Struggle Meals
Struggle Meals

Struggle Meals

2018 9 Seasons 100 Episodes ⭐ 0.0 Reality

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.

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.

Seasons & Episodes

EP 1

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,

EP 2

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

EP 3

Wrap it Up!

Frankie shares his method for preparing portable wraps at home for quick and easy lunches.

EP 4

Bacon My Heart

Versatility is important, and these three items - bacon, eggs, and a whole chicken - will feed you a plethora of delicio

EP 5

Instant Gratification

Carbs are loved the world over. Endlessly versatile, cheap, and super filling - Frankie shares his tricks for pasta, piz

EP 6

Cauliflower's Star Power

Frankie highlights the versatility of cauliflower, as well as roasts a big chuck roast that stretches over three dishes.

EP 7

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

EP 8

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 r

EP 9

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

EP 10

Save Dough, Make Dough

Prepping meals at home is cheaper and way more nutritious. Frankie makes portable breakfasts for the work week and foray

EP 11

Going with the Grain

Frankie teaches you how to prep ingredients to make delicious, healthy meals for a fraction of the time and cost.

EP 12

Fancy Free

Going to the movies is expensive. Frankie shows us how to make a delicious TV dinner, popcorn, and dessert, for less tha

EP 13

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

EP 14

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 op

EP 15

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 surpr

EP 16

Potatoes Gonna Potate

Who knew potatoes are not only affordable, but nutrient rich? Frankie is cookin' up 3 potato dishes that are guaranteed

EP 1

An Eggplant Extravaganza

Eggplant: A fruit you didn't know was a fruit. Often underrated and overlooked, Frankie shows us how to shop for and coo

EP 2

Meat: More Bang For Your Buck

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

EP 3

Plant-Based Budget Meals

Frankie busts the myth that eating plant-based is expensive. Preparing these good-for-you meals is all about eating seas

EP 4

The Weekly Struggle Budget

Frankie figured out the weekly budget grocery equation so you don't have to. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner for seven days

EP 5

Cheesin'

Cheese can be really expensive. Frankie teaches us how to cook with more affordable cheese swaps than what might normall

EP 6

Turn Up For Tomatoes

Tomatoes are one of the most produced fruits, especially when in season. Frankie teaches us how to prepare them fresh in

EP 7

Date Night

Date night doesn't have to be at an over-priced restaurant. Frankie prepares an affordable and delicious sushi date nigh

EP 8

Lunches for Work

A big way to save money on a struggle budget is to prepare homemade lunches for work. Frankie shows us how to make five

EP 9

Frankie & Flour

Flour has the super power to transform into an endless variety of meals, and a little goes a long way. Frankie teaches u

EP 10

Hotdishes

You say hotdishes, Frankie says casserole. Either way, these one-pot hotdishes are an affordable way to feed a group of

EP 1

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-favor

EP 2

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.

EP 3

Valentine's Day

Frankie prepares a Valentine's Day dinner for under $15 with a bistro-style theme to up the romance.

EP 4

Beans Beans Beans

Dried beans are the most affordable and healthy way to prepare them, with very little effort to boot. Frankie will teach

EP 5

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-t

EP 6

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

EP 7

No Kitchen No Problem

Frankie teaches us a few easy and inventive "no-kitchen" hacks for delicious meals. Just because you're dorm living, roa

EP 8

Spring Fling

Spring is in the air which means a whole new world opens up in the produce department, especially all the greens. Franki

EP 9

Spice Is Nice

Flavor, flavor, flavor. Frankie shows us the way around the spice cabinet. You know that area in your pantry that collec

EP 10

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 t

EP 11

Holiday Flavors

The holiday season looks different this year, so why not mix things up and celebrate classic flavors in new and unexpect

EP 12

Less Stress Holidays

The holidays are hectic enough, and with more planning, cooking and cleaning than usual, everyone wants to shop smart an

EP 1

Warm + Cozy Winter

Frankie gets cozy with recipes that bring warmth, flavor and joy to the kitchen on the coldest winter days.

EP 2

Eggscellent Techniques

Learn Frankie's techniques and tricks for making your favorite egg dishes just the way you like them.

EP 3

Vintage

Frankie shows us that vintage doesn't have to break the bank with these classic, oldie-but-goodie recipes.

EP 4

Struggle Soup

Follow Frankie's blueprint for building a hit soup, and you'll be singing for seconds all year round.

EP 5

Struggle Sandwich

Every layer counts as Frankie ups the ante on classic sandwiches, with homemade twists that steal the show.

EP 6

Cabbage, Cabbage, Cabbage

Cabbage has never been cooler than right now, proving to be the utility ingredient we never knew we needed.

EP 7

Mayo: The Secret Ingredient

Frankie unlocks mayo's secret powers that take your recipes to the next level, all without leaving a trace.

EP 8

Crunchy

There's nothing like a satisfying crunch to up your recipe game; bonus points for not bursting your budget.

EP 9

A Cruciferous Delicious Time

No veggie family stands the test of time like the cruciferous family, and its hearty meals will win you over

EP 10

5-Ingredient Recipes

Less is more when it comes to simple weeknight meals that focus on maximum flavor and minimal ingredients.

EP 1

Summer BBQ

Summer is coming to a close but there's still a bounty of fresh, seasonal produce to enjoy. Celebrate with Frankie as he

EP 2

Bring Your Own Lunch

Frankie is all about BYOL - bring your own lunch. It's not only good for your wallet, it's good for your health. Skip th

EP 3

Salad Salad Salad

Amp up your salad game with a little mixing and matching, from light and leafy greens to crisp and hearty toppings, and

EP 4

How Do You Like Them Apples

Apples aren't just good for keeping the doctor away. Frankie demonstrates how to make the most of this beloved, everyday

EP 5

Super Squash

Never underestimate the power of squash: they're affordable, abundant and they come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and te

EP 6

Spooktacular Tricks and Treats

Don't let the line of trick-or-treaters or the candy corn overload scare you out of the kitchen this Halloween. Frankie'

EP 7

Let's Play Ball

Batter up! Fall ball is heating up, and Frankie's offering us his favorite stadium snacks, without those major league pr

EP 8

The Future is Flavor

Frankie harnesses the power of time to transform simple ingredients into flavorful goods that'll stick around for a long

EP 9

Pantry Pasta

Keep your pantry stocked with a few basic staples, and you'll always have ingredients on hand for dinner, especially for

EP 10

Potato Variety Show

Today, Frankie's slicing, mashing and smashing his way through the spud species, an essential staple for any Struggle ki

EP 1

Citrus Sunshine

Winter citrus is here to brighten up your day. Frankie is fixing up some light, zesty, and affordable recipes to add a l

EP 2

Suppertime Superstar

Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight or a special occasion, Frankie shared delicious and hearty dishes that w

EP 3

A Leftover Glowup

Give last week’s leftovers the makeover they deserve with Frankie’s recipes for tasty, waste-reducing meals that tra

EP 4

Romantic Steakhouse Dinner

Give your wallet a break by taking the fine-dining experience straight to the comfort of your home. From tender, juicy s

EP 5

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 hi

EP 6

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 whippin

EP 7

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

EP 8

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 p

EP 9

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 delig

EP 10

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

EP 1

Pizza My Heart

On this special delivery episode of Struggle Meals, Frankie explores three ways to make delicious pizzas, and shares cle

EP 2

French Bistro

Bonsoir, indeed! Join Frankie as he cooks up elegant but achievable French classics that will transport you to an evenin

EP 3

Thanksgiving Dinner

Thanksgiving dinner will be a breeze this year thanks to Frankie's struggle tips for a delicious holiday meal. From a si

EP 4

Meatless Mains

Start a new tradition at the dinner table this year with a meat free spin on your favorite main courses. Learn new tips

EP 5

Spice Spice Baby

Frankie kicks it up a notch in the Struggle Kitchen with flavor-packed, spicy recipes, and some hot tips for adding laye

EP 6

Easy Meals For A Crowd

Finicky family coming to town? Fear not, for Frankie's sharing all the struggle tips and tricks to keep the stress level

EP 7

Holiday Sweet Treats

'Tis the jolly season of giving, but this year, there will be no more struggles in making your list and checking it twic

EP 8

Homemade for the Holidays

There's no better way to spread some holiday spirit than at the dinner table with these decadent, festive recipes that c

EP 9

Chinese Take Out

With the help of a friend, Frankie serves up easy and delicious recipes based on take out favorites everyone will enjoy

EP 10

New Years Party

Wow your party guests this New Years Eve by serving these fancy but frugal dishes to ring in the year right. From appeti

EP 1

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 e

EP 2

Homemade-ish

Last minute company leaving you in a pinch? Frankie has you covered with these easy recipes featuring store bought stapl

EP 3

Eat Your Greens

Going green isn't just a trend; it's a no-brainer! When the veggies are in season and the prices are at their lowest, Fr

EP 4

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: w

EP 5

Struggle Splurge

The key to treating yourself on a budget is to keep it simple: these elegant dinners taste like restaurant specials, but

EP 6

But First, Brunch

Bring your loved ones together over a delicious brunch spread made with love. Whether you're celebrating a major milesto

EP 7

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!

EP 8

Summer Cookout

Soak up summer with the ultimate outdoor cookout, featuring smashburgers, pasta salad and scrumptious sweets. These clas

EP 9

Picnic Lunches

It's field trip day, and Frankie shows off his best handheld lunches perfect for leisurely days at the park, the beach o

EP 10

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 yo

EP 1

Christmas In July

It's July on the calendar but Christmas in our hearts. Frankie whips up three summertime twists on Christmas themed dish

EP 2

We Knead Pizza

Cancel the pizza delivery, it's time to save money and build your pies from scratch. With three different pizza styles,

EP 3

Oktoberfest

Join Frankie as he shares his budget friendly takes on Oktoberfest-inspired dishes, perfect for celebrating the fall sea

EP 4

Sweater Weather

The air is crisp and the leaves are changing, which means it's time to gather 'round the dinner table for hearty, season

EP 5

Happy Halloween

Boo! It's spooky season, and what better way to get into the spirit than with affordable, party-friendly Halloween dishe

EP 6

Whole Chicken 101

Join Frankie to learn the ins and outs of using every part of a chicken, as he demonstrates how to maximize the value an

EP 7

Frankie's Italian Faves

Everyone knows Frankie can't live without pasta, but this week he shares his favorite Italian recipes that don't require

EP 8

Meals Under $7

At a loss when your pantry is empty? With these recipes, you can walk into any grocery store with only $7 and walk out w

EP 9

Grubby Good Food

Send your taste buds on a first class food tour without even leaving the Struggle kitchen! Frankie whips up his favorite

EP 10

Thanksgiving Leftovers

Give Thanksgiving leftovers a whole new meaning this year. Frankie knows just the trick for transforming turkey day dish

EP 11

Breakfast for Dinner

It's dinnertime and breakfast is on the menu this week. These affordable breakfast specials are hearty enough for dinner

EP 12

100th Episode

Frankie celebrates the 100th episode of Struggle Meals with a look back on memorable moments, favorite recipes, bloopers

Popular Cast

Frankie Celenza
Frankie Celenza
Self - Presenter