Our Best Cheap Dinner Ideas

BY Valerie Russo March 12, 2025

Looking for tasty meals that won’t break the bank?

Cheap dinner ideas can be a lifesaver for busy families and budget-conscious cooks. With some smart planning and simple ingredients, you can whip up delicious, filling meals without spending a fortune.

You can find plenty of cheap dinner options using common ingredients like pasta, rice, beans, and ground meat.

These versatile staples form the base for many budget-friendly recipes. Add in seasonal veggies and pantry basics to create flavorful, low-cost meals your whole family will enjoy.

With a little creativity, eating well on a budget is easier than you might think.

1. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a tasty Italian dish that’s easy on your wallet. You’ll need just a few ingredients: spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes.

Start by cooking the spaghetti in salted water.

While it cooks, heat olive oil in a pan and add sliced garlic. Cook until the garlic turns golden brown.

Add red pepper flakes to the pan for a bit of heat.

Drain the pasta and toss it with the garlic oil mixture. If needed, add a splash of pasta water to help coat the noodles.

This simple meal is quick to make and full of flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fast and cheap.

2. Chicken Stir-Fry

Chicken stir-fry is a quick and cheap dinner option. You can make it with just a few ingredients.

Start by cutting chicken into small pieces.

Heat oil in a pan and cook the chicken until it’s done.

Add your favorite veggies like broccoli, carrots, or peppers. Throw in some garlic for extra flavor.

Mix in a simple sauce made of soy sauce and cornstarch. Cook everything together for a few minutes.

Serve your stir-fry over rice or noodles. This meal is filling and easy on your wallet.

3. Vegetable Quesadillas

Vegetable quesadillas are a tasty and budget-friendly dinner option. You can use any veggies you have on hand, making them perfect for using up leftover produce.

Start with tortillas and shredded cheese as your base.

Add sautéed mushrooms, peppers, and onions for a classic combo. Spinach and tomatoes bring color and nutrients to your meal.

For extra flavor, try adding some spices like cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. You can also experiment with different sauces, like red pesto, for a flavor boost.

Cook your quesadillas in a skillet until the cheese melts and the tortillas turn golden brown. Serve with a simple green salad for a complete dinner.

4. Beef Tacos

Beef tacos are a tasty and budget-friendly dinner option. You can make them easily with ground beef, taco seasoning, and tortillas.

Cook the beef in a pan and add the seasoning. Warm up the tortillas.

Set out toppings like shredded cheese, lettuce, and diced tomatoes.

Let everyone build their own tacos for a fun family meal.

You can also use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas to cut costs.

For extra savings, buy ground beef on sale and freeze it. Use corn tortillas, which are often cheaper than flour ones. Make your own taco seasoning with spices you already have.

5. Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is a budget-friendly meal that’s easy to make and packed with nutrition. You can whip up a big pot using simple ingredients like lentils, vegetables, and broth.

Red, brown, or green lentils work well for soup. Add carrots, celery, and onions for flavor and extra nutrients. Spice it up with garlic, cumin, and a bay leaf.

For a creamier soup, blend part of it or add coconut milk.

Try different variations like curry lentil soup or lentil and sausage soup to keep things interesting.

Lentil soup freezes well, so make a large batch and save some for later. Serve it with crusty bread for a filling dinner that won’t break the bank.

6. Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is a tasty and budget-friendly dinner option. You can make this pasta dish easily at home.

Cook ziti pasta until it’s almost done. Mix it with marinara sauce and ricotta cheese. Put the mixture in a baking dish.

Top it with mozzarella cheese. Bake until the cheese turns golden brown.

For extra flavor, add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the sauce. You can also include onions and garlic.

Serve your baked ziti with a simple salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

7. Margherita Pizza

Margherita pizza is a tasty and budget-friendly dinner option. You can easily make it at home for much less than ordering from a pizzeria.

The basic ingredients are simple: pizza dough, tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. For an easy dough, mix self-rising flour with Greek yogurt.

Spread tomato sauce on the dough, add sliced mozzarella, and bake until the crust is golden. After baking, top with fresh basil leaves.

This classic pizza is perfect for a quick weeknight meal. It’s ready in about 35 minutes and feeds your whole family without breaking the bank.

8. Chili Con Carne

Chili con carne is a tasty and budget-friendly meal option. You can make a big batch to feed several people or have leftovers for later.

The main ingredients are affordable and easy to find. You’ll need ground beef, canned tomatoes, beans, onions, and spices. For a vegetarian version, swap the beef for Quorn mince.

To keep costs down, buy store-brand canned goods and spices. Look for sales on ground beef or buy in bulk and freeze portions.

Serve your chili with rice or cornbread to make it go further. Add toppings like cheese or sour cream if your budget allows.

9. Tomato Basil Pasta

Tomato basil pasta is a quick and cheap meal you can make in about 15 minutes. You only need a few simple ingredients like pasta, cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and fresh basil.

Start by boiling water for the pasta.

While it cooks, sauté garlic and cherry tomatoes in olive oil until the tomatoes burst. This creates a flavorful sauce.

When the pasta is done, toss it with the tomato sauce and add some grated Parmesan cheese. Fresh basil leaves give it a nice flavor boost.

This easy dish works great as a light dinner on its own. You can also add leftover chicken or beans to make it more filling.

10. Chicken Caesar Salad

Chicken Caesar salad is a cheap and tasty dinner option. You can make it at home with just a few ingredients.

Start by cooking chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Slice the cooked chicken into strips.

Chop fresh romaine lettuce and add it to a bowl. Top with the chicken strips, croutons, and grated Parmesan cheese.

For the dressing, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and anchovy paste. Drizzle it over the salad and toss to combine.

This quick meal is filling and doesn’t cost much. You can customize it with extra veggies or different proteins to switch things up.

11. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a tasty and budget-friendly dinner option. You can fill them with a mix of ground beef, rice, and veggies for a hearty meal.

Try using different colored peppers to make your plate more visually appealing. For a vegetarian version, swap the meat for beans or lentils.

Don’t forget to top your peppers with cheese before baking. This adds extra flavor and helps hold the filling together.

Serve your stuffed peppers with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. They’re great for meal prep too – make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

12. Mushroom Risotto

Mushroom risotto is a tasty and budget-friendly meal. You can make it with basic ingredients like rice, mushrooms, and broth.

Start by sautéing sliced mushrooms in butter until golden. Cook Arborio rice in a separate pot with broth, adding it slowly and stirring often.

When the rice is creamy, mix in the cooked mushrooms. Add some Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This dish takes about 30-40 minutes to make. It’s filling enough to be a main course. You can use different types of mushrooms for variety.

13. Pasta Primavera

Pasta primavera is a tasty and budget-friendly dinner option. You can use any pasta shape you like, such as spaghetti or penne.

The dish features a mix of colorful vegetables. Choose what’s in season or on sale to keep costs down. Common choices include bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots.

To make it, cook your pasta according to the package instructions.

While it cooks, sauté your veggies in a pan with some olive oil.

Once everything is ready, toss the pasta and vegetables together. Add a splash of olive oil or a light sauce if you prefer. This quick and easy meal is perfect for busy weeknights.

14. Shrimp Alfredo

Shrimp Alfredo is a quick and tasty dinner option. You can make this creamy pasta dish in about 30 minutes.

Start by cooking fettuccine pasta. While it boils, sauté shrimp in a pan with garlic and butter.

For the sauce, mix heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and seasonings. Combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce in the pan.

Toss everything together until well-coated. Sprinkle extra parmesan and parsley on top before serving.

This meal feels fancy but is actually simple to prepare. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special.

15. Beef and Broccoli

Beef and broccoli is a quick and tasty dinner option that won’t break the bank. You can make this takeout favorite at home in just 20 minutes.

Start by slicing beef thinly and cooking it in a hot pan.

Add crisp broccoli florets for a nice crunch. The key is a savory sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, and other seasonings.

Serve your beef and broccoli over rice or noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce. This meal is filling and provides a good balance of protein and vegetables.

For an extra budget-friendly twist, try using frozen broccoli instead of fresh. You can also swap the beef for chicken if you prefer.

16. Gnocchi with Pesto

Gnocchi with pesto is a quick and tasty dinner option. You can use store-bought gnocchi to save time. Cook the gnocchi according to the package directions.

