From Grocery to Gourmet: Budget Meals That Hit Different

From Grocery to Gourmet: Budget Meals That Hit Different

From Grocery to Gourmet: Budget Meals That Hit Different

Think steak and seafood are only for special occasions? Think again. At The Fat Butcher, we’re all about turning everyday groceries into gourmet-style meals without emptying your wallet. With just a few key ingredients (and some pantry staples you probably already have), you can cook up dishes that feel fancy but cost less than a fast-food combo per serving.

Here are 5 budget-friendly meals using The Fat Butcher’s bestselling products, complete with servings and estimated price per serving!

1. Garlic Butter Ribeye Rice Bowl

A no-fuss rice bowl that packs serious flavor. Tender ribeye slices are seared in garlic butter, creating a rich, savory glaze that coats every bite. It’s hearty, comforting, and easy to make with just a few pantry staples. Perfect for steak lovers who want something quick but indulgent.

Serves: 4
Total Cost: ₱550
Per Serving: ₱137.50

Ingredients:

  • 1 Classic Choice Ribeye (₱350) – sliced thin

  • 2 tbsp butter, 4 cloves garlic, cooked rice

  • Soy sauce, pepper, chopped spring onions

Instructions:

  1. Slice the ribeye into thin strips.

  2. Sauté garlic in butter until golden, then sear the beef quickly.

  3. Add soy sauce and pepper to taste.

  4. Serve over hot rice, top with spring onions.

Tip: Add a fried egg for that extra silog vibe!

2. Creamy Garlic Shrimp Fettucine

This dish brings together juicy shrimp and silky pasta in a creamy garlic sauce. It feels fancy, but it’s made with simple ingredients you likely already have at home. Every bite is rich, flavorful, and satisfying without being heavy. Great for date nights, family dinners, or when you just want to treat yourself.

Serves: 4
Total Cost: ₱520
Per Serving: ₱130

Ingredients:

  • Peeled Shrimp (250g from the 500g pack – ₱175)

  • Barilla Fettucine (half pack – ₱150)

  • Garlic, butter, milk or cream, salt & pepper

Instructions:

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions.

  2. In butter, sauté garlic and shrimp until pink.

  3. Pour in cream (or evap milk + water), season, and toss in pasta.

  4. Let it thicken slightly before serving.

Lasa ng restaurant, presyong bahay!

3. Hungarian Sausage Stir-Fry Rice

Your classic fried rice just got an upgrade. Smoky, spicy Hungarian sausage adds bold flavor to this quick and filling stir-fry. It’s a great way to use leftovers and make something tasty on a tight schedule. Serve it as a main or a side, either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser.

Serves: 4
Total Cost: ₱320
Per Serving: ₱80

Ingredients:

  • 1 Hungarian sausage pack (₱280), sliced

  • Leftover rice, garlic, onions, soy sauce, oil

  • Optional: egg, frozen mixed veggies

Instructions:

  1. Brown sausage slices in a pan. Set aside.

  2. In the same pan, sauté garlic and onion, add rice and seasonings.

  3. Toss sausage back in and add optional egg or veggies.

4. Smoked Chicken Pasta with Olive Oil & Garlic

This light, savory pasta is all about balance: smoky chicken, garlicky olive oil, and just the right amount of heat. It's a clean, elegant dish that’s surprisingly easy to pull off. With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, it makes weekday dinners feel a little more special. 

Serves: 4
Total Cost: ₱470
Per Serving: ₱117.50

Ingredients:

  • Honey Smoked Chicken Breast (use ½ – around ₱215)

  • Barilla Fettucine (half pack – ₱150)

  • Garlic, olive oil, chili flakes, salt, and parsley

Instructions:

  1. Cook pasta; reserve some water.

  2. In olive oil, sauté garlic and chili flakes.

  3. Add sliced smoked chicken, pasta, and a splash of pasta water.

  4. Toss until well combined.

5. Shrimp & Ribeye Surf and Turf Skewers

Get the best of both worlds with these juicy steak and shrimp skewers. Marinated in garlic and spices, then grilled to perfection, each bite delivers smoky, savory goodness. They're fun to eat, great for sharing, and perfect for budget-friendly weekend feasts. Serve with garlic rice or grilled veggies for a complete meal.

Serves: 4
Total Cost: ₱625
Per Serving: ₱156.25

Ingredients:

  • 1 Classic Choice Ribeye (₱350), cubed

  • Peeled Shrimp (250g – ₱175)

  • Garlic, soy sauce, oil, paprika

  • Skewers or barbecue sticks

Instructions:

  1. Marinate beef and shrimp in soy sauce, garlic, and paprika for 15 mins.

  2. Thread alternately on skewers.

  3. Grill or pan-sear until nicely charred.

  4. Serve with garlic rice or salad.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a big budget to eat well; you just need the right ingredients. With The Fat Butcher’s premium meats and seafood, plus a little creativity, you can turn grocery staples into gourmet meals that hit different. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend family feast, these recipes prove that flavor and affordability can go hand in hand.

Want more sulit meals? Follow us for more recipes and check out our latest bundles and promos.

Back to blog