Are you tired of breaking the bank on every dinner? Do you wish you had more time to cook up a storm without sacrificing flavor or quality? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 budget-friendly cheap dinner recipes that are sure to delight your family and leave everyone satisfied. From hearty pasta dishes to spicy stir-fries, we’ve got you covered.
Our first recipe is the Cheesy Baked Pasta with Ground Beef – a classic comfort food dish that’s easy on the wallet and big on flavor. This mouthwatering casserole combines al dente pasta, ground beef, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese for a meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Cheesy Baked Pasta with Ground Beef
A hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering. This recipe combines tender ground beef, creamy pasta, and melted cheese for a comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in tomato sauce; bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked pasta, meat mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal. This recipe combines the ease of slow cooking with the simplicity of rice and chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, combine rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the rice mixture to the slow cooker, spreading it evenly over the chicken.
4. Dot the top with butter.
5. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (LOW) or 3-4 hours (HIGH)
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu
This recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of veggies and protein in one delicious dish. With its simplicity and versatility, it’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas, etc.)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Return the tofu to the skillet and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Black Bean and Cheese Quesadillas
These quesadillas are a delicious twist on traditional Mexican fare, packed with the savory flavor of black beans and melted cheese. They’re perfect for a quick lunch or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together black beans and cheese.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the bean-cheese mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch (4 quesadillas)
Homemade Veggie Pizza on a Budget
Savor the taste of a delicious homemade veggie pizza without breaking the bank! This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of whole wheat pizza dough (approx. $2)
– 1 cup of marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought, approx. $1)
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese (approx. $3)
– 1/2 cup of frozen bell peppers, thawed and sliced
– 1/2 cup of frozen onions, thawed and chopped
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh mushrooms
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Spread the marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and your favorite veggies (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cost: Approx. $7 for a delicious homemade veggie pizza that serves 2-3 people!
One-Pot Tuna Pasta with Peas
This recipe is a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be ready in no time! With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a delicious one-pot dish filled with tuna, pasta, peas, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 1 can (5 oz.) of tuna in water, drained
– 2 cups frozen peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add tuna, peas, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until peas are tender.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cooked pasta. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Egg Fried Rice with Mixed Vegetables
A classic Chinese dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe combines the simplicity of cooked rice with the freshness of mixed vegetables and the richness of scrambled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until they’re translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re tender-crisp.
4. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the beaten eggs; scramble them until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the vegetables. Then, add the cooked rice and stir-fry everything together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lentil and Potato Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of protein-packed lentils and creamy potatoes, simmered to perfection in a rich vegetable broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils, potatoes, onion, garlic, carrot, and celery.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the essence of Italy’s beloved pasta dish with the rich flavors of garlic and olive oil. With just a few ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden.
4. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the garlic-infused oil. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley or basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Beef and Bean Chili
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful homemade chili recipe, perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing party. This classic combination of tender beef, creamy beans, and savory spices is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add beans, diced tomatoes, and water; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice and Ground Turkey
A flavorful and nutritious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines tender bell peppers with savory ground turkey, fluffy rice, and a blend of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked rice and olive oil. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of cream with the brightness of fresh spinach and tomatoes. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice
– 2 cups (400g) cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup (20g) fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
– 1 tsp (5g) dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and cherry tomatoes in a little oil over medium heat until the tomatoes release their juices and start to soften.
3. Add fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and dried basil. Bring mixture to a simmer and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta and creamy tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes from start to finish.
Mashed Potato Bowls with Gravy and Sausage
These comforting bowls are the perfect combination of creamy mashed potatoes, savory sausage, and rich brown gravy. A simple yet satisfying meal that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Boil potatoes until tender, then drain and mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Remove sausage from skillet, leaving drippings behind. Add flour to pan, whisking to combine, and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking constantly, and bring to a simmer.
6. Serve mashed potatoes in bowls, topped with sausage and gravy.
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheap and Easy Tuna Casserole
A budget-friendly twist on the classic tuna casserole, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1 cup of cooked pasta
– 1/2 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1/4 cup of milk
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon of butter
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, peas and carrots, milk, and paprika. Mix well.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the tuna mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Dot the top with butter and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Potato Bar with Toppings
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this simple yet flavorful baked potato bar! With a variety of toppings, you can customize your potatoes to suit any taste.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baking potatoes
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper
– Assorted toppings (choose from):
+ Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack)
+ Diced ham or bacon
+ Sour cream
+ Chives or scallions
+ Diced tomatoes
+ Avocado slices
+ Salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and dry them with a paper towel.
3. Poke some holes in each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape.
4. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes.
7. Set up your toppings bar and let everyone customize their own baked potato!
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Vegetable and Cheese Omelet
Start your day with a fluffy and flavorful omelet packed with sautéed vegetables and melted cheese. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), diced
– 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 tablespoon grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until they release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables in the skillet.
5. Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the eggs.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the edges start to set.
7. Use a spatula to gently fold the omelet in half.
8. Cook for an additional minute, until the cheese is melted and the eggs are cooked through.
9. Slide the omelet onto a plate and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake
A comforting and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli florets, and shredded cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the rice mixture and stir until combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Homemade Mac and Cheese with Peas
Elevate your comfort food game with this classic macaroni and cheese recipe, elevated by the addition of sweet and tender peas. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked macaroni, peas, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Quick and Easy Bean Burritos
Quick and Easy Bean Burritos
Get ready for a flavorful and filling meal with this simple recipe! With just a few ingredients, you can create delicious burritos packed with protein-rich beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 8-10 tortillas (flour or corn)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the burritos by spooning the bean mixture onto the tortilla, followed by shredded cheese and any desired toppings.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice: A Flavorful and Easy One-Pot Meal
This recipe combines succulent shrimp with flavorful garlic butter, served over a bed of fluffy rice. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the rice and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Serve the shrimp over the cooked rice. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious and affordable dinner recipes that your family will love? Look no further! This article shares 20 budget-friendly cheap dinner recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic comfort foods like homemade mac and cheese to international-inspired dishes like vegetable stir-fry with tofu, there’s something for everyone. Plus, these recipes won’t break the bank – they’re all easy on the wallet and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.