29 Low-Cost Recipes That Make Dinner Possible On A Budget

ByMandy

Weeknight chaos doesn’t pair well with expensive food experiments. Luckily, 29 no-nonsense meal ideas exist that won’t set off a financial meltdown. They’re the kind of meals that understand what it means to stretch a dollar without stretching patience. Dinner stays on the table, and no one has to sell a kidney to make it happen.

Bowl of hot and sour soup with mushrooms, tofu, and sliced green onions, with a spoon on the side.
Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

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.

Crunchy shells filled with flavorful beef make Baked Beef Tacos a dinner winner, especially on busy nights. They’re quick to prepare and fun to assemble with various toppings. Perfect for a family meal, they won’t break the bank either. Plus, everyone can customize their own taco!
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

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.

Combining fluffy potatoes with juicy BBQ chicken, BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes are a hearty budget-friendly option. They’re substantial enough to be a full meal and the BBQ flavor brings a unique twist to dinner. Great for a comforting meal without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

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.

For a light yet fulfilling meal, Egg Drop Soup is wonderfully simple and inexpensive to make. It’s gently seasoned and works well as a starter or a light dinner. This soup proves that a delicious meal doesn’t require complicated ingredients or processes.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Who doesn’t love Mac and Cheese? It’s creamy, comforting, and the ultimate budget-friendly comfort food. It’s also highly versatile, allowing for endless variations to keep it interesting. Ideal for a cozy dinner, it pleases crowds and is a go-to for all ages.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Lentil Soup

A hearty bowl of savory lentil soup, beautifully garnished with fresh cilantro, a swirl of cream, and an aromatic blend of spices.
Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Lentil Soup is not only nutritious but also incredibly cost-effective. It’s packed with flavor and can be stored for several meals, making your efforts last. It’s a smart pick for anyone looking to stretch their food budget while still enjoying hearty meals.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

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.

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole combines the comfort of chicken and dumplings in a one-dish casserole form. It’s a soothing meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Budget-friendly and filling, it’s perfect for feeding a large group without spending a lot.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Birria Ramen

A bowl of ramen with meat, cilantro, and a lime wedge, topped with noodles wrapped around chopsticks.
Birria Ramen. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Spice up your dinner routine with Birria Ramen. This dish merges traditional Mexican flavors with classic ramen for a thrilling, budget-friendly meal. It’s a creative twist on noodle soup and is bound to become a favorite. More importantly, it makes the most of inexpensive ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Birria Ramen

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.

For a creamy and comforting meal, Potato Soup is a great choice. It’s easy to make with basic ingredients and fills you up without costing a lot. This soup is perfect for chilly evenings and can easily be made in large batches for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Potato Soup

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.

Pasta Carbonara is a delicious option that uses simple ingredients to create a rich and creamy pasta dish. It’s quick to whip up, making it ideal for a last-minute dinner. Economical and fulfilling, it brings a touch of Italian cuisine to your table without the expense.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

Cashew Chicken

Close-up of Cashew Chicken featuring tender chicken, broccoli, edamame, cashews, and red bell peppers. This wonderful dish is topped with sesame seeds and served over a bed of rice.
Cashew Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Add some flair to your dinner with Cashew Chicken. This dish is both savory and slightly sweet, providing a wonderful mix of flavors. It’s an economical way to bring some variety to the dinner table, and the crunch of the cashews offers a pleasing texture.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Ravioli Casserole

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

Ravioli Casserole is a fun and easy way to dress up pasta night. With layers of cheese and pasta, it satisfies and fills you up without straining your wallet. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something a bit different from the usual pasta dish.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli 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.

Healthy Chicken Salad is a great choice when you want something light, refreshing, and easy on the budget. It’s packed with flavor and can be served in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this chicken salad fits the bill.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Chicken Salad

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.

Warm up with a bowl of hearty Beef Chili. It’s a robust dish that’s perfect for stretching your dollar on cooler days. Rich in flavor and easy to prepare in bulk, it’s ideal for meal prepping or feeding a crowd on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

Spaghetti Casserole

A serving of cheesy baked spaghetti is being lifted with a utensil. The dish is topped with melted cheese and garnished with herbs.
Spaghetti Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Turn ordinary pasta night into something special with Spaghetti Casserole. It’s a baked pasta dish that’s both filling and economical. Great for a comforting meal, it can be prepped ahead of time and is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti 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.

