Back-to-school season is here—and whether you’re packing lunchboxes, feeding hungry teens after school, or trying to keep your own routine on track, one thing’s for sure: quick, comforting, and budget-friendly meals are a must. That’s where beans come in.
Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, beans are a pantry staple that stretch your dollar without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Here are five easy, hearty meals featuring our Camellia Brand beans that are perfect for the busy back-to-school hustle.
A cozy chili is always a win when the week feels long. This Vegetarian Pinto Bean Chili is a meatless marvel that’s hearty enough to satisfy everyone at the table. Made with pantry staples and plenty of spices, it’s a great make-ahead meal that reheats beautifully—perfect for lunchboxes, busy weeknights, or freezing in portions for later.
Budget Tip: Bulk it up with frozen corn, extra beans, or chopped zucchini for even more servings.
Instant Pot Pinto Beans with Ham Hocks
If you’ve got an Instant Pot, this one’s a no-brainer. Pinto Beans with Ham Hocks come together quickly in the pressure cooker and deliver deep, smoky flavor with minimal effort. Serve over rice, scoop into a thermos for a hot lunch, or use leftovers in tacos or burritos.
Budget Tip: Ham hocks are affordable and flavor-packed. Can’t find them? Try smoked turkey necks or a splash of liquid smoke.
Simple Southern Lima Beans
This recipe is the definition of Southern comfort food. Simple Southern Lima Beans are simmered low and slow with just a few ingredients, but they’re anything but plain. Creamy, filling, and soul-warming, these beans are great as a main dish or as a side.
Budget Tip: Serve over rice or cornbread to stretch this meal even further. Add a green veggie and you’ve got a complete dinner.
Beans & Greens Soup
When you’re craving something nourishing and light, this Beans & Greens Soup hits the spot. It’s packed with leafy greens, creamy beans, and comforting broth—perfect for thermos lunches or after-school pick-me-ups. It’s also endlessly customizable based on what’s in your fridge.
Budget Tip: Use frozen greens instead of fresh, and toss in leftover veggies from the week to avoid waste.
Pantry Red Beans & Rice
No time for a grocery run? No problem. This Pantry Red Beans & Rice recipe uses shelf-stable ingredients to bring you all the flavor of the classic dish in a super budget-conscious way. It’s quick, easy, and the ultimate meal prep hero.
Budget Tip: Double the batch and freeze portions for future meals. Serve with hot sauce and pickled veggies for a quick flavor boost.
Make Beans a Back-to-School Staple
From chili to soups to Southern classics, beans are a smart way to fuel your family through the school year. They’re nutritious, filling, and incredibly versatile—plus, they’re easy on your wallet when grocery bills start to pile up.
So stock up your pantry, pull out your favorite pot, and get cooking. Your future self (and your back-to-school budget) will thank you.