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23 Recipes to Feed Your Family Well Without Breaking the Bank

Feed your family well without breaking the bank with these 23 easy and irresistible recipes. You don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy a tasty meal together. These budget-friendly dishes are simple to make, full of flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or just looking for new ideas, these meals are sure to become family favorites.

Image shows easy to make calzones recipe.

Calzones. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Potato Gnocchi

Bowl of homemade gnocchi with parmesan
Potato Gnocchi. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Try making these pillowy potato gnocchi for a satisfying homemade meal. With simple ingredients, this budget-friendly dish pairs well with any sauce and can be prepared in no time. It’s the perfect option for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal without overspending.
Get the Recipe: Potato Gnocchi

Chicken Tenders

Image shows Hand dipping a corn flake crusted chicken tender into a bowl of sauce on a wooden table.
Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Make crispy, golden chicken tenders for a family-friendly dinner everyone will love. This easy, budget-friendly recipe uses just a few simple ingredients to create a meal that’s both tasty and satisfying. It’s a great choice for feeding the family without spending much.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tenders

Tuna Tomato Pasta

Image shows a closeup view of tuna and tomato pasta in a white patterned bowl.
Tuna Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Turn pantry staples into a hearty meal with this tuna tomato pasta. The simple ingredients come together to create a delicious, budget-friendly dish that’s quick and easy to prepare. It’s a great way to enjoy a filling dinner without spending too much.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Tomato Pasta

Pizza Roll-Ups

Image shows yummy bite of pizza rolls.
Pizza Roll-Ups. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Make pizza night more fun with these customizable pizza roll-ups. Using basic ingredients, this budget-friendly recipe turns an ordinary dinner into something exciting and filling. Perfect for families or anyone looking for a creative spin on pizza that doesn’t break the bank.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Roll-Ups

Calzones

Image shows an overhead shot of a Calzone cut in half on a wooden board with a small bowl of marinara above it.
Calzones. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Create these homemade calzones for a fun and affordable dinner option. With golden dough stuffed with your favorite fillings, this budget-friendly recipe offers a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy. It’s an easy way to make dinner feel special without spending too much.
Get the Recipe: Calzones

Tomato Basil Bisque

Image shows delicious tomato basil bisque recipe.
Tomato Basil Bisque. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Whip up this creamy tomato basil bisque for a rich and comforting meal. With just a few affordable ingredients, this budget-friendly soup feels homemade and satisfying. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner that doesn’t cost much.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Basil Bisque

Chicken and Dumplings

Image shows Chicken and dumplings on a spoon with more in the backgroumd.
Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Make this classic chicken and dumplings for a filling, comforting dinner. The tender chicken and fluffy dumplings combine in a savory broth to create a hearty, budget-friendly meal. It’s an easy way to feed the family without overspending.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Dumplings

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Image shows A bowl of broccoli cheddar soup with broccoli around it.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Try this creamy broccoli cheddar soup for a rich and comforting dinner. The blend of cheese and fresh broccoli creates a satisfying, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for chilly nights. It’s a great choice when you want a homemade meal without the high cost.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creamy Pea Pasta

Image shows Creamy Pea Pasta in an enameled cast iron pot.
Creamy Pea Pasta. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Whip up this creamy pea pasta for a satisfying dinner that’s easy on the wallet. The tender peas and rich sauce combine for a comforting, budget-friendly meal. It’s perfect when you want a simple yet filling dinner without spending too much.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Pasta

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Overhead shot of chicken tortilla soup in a red bowl on wooden table with tortilla strips on the soup.
Chicken Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Make this hearty chicken tortilla soup for a flavorful, filling meal. Packed with tender chicken, beans, and corn, it’s a budget-friendly recipe that’s easy to prepare. It’s a great way to use pantry staples and create a satisfying dinner for the family.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortilla Soup

Lemon Roasted Chicken

Lime marinated grilled chicken sliced on a red plate over rice.
Lemon Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Roast a lemon chicken for a flavorful, budget-friendly dinner. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation, this recipe creates a satisfying meal without the high cost. It’s perfect for anyone looking to make a delicious dinner without spending much.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Roasted Chicken

