I batch cook pretty much everything, then freeze in 100-250 gram portions. Then mix and match for meals.
This allows me to purchase in bulk when stuff is on sale or even better, marked down as they are at or near their expiry date: meat, baked goods,
dairy and fresh produce, often as much as 50% off, but always 20-30%.
Not in the "under a buck a plate" challenge, but recently snagged a single rib eye, reg $20, 1/2 price - broiled naked, served with mashed potatoes, gravy, onion/mushroom jam and frozen sweet corn, under $5 for a decadent dinner.
ONION/MUSHROOM JAM: 2-3 large onions (sweet don't make you cry), 1-3 large (cored) peppers, 1 lb of
mushrooms, seasoned to taste and a dash of worcestershire sauce.
Saute onions in large frypan, over low to med heat (I use bacon fat).
Add peppers when there is room, continue to saute until there is room for some mushrooms, taste and season mildly. Slowly add mushrooms, as there is room, until all are simmering away.
Now turn to low, cook gently until all liquid evaporates. As this concentrates the flavors, go light on seasoning until this point, taste, add what your taste buds ask for, and serve or freeze.
Great on meats, toast or toasted sandwiches, burgers, pizza even rice, pasta, mashed or baked potatoes. No idea as to cost, but cheap, and turns a dull snack or meal into WoW.
*I can't have garlic, it could be a nice addition, but also overpowering; Mrs. Dash is the seasoning per my spouses preference.