25 Minute Black Bean Burger is your go-to when you want a quick, budget-friendly meal that’s also vegetarian. It’s packed with flavor and can be dressed up with your favorite toppings. This burger shows you don’t have to spend much to enjoy a flavorful and fulfilling meal.
Get the Recipe: 25 Minute Black Bean Burger

Cattle Drive Casserole

A slice of cheesy lasagna being lifted from a baking dish, topped with melted cheese and parsley.
Cattle Drive Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Fill up your dinner table with Cattle Drive Casserole, a hearty meal that’s easy on your wallet. It’s perfect for big families or gatherings. This casserole will keep everyone happy and full without requiring a lot of expensive ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

Cheese Grits

Creamy polenta in a skillet, topped with chopped herbs and black pepper, and stirred with a wooden spoon.
Cheese Grits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Breakfast for dinner? Why not! Cheese Grits are creamy, comforting, and cheap to make. They make a fantastic meal any time of the day and are especially rewarding when money’s tight. Plus, they’re super simple to whip up!
Get the Recipe: Cheese Grits

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 the sweet and tangy flavors of Orange Chicken at home without the takeout price. It’s a popular dish that’s surprisingly affordable and sure to be a hit with the family. It’s a wonderful way to make a restaurant favorite more cost-effective.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

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.

Serve up some Garlic Knots with your next meal for a touch of bakery-style goodness that’s both affordable and delicious to toss together. They’re great as a side or for dipping into soups and stews. These knots add a simple but enjoyable twist to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Dinner Rolls

Close-up of freshly baked golden-brown dinner rolls, with one roll partially torn to show its soft, fluffy interior.
Dinner Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Soft, fluffy Dinner Rolls are the perfect addition to any meal. They’re inexpensive to make and go well with just about everything. Bake a batch to complement soups, stews, or salads, or simply enjoy them with butter. They’re a budget-friendly way to round out a meal.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Miso Soup

A bowl of miso soup with tofu cubes, seaweed, and green onions.
Miso Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Start your meal with a warm bowl of Miso Soup. It’s light, flavorful, and costs pennies per serving. This soup is a staple in Japanese cuisine and can be a healthful addition to your dinner routine. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Miso Soup

Easy Cornbread Casserole

A portion of a cheesy, golden-brown savory cornbread casserole is being lifted from the dish, showing its flaky crust and gooey cheese filling.
Easy Cornbread Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Easy Cornbread Casserole is a comforting side that combines cornbread with savory fillings. It’s the perfect accompaniment to any meal and is especially good with stews and chili. Budget-friendly and filling, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole

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.

Enjoy the rich and creamy texture of Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. This soup is a sweet and savory delight, perfect for a budget dinner option. It’s easy to prepare and offers a comforting warmth for any meal. Gather the family and dig in—it’s time well spent.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

A plate with honey chicken tenders, broccoli florets, and mashed potatoes.
Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders are a hit among both kids and adults. They’re easy to make and don’t cost a lot. Serve them up for a no-fuss meal that’s sure to please everyone. These tenders offer a wonderful balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

A close-up of a bowl of broccoli cheddar soup garnished with croutons, a sprig of mint, and grated cheese.
Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dig into a bowl of Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup for a warm, comforting meal that’s easy on the budget. It’s filled with cheesy goodness and perfect for those who want something fulfilling yet simple. Great for a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

Focaccia Bread

Slices of focaccia bread topped with rosemary and flaky salt, arranged on brown parchment paper.
Focaccia Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked Focaccia Bread. This bread is easy to make and goes great with any dish. It’s cost-effective and can be dressed up with herbs for extra flavor. Perfect for dipping, it enhances any meal without extra cost.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

Mushroom Stroganoff

Creamy mushroom sauce with herbs and sliced mushrooms, stirred with a wooden spoon.
Mushroom Stroganoff. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Mushroom Stroganoff offers a meat-free twist on a traditional favorite. It’s rich, creamy, and perfect for those looking to save on groceries. This dish serves up big flavors while keeping costs low, making it a smart choice for a budget-conscious meal.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Stroganoff

Mini Hasselback Potatoes

A plate of sliced, roasted baby potatoes is garnished with herbs. A small bowl of creamy sauce is placed in the center.
Mini Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Cute and crispy, Mini Hasselback Potatoes are a fun, inexpensive side dish that adds a bit of flair to your meal. They’re easy to prepare and can be a fancy yet frugal way to impress guests. Pair them with any main dish for a touch of elegance without the expense.
Get the Recipe: Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Hot and Sour Soup

Bowl of hot and sour soup with mushrooms, tofu, and sliced green onions, with a spoon on the side.
Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you’re in the mood for something with a bit more zing, Hot and Sour Soup is your answer. This soup is both invigorating and economical, making for a lively beginning to any meal or a simple light dinner option. It’s wonderfully tangy and warms you right up.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

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