As a busy mom, I know firsthand how tricky it can be to balance keeping the family fed with keeping the grocery bill in check.
And I know those weeks when I barely had any money for food and I had to figure out some tasty poverty meals too.
But for most of the years, I have my go-to budget-friendly meals that are not only easy to whip up but also delicious!
These dinners don’t require a lot of fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen, and they’ll help simplify your mealtime routine while still keeping everyone happy.
So, if you’re ready to start cooking healthy on the cheap, let’s jump right into these easy recipes that are perfect for any night of the week!
Cheap Family Meals
Feeding the whole family doesn’t have to break the bank.
With a little planning, you can create hearty, delicious meals that everyone will enjoy without overspending.
These meals are all about simple ingredients and maximum flavor, perfect for busy evenings when you need something affordable and filling.
1. Baked Ziti with Marinara Sauce
This is one of my favorite comfort meals that’s so easy to make.
Boil the ziti, mix it with marinara sauce and ricotta cheese, then layer it in a baking dish with mozzarella.
Bake until bubbly and golden on top.
You can switch it up by adding cooked ground beef or Italian sausage for extra flavor.
2. Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes
Toss chicken thighs or breasts, potatoes, and carrots into the slow cooker with some garlic, rosemary, and chicken broth.
Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours while you go about your day.
The chicken comes out tender and juicy, and the potatoes soak up all the delicious flavor.
Serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread.
3. Shepherd’s Pie
Layer ground beef, mixed veggies, and mashed potatoes in a casserole dish for a hearty family meal.
Bake it in the oven until the top is crispy and golden.
You can use leftover mashed potatoes to save time, or even sweet potatoes for a twist.
Serve with a side of green beans or peas for extra veggies.
4. Taco Night
Taco night is always a hit!
Cook up some ground beef or turkey with taco seasoning, then set up a toppings bar with shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and salsa.
Everyone can make their tacos just the way they like.
It’s a fun and easy way to please the whole family.
5. Chicken Stir-Fry
Sauté chicken strips with bell peppers, onions, and broccoli in a hot pan.
Add soy sauce, garlic, and a little honey for a sweet and savory sauce.
Serve it over rice or noodles for a quick weeknight dinner.
You can change up the veggies depending on what you have in the fridge.
6. Homemade Pizza
This is a fun dinner to make with the kids!
Use store-bought pizza dough and let everyone pick their toppings like pepperoni, veggies, or even pineapple.
Bake in the oven until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Serve with a side salad to round out the meal.
7. Spaghetti Carbonara
Carbonara is super simple but feels fancy.
Cook spaghetti, then toss it with a sauce made of beaten eggs, Parmesan cheese, and crispy bacon.
The heat from the pasta cooks the eggs, creating a creamy, delicious dish.
Add a sprinkle of black pepper and parsley before serving.
8. Meatball Subs
Make meatball subs by warming up frozen meatballs in marinara sauce.
Place them on toasted sub rolls and top with melted mozzarella or provolone cheese.
You can even add some sautéed onions and peppers for extra flavor.
Serve with a side of chips or a simple green salad.
9. Veggie Fried Rice
Use leftover rice to make a quick veggie fried rice.
Sauté onions, carrots, peas, and scrambled eggs, then stir in the rice with soy sauce and a little sesame oil.
It’s a great way to use up any veggies in the fridge.
Serve with a side of dumplings or egg rolls.
10. Chili
Simmer ground beef or turkey with beans, tomatoes, and chili powder for an easy one-pot meal.
Let it cook for an hour or more to let the flavors blend together.
You can serve it with cornbread, over rice, or even on top of baked potatoes.
Leftovers taste even better the next day!
11. Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Cook some fettuccine, then toss it with a creamy Alfredo sauce made from butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese.
Add in grilled chicken for protein, and you’ve got a filling meal.
You can also mix in some steamed broccoli for a little extra nutrition.
Serve with garlic bread on the side.
12. Beef and Broccoli
Stir-fry beef strips and broccoli florets in a hot pan with soy sauce, garlic, and a little brown sugar.
Serve over rice for a takeout-style meal at home.
You can also use chicken or tofu if you prefer.
Top it with sesame seeds or green onions for extra flavor.
Easy Cheap Dinners
When time is short and the budget is tight, having a few easy dinner ideas up your sleeve is a lifesaver.
These meals come together quickly with ingredients you likely already have on hand.
They’re great for those nights when you just want to get dinner on the table without any fuss!
13. Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
There’s nothing more comforting than a classic grilled cheese sandwich paired with tomato soup.
Butter the bread, add your favorite cheese, and grill until golden.
Serve with a can of tomato soup, and you’ve got a cozy meal.
Add a slice of ham or bacon to the sandwich if you want to switch it up.
14. Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a super quick and easy dinner.
Stuff tortillas with cheese and any leftover meat or veggies you have, then grill until crispy.
Slice them into wedges and serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
You can even add beans or rice inside to make them more filling.
15. Breakfast for Dinner
I love breakfast for dinner!
Whip up some fluffy pancakes, scramble a few eggs, and serve with a side of bacon or sausage.
It’s a fun way to switch up the dinner routine.
Top your pancakes with syrup, fruit, or even a dollop of whipped cream for a special treat.
16. Black Bean Tacos
Heat up some canned black beans with taco seasoning for a quick and easy taco filling.
Spoon the beans into soft tortillas and top with shredded lettuce, cheese, and salsa.
You can add avocado or sour cream for extra flavor.
This is a great vegetarian option that’s budget-friendly too.
17. Sloppy Joes
Sloppy Joes are messy but so delicious!
Brown ground beef with onions, then stir in a tangy tomato sauce.
Pile the mixture onto buns and serve with a side of fries or coleslaw.
You can use ground turkey or even lentils if you want to make it a bit healthier.
18. Tuna Casserole
Mix canned tuna with cooked pasta, peas, and a creamy sauce made from cream of mushroom soup.
Top it with breadcrumbs and bake until bubbly and golden.
This is an easy meal that you can throw together with pantry staples.
Serve with a side of steamed veggies for a complete meal.
19. Chicken Fajitas
Sauté strips of chicken with bell peppers and onions for quick fajitas.
Serve them in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, and salsa.
You can also add a squeeze of lime juice for extra freshness. This is a great meal for using up leftover chicken.
20. Mac and Cheese with Hot Dogs
While I wouldn’t recommend eating mac and cheese all the time, kids love this meal, and it’s so easy to make (and cheap!).
Prepare boxed mac and cheese, then stir in sliced hot dogs for a fun twist.
You can also add some peas or broccoli to sneak in a little extra nutrition.
For a healthier option, you can try making your own from scratch!
21. Baked Potatoes with Toppings
Baked potatoes make a great budget-friendly dinner.
Top them with sour cream, cheese, bacon bits, and chives.
You can also add chili or steamed broccoli to make them more filling.
Serve with a side of salad or roasted veggies.
22. Veggie Omelet
Omelets are quick, easy, and a great way to use up leftover veggies.
Beat a few eggs, pour them into a hot pan, and fill with your favorite veggies and cheese.
Fold the omelet in half and cook until the eggs are set.
Serve with toast or a side of fresh fruit.
23. BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Shred cooked chicken and mix with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Pile the chicken onto buns and serve with coleslaw or potato chips.
This is an easy meal that’s perfect for busy nights.
You can also make the chicken in a slow cooker if you prefer.
24. Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce
Cook up your favorite pasta, then toss it with a simple sauce made from garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese.
Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
This dish is super quick and requires just a few ingredients.
Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
25. BLT Sandwiches
BLTs are a simple but satisfying dinner option.
Toast some bread, layer on crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes, then add a swipe of mayo.
Serve with a side of chips or pickles for a complete meal.
You can even add avocado or cheese if you want to jazz it up.
26. Ramen Stir-Fry
Upgrade your instant ramen by stir-frying it with veggies, eggs, and a splash of soy sauce.
Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions, then toss them into a hot pan with the other ingredients.
This is a quick, budget-friendly meal that’s much tastier than plain ramen.
Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions.
Cheap Meals on a Budget
Cooking on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or variety.
With a little creativity, you can whip up tasty dishes that keep costs low while satisfying your family’s appetites.
These meals focus on using affordable staples to stretch your dollars further, all while keeping things simple and tasty.
27. Lentil Soup
Lentils are super cheap and make a filling, nutritious soup.
Simmer lentils with onions, carrots, celery, and a few spices until tender.
You can add some diced tomatoes or spinach for extra flavor.
Serve with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
28. Veggie and Rice Bowls
Cook some rice, then top it with roasted veggies, a fried egg, and a drizzle of soy sauce or sriracha.
This is an easy meal that you can customize with whatever veggies you have on hand.
You can also add avocado, tofu, or chicken for extra protein.
Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions.
29. Bean and Cheese Burritos
Heat up some refried beans, then spoon them onto tortillas with cheese and salsa.
Roll them up and bake for a quick, easy meal.
You can also add rice or veggies to make the burritos more filling.
Serve with a side of tortilla chips and guacamole.
30. Spaghetti with Marinara
This classic pasta dish is always a budget-friendly option.
Cook your spaghetti, then toss it with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
You can add meatballs or Italian sausage if you want to make it heartier.
Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
31. Tuna Salad Sandwiches
Mix canned tuna with mayo and chopped celery or pickles for a quick tuna salad.
Serve it on bread with lettuce and tomato, or use it to fill pita pockets.
This is a great way to use up pantry staples for an easy lunch or dinner.
Pair it with some chips or fresh fruit on the side.
32. Sausage and Peppers
Sauté sliced sausage with bell peppers and onions for a simple, flavorful dinner.
Serve it over rice or pasta, or pile it into a hoagie roll for a sandwich.
You can use any type of sausage you like, from Italian to chicken.
This dish is quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
33. Veggie Pasta
Toss cooked pasta with a simple tomato sauce and whatever veggies you have on hand.
You can use zucchini, spinach, or even frozen mixed veggies.
Sprinkle with Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
This is a great way to sneak extra veggies into your meal.
34. Chicken Soup
Simmer chicken with noodles, carrots, and celery in a flavorful broth for a comforting meal.
You can make this with leftover chicken or even a rotisserie chicken from the store.
Add some fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
Serve with crackers or crusty bread on the side.
35. Tater Tot Casserole
Layer tater tots, ground beef, and cheese in a casserole dish, then bake until golden and bubbly.
This is a fun, kid-friendly meal that’s super easy to make.
You can add veggies like peas or green beans for extra nutrition.
Serve with a simple side salad to balance it out.
36. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Fill bell peppers with a mixture of rice, beans, and cheese, then bake until tender.
You can also add ground beef or turkey for extra protein.
This is a colorful, healthy dinner that’s perfect for using up leftover rice.
Serve with a side of salsa or sour cream.
37. Eggplant Parmesan
Bread and fry slices of eggplant, then layer them with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
Bake until bubbly and golden for a delicious vegetarian meal.
You can serve it over pasta or with a side of garlic bread.
This is a budget-friendly alternative to chicken Parmesan.
38. Sausage and Potato Skillet
Sauté sliced sausage with diced potatoes, onions, and bell peppers in a skillet.
This is an easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy nights.
You can use any type of sausage you like, from breakfast sausage to kielbasa.
Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
Cheap Dinners
Finding cheap dinners that don’t feel like a compromise is totally possible.
These meals are proof that you can eat well while spending less, using pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients.
They’re perfect for nights when you want something satisfying but don’t want to blow your budget.
39. Rice and Beans
Rice and beans are a simple but filling dinner that’s easy on the wallet.
Cook rice, then mix it with black beans, spices, and a dollop of sour cream.
You can also add avocado or salsa for extra flavor.
Serve with tortilla chips or a side of sautéed veggies.
40. Chicken Quesadilla Bake
Layer tortillas with cooked chicken, cheese, and salsa in a baking dish, then bake until bubbly.
This is a fun twist on traditional quesadillas that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
You can add beans or veggies to make it even heartier.
Serve with sour cream and guacamole on the side.
41. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This simple pasta dish is made with garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes for a quick, flavorful meal.
Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, then top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
This dish requires just a few ingredients but packs a lot of flavor.
Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
42. Fried Rice
Use leftover rice to make a quick and easy fried rice.
Sauté onions, carrots, and peas with scrambled eggs, then stir in the rice with soy sauce.
This is a great way to use up leftover veggies and meat.
Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions.
43. Margherita Flatbread
Top flatbread with sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil for a simple, pizza-like dinner.
Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
You can add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Serve with a side of mixed greens or a Caesar salad.
44. Chicken and Rice Casserole
Mix cooked chicken with rice, cream of mushroom soup, and a sprinkle of cheese, then bake until bubbly.
This is an easy, comforting dinner that’s perfect for busy nights.
You can add veggies like broccoli or peas for extra nutrition.
Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad.
Affordable Dinners That Make Life Easier
You don’t need to spend a fortune or hours in the kitchen to make meals your family will love.
With these budget-friendly ideas, you can simplify dinnertime while keeping costs down and appetites satisfied.
Try them out and see how easy it can be to enjoy affordable, delicious dinners any night of the week!
And make sure to follow me on Pinterest for more budget-friendly meals.
