We Got Through Last Week On 29 Budget Friendly Dinners
Getting through a week of dinners doesn’t have to mean stretching every dollar to its limit. With 29 budget friendly dinners, the stress of planning gets cut down fast. There’s something reassuring about knowing meals are already figured out. It makes the evenings easier and maybe even a little less dramatic when everyone’s hungry.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos
These tacos are a great way to mix up your dinner routine without making it complicated. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos are filling and easy to make. They’re perfect for stretching your budget while keeping it fresh. Add a squeeze of lime or your favorite toppings, and it’s ready to serve.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
A classic comfort meal never goes out of style. Buttermilk Fried Chicken combines a great crunch with a tender and juicy inside that everyone loves. It can be paired with any sides you have in the kitchen, so it’s super versatile. Serve it up for a meal that works for family dinners or quick leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Big Mac Sloppy Joe
Switch up your dinner rotation with something fun. Big Mac Sloppy Joe is all about taking the classics and giving them a twist. It’s a budget-friendly spin that feels fun and a little different. Add it to a toasted bun and enjoy a meal that’s easy to whip up but still feels completely homemade.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Sloppy Joe
General Tso’s Chicken
Some takeout favorites are even better at home. General Tso’s Chicken is an easy option that packs a mix of sweet and savory in every bite. Not only does it save a few bucks compared to buying out, but it also tastes way fresher. Pair it with a simple side of rice and maybe some veggies for a balanced dinner.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken
Coconut Ramen
A creative take on noodles is always a good thing. Coconut Ramen is all about blending budget-friendly ingredients with a rich and creamy base. It’s easy to make and feels cozy but doesn’t take long to pull together. You can top it with whatever you have in the fridge to make it your own.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Ramen
Ham and Swiss Sliders
Sliders are such a simple crowd-pleaser. Ham and Swiss Sliders are great when you want a quick meal that doesn’t feel boring. They’re easy to make in batches and still hold up well for leftovers. Plus, they’re a fun choice for family meals or casual get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Swiss Sliders
Corn Chowder
A bowl of Corn Chowder hits the spot for a meal that’s comforting and filling. It’s hearty enough to stand alone or pair with a side for variety. The combination of textures never gets old. It’s definitely a recipe you’ll want to have on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Corn Chowder
Focaccia Bread
Nothing beats homemade bread that’s soft and perfect for dipping. Focaccia Bread is one of those versatile recipes that works as a snack or part of a main course. The texture is just right for loading up with toppings or enjoying on its own. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a household favorite.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread
Air Fryer Chicken Fritters
It feels great to have easy recipes that still taste special. Air Fryer Chicken Fritters are a solid pick for when you want crispy without the grease. They’re quick to cook and pair nicely with almost any side. These work well for everything from packed lunches to quick dinners.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Fritters
Best Lemon Pasta
A no-fuss pasta option can make any weeknight easier. Best Lemon Pasta brings freshness to the table in the simplest way. It’s nice when you want something that feels light but is still filling. A quick recipe like this is always good to have in your back pocket.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta
Copycat Savvy Slider
Sometimes making your own versions of takeout is a win. Copycat Savvy Slider delivers that same fast-food bite, but it’s homemade. It’s perfect when you’re looking to save some money and still enjoy something comforting. Plus, you can add your own twists to it.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Savvy Slider
Chicken Fried Steak
Some recipes deliver that comfort meal vibe with barely any effort. Chicken Fried Steak is one of those hearty dinners that’s great for sharing. It’s crispy on the outside while staying tender on the inside. A meal like this works perfectly alongside simple sides for a no-stress dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Steak
Asian Slaw
A crunchy side dish can bring balance to a meal. Asian Slaw is easy to make, packs a nice crunch, and works with so many main dishes. It’s a fresh option when you want to complement heavier meals. This is definitely a recipe to keep around for busy weeks.
Get the Recipe: Asian Slaw
Kimchi Stew
Bold, rich recipes are great for switching things up. Kimchi Stew delivers just the right amount of bold flavor and comfort. It’s a great choice if you’re craving a warm, one-pot dish. Plus, it’s packed with simple ingredients that come together quickly.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew
Chicken and Rice Casserole
Easy, one-dish recipes can make life so much simpler. Chicken and Rice Casserole is a stress-free option when you need a meal that everyone will enjoy. It’s hearty enough to stand alone but easy to pair with a side, too. This is one of those meals you can count on for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Casserole
Cheese Grits
Quick sides can sometimes become stars on their own. Cheese Grits are the kind of dish that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They’re creamy, warm, and versatile enough to pair with a ton of other recipes. Throw this recipe into rotation if you’re looking for something comforting.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Grits
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Bigger pasta dishes are always a hit with groups. Million Dollar Spaghetti is one of those recipes that feeds a crowd and brings the comfort-food vibe. It combines all the parts of a favorite pasta dish into a baked option. Leftovers are always a bonus with a dish like this.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti
Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders
These are perfect for a quick dinner that feels a bit special without too much effort. Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders bring a flavorful twist to your normal chicken routine. They’re great for nights when you want something filling and comforting. Pair them with a simple side, and you’ve got a solid meal.
Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders
Pork Chops
Cooking dinner doesn’t have to be complicated, and Pork Chops are a good example of this. They’re hearty enough to keep everyone full, without requiring tons of prep or fancy extras. Add them to your weekly rotation when you need something quick and worth it. Bonus points for how versatile they are with different sides.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops
Hot and Sour Soup
Feeling like you need something warm and savory to hold you over? Hot and Sour Soup is a great way to stretch ingredients you already probably have at home. It’s light yet filling and works well as a starter or even a main course. This one’s awesome for using pantry items and keeping costs down.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup
Cattle Drive Casserole
For those busy nights when you want something hearty that feeds everyone, Cattle Drive Casserole really works. It’s one of those dishes where you can throw things together and end up with a solid one-pan meal. Perfect if you want a low-maintenance option without skipping on taste. Plus, it’s great for leftovers too.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole
Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies
If you’re looking to stretch your main ingredients for a crowd, Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies is a solid choice. It mixes both protein and veggies in a way that works around a budget. This dinner lets you get a lot out of simple items without doing much prep. Definitely a go-to when you need something homemade and easy.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes
These make a great meal that feels filling without needing tons of work. BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes combine easy ingredients into something cohesive and hearty. This dish hits the spot for dinner when you need something that works with what’s already in your fridge. Serve with some simple sides for a complete dinner fix.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes
Cheese Quesadilla
Some nights call for something straightforward that still feels like a win. Cheese Quesadilla fits the bill perfectly, offering a fast yet filling option. Whether it’s for a dinner in a hurry or a snack, this is the kind of meal that comes through every time. It’s easy on the budget and doesn’t demand too much effort.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Quesadilla
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Craving something a little different but still inexpensive to whip up? Sweet and Sour Chicken is one of those recipes that mixes everyday items into a flavorful meal. It makes for a nice takeout-style dish at home without breaking the bank. Works great for sharing or keeping leftovers for another day.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken
Mexican Rice
Instead of going for something fancy, opt for Mexican Rice when you want a dependable meal. It’s a simple side dish that can stand alone or pair well with just about anything. Perfect for using what you already have and adding variety to weekly dinners. A great way to stretch meals for days.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice
Butter Chicken
You don’t have to spend all day cooking to get excellent results, and Butter Chicken proves just that. It’s a rich and filling dish that works well as a main course or paired with something simple. Plus, it makes use of items you likely already have stocked in your pantry. Definitely worth trying out to switch things up during the week.
Get the Recipe: Butter Chicken
Mexican Casserole
When you’re feeding a group, it’s hard to go wrong with Mexican Casserole as your main choice. It’s packed enough to work as a one-pan meal and make cleanup easier. Affordable and built for leftovers, it stretches your dollar. Add simple sides for a complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Casserole
Cashew Chicken
Switching up your weeknight meals doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank, and Cashew Chicken is proof of that. It’s a dish that mixes protein and crunch in a way that keeps dinner interesting. Perfect for those nights when you want something a little different but still easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken
