When it comes to busy weeknights, finding a meal that’s both affordable and tasty can feel like a challenge. But with these 21 budget-friendly recipes, you can have dinner on the table fast without spending too much. These meals are simple to make, full of flavor, and perfect for those nights when you want something quick but satisfying.
Pizza Roll-Ups. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.
Crockpot Chili
This hearty chili is loaded with bold spices, tender meat, and beans for a dish that’s packed with flavor. It’s a budget-friendly way to feed a crowd or have leftovers ready for the week. Simple to make and full of rich taste, it’s perfect for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Chili
Lemon Butter Pasta
Creamy sauce and a pop of lemon come together to create a rich, comforting pasta dish that’s quick to make. This recipe turns a few pantry staples into a budget-friendly meal that feels satisfying and special. Great for nights when dinner needs to be delicious without being complicated.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Pasta
Chicken Tortilla Soup
This chicken tortilla soup is loaded with tender chicken, beans, and corn for a meal that’s filling and packed with flavor. It’s a budget-friendly option that turns pantry staples into a warm and satisfying dish. A perfect choice for making dinner feel hearty and homemade.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortilla Soup
Creamy Pea Pasta
Tender peas and a creamy sauce come together in this pasta dish for a meal that feels both comforting and fresh. This recipe is a budget-friendly way to enjoy something delicious without much effort. A great option when you want dinner to be simple but satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Pasta
Cacio e Pepe
Cheese, black pepper, and pasta create a timeless dish that’s simple to make and bursting with flavor. This recipe uses affordable ingredients to deliver a rich and satisfying meal. Perfect for those nights when you want something quick, classic, and budget-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe
Shortcut Chicken Salad
This chicken salad combines canned chicken, fresh veggies, and a tangy dressing for a quick and refreshing dish. It’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy a meal that works for lunch or dinner without much fuss. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s perfect for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Shortcut Chicken Salad
Bacon Egg Salad
Smoky bacon adds a flavorful twist to this classic egg salad for a meal that’s anything but boring. Using simple and affordable ingredients, it’s a great option for lunch or dinner. This recipe is proof that budget-friendly can still mean packed with taste.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Egg Salad
Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
These cheesy, saucy chicken enchiladas bring big flavors with little effort. This recipe makes a comforting, family-friendly dinner that doesn’t stretch the budget. It’s a go-to choice for a meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
Pizza Roll-Ups
These pizza roll-ups combine fun, flavor, and affordability into one meal. Customizable with your favorite toppings, they turn everyday ingredients into a dinner that’s exciting and budget-friendly. Perfect for families or anyone looking for a creative spin on pizza night.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Roll-Ups
Thai Chicken Chili
Bold spices and tender chicken come together in this flavorful Thai-inspired chili. It’s a hearty, budget-friendly recipe that feels special without being complicated to prepare. A great way to enjoy something unique while keeping meals affordable.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Chili
Mexican Skillet Quinoa
This one-pan meal combines quinoa, beans, and corn for a hearty, protein-packed dinner. It’s a budget-friendly way to create something healthy and satisfying with simple ingredients. Perfect for anyone looking for a meal that’s filling, flavorful, and easy on the wallet.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Skillet Quinoa
Lasagna Roll-Ups
All the cheesy goodness of lasagna gets an easy twist with these roll-ups that are simple to make. This budget-friendly recipe offers a comforting dinner without the hassle of traditional lasagna. It’s a delicious way to feed the family or enjoy leftovers later.
Get the Recipe: Lasagna Roll-Ups
Chicken Tenders
These crispy chicken tenders are a hit for both kids and adults, making weeknight dinners easy and fun. The recipe is budget-friendly and uses simple ingredients to create a meal that everyone will love. Perfect for serving up something tasty without spending too much.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tenders
Pesto Tuna Salad
This tuna salad with pesto and sundried tomatoes delivers a big flavor without a big price tag. It’s a refreshing, budget-friendly meal that works for lunch or dinner. Toss it together for a dish that feels special but is quick and affordable to make.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tuna Salad
Potato Gnocchi
These pillowy potato gnocchi are an easy way to turn simple ingredients into a meal that feels homemade and hearty. This recipe is a budget-friendly choice that pairs well with any sauce. Perfect for anyone looking for a dish that’s both affordable and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Potato Gnocchi
Chicken and Dumplings
Tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and savory broth make this dish a comforting classic. This recipe is a budget-friendly way to create a hearty meal that’s great for feeding the family. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s a dinner everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
Classic takeout flavors come to life in this chicken egg roll bowl that’s both satisfying and affordable. Loaded with seasoned chicken and crunchy veggies, it’s a meal that’s big on taste and low on cost. Great for nights when you want something flavorful without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
Chicken Fried Rice
Fresh veggies, tender chicken, and seasoned rice make this dish a perfect way to use leftovers. This recipe is a budget-friendly option that turns simple ingredients into a meal full of flavor. A great choice for when you want dinner to be quick, hearty, and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice
Grown-Up Mac and Cheese
Smoky bacon and juicy tomatoes give this creamy mac and cheese a bold, rich flavor. It’s a budget-friendly recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying dinner. Perfect for anyone looking to make a comfort food classic feel just a little more special.
Get the Recipe: Grown-Up Mac and Cheese
Calzones
Golden dough stuffed with your favorite fillings makes these homemade calzones a fun and tasty dinner option. This recipe is a budget-friendly way to create something delicious and customizable. Great for sharing or enjoying a meal that feels like a treat without the high cost.
Get the Recipe: Calzones
Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
Ground beef, tender rice, and gooey cheese come together in this filling casserole that’s perfect for families. It’s a budget-friendly recipe that stretches ingredients into a hearty and satisfying meal. A great option for leftovers or making dinner that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole