Busy days and tight budgets can make meal planning tough. You want good food without spending too much time or money. Here’s a solution: 15 quick and affordable recipes that are easy to make and sure to satisfy. With these meals, you can enjoy great food without breaking the bank and still have time to relax after a busy day.
Potato Gnocchi
Homemade potato gnocchi is an affordable way to create a classic Italian dish in your own kitchen. These light, fluffy dumplings are simple to make and pair well with a variety of sauces. It’s a satisfying meal that delivers a taste of Italy without the restaurant price.
Get the Recipe: Potato Gnocchi
Cheesy Stuffed Shells
Cheesy stuffed shells are an excellent choice for a budget-friendly family meal. Each shell is packed with creamy ricotta and mixed vegetables, making for a comforting and hearty dinner. This dish is easy to prepare and offers a filling vegetarian option for any night.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Stuffed Shells
Creamy Pea Pasta
Creamy pea pasta is a fast, economical dish that combines a rich sauce with nutritious peas for a well-rounded meal. This recipe is quick to make and ensures you get a flavorful and satisfying dinner. It’s an ideal option for when you need a delicious meal in a short amount of time.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Pasta
Mexican Skillet Quinoa
Mexican skillet quinoa is a one-pan meal that’s both affordable and packed with protein. The blend of quinoa, black beans, corn, and salsa makes for a flavorful and wholesome dish. This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you need a nutritious and easy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Skillet Quinoa
Pizza Pot Pies
Pizza pot pies give a fresh spin to traditional comfort food, offering a budget-friendly option that’s great for using up leftovers. These mini pies are filled with melted cheese and your favorite pizza toppings, making them fun to prepare and eat. It’s a creative way to enjoy pizza flavors in a new format.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pot Pies
Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
Chicken egg roll in a bowl takes the essence of classic egg rolls and simplifies it into a quick and budget-friendly stir-fry. Combining tender chicken with crunchy vegetables, this dish offers a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s a great solution for a homemade dinner when you’re short on time.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
Cacio e Pepe
Cacio e Pepe is a classic pasta dish that brings rich, savory flavors to your table with minimal ingredients. The creamy blend of pecorino cheese and black pepper creates a sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. This simple, budget-friendly meal is ideal for an easy yet indulgent dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe
Shredded BBQ Chicken
Shredded BBQ chicken is a versatile and budget-friendly option that transforms basic ingredients into a flavorful meal. Slow-cooked in a smoky BBQ sauce, this tender chicken can be used in sandwiches, salads, or wraps. It’s a hearty dish that’s economical and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Shredded BBQ Chicken
Pizza Roll-Ups
Pizza roll-ups are a creative, budget-friendly twist on pizza that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Customize these roll-ups with your favorite toppings for a meal that’s both fun to make and enjoy. They offer an affordable and delicious way to experience pizza in a new form.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Roll-Ups
Shortcut Chicken Salad
Shortcut chicken salad is a fast and budget-friendly meal option that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Made with canned chicken, fresh vegetables, and a light vinaigrette, it’s both refreshing and satisfying. This easy recipe is great for when you need a quick, nutritious meal.
Get the Recipe: Shortcut Chicken Salad
Grown Up Mac and Cheese
Grown-up mac and cheese adds a rich, creamy twist to the classic dish with the addition of smoky bacon and juicy tomatoes. This budget-friendly recipe is easy to prepare and offers a sophisticated upgrade to comfort food. It’s a delicious and affordable choice for any dinner.
Get the Recipe: Grown Up Mac and Cheese
Tuna Tomato Pasta
Tuna tomato pasta is a simple, budget-friendly meal that uses pantry staples for a quick dinner. The combination of tuna, tomatoes, and pasta creates a satisfying dish that’s easy to make. It’s a flavorful, cost-effective option for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Tomato Pasta
Chicken Tenders
Homemade chicken tenders are a fun, affordable alternative to fast food that the whole family will enjoy. These tenders are coated with a crispy layer and contain juicy chicken inside, making them perfect for any weeknight meal. Enjoy a delicious dinner that’s easy to make and budget-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tenders
Kefta Kebabs
Kefta kebabs bring vibrant, spicy flavors to the table with a budget-friendly approach. These kebabs are seasoned with aromatic spices and are quick to prepare. They’re a satisfying and flavorful meal that pairs well with various sides for an economical dinner.
Get the Recipe: Kefta Kebabs
Weeknight Lasagna Roll-Ups
Weeknight lasagna roll-ups simplify the classic lasagna with a quick and satisfying twist. The creamy cheese and savory sauce are wrapped in tender pasta, creating a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. It’s a convenient option for enjoying lasagna flavors without the lengthy cooking time.
Get the Recipe: Weeknight Lasagna Roll-Ups