Time and Money Saving Cooking

I do not enjoy cooking like I used to. I don't want to spend the time. I don't want to do it every day. What's the point when I'm eventually going to have to throw the leftovers away because recipes are always designed for at least a family of 4?

Who this is for:

Parents
Singles
Students and young adults
Non-Cooking skills people
Busy people
Groceries are too expensive people
No-motivation people
Meal preppers

Breakfast To-Go

Cheesy Sausage Protein Muffins

This was the best idea ever. I made one batch over the weekend, and they lasted me the Whole Week! I just pop a couple in the microwave on my way out, eat them on the go, put them in a thermo-container, or eat at home.

Almost all bags of flour have a muffin or cookie recipe on the back with the required ingredients, if not, there's always Google and Pinterest. I use Gluten Free Flour that already has the yeast or xanthan gum (check ingredients on the back) because flour without it is hard to work with.
Trick one to remember when baking, you mix dry ingredients in a bowl together and mix the wet ingredients in a different bowl. Don't mix everything until both bowls have all their necessary ingredients in them.
My modifications to add more protein and fiber: I did not use nearly as much flour, instead I put some oats, protein powder, and chia seeds before adding some flour.
Seasoning: You don't have to, but I really enjoyed the little kick I added by putting in a little cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper. A little goes a long way.
NOTE: Cook the sausage, bacon, or whatever meat you use before putting it in the batter. You can even put a different type of meat in each row. The meat and cheese go in last!

Breakfast To-Go

Fruity Protein Muffins

Similar to my cheesy sausage muffins, but on the sweeter side.

My modification: I also used significantly less flour so I could add oats, protein powder, and chia seeds. Because my family comes from a line a bakers, I have a couple other tricks. In your wet bowl, add some vanilla extract and a little lemon juice. Don't ask me why, it's a baking secret I use in all my sweets.
Obviously, you can use whatever fruits you want. I used blueberries, craisins, and sweetened coconut flakes. All three should add enough sweetness so you don't have to add sugar.... I may have added a little honey :)

Groceries That Last

Non-Perishable Food

I know canned and frozen fruit and veggies may not be exactly appealing, but they are the cheapest way to keep fruits and veggies in your diet for a considerably less amount of money. Also, rice and beans are great staples that can make many meals and are Gluten Free.

Things to look for:

Salt and sugar free labels or no salt or sugar added labels.
When possible, only get the fruit that is labeled "in water", otherwise opt for the "in 100% fruit juice", no syrup.
White rice is the easiest to digest and cook, but brown rice will keep you fuller longer, your choice. I prefer white and fluffy.
Beans, lentils, and quinoa are an amazing way to add protein and fiber to your diet instead of meat. Check out Black Bean Brownie Recipes when you're craving a sweet. They're to die for!
Side Note: You can add these fruit and veggies and proteins to the muffins I listed above and create your own version of protein muffins.

Keep Fruit and Veggies In Your Diet

Hopefully by creating protein muffins to-go, protein pancakes to-go, or whatever you call them, and getting non-perishable items, when possible, all these tips and tricks will leave you some room to afford real fresh fruit and veggies. Fruit and Veggies are what keeps your gut healthy and working properly. They give you natural sugar to reduce sugar cravings and keep you energized. They have antioxidants to fight illnesses and maintain or lose weight without starving yourself. I love my bananas. I eat one every morning before my coffee is even ready. I try to eat at least one fruity thing and one veggie thing for any meal, and I try to eat them when I'm feeling snacky. It doesn't always happen, but all I can do is try, and that's enough to fight illnesses and keep me out of the doctor's office. Oh yea, they make a bigger difference in mental health than you may think.