21 Affordable Recipes for When Dinner Needs To Be Cheap and Easy

ByJane

When dinner needs to happen and the budget’s already waving a white flag, these 21 meals step in like it’s no big deal. They’re quick, cheap, and don’t require a shopping cart full of stuff you’ll never use again. Perfect for busy nights, empty wallets, or both. Dinner gets done, and you still have change left.

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.

Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas

Quesadillas filled with rice, beans, and chicken, topped with sour cream and cilantro. Sliced tomato and jalapeño are on the side.
Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

With a simple spin on a classic, these quesadillas mix familiar flavors into a tasty, budget-friendly meal. Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas make weeknight dinners easy, adding just the right bold touch. Whether for family or a casual night with friends, it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser with zero fuss.
Get the Recipe: Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas

Taco Soup

A bowl of red soup topped with avocado slices, sour cream, cilantro, sliced onions, corn, and shredded cheese.
Taco Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you’re after something quick that still delivers on taste, Taco Soup fits the bill. It’s warm, full of flavor, and easy on the wallet—just right for cooler days or busy nights. With its hearty feel and simple prep, it’s the kind of meal that brings comfort without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Taco 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.

It’s hard to pass up sticky chicken with a bold twist—especially when it’s easy on the budget. General Tso’s Chicken brings that familiar takeout feel right to your kitchen, offering full flavor without the extra cost. A go-to choice for when you want something rich in taste, simple to make, and gentle on your wallet.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

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.

Have you ever thought about giving traditional pasta a creative spin? Spaghetti Casserole offers a fresh way to enjoy familiar ingredients in a comforting format. Great for those who like experimenting with classics, this dish brings pasta together in a fun, budget-friendly way. Perfect for gatherings or easy dinners with friends.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Twice Baked Potatoes

Twice-baked potatoes topped with melted cheese and chopped green onions on a baking sheet.
Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A familiar favorite gets a flavorful upgrade in this easy-to-love side. Twice Baked Potatoes bring an added depth that transforms everyday spuds into something truly memorable. Versatile enough for laid-back dinners or more festive occasions, they strike a perfect balance between comfort and creativity with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Roasted chicken thigh with herbs, served on a bed of roasted vegetables.
Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For those who value quick cleanup and simple prep, this Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe checks all the boxes. It blends ease and affordability into one tasty meal, perfect for busy evenings. With its no-fuss approach and well-balanced flavors, dinner becomes something to enjoy without the extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Stuffed Pepper Casserole

A spoonful of stuffed pepper casserole with ground meat, red and green bell peppers, cheese, and rice, garnished with herbs.
Stuffed Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Ever tried a casserole that’s both simple to make and rich in flavor? Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a perfect all-in-one choice for anyone who enjoys classic comfort with a fresh spin. It’s a budget-friendly option that works well for busy weekdays yet feels fulfilling enough for any occasion. A hearty, no-fuss dish that hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper 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.

Some days, you just need a simple, hearty meal. White Bean Soup is nothing fancy, but it’s warm, comforting, and fitting for thrifty meal planning. There’s a reason why this is a go-to for budget-conscious folks. It delivers nourishment with minimal effort and maximum flavor, making it a perfect weeknight choice without complicating life.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

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.

If you’re after something light yet full of flavor, Healthy Chicken Salad is a smart pick. Easy on the budget and ideal for meal prep, it works well for lunch or dinner. With its clean, uncomplicated ingredients, it brings a fresh touch to any mealtime without adding stress to your day.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Chicken Salad

Kimchi Stew

Close-up of a wooden spoon in a vibrant kimchi stew with tofu and pork, garnished with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes.
Kimchi Stew. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Craving something with a bit more edge? Kimchi Stew delivers bold warmth in a dish that’s easy to make and easy on the wallet. Its rich blend of flavors adds depth to any weekday meal, making it a great way to shake up your routine—no special occasion required.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

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

A go-to when you want something straightforward yet full of taste, Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders strike that sweet-meets-bold balance everyone enjoys. Easy to make, budget-friendly, and rich in flavor, they’re a solid choice for solo meals or feeding a group without the extra fuss.
Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

Leek and Potato Soup

A bowl of creamy soup garnished with sautéed green onions and herbs.
Leek and Potato Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When comfort and budget-friendliness matter most, Leek and Potato Soup delivers with ease. Its straightforward blend offers warmth and heartiness without the hassle, making it a smart pick for low-effort dinners that still feel complete. A simple way to enjoy something truly comforting without overthinking it.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

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.

Bringing restaurant-style comfort to your own kitchen, Orange Chicken delivers bold, familiar flavor without the extra cost. It fits easily into any mealtime plan, making it a top pick for nights when you want something rich in taste and easy on the wallet—no takeout needed.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Mississippi Mud Potatoes

A baked dish with melted cheese, diced pineapples, browned bacon, and chopped green onions on top.
Mississippi Mud Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bold in name and full of rich taste, Mississippi Mud Potatoes bring a hearty twist to a classic favorite. With big flavor and minimal effort, they’re easy to put together and always well-received. A great pick when you’re looking to mix things up with something comforting yet a bit out of the ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Egg Casserole

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

Need an option that’s both filling and easy on the wallet? Egg Casserole is versatile and fits into any meal plan. Suitable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it’s the ideal comfort food to have your back any time of day. Its budget-friendliness doesn’t compromise the appeal, making it a reliable go-to.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole

Mushroom Stroganoff

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

Enjoying something rich and comforting can be both simple and budget-friendly. Mushroom Stroganoff offers deep flavor and cozy warmth without a hefty cost. It’s an easy, fulfilling choice for anyone who loves hearty meals with a hint of creativity.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Stroganoff

Sesame Chicken

A close-up of glazed chicken pieces with sesame seeds and chopped scallions on a bed of rice.
Sesame Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bringing a familiar favorite to your own kitchen, Sesame Chicken offers that well-loved flavor without the extra cost of takeout. It’s a simple, wallet-friendly way to enjoy a comforting dish at home—perfect for weeknights or whenever you’re in the mood for something a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

Sourdough Bagels

A plate with a bagel seasoned with seeds sits next to a baking tray holding more bagels, also topped with seeds.
Sourdough Bagels. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Here’s a tasty way to enliven any meal. Sourdough Bagels are a fun option, offering the texture and taste you’d expect from a much more complex recipe. They easily embody the joy of homemade comfort food without too much culinary gymnastics. They make meal planning simple yet fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bagels

Penne Alla Vodka

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

When pasta calls for an exciting twist, consider Penne Alla Vodka as your go-to choice. A fun addition to traditional pasta nights, it combines expected tastes with a bit more intrigue. Easy on the budget, yet it brings sophistication and style to any dining situation. Perfect for romantic meals or whenever pasta’s on the menu.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Meatball Sliders

Close-up of a cheesy meatball slider with a seasoned bun, showing melted cheese and tomato sauce. Other sliders are visible in the background.
Meatball Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Easy to make and always a hit, Meatball Sliders bring familiar comfort in a compact form. Great for casual dinners or get-togethers, they pack bold flavor into every bite without stretching your budget. With their no-fuss approach and hearty taste, they turn a simple idea into something memorable.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sliders

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 soup with a unique twist can often be the highlight at any table. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup captivates with its simplicity and robust flavor backbone. It’s perfect for meal occasions where you want comfort without complexity. An affordable choice that delights those seeking a warming alternative to standard dinner options.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

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