Have you ever been pressed for time but still desire a delectable, cost-effective dinner? If so, you are in luck! This article has compiled a selection of 21 delicious cheap dinner recipes that are ideal for those busy weeknights when taste is a priority and budget is a factor. From stir-fries to soups and more, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings without compromising on quality. So, buckle down and embark on a culinary journey that will not only save you time but also save you money and leave you wanting more.
One-Pot Chicken and Rice
This one-pot chicken and rice dish is the perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and cost-effectiveness. With just a few ingredients and a few simple steps, you can make this delicious homemade dinner in no time. The chicken, rice, and vegetables all cook together in one pot, resulting in a luscious and flavorful dish. The rice absorbs the flavors and becomes fluffy and cooked, providing a nutritious base for the chicken. The colorful vegetables add freshness and texture to the dish, making it a balanced meal that will satisfy both taste buds and budget.
In addition to saving you time and effort, this recipe also reduces the number of dishes you have to wash afterward. Who doesn’t want to spend their evening at the kitchen sink?
So if you’re looking for a simple yet delicious dinner that’s easy to make, then try this one-pot chicken and rice recipe. It’s easy, versatile, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to spend more time with your family and friends. So why not give it a try and see what it’s all about?
Get the recipe here.
Related: Easy Keto Dinner Recipes for Weight Loss
Beef Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Looking for a new recipe to spice up your weeknight dinner? Look no further! This easy and budget-friendly beef stir-fry with vegetables is packed with flavor and a great way to add more veggies to your diet. The beauty of this dish is that it’s simple and versatile. You can tailor it to your taste or use what you already have on hand.
Choose your favorite vegetables to make this stir-fry. Whether it’s colorful bell peppers, fresh peas, or crunchy broccoli florets, you’re sure to find something that’s perfect for you.
Begin by cutting your beef into thin slices and marinating in a flavorful sauce. Once the beef is marinated, chop your vegetables. Then, heat up your wok or cast iron and start cooking. Stir-frying ensures that your vegetables retain their crunchy flavor and vibrant colors while the beef is tender and flavorful. The combination of tender beef, crisp veggies, and savory sauce creates the perfect consistency of flavors.
Get the recipe here.
Related: One-pot Dinner Recipes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is an easy and delicious dish that can be prepared in just a few minutes. This is one of my favorite cheap dinner recipes. The creamy sauce is infused with the bold flavor of garlic and the savory notes of parmesan cheese. The dish is perfect for busy weeknights and can be paired with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. The result is a comforting bowl of pasta that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. This recipe is a game-changer and will satisfy even the pickiest eaters in your family.
Get the recipe here.
Related: Easy Vegan Appetizers
Mexican Stuffed Peppers
Mexican stuffed peppers are the perfect addition to your dinner table. They add a splash of bold flavor and exciting texture to your plate. Mexican stuffed peppers are a yummy and satisfying dinner when you’re looking for something a little more adventurous.
Each pepper is packed full of seasoned ground beef and seasoned black beans, seasoned corn, and seasoned rice. Each pepper is a flavorful vessel that you’ll want to eat every bite of. The filling is spiced with chili powder, cumin, and paprika to give it the perfect blend of heat and smoke. For a creamy and gooey finish, top each pepper with melted cheese.
The stuffed peppers are baked in the oven to bring all the flavors together and create a dish that’s irresistible. The peppers soften and get slightly burned as they cook, making them even sweeter and the filling absorbs all the flavors, making it a perfect combination that’ll take your taste buds to the next level. Once you bite into it, you’ll be in for a treat. The beef is spiced, the rice is tender, and the corn and beans add a sweetness that will make you want more.
Get the recipe here.
Related: Cheap Keto Meals
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast
Prepare to delight your taste buds with this inexpensive dinner recipe: Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast. Just imagine biting into a juicy, tender chicken breast, filled with a delicious combination of feta cheese and spinach. The bright green of the spinach peeks out from under the golden brown crust of the chicken, creating a surprising contrast that will impress anyone sitting at the dinner table.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also very easy to make. You don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to prepare it, and it doesn’t take long to make. So if you’re looking for a quick and easy meal on a busy weeknight, this is the recipe perfect for you. I bet this recipe will become one of your favorite cheap dinner recipes.
Get the recipe here.
Related: Tasty Meat Recipes
Veggie Fried Rice
Veggie Fried Rice is the perfect meal for those busy nights when you’re looking for a quick and healthy way to fill up. It’s packed with colorful veggies and spices, so you get a balanced taste and texture. Plus, you can customize it with whatever veggies you have in the fridge, so you can use up leftovers and make your meal even more delicious.
