Struggle Meals
The struggle is real, but it doesn't mean your food has to suffer. Chef Frankie Celenza shows you how to make delicious meals for under $2 a plate.
Genre: Comedy
Cast:Frank Celenza , Vincent Anter , Keegan Fong
S1.E1 ∙ Party for Pennies
Frankie makes three dishes for a party of four, that when combined, are cheaper than just one meal out for brunch. Then, it's a taco party for five people for only $20!
S1.E2 ∙ Food Back from the Dead
Stale bread, old bananas, canned food, dry foods - they often get a bad wrap, but it's not the end for them yet. Frankie shares his recipes for using these pantry staples to create delicious meals.
S1.E3 ∙ Wrap it Up!
Frankie shares his method for preparing portable wraps at home for quick and easy lunches.
S1.E4 ∙ Bacon My Heart
Versatility is important, and these three items - bacon, eggs, and a whole chicken - will feed you a plethora of delicious and affordable meals.
S1.E5 ∙ Instant Gratification
Carbs are loved the world over. Endlessly versatile, cheap, and super filling - Frankie shares his tricks for pasta, pizza dough, and delicious, easy ramen.
S1.E6 ∙ Cauliflower's Star Power
Frankie highlights the versatility of cauliflower, as well as roasts a big chuck roast that stretches over three dishes.
S1.E7 ∙ Traveling for Your Tastebuds
You don't have to travel half way around the world to try a different cuisine - Frankie shows that Italian and Filipino foods are accessible right here, right now.
S1.E8 ∙ Street Food Faves at Home
Frankie makes street food at home, and it's fresher, healthier, and cheaper. Then get ready, because you've never seen rice like this before.
S1.E9 ∙ Sweet on You
Sweet potatoes and a sweet tooth - Frankie's got you covered on the cheap and full of nutrition. Some times, you've got to indulge.
S1.E10 ∙ Save Dough, Make Dough
Prepping meals at home is cheaper and way more nutritious. Frankie makes portable breakfasts for the work week and forays into the stuffed dough of different cultures.
S1.E11 ∙ Going with the Grain
Frankie teaches you how to prep ingredients to make delicious, healthy meals for a fraction of the time and cost.
S1.E12 ∙ Fancy Free
Going to the movies is expensive. Frankie shows us how to make a delicious TV dinner, popcorn, and dessert, for less than the cost of a movie ticket.
S1.E13 ∙ The Chicken or the Egg
Which came first? In this episode, it's the egg. Frankie shows us both high and low maintenance ways to prepare roasted chicken and eggs for any meal. Who says adulting has to be hard?
S1.E14 ∙ Frankie's Day Out
Frankie shows you how to make a week's worth of meals on a single trip to the grocery store, and then shows you three options for struggle meals on the go.
S1.E15 ∙ Show Me the Mole
Frankie shows you how to make delicious and filling Mexican-inspired dishes for under $2 a plate, and later uses a surprising struggle ingredient in 3 delicious dishes you'll go nuts for.
S1.E16 ∙ Potatoes Gonna Potate
Who knew potatoes are not only affordable, but nutrient rich? Frankie is cookin' up 3 potato dishes that are guaranteed to fill you up, and later a trio of delicious pancakes with a surprising twist.
S2.E1 ∙ Eggplant
Eggplant: A fruit you didn't know was a fruit. Often underrated and overlooked, Frankie shows us how to shop for and cook this filling, delicious, cost-effective, and versatile ingredient.
S2.E2 ∙ Meat
It's time to reduce the cost of meat on your grocery bill. Frankie shows us which cuts of meat provide the most bang for our buck, and equally as important, how to cook them for optimal flavor.
S2.E3 ∙ Plant-Based
Frankie busts the myth that eating plant-based is expensive. Preparing these good-for-you meals is all about eating seasonally to save money on produce, and shopping the bulk aisle for even more savings on plant-based pantry items. It's nutritious and great for the planet. Win-win!
S2.E4 ∙ Budget Week
Frankie figured out the weekly budget grocery equation so you don't have to. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner for seven days, for a family of four, for under $150. All it takes is a little planning, meal prep, and using up leftovers in inventive ways to avoid food waste.
