Pot Roast & Beef Stew
On the weekend, when I have more time, I cook a roast with potatoes, carrots, and onions, either in the oven or in the crockpot. I use a larger roast and more vegetables than we can eat at one meal.
Then the next day, I throw the leftover roast, vegetables and gravy in a pot with a can of V8 juice. Mmmmmm....the best vegetable beef stew EVER!
Spaghetti
I make spaghetti starting with a can or jar of spaghetti sauce. I saute some onions and fresh garlic, throw in some fresh mushrooms, and fresh herbs (oregano and parsley) and simmer. It almost tastes homemade and it doesn't take long at all.
Frito Chili Pie
My hubby loves frito chili pie - horrible on the cholesterol - but I fix it occasionally. I buy the lowest fat canned chili with no beans. I heat the chili in the microwave and then in a bowl put a layer of fritos, a layer of chili, a layer of shredded cheese, and then repeat. I pop the bowl in the microwave for a few secs to melt the cheese on top.
Breakfast for Dinner
We sometimes have breakfast at dinner - bacon, eggs, and toast. We also fix waffles at supper occasionally. One of my favorite quick suppers is scrambled egg sandwiches. My hubby likes his egg fried
. I use only bread and miracle whip - but in summer there is nothing like a good, right out of the garden, fresh tomato on a scrambled egg sandwich. I know it sounds gross, but it is GREAT!
Pinto Beans
Sort out bad beans and rocks and soak beans overnight. Cook in a crockpot or on the stove seasoned with a ham hock. We fry potatoes and make cornbread to go with the beans.
Chicken Stew
Boil some chicken pieces, cool, and take meat off bone. Chop onions, carrots, garlic, potatoes, and celery (or any veges you like) and boil in chicken broth till soft. Add chicken and a can (or two) of italian seasoned tomatoes and simmer till flavors blend.
Chicken and Dumplings
Boil a chicken, cool, and debone. Cut canned biscuits into fourths (don't use flakey buiscits). Add fresh herbs to chicken broth (thyme, rosemary, sage) and bring to a boil. Drop biscuits into broth and simmer on low (uncovered) till biscuits are done, about 30 mins. You can add a bit of cornstarch or bisquick or pancake mix to thicken the broth if you like.
I've learned that using fresh herbs makes all the difference in the world, no matter what you are cooking.
As you can see, I'm a quick cook - I don't have much time in the evenings.