If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal that’s easy on the wallet, this homemade Fettuccine Alfredo with salad and garlic bread is the perfect choice. With ingredients sourced from Dollar Tree and Target, this budget-friendly meal comes in at just $10.43 and feeds six people. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this meal proves that you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy great food.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s everything you’ll need for this meal, with costs included:
- 2 Garlic Bread (Dollar Tree) – $2.50
- 2 Alfredo Sauce (Dollar Tree) – $2.50
- Ranch Dressing (Dollar Tree) – $1.25
- Penne Pasta (Target) – $0.99
- Salad Mix (Target) – $3.19
Total Cost: $10.43
Servings: 6 people
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Cook the Penne Pasta
Instead of traditional fettuccine, we’re using penne pasta for a more budget-friendly option. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions, typically boiling for 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Garlic Bread
While the pasta is cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F. Place both garlic bread on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. The bread from Dollar Tree is a great deal and tastes just as good as more expensive options!
3. Heat the Alfredo Sauce
In a saucepan, heat the Alfredo sauce on low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to avoid scorching. Using two jars ensures you have enough creamy sauce to coat all of the pasta.
4. Toss the Salad
Pour the salad mix into a large bowl. Drizzle with Ranch dressing to taste and toss everything together. You can add any extra toppings you have on hand, like croutons or shredded cheese, to enhance the salad.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the pasta is cooked and drained, mix it with the heated Alfredo sauce. Make sure each piece of pasta is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
6. Serve
Divide the Fettuccine Alfredo (penne style!) between six plates, add a slice of garlic bread, and serve a generous portion of the salad on the side.
Budget-Friendly Tips
- Shop Smart: Dollar Tree and Target offer great deals on pantry staples like pasta and sauces. Look for discounts and bulk deals to make your meal even more affordable.
- Stretch Your Ingredients: This recipe feeds six people, but if you have leftovers, you can easily reheat the pasta and garlic bread the next day for another meal.
- Add Protein (Optional): For an extra boost, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp to your Alfredo pasta, but it’s optional if you’re sticking to a strict budget.
Why This Meal Works
This homemade Fettuccine Alfredo with garlic bread and salad is perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd without stretching your budget. With just $10.43, you can serve a meal that’s satisfying, simple, and full of flavor.
Delicious. Affordable. Easy. What more could you ask for?