To get that authentic flavor like a restaurant, start with pre-cooked rice. You can use leftover rice from last night’s dinner. The key is to let the rice cool completely before you stir-fry it with the veggies and spices. This ensures that every grain of rice stays separate, making the dish light and fluffy, with a delicious bite. As you cook the vegetables in your wok or cast iron pan, the fragrances of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce combine to create a balanced and satisfying dish. If you’re looking to add protein, you can add diced tofu or scrambled eggs for extra texture and flavor.
Actually, this is the Veggie Fried Rice. It’s simple, versatile, and delicious. Plus, it’s affordable.
Get the recipe here.
Related: Cheap Healthy Foods for College Students
Baked Honey Mustard Salmon
When you’re looking for a simple yet elegant meal, you can’t go wrong with a perfectly cooked piece of salmon, and when you pair it with a tangy sweet honey mustard sauce, you’ve got yourself to the next level.
Not only is this Baked Honey mustard salmon recipe delicious, but it’s also super easy to make. This is perfect for those late-night dinners.
Start by pre-heating the oven to a medium-high temperature and place a baking sheet of parchment paper on the bottom of the oven. As the oven warms up, take a small bowl and whisk together the following:
- Dijon mustard
- Honey
- Moldred garlic
- Light lemon juice
The result is a delightful combination of tang and sweetness that complements the salmon perfectly. Prepare the glaze by placing salmon fillets onto the baking sheet or any foil. Gently brush the glaze mixture over the salmon to infuse it with flavor and create a caramelized crust. Place the baking sheet in the oven and allow the salmon to cook for 12 to 15 minutes or until it is tender. This dish is a great accompaniment to roasted vegetables or steamed rice. Additionally, the flavor profile can be customized to include a variety of herbs and spices.
Get the recipe here.
Related: Easy Steak Recipes
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make BBQ pulled pork sliders, this recipe is for you. It’s a great way to use up some of your budget-friendly cuts of pork and some of your own homemade barbecue sauce. Cook the pork in the slow cooker until it’s nice and tender, and then toss it all in the sauce until it’s all coated. Slide the pork on a soft bun, and top with some coleslaw for a crunchy, creamy treat. You can also customize the sliders with pickles, onion, or cheese. It’s perfect for any casual gathering and one of the easy cheap dinner recipes.
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders are the ultimate comfort food that will satisfy any craving. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply want a delicious and hassle-free meal, these sliders are sure to be a hit.
Get the recipe here.
Suggested: Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Teriyaki Turkey Meatballs
This recipe offers a unique twist on the traditional meatball. The flavors are inspired by the flavors of Asian cuisine, making these meatballs a crowd-pleaser that will surely delight your guests. To make the Teriyaki Turkey meatballs, mix together ground turkey and breadcrumbs with finely chopped onions and garlic, then season with soy sauce and a pinch of brown sugar. Gently mix the ingredients until well combined and roll into bite-size meatballs. Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake until golden brown [You can deep fry them also instead of baking]. The delicious aroma that wafts through the kitchen as the meatballs bake will leave you breathless.
While your meatballs are in the oven, you can make your own Teriyaki sauce in the small saucepan below. Mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, and garlic powder. Bring to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 tbsp of cornstarch. Reduce the heat to low and simmer until it thickens to your desired consistency.
This sweet, savory sauce pairs perfectly with your turkey meatballs and gives them a glaze that’ll make you totally mad to try these again and again. Transfer your meatballs to a serving plate and drizzle the remaining sauces over them. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top(optional) and garnish with chopped green onions for a little extra freshness and flavor.
Get the recipe here.
Related: Beef Stew Recipe
Sweet and Sour Shrimp
It’s time to get ready for our next yummy dish! Sweet and sour shrimp are the perfect combination of sweet and sour flavors, so you’ll be in for a treat. Start by gathering all the ingredients – shrimp are the most important, so get some big, plump, firm ones. Then, add some colorful bell peppers, onions, chunks of pineapple, and a bunch of pantry-friendly stuff like ketchup, vinegar, and sugar. Heat up a big pan of oil in the middle of the stove and add the shrimp. Cook until they’re nice and pink on one side and two to three on the other, then take them off the heat and put them away.
Saute bell peppers, onion, and pineapple in a skillet. Make a sweet and sour sauce with soy sauce, ketchup, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. Pour the sauce over the cooked vegetables and shrimp. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Serve over rice or noodles. It’s a crowd-pleaser and perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Get the recipe here.
