29 Deliciously Affordable Recipes That Will Have You Laughing At Takeout

ByMandy

Fast food isn’t always fast, and restaurant meals don’t always hit the spot. With 29 easy and affordable dishes, dinner gets made without the wait or the extra cost. A few simple changes can turn any home kitchen into the best place to eat. Once homemade is part of the routine, takeout will start to look like a backup plan.

A slice of chicken pot pie being lifted, showing its creamy filling with chunks of chicken and vegetables, garnished with thyme.
Chicken Pot Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

A baked potato topped with shredded barbecue chicken, sour cream, and chopped herbs on a white plate.
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Imagine a delicious potato stuffed with tangy BBQ chicken. This BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes recipe turns simple potatoes into a pleasing and filling dish. It’s an easy recipe that’s good for game days or a quick dinner. Skip takeout and enjoy a home-cooked meal that’s both tasty and cost-effective.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

Penne Alla Vodka

Two bowls of penne alla vodka, with Parmesan by the side.
Penne Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Grab a bowl of creamy Penne Alla Vodka for a comforting and wallet-conscious meal. This pasta dish is rich in texture and flavor, offering the perfect balance of tangy and smooth. It’s a great alternative to pricey restaurant versions and easy to whip up on a busy night. Perfect for those who love hearty, Italian-inspired food.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Baked rice casserole with melted cheese on top, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Preparing a hearty Chicken and Rice Casserole offers comfort at a fraction of the takeout cost. This one-pan meal combines tender chicken with rice for a nourishing and simple dinner option. You can easily make it with ingredients in your pantry. Ideal for a family-friendly dinner without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Casserole

Garlic Knots

Close-up view of freshly baked garlic knots with parsley and seasoning, resting on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Garlic Knots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Transform any meal into a treat with Garlic Knots. These soft, bite-sized breads are perfect for dipping or enjoying on their own. They add a special touch to any dinner without the restaurant price tag. Fresh from the oven, they beat anything you’ll get for takeout.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Baked Beef Tacos

Two tacos with beef, diced tomatoes, jalapeño slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro on a white plate.
Baked Beef Tacos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Baked Beef Tacos recipe makes taco night even better and cheaper. The beef filling is flavorful and delicious, proving that you don’t need a food truck to enjoy this favorite. Piled high with your favorite toppings, these tacos are a win. Great for dinner parties or a casual weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

Easy Flatbread Pizza

Two slices of pizza with tomatoes and herbs.
Easy Flatbread Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Skip ordering in with Easy Flatbread Pizza. This recipe lets you enjoy custom pizzas without the long delivery wait. Top with your favorites and pop it in the oven for a quick, delicious meal. Ideal for those nights when you want something fast but special.
Get the Recipe: Easy Flatbread Pizza

Ravioli Casserole

Close-up of a baked dish with ravioli, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheese on top.
Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Craving Italian? Try the Ravioli Casserole, which layers ravioli with cheese and sauce for a deeply comforting dish. It’s like lasagna but easier to make and just as fulfilling. Perfect for feeding a crowd or freezing leftovers. A restaurant-quality meal made simply and economically at home.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

White Bean Soup

A bowl of hearty white bean soup topped with melted cheese and a slice of toasted bread, garnished with fresh parsley.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A bowl of White Bean Soup delivers warmth and comfort on a budget. It’s a great way to pack in nutrients and flavor without spending a fortune. This soup is versatile and can easily be adapted to what you have on hand. A wholesome option for chilly nights or a quick lunch.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For those busy mornings, Hashbrown Casserole is a lifesaver. This dish combines crispy potatoes with creamy fillings for a meal that energizes. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, it’s more delicious than standard takeout and kinder to your wallet. Plus, it feeds the whole family with ease.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Beef Chili

Two bowls of chili with kidney beans, meat, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and cilantro. A black spoon in one bowl. Additional chili flakes in a small dish nearby.
Beef Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Enjoy a bowl of hearty Beef Chili that warms you up and saves money. This dish is rich, spicy, and perfect for meal prep. It’s fantastic as leftovers and versatile enough to enjoy in various forms, from bowls to nacho toppings. You’ll feel the difference in price and quality compared to takeout.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

Chicken Noodle Casserole

Close-up of a chicken noodle casserole with a golden breadcrumb topping, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Want comfort food that doesn’t break the bank? Go for Chicken Noodle Casserole. It’s like your favorite chicken soup but heartier and more filling. Simple ingredients come together in a meal that satisfies without the fuss of takeout. Great for making ahead and enjoying throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Noodle Casserole

25 Minute Black Bean Burger

A black bean burger in a burger bap with relish oozing out over it.
25 Minute Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Save money and eat better with 25 Minute Black Bean Burger. These patties are hearty and flavorful, making a great alternative to fast food burgers. Quick to make, they’re perfect for a weeknight dinner. Add your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.
Get the Recipe: 25 Minute Black Bean Burger

Orange Chicken

A bowl of crispy tofu coated in sesame sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a bed of lettuce.
Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Enjoy sweet and savory Orange Chicken without the takeout price tag. This homemade version gives you all the flavor of your favorite restaurant dish but for way less. Simple to make, it’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. You won’t miss the takeout menu one bit.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Beef Enchilada Casserole

Close-up of a cheesy dish with melted cheese, beef, beans, and scattered cilantro leaves. Red onion slices are visible in the foreground.
Beef Enchilada Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Make dinner exciting with Beef Enchilada Casserole. Layers of beef, sauce, and cheese make it a crowd-pleaser that can beat any takeout option. This dish is great for making ahead and reheating, making it both economical and delicious. Feeding a hungry crowd has never been easier.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada Casserole

Pork Chops

Close-up of a cooked, seasoned pork chop topped with melted cheese and garnished with chopped parsley on a dark plate.
Pork Chops. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Skip the steakhouse with tasty and affordable Pork Chops. Easy to cook and wonderfully versatile, this dish turns an ordinary dinner into something special. Succulent and flavorful, these chops are a great alternative to pricier cuts of meat. Perfect for a quiet night in or entertaining guests.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Close-up of a chicken and dumpling casserole dish filled with vegetables, including peas, carrots, and chunks of biscuit mixed with tender pieces of meat in a creamy sauce.
Chicken and Dumpling Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Homey and comforting, Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is great for a filling meal. Combining tender chicken with fluffy dumplings, it’s a dish that screams home-cooked goodness. Affordable and straightforward to make, it’s a tasty alternative to takeout. Perfect for cozy family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Egg Drop Soup

A comforting bowl of egg drop soup elegantly garnished with fresh cilantro, vibrant chives, and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Egg Drop Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A warm bowl of Egg Drop Soup is both soothing and economical. This simple dish is perfect for when you want something light yet fulfilling. It’s much cheaper than ordering in and easy to make with basic kitchen items. Ideal for a quick and nutritious meal.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup

Hasselback Potatoes

Roasted hasselback potatoes on a baking sheet with parmesan.
Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Spice up your potato game with Hasselback Potatoes. These potatoes are sliced for maximum crispiness while staying tender inside. They make a great side dish or snack and are a fun addition to any meal. More exciting than plain baked potatoes without costing extra.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes

Egg Casserole

A casserole dish containing egg casserole.
Egg Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Start the morning off right with an Egg Casserole. Packed full of protein, it’s an easy way to feed a crowd without spending much. Simple to customize with what you have on hand, this casserole is versatile and comforting. A budget-friendly choice that beats cereal or takeout breakfast.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole

Baked Chicken Thighs

Roasted chicken thighs with sliced potatoes garnished with herbs.
Baked Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Discover a flavorful, cost-effective meal with Baked Chicken Thighs. Juicy and perfectly cooked, these thighs are a great alternative to pricier cuts of chicken. They’re easy to make and pair well with almost any side. Perfect for weeknight dinners without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Baked Chicken Thighs

Pasta Carbonara

A close-up image of spaghetti carbonara topped with grated cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
Pasta Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Classic Pasta Carbonara is a decadent dish that’s easy on the wallet. With creamy sauce and tender pasta, it feels indulgent without the high price. An excellent choice for a comforting meal at home. Skip the restaurant; this dish is just as delicious made in your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Quick, healthy, and affordable, Vegetable Stir Fry is a go-to for busy nights. Loaded with colorful veggies and simple sauces, it’s a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal. No need to order takeout when you can whip this up quickly. It’s perfect for clearing out the fridge and saving money.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Potato Soup

Close-up of a bowl of creamy soup topped with grilled bacon pieces and chopped parsley.
Potato Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A warm bowl of Potato Soup is comforting and budget-friendly. This simple dish is rich and creamy, perfect for a cold night without the cost of ordering out. It’s easy to make and can be dressed up or down depending on what you have. Perfect as a starter or a main meal.
Get the Recipe: Potato Soup

General Tso’s Chicken

Stir-fried chicken pieces in a spicy sauce, garnished with chopped green onions, served in a round metal dish on an orange placemat.
General Tso’s Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Homemade General Tso’s Chicken combines sweet and spicy without hurting your budget. This dish packs all the punch of takeout but is far more economical. Enjoy it for a weeknight meal without any of the restaurant wait times. It’s fantastic for a flavorful dinner that feels special.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Close-up of a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup garnished with herbs, seeds, and two slices of seasoned bread. The soup has a swirled texture and a vibrant orange color.
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A bowl of Roasted Butternut Squash Soup is nutritious and budget-friendly. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness, making it a cozy meal. It’s simple yet comforting, and far cheaper than a bowl from a café. Perfect for freezing and reheating on busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

A close-up of a spoonful of chicken stuffing, showcasing croutons, shredded chicken, peas, carrots, and sprinkled herbs.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For a comforting meal, try Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. This dish combines tender chicken with seasoned stuffing for a real home-cooked feel. It’s a cost-effective way to feed a family and tastes like a holiday dinner any night of the week. Filling and affordable, it’s a real winner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Healthy Chicken Salad

Close-up of a salad with grilled chicken, strawberries, blueberries, pecans, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing on a bed of leafy greens.
Healthy Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Enjoy a light meal with Healthy Chicken Salad. Despite being light, it’s very filling and healthy. It’s ideal for lunch or a light dinner, packed with flavor and goodness. Far better than what you’d grab from a deli, and cheaper too.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Chicken Salad

Roasted Tomato Soup

Close-up of a bowl of roasted tomato soup topped with toasted bread chunks, fresh thyme, and a sprinkle of black pepper.
Roasted Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Roasted Tomato Soup is rich and fulfilling without the high cost. Roasting the tomatoes adds a depth of flavor that can’t be beat. It’s perfect for pairing with a grilled cheese sandwich. Easy to make and kinder on your wallet than getting it to go.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Soup

Chicken Pot Pie

A slice of chicken pot pie being lifted, showing its creamy filling with chunks of chicken and vegetables, garnished with thyme.
Chicken Pot Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Classic Chicken Pot Pie gives you all the warm, home-cooked comfort without spending too much. This dish is perfect for using up leftover chicken and offers a flaky crust that’s hard to resist. Inside, enjoy a creamy, filling mixture that’s much better than store-bought versions. Great for a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *