredients and 20 minutes is all you need!

Overhead view of glazed carrots in a white serving dish.

Ingredients For Glazed Carrots

Coming in at under $2 a recipe with only five ingredients, it doesn’t get much easier than these delicious Glazed Carrots! Here’s everything you’ll need:

  • Carrots: We used whole carrots for this recipe. Look for carrots that are fairly even in length and girth so they’ll cook more evenly. You can either scrub or peel the carrots, however I prefer to peel them. 
  • Butter: Butter adds a rich flavor to the carrots and combines with the brown sugar to help make the delicious glaze.
  • Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds the perfect amount of sweetness to the glaze. We used dark brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor, but feel free to use light brown sugar if that’s what you have on hand.
  • Cinnamon: I love adding a little bit of ground cinnamon to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
  • Salt: Salt to season the carrots and balance the sweetness of the glaze.

To serve, we also added a little bit of fresh cracked black pepper and fresh parsley (optional).

Recipe Variations

We went with the classic brown sugar glazed carrots for this recipe, but you can certainly switch things up and experiment with flavors based on what you have in your pantry or spice drawer. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Savory Carrots: If you’re looking for more savory carrots, skip the brown sugar and instead season with just salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  • Sweet & Tangy: If you really want to switch things up, try our Roasted Carrots with Honey Balsamic Glaze! They’re sweet, tangy, and rich, all at the same time.
  • Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill adds a pop of color and more flavor to the dish.
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: Brown sugar is inexpensive and a lot more budget-friendly, but feel free to substitute the sugar with honey or maple syrup. Both taste equally delicious!

What to Serve With Glazed Carrots

These glazed carrots are extremely versatile and can be enjoyed with just about any dinner meal. I love serving them with Pan-Seared Chicken Breasts and Baked Chicken Drumsticks. They also taste great with pork chops, Classic Meatloaf, or Glazed Ham Steaks. If you’re serving these during the holidays for Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas, they would be perfect along side Baked Ham or Roasted Turkey Breast.

Side close up view of glazed carrots in a serving dish and garnished with parsley.

And if you love carrot recipes, then definitely try our classic Roasted Carrots recipe next!

Overhead view of glazed carrots in a white serving dish.
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Glazed Carrots

Five ingredients and 20 minutes is all you need to make these easy & delicious Glazed Carrots. Perfect for busy weeknights or holiday meals!
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Total Cost $1.92 recipe / $0.48 serving
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 120kcal
Author Marsha – Budget Bytes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. whole carrots $1.50
  • 1/2 cup water $0.00
  • 2 Tbsp butter $0.27
  • 2 Tbsp brown sugar $0.08
  • 1/2 tsp salt $0.02
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon $0.05

Instructions

  • Wash, peel, and slice the carrots diagonally into ½ inch thick slices.
  • Add the carrots to a large skillet along with the water. Cover with a lid and cook over medium heat for 5-6 minutes or just until the carrots start to soften.
  • Remove the lid and add the butter, brown sugar, salt and ground cinnamon. Stir until the butter and brown sugar have melted. Leave the lid off and continue cooking the carrots for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated and a glaze starts to form.
  • Once the carrots are tender to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat and season with freshly ground black pepper and fresh chopped parsley (optional).

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 120kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 6g | Sodium: 417mg | Fiber: 3g
Very close up overhead view of glazed carrots.

How to Make Glazed Carrots – Step by Step Photos

Carrots being cut on a cutting board.

Wash, peel, and slice 1 lb. of carrots diagonally into ½ inch thick slices.

Carrots added to a sauté pan with water.

Add the carrots to a large skillet along with 1/2 cup of water. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook over medium heat for 5-6 minutes or just until the carrots start to soften.

Carrots in a sauté pan with butter, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon added.

Remove the lid and add 2 Tbsp butter, 2 Tbsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon. Stir until the butter and brown sugar have melted.

Overhead view of cooked glazed carrots in a sauté pan.

Leave the lid off and continue cooking the carrots for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated and a glaze starts to form.

Overhead view of glazed carrots in a sauté pan garnished with chopped parsley.

Once the carrots are tender to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat and season with freshly ground black pepper and fresh chopped parsley (optional). Now all that’s left to do is enjoy these delicious glazed carrots with your favorite dinner meal!

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