15 Poor People Foods We Will Eat No Matter How Much Money We Make
In the United States, approximately 2.4 million boxes of mac and cheese are sold daily, making it one of the most popular comfort foods. Did you know that despite their humble origins, the popularity of “poor people foods” transcends economic boundaries?
These beloved dishes have stood the test of time and continue to be enjoyed by people from all walks of life.
Ramen Noodles
That iconic packet of ramen costs less than a dollar, yet it holds a legacy of deliciousness. College students practically survive on it, but even after moving to the corner office, we’re still craving that savory broth. Add an egg or veggies, and you’ve got yourself a masterpiece.
According to the World Instant Noodles Association, Americans consume over 4 billion servings of instant noodles annually.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Crunchy, buttery bread with ooey-gooey melty cheese? Count us in. This classic comfort food is a hit regardless of age or income bracket. It’s so iconic that April has been dubbed National Grilled Cheese Month. Pair it with a cup of tomato soup, and you’ll feel like a kid again; nostalgia tastes excellent.
Macaroni and Cheese
Whether it’s the 99, cent blue box or a gourmet version featuring four fancy cheeses, mac and cheese has a hold on the American heart. Kraft sells over a million boxes of mac and cheese every day. Cheesy, creamy, and carb-loaded, what’s not to love?
Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich
PB&J may sound like the official “lunchbox meal of 3rd graders,” but don’t be fooled, adults are in on the magic, too. Smooth or crunchy peanut butter, grape, or strawberry jelly, it’s pure harmony in every bite. The average American eats about 3,000 PB&J sandwiches in their lifetime. That’s dedication.
Hot Dogs
Hot dogs are true multitaskers; they’re a BBQ essential, a ballgame snack, and a late-night meal all rolled into one. This humble sausage is a crowd favorite, whether topped with ketchup, mustard, relish, or chili. According to the National Hot Dog & Sausage Council, Americans eat 20 billion hot dogs annually. That’s 70 per person.
Beans and Rice
The ultimate duo for tight budgets and tight taste buds. Beans and rice are a powerhouse of nutrition and flavor. Not to mention, every culture gives it its twist, from Latin American arroz con frijoles to Southern-style red beans and rice.
According to a USDA report, dried beans are one of the cheapest protein sources in American households. Tasty and practical? Yes, please.
Oatmeal
A steaming hot bowl of oatmeal is more than just breakfast; it’s like a warm hug in food form. Spruce it up with some brown sugar, cinnamon, or fresh fruits, and you’ve got a hearty start to the day.
Plus, oatmeal is a superfood that’s great for heart health. Experts even report a 12% drop in LDL cholesterol with regular oatmeal consumption. Cheap and healthy? We’re sold.
Canned Tuna
Canned tuna has saved many a weeknight dinner, turning into tuna casseroles, sandwiches, or salads. At less than $2 a can, tuna packs a protein punch that’s hard to beat. Plus, Omega-3 fatty acids? Yes, tuna takes the crown for being both affordable and nutritious.
Meatloaf
Meatloaf is versatile, hearty, and downright delicious with the perfect glaze. This old-school classic is staging a comeback, and we’re here for it. Even celebrity chefs like Ina Garten have their spins on meatloaf. Who knew it could be trendy?
Potatoes
Mashed, baked, fried, scalloped, there’s no end to the greatness of potatoes. Americans eat about 110 pounds of potatoes per person every year. Whether in the form of fries or a baked potato with a dollop of sour cream, potatoes are the gift that keeps giving.
Biscuits and Gravy
Biscuits and gravy might be the coziest breakfast out there, a Southern classic that could turn anyone into a morning person. Fluffy, buttery biscuits drowned in creamy sausage gravy? Yep, that’s happiness on a plate. Unsurprisingly, its gravy recipes have been passed down in families like prized secrets.
Top Ramen Stir-Fry Variations
Instant noodles are back on this list, but stir-fried ramen deserves its spotlight. Quick, customizable, and weirdly classy when you add some sesame oil and fresh veggies, ramen stir-fry is the glow-up of the food world. Add shrimp or chicken, and you’ve got dinner in minutes.
Cornbread
Cornbread is versatile; it can be paired with soup, chili, or barbecue or even turned into dessert with some honey butter. This crumbly delight has been a Southern staple for generations, but its fans spread far and wide.
Sloppy Joe
If messy foods taste better, then sloppy joes win every single time. Ground beef, tangy sauce, and a soft bun, it’s easy, delicious, and unapologetically messy. It’s also simple to make on a low budget, which explains why it’s been an American classic since the 1930s.
Ritz Crackers
Ritz crackers are a multitasking marvel. Serve them as a snack, pair them with cheese, or crush them as a breadcrumb substitute in recipes. They make the crispiest coating.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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