Suggested: Vegan Rice Recipes
Cheesy Baked Ziti
Cheesy baked ziti is a yummy, cheesy pasta dish that’s super easy to make on a budget. Boil some ziti noodles, add some garlic, crushed tomatoes, and some dried Italian herbs, and simmer for a while. Pour some tomato sauce over the noodles and top with shredded mozzarella. The cheese melts in the sauce, making it gooey and yummy.
Place the mixture in the baking dish and top with more cheese. Bake in the oven until cheese is golden brown and bubbly. The smell of the ziti baking in the oven will fill your kitchen with a delicious aroma that will fill your stomach with joy.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 30 minutes before enjoying. The combination of the cheesy layers of the ziti, the rich tomato sauce, and the melt-in-your-mouth mozzarella create a delicious combination that will leave your taste buds wanting more. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight when you don’t have a lot of time or money to spare. Serve with a salad or garlic bread and you’ll be ready to eat again in no time.
Get the recipe here.
Suggested: Healthy Summer Sausage Recipes
Vegetarian Black Bean Enchiladas
Now let’s move on to another recipe that’s sure to add some zesty flavor to your dinner table. Vegetarian black bean Enchiladas are perfect for vegetarians and meat lovers alike. This dish is loaded with protein-packed black beans, melted cheese, and Mexican-inspired flavors.
In a large saute pan, saute onions and garlic until they’re nice and fragrant. Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and a blend of spices (cumin, chili powder, and oregano). Simmer for a few minutes until the flavors blend together and the beans are tender.
Here’s the fun part – putting together the enchilada. Take one tortilla and spread a generous amount of black bean mixture down the center of the tortilla. Roll the tortilla up and place it in a baking dish, seam-side down. Repeat with all remaining tortillas until you’ve used all the filling.
Add enchilada sauce, top with shredded cheese, and bake. Serve hot with cilantro, avocado, and sour cream. You can use homemade or store-bought sauce. The combination of beans, cheese, and sauce just creates a fiesta.
Get the recipe here.
Suggested: Easy Chicken Recipes
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs
This yummy chicken dish is perfect for those busy nights when you’re looking for something tasty but also cheap. Chicken thighs are marinated in a simple but flavorful mixture of lemon juice and olive oil, garlic, and herbs like thyme and rosemary. Not only does it add a splash of brightness, but it also helps cook the chicken so that it’s tender and juicy.
Once you marinate the chicken, you can bake it in the oven. Place chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The lemon and herbs will soak up all the flavors of the chicken as it cooks. This recipe is really easy to make and a very cheap dinner recipe.
Get the recipe here.
Related: Zucchini Skillet Recipes
Caprese Quinoa Salad
While the chicken thighs are in the oven, you can take advantage of the time to prepare the next item on your menu for dinner. This Caprese Quinoa Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that pairs perfectly with lemon herb roasted chicken thighs. This salad is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner and is sure to impress your family. Combining the classic Italian flavors of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, this salad is sure to be a hit in the kitchen. Cook quinoa according to package directions. Cut tomatoes into small pieces and tear fresh basil leaves. Then, dice the mozzarella and toss with the quinoa.
If you want to give your salad a little boost, toss it in a vinaigrette. You can make it yourself by mixing olive oil and balsamic vinegar together with salt and pepper. This will give the salad a tangy and spicy kick that ties everything together. Now that you’re all prepped and ready to go, let’s take a few minutes to appreciate the bright colors and textures of Caprese Quinoa Salad. You can have this salad for breakfast or brunch. Tomatoes, mozzarella, quinoa, and creamy mozzarella all come together to create a delicious combination that will keep you feeling full and satisfied all day long.
Get the recipe here.
Related: Vegan Breakfast Recipes
Zucchini and Corn Fritters
Zucchini and corn fritters are a great way to add some variety to your weeknight dinner table. Not only are these fritters affordable, but they’re also full of flavors. Imagine biting into a crunchy yet tender zucchini fritter that’s filled with the freshness of sweet corn.
The zucchini and corn complement each other perfectly. Making these fritters isn’t complicated. Grate the zucchini, then pat it dry to remove excess moisture. Mix the zucchini with the yellow kernels of the corn, creating a bright and colorful base for the fritters.
To bind everything together, combine eggs, flour, salt, and pepper in a big mixing bowl. This simple batter is the glue that holds everything together, giving your fritters a satisfying crunch with each bite. Heat up a bit of oil in a big pan over medium heat. Put some of the batter in the pan and press it down to form fritters. Cook them until they’re nice and crispy on both sides. Serve these yummy fritters with Greek yogurt or avocado salsa.
