Are you tired of spending too much on dinner? Or just want some simple ideas? I got you covered! Here are 31 easy dinners on a budget.
These are recipes that won’t break the bank. These meals are perfect for families, college students, or anyone looking to save some cash. You don’t need fancy ingredients to make tasty food. Most of these recipes use stuff you can find at any grocery store. Some only need a handful of ingredients!
Ground beef and chicken breast are great for cheap meals. But don’t forget about ground turkey and pork chops too! They can be just as yummy and budget-friendly.
Looking for healthy meals? We’ve got those too.
Got an Instant Pot? It’s a great way to make quick, easy meals. No Instant Pot? No problem! Many of these recipes use just one pan.
Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for easy dinners. Use it in chicken noodle soup or on top of salads.
From sloppy joes to easy curry, these recipes have such great depth of flavor. Your entire family will love them! So grab your apron and let’s get cooking. Your wallet (and your taste buds) will thank you!
31 Easy Quick Dinners on a Budget
1. Greek-style pasta salad with feta cheese
This Greek-style pasta salad is a refreshing and budget-friendly meal. It combines tangy feta cheese with crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing for a flavorful dish.
Ingredients and Cost:
Pasta: $1.00
Feta cheese: $2.00
Vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions): $3.00
This salad is easy to prepare in advance and can be customized with whatever vegetables you have on hand. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light dinner. The combination of pasta and vegetables makes it filling, while the feta adds a rich, tangy flavor.
2. Quick and easy pantry vegetarian chili
This hearty chili is a great way to use up pantry staples and create a filling meal on a budget.
Ingredients and Cost:
Canned beans: $2.00
Canned tomatoes: $1.50
Onions and garlic: $1.00
Chili powder and cumin: $0.50
Vegetable broth: $1.00
Total: $6.00
This chili is easy to customize with whatever canned goods you have on hand. It’s perfect for cold nights or when you need to feed a crowd on a budget. Serve with cornbread or over rice to make it even more filling.
3. Middle Eastern lentil and rice mujadara
This simple yet flavorful dish is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and is incredibly economical to make.
Ingredients and Cost:
Lentils: $1.00
Rice: $0.75
Onions: $1.00
Olive oil: $0.50
Spices (cumin, salt, pepper): $0.25
Total: $3.50
The caramelized onions give this dish a rich, sweet flavor that contrasts beautifully with the earthy lentils and rice. It’s filling, nutritious, and easy to make in large batches for leftovers.
The spicy peanut butter noodle stir-fry is a budget-friendly gem. It combines Thai-inspired flavors with creamy, spicy peanut sauce. Toss in noodles and fresh veggies for a simple, mouthwatering dinner. This dish is perfect for easy dinner ideas, saving both time and money. Cook everything in a single skillet, cutting the total time to just 20 minutes.
Ingredients and Cost:
Noodles: $1.50
Peanut butter: $1.00
Soy sauce and lime juice: $0.50
Vegetables: $2.00
Garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes: $0.50
Total: $5.50
You can use any type of noodle and whatever vegetables you have on hand. The peanut sauce is creamy, spicy, and satisfying, making this a filling meal for a fraction of the cost of takeout.
5. Versatile savory pancakes with customizable toppings
Who knew savory pancakes could be this adaptable? Perfect for easy quick dinners on a budget, they come alive with a variety of toppings. Layer them with sautéed mushrooms, cheese, or even crispy bacon. The real magic is in the customization—swap ingredients to match what’s in your pantry. Think of it as a weekday hack for delicious, affordable meals.
These savory pancakes are a versatile and budget-friendly meal that can be customized with various toppings.
These pancakes can be made with basic pantry staples and topped with whatever you have on hand. They’re quick to prepare and can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, making them a flexible option for budget-conscious meals.
6. Cuban-style rice and black beans bowl
A Cuban-inspired bowl of rice and black beans offers easy quick dinners on a budget. This dish is hearty and packed with flavor. Cook rice, add black beans, garlic, and cumin for a savory touch. Top with chopped onions and a squeeze of lime. It’s like a taste of home, satisfying and warm. The total time is just 25 minutes.
Ingredients and Cost:
Rice: $1.00
Black beans: $1.00
Onions and garlic: $1.00
Spices (cumin, bay leaf): $0.50
Olive oil: $0.50
Total: $4.00
The combination of rice and beans provides a complete protein, making this a nutritious vegetarian meal. It’s simple to prepare and can be easily customized with additional toppings if desired.
7. Hearty lentil and carrot soup recipe
Brimming with flavor, try this rich soup featuring lentils and carrots for easy quick dinners on a budget. A comforting bowl that feels like a taste of home, it’s loaded with nutrients and warmth. Toss in onions, garlic, and spices to elevate the taste. Total time is just 40 minutes, giving you a savory meal in a flash.
Ingredients and Cost:
Lentils: $1.00
Carrots: $1.00
Onions and garlic: $1.00
Vegetable broth: $1.00
Spices (cumin, coriander): $0.50
Lemon juice: $0.25
Total: $4.75
The lentils make this soup filling, while the carrots add sweetness and color. It’s perfect for batch cooking and freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep on a budget.
8. Classic tuna salad on toasted bread
A timeless favorite, tuna salad on toasted bread is a star among easy quick dinners on a budget. Mix canned tuna with mayo, relish, and a squeeze of lemon juice for zing. Spread on freshly toasted bread, add lettuce for crunch, and enjoy. This meal is a taste of home, quick to prepare with minimal ingredients.
Ingredients and Cost:
Canned tuna: $1.50
Mayonnaise: $0.50
Celery and onion: $1.00
Bread: $1.00
Total: $4.00
You can add extras like pickles or apples for more flavor and crunch. It’s a great option for a quick lunch or light dinner that’s both satisfying and affordable.
9. Creamy tomato and bacon pasta dinner
This Creamy Tomato Bacon Pasta is a budget-friendly dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant. It’s a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients and Cost:
Pasta: $0.98
Diced Tomatoes: $0.88
Alfredo Sauce: $1.74
Bacon Bits: $1.70
Total: $5.30
The combination of creamy Alfredo sauce, tangy tomatoes, and savory bacon creates a rich and flavorful pasta dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy on the wallet and quick to prepare.
10. Creamy chicken and rice mushroom casserole
Indulge in a luscious chicken and rice dish brimming with mushrooms. Perfect for easy quick dinners on a budget, this creamy casserole requires minimal ingredients and time. Toss chicken, mushrooms, and rice into a baking dish, pour over a creamy sauce, and bake. The result? A scrumptious, warming meal that feels like a hug from home.
Ingredients and Cost:
Rice: $1.00
Chicken: $3.00
Mushrooms: $2.00
Cream of mushroom soup: $1.50
Onion and garlic: $1.00
Total: $8.50
You can use leftover or rotisserie chicken to make this even more budget-friendly. It’s creamy, satisfying, and reheats well for leftovers, making it a great value meal.
11. Traditional British beef cottage pie casserole
Imagine a traditional casserole that’s a breeze to whip up and won’t break the bank. With hearty layers of seasoned beef and creamy mashed potatoes, this cozy dish promises a taste of home. Total time spent? Just under an hour! Grab your ingredients, including veggies and beef, and let the oven do its magic.
Ingredients and Cost:
Ground beef: $4.00
Potatoes: $2.00
Mixed vegetables: $2.00
Beef broth: $1.00
Worcestershire sauce: $0.50
Total: $9.50
The mashed potato topping gets crispy in the oven, contrasting nicely with the savory beef and vegetable filling underneath. This dish is filling and comforting, perfect for colder months.
12. Comforting chicken and dumplings stew recipe
Comforting chicken and dumplings stew offers a taste of home, with minimal ingredients needed. It’s perfect for easy quick dinners on a budget. Start by simmering chicken, carrots, and celery. Whip up simple dumplings using flour, milk, and baking powder. Drop dumplings into the bubbling stew and watch them fluff up. Total time is less than an hour, creating a hearty meal.
This Southern comfort food classic is filling and budget-friendly.
Ingredients and Cost:
Chicken: $3.00
Flour: $0.50
Milk: $1.00
Chicken broth: $1.00
Vegetables (carrots, celery, onions): $2.00
Total: $7.50
The dumplings cook right in the stew, soaking up the flavorful broth. It’s a one-pot meal that’s perfect for cold nights and provides plenty of leftovers for the price.
13. Easy baked chicken Parmesan with pasta
When craving a simple yet delicious meal, baked chicken Parmesan paired with pasta hits the spot. This dish, a gem among easy quick dinners on a budget, requires few ingredients yet delivers a wow factor. Coat chicken in breadcrumbs, bake until golden, and top with marinara sauce and cheese. Pair with pasta for a satisfying meal. With minimal total time invested, this cheap dinner option is a taste of home.
This Italian-American favorite is simplified for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients and Cost:
Chicken breasts: $4.00
Breadcrumbs: $0.50
Parmesan cheese: $2.00
Marinara sauce: $2.00
Pasta: $1.00
Total: $9.50
By baking instead of frying the chicken, you save on oil and make the dish a bit healthier. Serve over pasta for a filling meal that feels indulgent without the high cost.
14. Loaded nachos with leftover meat toppings
Transform leftover meats into loaded nachos, creating easy quick dinners on a budget. Layer chips with shredded chicken, beef, or pork. Sprinkle with cheese, beans, and jalapeños. Bake until bubbly, adding fresh toppings like salsa or avocado.
Total time? Just 20 minutes! Perfect for a taste of home that’s cheap yet satisfying.
This fun dish is a great way to use up leftover meat and stretch it into another meal.
Ingredients and Cost:
Tortilla chips: $2.00
Leftover meat: $2.00
Cheese: $2.00
Beans: $1.00
Salsa: $1.50
Total: $8.50
You can add any toppings you like, such as jalapenos, sour cream, or guacamole. It’s perfect for a casual dinner or game day snack that feeds a crowd without breaking the bank.
15. Creamy mushroom ramen noodle soup bowl
Imagine a cozy bowl of creamy mushroom ramen noodle soup. It’s a gem among easy quick dinners on a budget. Sauté mushrooms with garlic, then simmer in broth. Add noodles and a splash of cream for richness. Top with scallions and a dash of soy sauce. Total time? Just 20 minutes! This cheap dinner feels like a taste of home.
This elevated version of instant ramen is comforting and economical.
Ingredients and Cost:
Ramen noodles: $1.00
Mushrooms: $2.00
Cream: $1.00
Garlic: $0.25
Green onions: $0.50
Total: $4.75
The addition of fresh mushrooms and a splash of cream turns simple ramen into a more satisfying meal. It’s a quick and easy dinner option that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Craving a plant-based twist on a classic? Dive into this chickpea “chicken” salad for a quick, budget-friendly dinner. Mash chickpeas, mix with vegan mayo, diced celery, and a squeeze of lemon. Add spices for a flavor kick. Slap it on bread, and voilà! It’s a taste of home in every bite. Total time? Just 15 minutes!
This plant-based version of chicken salad is budget-friendly and packed with protein.
Ingredients and Cost:
Chickpeas: $1.00
Vegan mayonnaise: $2.00
Celery and onion: $1.00
Herbs: $0.50
Total: $4.50
Mash the chickpeas for a texture similar to shredded chicken. Serve on bread or over a bed of lettuce for a light meal that’s both affordable and nutritious.
17. Easy cheese-stuffed manicotti pasta bake recipe
Craving a cheesy delight? This mouthwatering cheese-stuffed manicotti is a star among easy quick dinners on a budget. Picture tender pasta tubes brimming with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
Layered with marinara sauce, it bakes to bubbly perfection. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a family favorite. Serve with a crisp green salad for a complete meal. A taste of home that’s easy on the wallet! Perfect for any weeknight craving.
This baked pasta dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly affordable.
Ingredients and Cost:
Manicotti pasta: $2.00
Ricotta cheese: $3.00
Mozzarella: $2.00
Spinach: $1.50
Marinara sauce: $2.00
Total: $10.50
You can add ground beef or sausage if you like, but it’s satisfying even without meat. This dish feels special but is still budget-friendly, especially when feeding a group.
18. Spicy black bean and cheese quesadillas
Spicy black bean quesadilla lovers, this one’s a flavor fiesta! Combine canned black beans, shredded cheese, and a hint of hot sauce between tortillas. Cook on a skillet until crispy, and your easy cheap dinner is ready. Perfect for those tight on time and cash. Just 15 minutes, and you’ll savor a taste of home.
These quesadillas are a quick, easy, and affordable meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients and Cost:
Tortillas: $2.00
Black beans: $1.00
Cheese: $2.00
Spices: $0.50
Salsa: $1.50
Total: $7.00
You can add any additional vegetables you have on hand. Serve with sour cream or guacamole for extra flavor. This meal is filling and can easily be scaled up to feed more people.
19. Italian pasta puttanesca with olives and anchovies
Picture a quick, budget-friendly meal with robust flavors—pasta with olives and anchovies. This dish is among the easy dinner ideas that bring the taste of home right to your table. With just a few ingredients, this cheap dinner comes together in under 30 minutes. Channel your inner Italian chef and let the bold flavors dance on your tongue. Top with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for pure delight!
This bold Italian pasta dish is flavorful and economical.
Ingredients and Cost:
Pasta: $1.00
Canned tomatoes: $1.50
Olives: $2.00
Anchovies: $2.00
Garlic and red pepper flakes: $0.50
Total: $7.00
The strong flavors mean a little goes a long way. It’s a great pantry meal for when you’re running low on fresh ingredients but still want a tasty, satisfying dinner.
20. New Orleans-style easy red beans and rice
Savoring the vibrant taste of New Orleans, this easy red beans and rice dish is a star among easy quick dinners on a budget. With pantry staples like red beans, rice, and a touch of seasoning, you’re looking at a fulfilling meal without breaking the bank. In under 30 minutes, this classic comes alive with smoky sausage flavors.
This classic Southern dish is filling and budget-friendly.
Ingredients and Cost:
Red beans: $1.00
Rice: $1.00
Onions, celery, bell pepper: $1.50
Garlic: $0.25
Spices: $0.50
Sausage (optional): $3.00
Total: $7.25
You can add sausage if you like, but it’s flavorful even without meat. The beans and rice together form a complete protein, making this a nutritious and affordable meal that’s perfect for feeding a family or batch cooking.
21. Loaded baked potatoes with various toppings
Imagine a dinner that’s comforting and affordable—baked potatoes loaded with toppings. They are an ideal choice for easy quick dinners on a budget. Start by baking the potatoes until tender. Then, pile on toppings like cheese, sour cream, chives, or even leftover chicken. The options are endless, and each variation brings a new taste of home.
Baked potatoes are an affordable base for a filling meal.
Ingredients and Cost:
Potatoes: $2.00
Cheese: $1.50
Sour cream: $1.00
Bacon bits: $1.50
Green onions: $0.50
Total: $6.50
You can customize the toppings based on what you have available. Add leftover chili or vegetables to make it even more substantial. This versatile meal can be adjusted to suit various tastes and budgets.
22. Indian-inspired cauliflower and potato aloo gobi
Cauliflower and potato aloo gobi is a comforting dish. It’s a top pick for easy quick dinners on a budget. Toss cauliflower and potatoes with spices. Cook until tender. This meal is a taste of home that satisfies without straining your wallet. Plus, it pairs beautifully with rice or naan. Imagine a vibrant, aromatic dish that warms your heart.
This vegetarian Indian dish is flavorful and budget-friendly.
Ingredients and Cost:
Cauliflower: $2.00
Potatoes: $1.00
Onions: $0.50
Tomatoes: $1.00
Ginger, garlic, and spices: $1.00
Total: $5.50
Serve with rice or flatbread for a complete meal. The spices make this dish exciting without breaking the bank, offering a taste of Indian cuisine at home for less.
23. Southern-style grits topped with canned soup
Grits with a twist: enjoy Southern-style grits topped with your favorite canned soup. This combo is a real lifesaver for easy quick dinners on a budget. Cook grits as usual, then pour over a hearty canned chicken soup or veggie blend. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl. Best part? This comforting meal is ready in no time, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you crave a taste of home without the fuss.
This simple Southern dish is comforting and very economical.
Ingredients and Cost:
Grits: $1.00
Canned soup (like cheese or mushroom): $1.50
Butter: $0.50
Total: $3.00
The creamy grits pair well with the savory soup topping. It’s a quick and easy meal for any time of day, offering comfort food on a tight budget.
24. Classic grilled cheese and tomato soup combo
Who doesn’t love gooey grilled cheese paired with a heartwarming tomato soup? This comforting duo tops the list of easy quick dinners on a budget. Whip up this classic in a short total time using pantry staples. The melted cheese and tangy soup create a symphony of flavors.
This classic combination is comforting and affordable.
Ingredients and Cost:
Bread: $1.00
Cheese: $2.00
Canned tomato soup: $1.50
Total: $4.50
You can use any type of cheese you have on hand. The crispy, gooey sandwich is perfect for dipping in the warm soup, making for a satisfying meal that’s easy on the wallet.
25. Foraged wild greens and herbs salad
Wild greens and herbs tossed together make a vibrant, fresh salad. An ideal choice for easy quick dinners on a budget, this salad combines foraged goodies like dandelions, sorrel, and mint. A squeeze of lemon and olive oil enhance the natural flavors, making it a perfect, delicious accompaniment to any meal. Ideal for those seeking a cheap dinner solution.
If you have access to safe foraging areas, this salad can be incredibly economical.
Ingredients and Cost:
Foraged greens (like dandelion or lamb’s quarters):
Vinaigrette ingredients: $1.00
Total: $1.00
Always ensure you’re foraging safely and legally. This salad is a great way to add fresh, nutritious greens to your diet for almost no cost, though it does require some time and knowledge.
26. Indian-spiced lentils with spinach curry
Indian-spiced lentils paired with spinach curry offer a flavorful yet affordable meal. This dish is a perfect example of easy quick dinners on a budget, requiring minimal ingredients. Lentils are simmered with rich spices, creating a comforting aroma that fills the kitchen. Adding fresh spinach boosts nutrition and color. Serve with rice or naan for a complete experience.
This vegetarian curry is packed with flavor and nutrients while being budget-friendly.
Ingredients and Cost:
Lentils: $1.00
Spinach: $2.00
Onions, garlic, ginger: $1.00
Curry spices: $1.00
Tomatoes: $1.50
Total: $6.50
Serve over rice for a filling meal. The combination of lentils and spinach provides plenty of protein and iron, making this a nutritious and affordable option.
27. Versatile stuffed bell peppers with leftovers
Repurposing leftovers? Stuffed bell peppers are your go-to solution. Fill them with yesterday’s rice or chicken for a cheap dinner that’s both satisfying and delightful. Add cheese for a gooey surprise or mix in herbs for freshness.
They’re quick, easy, and won’t break the bank. Enjoy these easy quick dinners on a budget without losing flavor or creativity! This recipe is a great way to use up leftover rice, vegetables, or meat.
Ingredients and Cost:
Bell peppers: $3.00
Rice: $0.50
Vegetables: $1.00
Cheese: $1.50
Tomato sauce: $1.00
Total: $7.00
You can customize the filling based on what you have available. It’s a great way to transform leftovers into a new meal, reducing food waste and saving money.
28. Easy Spanish rice and bean soup
This Spanish Rice Soup is one of the most affordable recipes, costing just over three dollars. It’s a flavorful and filling meal that can easily feed a family. With a few extra dollars, you can add toppings like sour cream, cheese, avocado, lime, or fresh herbs to make it even more delicious.
Ingredients and Cost:
Black Beans: $0.78
Canned Corn: $0.50
Knorr Rice Sides Spanish Rice: $1.26
Frozen Onions and Peppers: $1.38
Total: $3.92
This soup is quick to prepare and uses mostly pantry staples, making it perfect for those nights when you need a cheap and easy dinner. The combination of rice, beans, and vegetables creates a hearty and satisfying meal that’s both budget-friendly and nutritious.
We all think to grab ramen noodles when our wallets are getting thin, but this Ramen Noodle Stir Fry elevates the humble instant noodle into a flavorful and delicious meal. It’s a budget-friendly dish that won’t remind you of your college days.
Ingredients and Cost:
Stir-Fry Vegetables: $2.48
3 Packages Ramen Noodles: $1.08 each
Total: $3.56
This stir fry is a great way to add more vegetables to your diet while keeping costs low. The ramen noodles provide a satisfying base, while the vegetables add nutrition and flavor. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
30. Vegetarian black bean enchilada layered casserole
Picture layers of enchiladas with black beans, cheese, and tasty tomato sauce. This casserole shines as one of the easy quick dinners on a budget, delivering both flavor and affordability. Just imagine the bubbling cheese and hearty beans creating a taste of home. Sneak in some veggies if you like. This cheap dinner pairs beautifully with a light salad or rice.
This Mexican-inspired casserole is a great meatless option that’s still protein-packed.
Ingredients and Cost:
Black beans: $1.00
Tortillas: $2.00
Enchilada sauce: $2.00
Cheese: $2.00 Corn: $1.00
Total: $8.00
Layer everything like a lasagna for easy serving. It’s great for feeding a crowd on a budget and provides a tasty alternative to meat-based dishes.
31. White bean and spinach soup bowl
A comforting white bean and spinach soup bowl is the epitome of easy quick dinners on a budget. Picture a warm bowl filled with creamy beans and vibrant spinach, seasoned with garlic and herbs. You can whip up this cheap dinner with pantry staples in just 20 minutes. Enhance its flavor by adding leftover chicken or a sprinkle of cheese.
This nutritious soup is quick to make and easy on the wallet.
Ingredients and Cost:
White beans: $1.00
Spinach: $2.00
Onions and garlic: $1.00
Vegetable broth: $1.00
Total: $5.00
The beans make this soup creamy and filling. It’s a great way to incorporate more leafy greens into your diet without spending much.
Conclusion
Feeding the family on a tight budget doesn’t mean boring meals. These 31 cheap dinner ideas offer tasty solutions that save time and money. Plus, they keep things exciting at the dinner table.
From Greek-style pasta salads to spicy Thai-inspired noodles, there’s an easy meal for everyone. Many of these favorite recipes use pantry staples or leftovers, making the best use of what you already have at home.
Why not try a new delicious dinner recipe tonight? Cooking can be fun and stress-free. These easy family dinners have such great depth of flavor, you won’t believe they’re budget-friendly.
Looking for comfort food classics? We’ve got those too. Craving a healthy dinner? No problem! These recipes offer creative ways to make nutritious meals without breaking the bank.
Share your favorites or add your own twists. The perfect recipe is the one that works for you! Your kitchen, your rules. Enjoy these great meals, and keep your budget intact. With these cheap dinner ideas, you’ll find the best ways to make every dinner a winner.