Pesto Tuna Salad

Image shows an overhead shot of an open face Pesto and Sundried Tomato Tuna Salad sandwich.
Pesto Tuna Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Try making this pesto tuna salad for a quick, affordable meal. With simple ingredients like tuna, pesto, and sundried tomatoes, it’s a budget-friendly option that’s full of flavor. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this recipe delivers a big taste without the high price tag.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tuna Salad

Cacio e Pepe

Image shows a plate with cacio e pepe in a neat pile topped with shaved parmesan cheese.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Whip up this cacio e pepe for a classic pasta dish that’s quick and affordable. Using just cheese, black pepper, and pasta, it’s a budget-friendly recipe that’s bursting with flavor. Ideal for nights when you want a satisfying meal that doesn’t take much time or money.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Cheesy Stuffed Shells

Image shows an overhead shot of Easy Cheesy Stuffed Shells with a small plate holding one and the rest of the pan next to it.
Cheesy Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Make these cheesy stuffed shells for a hearty, vegetarian dinner that’s both filling and affordable. With ricotta cheese and a flavorful sauce, this budget-friendly recipe is perfect for family dinners. It’s a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Stuffed Shells

Mexican Skillet Quinoa

Image shows a wooden spoon holding a scoop of Mexican skillet quinoa with the full pot behind it.
Mexican Skillet Quinoa. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Cook this one-pan Mexican skillet quinoa for a protein-packed meal that’s easy to prepare. With quinoa, beans, and corn, it’s a budget-friendly dish that’s both flavorful and filling. Perfect for anyone looking to make a healthy, satisfying dinner on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Skillet Quinoa

Lasagna Roll-Ups

Image shows a lasagna roll up on a white plaet.
Lasagna Roll-Ups. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Try these lasagna roll-ups for all the cheesy goodness of lasagna in a simple, budget-friendly way. This recipe skips the hassle of traditional lasagna but still delivers a comforting, satisfying meal. It’s a great option for busy nights when you want something filling without spending much.
Get the Recipe: Lasagna Roll-Ups

Lemon Butter Pasta

Image shows bite of cooked lemon butter pasta.
Lemon Butter Pasta. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Whip up this lemon butter pasta for a rich and creamy dinner that’s budget-friendly. The tangy lemon and creamy sauce come together for a satisfying meal that doesn’t cost much. It’s perfect for nights when you want a simple but flavorful dinner on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Pasta

Grown-Up Mac and Cheese

Grown up mac and cheese in a casserole dish.
Grown-Up Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Make this grown-up mac and cheese for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. With smoky bacon and juicy tomatoes, this budget-friendly recipe takes classic mac and cheese to the next level. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a satisfying dinner that doesn’t cost too much.
Get the Recipe: Grown-Up Mac and Cheese

Shredded BBQ Chicken

Image shows a BBQ shredded chicken sandwich on a wooden board.
Shredded BBQ Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Try making shredded BBQ chicken for a flavorful and versatile meal. This budget-friendly recipe is perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or even a stand-alone dinner. It’s an affordable way to create a satisfying dish with a rich flavor that won’t break the bank.
Get the Recipe: Shredded BBQ Chicken

Crockpot Chili

Image shows a closeup of a bowl of Crockpot beef chili.
Crockpot Chili. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Make this hearty crockpot chili for a filling, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy nights. Packed with bold spices, tender meat, and beans, it’s a budget-friendly recipe that feeds a crowd. It’s a great way to make a satisfying dinner without spending too much.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Chili

Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Image shows ready to eat cheesy beef and rice casserole.
Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Whip up this cheesy beef and rice casserole for a hearty, budget-friendly dinner. With ground beef, rice, and gooey cheese, it’s a satisfying meal that stretches ingredients further. It’s perfect for families or anyone looking to make a filling dinner without overspending.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Chicken Fried Rice

Images shows a white Bowl of chicken fried rice.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Turn leftover rice into a flavorful, budget-friendly dinner with this chicken fried rice recipe. Fresh veggies, tender chicken, and seasoned rice come together for a quick and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for when you want something hearty and delicious without spending much.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Shortcut Chicken Salad

Image shows a Canned Chicken Salad sandwich on a wooden table.
Shortcut Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Make this shortcut chicken salad for a quick, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Using canned chicken, fresh veggies, and a tangy dressing, it’s an affordable dish that’s full of flavor. Ideal for busy days when you want a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Shortcut Chicken Salad

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