Tax season can be rough on your wallet, but dinner doesn’t have to be. These 39 easy and cheap recipes make it simple to eat well without spending a lot. Whether you need quick meals for busy nights or something hearty that won’t break the bank, this list has you covered. Keep your budget in check with food that’s filling, affordable, and full of flavor.
Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.
Chicken Tortilla Soup
This chicken tortilla soup uses simple pantry staples like chicken, beans, and corn, making it an affordable and hearty meal. It’s the perfect comfort food when you want something filling but easy on your budget. Try it out and enjoy a meal that delivers both flavor and savings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortilla Soup
Lemon Butter Pasta
Lemon butter pasta combines fresh lemon and butter with perfectly cooked pasta for a creamy, comforting dish. It’s a simple yet flavorful meal that feels like a treat without costing much. Give this recipe a go and savor the comfort of a meal that won’t break the bank.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Pasta
Potato Corn Chowder
A rich blend of potatoes, corn, and crispy bacon makes this potato corn chowder a satisfying meal that doesn’t break the bank. The creamy texture and savory flavor make it a family favorite without the high price tag. Make it tonight for a meal that’s as affordable as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Potato Corn Chowder
Cacio e Pepe
With just pasta, cheese, and black pepper, cacio e pepe is proof that great meals can be made with simple, affordable ingredients. It’s a rich, creamy dish that feels gourmet without the high cost. Whip up this classic and enjoy a filling meal that doesn’t stretch your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe
Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
Ground beef, rice, and melted cheese come together in this cheesy beef and rice casserole for a filling and budget-friendly meal. It’s a great way to serve a satisfying dish without overspending. Make this dish tonight for a hearty, affordable meal that will please everyone.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo
This Mediterranean chicken with orzo brings together tender chicken, flavorful orzo, and Mediterranean spices for a meal that’s both delicious and affordable. The ingredients are simple, but the flavor is big, making it a perfect dinner when on a budget. Make it today and enjoy a fresh, flavorful dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo
Creamy Chickpea Tomato Soup
Blending chickpeas and tomatoes creates a creamy, hearty soup that’s both budget-friendly and easy to make. It’s a great way to enjoy a rich meal without spending too much on ingredients. Give this soup a try and enjoy a satisfying meal without the high price tag.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chickpea Tomato Soup
Carrot Ginger Soup
Carrot ginger soup combines sweet carrots and zesty ginger into a smooth, flavorful dish that’s light on the wallet. It’s made with pantry staples, making it both easy and affordable. Try it for a flavorful, healthy soup that won’t cost you much.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Ginger Soup
Grown-Up Mac and Cheese
This grown-up mac and cheese turns a childhood classic into a filling meal with bacon and tomatoes for extra flavor. It’s creamy, cheesy, and filling while still being easy on the budget. Serve this comforting dish and enjoy a fun twist on a classic at a price that’s easy on the pocket.
Get the Recipe: Grown-Up Mac and Cheese
Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This Instant Pot broccoli cheddar soup combines hearty broccoli with creamy cheese for a comforting, budget-friendly dish. The Instant Pot makes it easy to prepare, saving time and money. Make this soup for a cozy, satisfying meal that’s ready in a flash.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Tomato Basil Bisque
Tomato basil bisque is made from pantry staples, keeping the cost low while offering a rich, comforting flavor. It’s a smooth, creamy soup that feels indulgent without the hefty price tag. Make this bisque today and enjoy a creamy, satisfying soup that’s both delicious and affordable.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Basil Bisque
Tomato Soup
This tomato soup is made with simple, affordable pantry staples that make for a rich, smooth meal. It’s comforting and quick, perfect when looking for a budget-friendly option that’s satisfying. Try it tonight for a classic dish that’s easy on the budget and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Soup
Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes
Canned tuna gets a flavor boost with pesto and sundried tomatoes in this budget-friendly salad. It’s a light yet satisfying meal that comes together quickly without a high cost. Toss this salad together and enjoy a fresh, easy meal in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes
Cream of Celery Soup
This cream of celery soup combines pantry staples into a smooth, satisfying dish that’s both comforting and affordable. It’s the perfect way to turn simple ingredients into a flavorful meal. Make this soup today for a quick and budget-friendly meal that’s rich in flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Celery Soup
Simple Salmon Patties
Canned salmon, simple seasonings, and a quick pan-fry come together to make these salmon patties both delicious and affordable. It’s a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or protein. Try these salmon patties for a simple, tasty meal that’s easy on the wallet.
Get the Recipe: Simple Salmon Patties
Air Fryer Tortilla Pizza
Air fryer tortilla pizza is a quick, budget-friendly way to enjoy a cheesy, flavorful pizza at home. Using crispy tortillas instead of traditional dough makes this a fun and easy meal without the high price tag. Whip up this pizza and enjoy a homemade dinner for less.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tortilla Pizza
Shortcut Chicken Salad
This shortcut chicken salad uses canned chicken to create a quick, budget-friendly meal that’s still tasty and filling. A few simple ingredients come together to make a satisfying lunch or dinner. Put this easy recipe to use and enjoy a delicious meal that won’t break the bank.
Get the Recipe: Shortcut Chicken Salad
Chicken and Rice Soup
Chicken and rice soup uses pantry staples to create a filling, hearty meal that doesn’t cost much. The tender chicken and fluffy rice make it a comforting dish that’s perfect for a tight budget. Try this soup for a cozy, satisfying dinner that’s easy on your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Soup
Creamy Pea Pasta
Creamy pea pasta combines tender pasta with a simple, affordable sauce and sweet peas for a rich meal without the high cost. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a homemade meal on a budget. Whip up this creamy pasta and enjoy a satisfying dinner that doesn’t hurt your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Pasta
Creamy Tuscan Bean Soup
Creamy Tuscan bean soup blends beans, herbs, and smooth broth for a dish that feels fancy but is still budget-friendly. It’s a hearty, satisfying soup that makes the most of affordable ingredients. Make this soup today for a comforting, filling meal that’s easy on your budget.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Bean Soup
Weeknight Lasagna Roll-Ups
Lasagna roll-ups offer all the flavors of traditional lasagna without the added cost of layers of noodles and cheese. These roll-ups come together quickly, making them perfect for busy nights. Try these roll-ups tonight for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and budget-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Weeknight Lasagna Roll-Ups
Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
This chicken egg roll in a bowl brings bold flavors from a classic dish without the extra cost. Ground chicken and fresh veggies come together in a savory sauce for a fast, budget-friendly meal. Make this easy recipe tonight for a filling dinner that’s packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
Spicy Tuna Rolls
Spicy tuna rolls are made with canned tuna and easy ingredients, offering a fresh sushi experience for a fraction of the cost. With spicy mayo and seasoned rice, this meal is full of flavor without breaking the bank. Roll up some savings today with this simple, affordable recipe.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Rolls
Tuna and Tomato Pasta
Tuna and tomato pasta combine canned tuna and tomatoes for a rich, satisfying sauce that’s both filling and affordable. The simple ingredients come together to create a hearty meal that’s easy on the budget. Cook this dish tonight for a flavorful pasta that won’t cost you much.
Get the Recipe: Tuna and Tomato Pasta
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
This Instant Pot chicken noodle soup comes together quickly, making it an easy, budget-friendly meal. With simple ingredients like chicken, noodles, and broth, it’s a comforting dish that doesn’t cost much. Try it out for a quick and hearty meal that’s full of flavor and savings.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken Tortellini Soup
Chicken tortellini soup uses leftover rotisserie chicken and cheesy tortellini to create a hearty, budget-friendly meal. The savory broth ties everything together for a satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare. Make this soup today for a delicious, affordable meal that’s ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup
Ramen Chicken Noodles
Ramen chicken noodles use simple ingredients to create a satisfying, affordable meal with rich flavor. The tender chicken and umami-rich broth come together for a comforting, budget-friendly dish. Try it today for a meal that fills you up without emptying your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Chicken Noodles
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
This slow cooker honey garlic chicken is an easy way to make a flavorful, budget-friendly dinner. The slow cooker does the work while the honey garlic sauce adds a sweet and savory finish to the chicken. Set it up today and enjoy a hands-off meal that won’t break the bank.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Best Air Fryer Cabbage Steak
Air fryer cabbage steaks turn a humble vegetable into a crispy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a budget-friendly meal. The air fryer makes it easy to cook up something satisfying without spending much. Try this easy recipe for a healthy, flavorful dinner that doesn’t cost much.
Get the Recipe: Best Air Fryer Cabbage Steak
Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Pasta e fagioli soup combines beans, pasta, and a rich tomato broth for a satisfying, budget-friendly meal. This hearty dish is easy to make with pantry staples and feels like a homemade comfort food. Make this soup today for a filling meal that’s both delicious and easy on your budget.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
Slow cooker split pea soup is an easy, no-fuss way to make a filling, budget-friendly meal. The peas cook perfectly, creating a rich and comforting dish that’s both hearty and affordable. Let your slow cooker do the work today and enjoy a flavorful soup that’s easy on the wallet.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry
Skip the pricey takeout and make this beef and broccoli stir-fry at home. The thinly sliced beef cooks quickly in a savory sauce, creating a dish that’s packed with flavor. Whip it up for a meal that’s both affordable and satisfying, perfect for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry
Air Fryer Jerk Chicken Wings
Get ready to spice things up with Air Fryer Jerk Chicken Wings! With bold, spicy flavors and a crispy texture, these wings are sure to impress. Try them today for a quick and flavorful meal that brings the heat without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jerk Chicken Wings
Homemade Clear Vegetable Soup
Turn basic vegetables into a light, flavorful soup that keeps grocery costs low. Fresh garden veggies simmer in a clear, seasoned broth, making this dish both wholesome and budget-friendly. Make this soup tonight for a satisfying meal that stretches your ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Clear Vegetable Soup
Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken
Tender chicken bakes beneath a bubbling layer of mozzarella and roasted tomatoes, bringing an Italian-inspired dish straight to your table. Fresh basil and garlic enhance the flavor, while the melted cheese and caramelized tomatoes create a savory sauce. Serve it up for a simple yet elegant meal that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken
Pork Chops in Crockpot Recipe
This easy Pork Chops in Crockpot Recipe lets you set it and forget it for a stress-free dinner. The pork chops are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Put it on tonight for a simple, hands-off meal that’s both delicious and convenient.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops in Crockpot Recipe
Navy Bean and Ham Soup
Treat yourself to a comforting bowl of Navy Bean and Ham Soup that’s easy to make and full of flavor. This dish combines hearty beans with savory ham in a rich, satisfying broth. Try it for a meal that’s both filling and budget-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Navy Bean and Ham Soup
Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Dinner
A full meal comes together effortlessly on one pan, with juicy sausage, tender potatoes, and colorful bell peppers. Roasting everything together deepens the flavors and makes cleanup a breeze. Serve this one-pan wonder tonight for a no-fuss, delicious dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Dinner
Shrimp and Tomato Pasta
Sweet tomatoes and tender shrimp mix with garlic and seasonings to create a light yet flavorful pasta. The simple ingredients come together quickly, making it perfect for when you need a meal with a bold taste but without the heaviness. Make it tonight for a fresh, easy dinner that’s bursting with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Tomato Pasta