S2.E5 ∙ Cheese
Cheese can be really expensive. Frankie teaches us how to cook with more affordable cheese swaps than what might normally be called for in a recipe. More importantly, we learn how to stretch cheese in a dish so it can be the star without breaking the bank. Bonus: Frankie teaches how to make cheese at home!
S2.E6 ∙ Tomatos
Tomatoes are one of the most produced fruits, especially when in season. Frankie teaches us how to prepare them fresh in a variety of ways.
S2.E7 ∙ Date Night
Date night doesn't have to be at an over-priced restaurant. Frankie prepares an affordable and delicious sushi date night at home, filled with three courses, plus tips on how to set date night ambiance at home on a struggle budget.
S2.E8 ∙ Workday Lunches
A big way to save money on a struggle budget is to prepare homemade lunches for work. Frankie shows us how to make five delicious lunches for the whole work week. Each one flavored differently during meal prep so you don't get bored. You'll be saving money, and you might even be more productive at work after a nutritious homemade lunch!
S2.E9 ∙ Flour
Flour has the super power to transform into an endless variety of meals, and a little goes a long way. Frankie teaches us how to make three different meals using flour as the affordable vehicle.
S2.E10 ∙ Hotdish
You say hotdishes, Frankie says casserole. Either way, these one-pot hotdishes are an affordable way to feed a group of people, or the family for dinner. Plus they're great to freeze for future meals. Frankie's secret is to use a combination of frozen and fresh ingredients to keep these hotdishes nutritious and cost-effective.
S3.E1 ∙ Game Day
Frankie throws a game day party for under $25. Game days aren't for dinner parties but they are a day for some fan-favorite finger foods, especially those you can make in advance.
S3.E2 ∙ Winter is Here
It's the dead of winter in Frankie's kitchen, which means it's that time for hearty, delicious, and warming meals.
S3.E3 ∙ Valentine's Day
Frankie prepares a Valentine's Day dinner for under $15 with a bistro-style theme to up the romance.
S3.E4 ∙ Beans Beans Beans
Dried beans are the most affordable and healthy way to prepare them, with very little effort to boot. Frankie will teach the basics of preparing beans from scratch while making super tasty recipes.
S3.E5 ∙ Rent Week
It's that time, the first of the month, when you spend your whole paycheck on rent and bills. Frankie cooks up some go-to pantry meals and also teaches us how to better prepare for this time of the month.
S3.E6 ∙ Mushroom Mania
Frankie takes us on a magical mushroom trip. Not that kind but hey, no judgement. You may not get the trippy visions or fall in love with a tree, but mushrooms for every day meals are magical in their own special way.
S3.E7 ∙ No Kitchen No Problem
Frankie teaches us a few easy and inventive "no-kitchen" hacks for delicious meals. Just because you're dorm living, road tripping, motel living, or haven't gotten that bachelor pad in shape yet, doesn't mean you can't make tasty meals.
S3.E8 ∙ Spring Fling
Spring is in the air which means a whole new world opens up in the produce department, especially all the greens. Frankie does what he does best and teaches us how to cook with mother nature, spring-style.
S3.E9 ∙ Spice Is Nice
Flavor, flavor, flavor. Frankie shows us the way around the spice cabinet. You know that area in your pantry that collects dust? Well get ready to dust it off.
S3.E10 ∙ Root-to-Stem
Frankie teaches us how to use whole vegetables, from root-to-stem, which means no food goes to waste. Learn how to use those leafy green tops you thought were for decoration.
S3.E11 ∙ Holiday Flavors
The holiday season looks different this year, so why not mix things up and celebrate classic flavors in new and unexpected ways. Frankie puts a twist on all your holiday favorites, using simple ingredients for your loved ones to enjoy.
S3.E12 ∙ Less Stress Holidays
The holidays are hectic enough, and with more planning, cooking and cleaning than usual, everyone wants to shop smart and save time. Frankie tackles weekday meals that will keep you organized, fed, and less stressed this season.
S4.E1 ∙ Warm + Cozy Winter
Frankie gets cozy with recipes that bring warmth, flavor and joy to the kitchen on the coldest winter days.
S4.E2 ∙ Eggscellent Techniques
Learn Frankie's techniques and tricks for making your favorite egg dishes just the way you like them.
S4.E3 ∙ Vintage
Frankie shows us that vintage doesn't have to break the bank with these classic, oldie-but-goodie recipes.
S4.E4 ∙ Struggle Soup
Follow Frankie's blueprint for building a hit soup, and you'll be singing for seconds all year round.
S4.E5 ∙ Struggle Sandwich
Every layer counts as Frankie ups the ante on classic sandwiches, with homemade twists that steal the show.
S4.E6 ∙ Cabbage, Cabbage, Cabbage
Cabbage has never been cooler than right now, proving to be the utility ingredient we never knew we needed.
S4.E7 ∙ Mayo: The Secret Ingredient
Frankie unlocks mayo's secret powers that take your recipes to the next level, all without leaving a trace.
S4.E8 ∙ Crunchy
There's nothing like a satisfying crunch to up your recipe game; bonus points for not bursting your budget.
S4.E9 ∙ A Cruciferous Delicious Time
No veggie family stands the test of time like the cruciferous family, and its hearty meals will win you over
S4.E10 ∙ Ingredient Recipes
Less is more when it comes to simple weeknight meals that focus on maximum flavor and minimal ingredients.
S5.E1 ∙ Summer BBQ
Frankie's favorite cookout classics take you from weekend picnic to backyard BBQ, with or without a grill.
S5.E2 ∙ Bring Your Own Lunch
These handheld lunches for work or school are easy on the wallet and customizable for the whole family.
S5.E4 ∙ How Do You Like Them Apples?
From sweet treats to savory meals, explore all the possibilities apples have to offer.
S5.E5 ∙ Super Squash
Don't overlook the humble squash's superpowers in these delicious dishes that'll feed you year around.
S5.E6 ∙ Spooktacular Tricks and Treats
No matter who you're rooting for, savor these ballpark favorites while beating those major league prices.
S5.E7 ∙ Play Ball
No matter who you're rooting for, savor these ballpark favorites while beating those major league prices.
S5.E8 ∙ The Future is Flavor
Good things take time. These preserving, pickling and curing basics will deliver flavorful meals.
S5.E9 ∙ Pantry Pasta
It's no secret that pasta is Frankie's favorite; he's serving it up all night without even opening his fridge.
S5.E10 ∙ Potato Variety Show
Frankie's slicing, mashing and smashing his way through the spud species, a staple for any Struggle kitchen.
S6.E1 ∙ Citrus Sunshine
It's the dead of winter but citrus is in season and these recipes will brighten your day and your palette. Grapefruit and Beet Salad, Orange Ginger Chicken, Winter Citrus Cake.
S6.E2 ∙ Suppertime Superstar
These hearty dinners will not only make you a star, but they'll sit front and center and hold their own as a complete meal, whether it's a casual weeknight or a special occasion. Lasagna Roll Ups, Biscuit Pot Pie, Roast Chicken with Veggies.
S6.E3 ∙ A Leftover Glow Up
Give last week's leftovers the makeover they deserve with Frankie's recipes for tasty, waste-reducing meals that transform uninspiring excess food into fresh and exciting dishes. Your bank account will thank you. Cheesy Pasta Frittata, Chicken Taco Pockets, Fridge Clean Out Fried Rice.
S6.E4 ∙ Romantic Steakhouse Dinner
Give your wallet a break by taking the fine-dining experience straight to the comfort of your home. From tender, juicy steak paired with classic sides, to decadent desserts, Frankie's got your date night meal covered. Butter Basted Ribeye for Two. Creamed Spinach and Mashed Potatoes, Flourless Chocolate Cake.
S6.E5 ∙ Fancy Pants Pasta
This week, treat yourself to a restaurant-worthy pasta dinner at a fraction of the price, as Frankie cooks up some of his signature dishes featuring show stopping sauces. Pappardelle with Frankie's Ragu, Homemade Beet Ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce, Carbonara.
S6.E6 ∙ I Need to Eat Right Now
At the end of a long, hectic day, when you need dinner in a pinch, Frankie unlocks his not-so-secret formula for whipping up quick and easy meals, using minimal ingredients that will satisfy your cravings and feed the family in a flash. Savory Oat Bowl, Spicy Sesame Noodles, Quick Couscous Salad.
S6.E7 ∙ Piece of the Pie
There may be infinite ways to define pie, but the only math that matters is what makes these sweet and savory dishes fit the bill. In true Struggle Style, Frankie rolls out his best tips and tricks for enjoying hassle free, cost friendly pies. Shepherd's Pie, Cherry Slab Pie, Chocolate Cream Pudding Pie.
S6.E8 ∙ The Big Game
Brackets are complete and all that's missing is food to fuel your team's run. Huddle around the kitchen as Frankie preps the ultimate watch party spread. These savory, spicy and sweet dishes are championship-worthy even if your bracket goes bust. Tater Tot Nachos, Buffalo Chicken Sliders, Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie.
S6.E9 ∙ Bananas for Bananas
As one of the cheapest members of the produce aisle, bananas will save you bunches of money when you whip up these delightfully appealing recipes that go above and beyond a basic bread. Banana Corn Fritters, Banana Fosters Pudding, Gooey Banana Chocolate Cake.
S6.E10 ∙ Cry Me an Allium River
Frankie takes on his longtime frenemy, the onion, and all its powerful relatives. There might be a few tears shed along the way, but they are well worth the delicious and flavorful results, from sweet buttery leeks to the ultimate onion masterpiece. Creamy Leeks with Breadcrumbs, Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread, Flowering Onion.
S8.E1 ∙ I Don't Want to do Dishes: One Pot Meals
Any true struggle cook knows there's nothing better than a one pot dinner. Not only is there hardly any cleanup at the end, but the prep is minimal too, which means hunger satisfaction is imminent. Who says meals can't be cheap, easy and delicious?
S8.E2 ∙ Homemade-ish
Last minute company leaving you in a pinch? Frankie has you covered with these easy recipes featuring store bought staples. With a few Struggle tips, these basic store bought ingredients can be transformed into dishes that will impress your guests.
S8.E4 ∙ Between Two Buns
Is it a burger? Is it a sandwich? Is a burger a sandwich? Not even Frankie knows the answer, but one thing is certain: whatever you want to call them, these fun twists on burgers and sandwiches with delicious flavor combos are super satisfying to scarf down.
S8.E5 ∙ Struggle Splurge
The key to treating yourself on a budget is to keep it simple: these elegant dinners taste like restaurant specials, but they can be prepared in under one hour - perfect for easy weeknight meals for a family of any size with busy schedules.
S8.E6 ∙ But First, Brunch
Bring your loved ones together over a delicious brunch spread made with love. Whether you're celebrating a major milestone or simply toasting to the weekend, Frankie's money-saving menu will have guests buzzing for more. Mushroom Spinach Quiche, Crispy Potato Rosti and Raspberry Lemon Swirly Buns.
S8.E7 ∙ Saved by the Bowl
When you're craving a quick nutritious meal, say no more to throwing cash down the gutter for overpriced takeout bowls. Frankie recreates three restaurant favorites for a fraction of the cost, sparing your bank account without sacrificing flavor.
S8.E9 ∙ Picnic Lunches
It's field trip day, and Frankie shows off his best handheld lunches perfect for leisurely days at the park, the beach or the pool. These sturdy meals are made to travel and only get better with time. Tuna Nicoise Sandwich, Veggie Muffaletta, Spam Musubi.
S8.E10 ∙ Too Hot to Cook
When the temps are soaring and turning on your stove or oven is not even an option, Frankie's no cook meals will blow you away. Enjoy refreshing, nourishing dishes that will help keep you cool all summer long. Chilled Cucumber Avocado Soup, Frankie's Green Goddess Chopped Salad, Watermelon Lime Granita.
S9.E1 ∙ Christmas in July
It's July on the calendar but Christmas in our hearts. Frankie whips up three summertime twists on Christmas themed dishes and serves up tips and tricks for celebrating the most wonderful time of year in July. Pesto Twist Tree, Summer Herb Cheeseball with Christmas Caponata, Peppermint Ice Cream Cone Cake.
S9.E2 ∙ We Knead Pizza
Cancel the pizza delivery, it's time to save money and build your pies from scratch. With three different pizza styles, you're bound to find one that satisfies your craving without digging into your wallet. New York Style Pizza, Chicago Deep Dish Pizza, Frankie's Focaccia Pizza.
