Be sure to start with small goals. I suggest buying a rice cooker. It's not expensive, it saves time, and the rice will come out perfect every time. Additionally if you don't know how to cook, start simple. I find you can cook a starch, a meat and a canned vegetable, and bam: you have a meal (or three). A little salt or sauce and it's palatable. Then you try some seasonings. Then you can work up to fresh vegetables. Then you can gain the confidence to try recipes again. Eating cheaply is easy with just a little planning and effort. Experiment a little at a time, and don't jump to a complicated recipe before you've mastered basic cooking techniques.

If you fail to prepare, then prepare to fail. Make a list of recipes along with times and ingredients needed. Figure out how long the prep will take and allow time for defrosting and mistakes. Don't rush yourself.

Did you forget to read the recipe and preparation instructions?