The American Frugal Housewife: Choice of Meat

If people wish to be economical they should take some to ascertain what are the cheapest pieces of meat, to not merely those which are cheapest in price but which go farthest when cooked.- pg. 43

As mentioned, the choice of meat is most economical when it is not only inexpensive but proves to be a good value-- one that goes far and can be used in multiple meals for your menu plan. In an effort to be careful in my meal planning, I recently started using a meal costing calculator to help me better determine which meals are truly a good value for ingredients.

Here are some figures for our two person family that I came up with for the new meal ideas I recently found:
Pork Chops with Parmesan Rice & Vegetables
Sage Pork Chops: 2.26
Brussel Sprouts: 0.26
Parmesan Rice: 0.47
Total: 2.99

Chicken with Tomatoes & Mushrooms
chicken breasts in sauce: 3.99
Parmesan Rice: 0.47
garlic bread: 0.33
Total: 4.79
(This meal would be less expensive with a different cut of chicken used)

Slow Cooker Macaroni & Beef
main dish: 2.16 garlic bead: 0.33
green beans: 0.33
Total: 2.82

Tortellini, Spinach & White Bean Soup with Crusty Bread
Soup: 3.14
bread: 0.67
Total: 3.81

Enchilada Casserole with Rice
casserole: 5.20
Rice: 0.30
Total: 5.50 Makes enough for two meals
Cost per meal: 2.25