Get the recipe here.
Suggested: Easy Quinoa Recipes
Honey Garlic Glazed Carrots
Honey Garlic Glazed Carrots are a delicious side dish that perfectly complements any main course. Peeling and chopping fresh carrots, melting butter and minced garlic, and coating them evenly in the melted butter and garlic create the foundation for the glaze. Drizzling a noble amount of honey over the carrots creates a luscious glaze that coats each piece with its sticky deliciousness. The glaze is a mouthwatering delight that leaves your taste buds craving for more.
Slow-cook honey garlic glazed carrots in a saucepan on low heat for 15-20 minutes until tender and coated in a glossy coating. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure all sides are coated. Thicken the glaze for an irresistible aroma. Serve alongside the main course for a burst of flavor and sweetness.
Get the recipe here.
Suggested: Baked Chicken Recipes
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a bright and colorful salad that combines fresh cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, Kalamata Olives, and tender chickpeas with a lemon herb dressing. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish to pair with grilled meats or a simple vegetarian main course, this salad is perfect for those summer evenings when you’re looking for something light and filling. It’s also a great way to increase your plant-based protein intake.
It is possible to enhance the flavor of this salad by adding additional ingredients such as diced avocado, minced fresh herbs (e.g. parsley, mint), roasted red peppers, etc. This can be done in a variety of ways to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences. There is no suggestion of serving time, you can have it in the morning, lunch, or any other time. Isn’t it one of the best cheap dinner recipes?
Get the recipe here.
Suggested:
Instant Pot Mexican Recipes
Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipes
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
BBQ chicken quesadillas are quick and easy to make, and one of my favorite cheap dinner recipes if I am going short in my pocket. To make this awesome recipe, simply grill or saute your chicken, toss in some barbecue sauce, and top with melted cheese, and you’re good to go. This classic dish can be made with a variety of cheeses and toppings, so you can customize it however you like. All you have to do is prepare it in a few minutes, and you’re ready to go. The savory BBQ flavor, melt-in-your-mouth cheese, and crunchy goodness make these quesadillas the perfect comfort food for a busy weeknight.
Get the recipe here.
Related: Keto Chicken Recipes
Italian Sausage and Peppers
Prepare your tastebuds for a delicious combination of Italian sausage, sweet peppers, and aromatic herbs. Italian sausage and peppers is a classic Italian dish that brings all the flavors of Italy together in a simple and delicious way. The spicy Italian sausage, the colorful bell peppers, and the fragrant herbs all come together to create a comforting dish that is bursting with flavor. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and easy that doesn’t compromise flavor.
In a large cast iron pan, fry the Italian sausage until golden brown. As the sausages brown, their rich flavors soak into the oil, providing a great base for the other ingredients. Remove the sausages from the pan and set aside. In the same cast iron pan, add sliced bell peppers and onion. Cook the bell peppers until they are tender and caramelized, allowing them to release their natural sweetness. The process will take about 10 minutes, giving you plenty of time to multitask and focus on other things while you enjoy the deliciousness of this dish.
Put the sausages back in the pan and season them with a bit of garlic and some Italian seasoning. This will give the sausages a whole new flavor and make them taste even better. Let them cook for a bit longer so all the flavors come together. Serve Italian Sausage with Peppers on their own or with some bread or pasta – it’s up to you.
Get the recipe here.
Suggested: Spring Dessert Recipes
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is so easy to make – all you need are a few ingredients and you’re good to go! Just fry the onion and garlic in olive oil until they are golden and fragrant, then add a can of tomatoes and cook with a little salt and pepper. Finally, add fresh basil leaves and let them soak up all the flavors. The basil gives a burst of fresh flavor that takes the tomato base to a whole new level. This is a creamy, refreshing soup that’s perfect for those cold weeknights when you crave something hot and delicious but tasty.
If you want your soup to be creamy, add a little heavy cream and mix it slowly. Keep stirring until it’s nicely mixed and becomes creamy. If you want something lighter, you can use Greek yogurt instead. Taste for seasoning and adjust if necessary, such as adding some oregano, red pepper flakes, or fresh basil leaves. Serve it in warm bowls and drizzle with olive oil for a nice, creamy finish. Serve with slices of garlic bread or you can have it plain.
Get the recipe here.
Related: Tomato Sauce Recipe
Baked Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
Baked Parmesan Covered Pork Chops are an easy and delicious main course that will satisfy your cravings and is also one of my sister’s favorite cheap dinner recipes. This simple yet delicious dish is perfect for busy weeknights and budget-friendly meals that still feel indulgent.
To make these juicy pork chops, prepare your oven by preheating it to 400°F/200°C. While the oven is warming up, mix together the following ingredients: Boneless Pork Chops, Grated Parmesan Cheese, Breadcrumbs, Garlic Powder, Dried Oregano, Salt, and Black Pepper. Place the Parmesan Cheese in a shallow dish. Add the breadcrumbs and mix well to evenly distribute the flavors.
Pour the mixture over each pork chop, pressing it down on both sides. This will give the pork a thick, juicy crust that will make it even more tender. Once all the pork is coated, spread it out on a baking sheet and bake it in the oven. Bake it for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s become golden brown. When the timer sounds and your kitchen smells like Parmesan-crispy pork, you know dinner is almost ready.
Get the recipe here.
Bonus
Baked Lemon Pepper Fish Fillets
Now that you’re all excited to try something new, let’s work on another recipe that will keep your family happy and budget-friendly too. Get ready for a delicious citrus flavor and flaky, tender fish that will have everyone begging for seconds. The best part of this dish is that it is very easy to make. All you need are a few ingredients and you’re good to go. Start by getting the freshest fish you can find in the market. White fish like barramundi or cod are great because they are light and go great with lemon pepper seasoning. Preheat your oven to medium temperature (usually around 375°F). Line a baking sheet with some parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the fish from sticking. Place the fish on the sheet, making sure they do not overlap.
To give your fish a little kick, add lemon juice and some lemon pepper seasoning and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Bake for about one and a half hours, then let it sit a bit before serving. Sprinkle with some fresh chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon.
Get the recipe here.
Suggested: New Year Dinner Ideas
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This spaghetti is a classic Italian dish that’s known for its simple and bold flavors. It’s super easy to make and super budget-friendly, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, you can add some more variety to your dinner after you’ve tried these delicious baked lemon pepper fish fillets. All you need is some spaghetti, garlic, and olive oil, plus some red pepper flakes, parsley, and Parmesan cheese. To make spaghetti aglio e olio, boil the spaghetti until it’s al dente, and then add a good amount of olive oil to a large pan. Let the garlic and flakes sizzle in the oil until it’s golden and fragrant, but don’t burn the garlic or it’ll start to turn bitter. The secret to this dish is to infuse the olive oil with garlic and red chili flakes – it’s a simple but effective way to make the whole dish taste even better.
Once the garlic is nice and golden, put the cooked spaghetti in the pan and toss it with the oil. The pasta absorbs the flavors perfectly, giving it a really nice flavor base. To top it off, add some fresh Parmesan cheese and you’ve got yourself a plate of pasta that’s not only delicious but also super easy to make. With garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes, you get a great combination of flavors that will make you want to keep coming back for more.
Get the recipe here.
Related: Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa and Black Beans
This stuffed bell pepper and quinoa dish is the perfect way to take your weeknight meal to the next level. It’s packed with flavor and texture, perfect for vegetarians and meat eaters alike. The bell peppers are a great source of color and nutrition, and the quinoa and beans add a delicious, protein-packed flavor. All you have to do is cut the bell pepper in half and remove the seeds, then cook the quinoa as per the package instructions. Once it’s cooked, saute the other diced bell peppers and onions in a pan until it’s nice and tender. Finally, mix the quinoa, beans, corn, tomatoes, cumin, chili, and paprika to create a filling that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.
Prepare the bell peppers by stuffing them with the mixture of quinoa and beans, ensuring to pack them tightly. Sprinkle each pepper with shredded cheese, either cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, or a combination of the two. Bake the bell peppers on the baking sheet until the cheese melts and the peppers are bubbly and tender enough to cut with a fork, creating a visually appealing and flavorful dish. Serve these stuffed bell peppers with quinoa and beans as a quick and easy weeknight meal, or a side dish with a salad or crusty bread.
Get the recipe here.
Chicken and Rice Casserole
Chicken and rice casserole is a simple and delicious dish that is easy to make on a budget. In this recipe, chicken is cooked in a cast iron pan with olive oil while rice is cooked according to the package directions. The chicken is tender while the rice is fluffy and creamy. The sauce is made by combining cream of chicken soup with chicken broth and seasonings. This mixture is then poured into the casserole dish. You can add frozen veggies or shredded cheese for extra flavor. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes at 350° F (175° C). Serve with a side salad, steamed vegetables, and leftovers for a delicious lunch.
Get the recipe here.
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