While it’s cooking, prepare the pesto. You can use jarred pesto or make your own with basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese.

Drain the gnocchi and toss it with the pesto. Add some extra Parmesan on top if you like.

For a heartier meal, you can add cooked chicken or shrimp.

This dish is filling and flavorful. It takes about 20 minutes to make, perfect for busy weeknights.

17. Egg Fried Rice

Egg fried rice is a tasty and budget-friendly dinner option. You can whip it up quickly with leftover rice and a few simple ingredients.

Start by heating some oil in a pan. Add cooked rice and stir-fry until it’s hot.

Push the rice to one side and crack an egg into the empty space.

Scramble the egg as it cooks, then mix it with the rice. Add soy sauce, peas, and any other veggies you like.

For extra flavor, try adding some diced onion or garlic at the beginning. You can also toss in leftover meat for a heartier meal.

Egg fried rice is versatile and filling. It’s perfect when you need a cheap, satisfying dinner in a hurry.

18. Chicken Enchiladas

Chicken enchiladas are a tasty and budget-friendly dinner option. You can make them with leftover chicken or boil some fresh.

Shred the meat and mix it with enchilada sauce and cheese.

Roll the mixture in tortillas and place them in a baking dish. Pour more sauce on top and sprinkle with extra cheese. Bake until hot and bubbly.

For added flavor, try mixing in some black beans or corn. You can also top your enchiladas with sour cream, diced tomatoes, or sliced avocado. This meal is filling and can easily feed a family without breaking the bank.

19. Veggie Burger

Veggie burgers are a tasty and budget-friendly dinner option. You can make them at home using simple ingredients like beans, grains, and vegetables.

Try mixing black beans with quinoa for a protein-packed patty. Add corn, mushrooms, and bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

For a different twist, use chickpeas as your base. Mix in some grated carrots and zucchini for moisture and texture.

Season your burgers with spices like cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook them in a pan or on the grill until crispy on the outside.

Serve your veggie burgers on whole wheat buns with your favorite toppings. They’re great with lettuce, tomato, avocado, and a tangy sauce.

20. Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli

Spinach and ricotta ravioli is a tasty and budget-friendly meal option. You can make it at home with just a few simple ingredients.

For the filling, mix thawed frozen spinach, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and an egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

To assemble, place small amounts of filling on pasta sheets and seal them into ravioli shapes. Cook the ravioli in boiling water until they float to the surface.

Serve your homemade spinach and ricotta ravioli with a drizzle of olive oil or your favorite pasta sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion without breaking the bank.

21. Teriyaki Chicken Bowl

Teriyaki chicken bowls are a tasty and budget-friendly dinner option. You can easily make this meal at home with a few simple ingredients.

Start by cooking rice according to package instructions.

While the rice cooks, prepare your chicken by cutting it into bite-sized pieces.

Cook the chicken in a pan, then add teriyaki sauce.

Serve the chicken over rice and add steamed veggies like broccoli or carrots.

This meal is customizable. You can use different vegetables or swap rice for noodles. Teriyaki chicken bowls are quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights.

22. Potato Leek Soup

Potato leek soup is a tasty and budget-friendly dinner option. You can make this creamy soup with just a few simple ingredients.

Start by sautéing leeks and onions in butter to bring out their flavors. Add potatoes and broth, then simmer until the potatoes are soft.

Blend the mixture until smooth. For extra richness, stir in some cream or milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve your potato leek soup hot with crusty bread on the side. It’s a filling meal that’s perfect for cold evenings.

23. Pad Thai Noodles

Pad Thai is a quick and tasty dinner option you can make at home. This Thai dish combines rice noodles with vegetables, protein, and a flavorful sauce.

You can whip up Pad Thai in about 30 minutes.

Start by cooking the noodles. Then stir-fry shallots, garlic, and your choice of protein like chicken or tofu.

Add beaten eggs to the pan and scramble them. Mix in the cooked noodles, bean sprouts, and a sauce made with fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar.

Top your Pad Thai with crushed peanuts and fresh cilantro. This meal is filling, budget-friendly, and sure to please picky eaters in your family.

24. Chicken Parmigiana

Chicken parmigiana is a tasty and budget-friendly dinner option. You can make this Italian-American classic at home easily.

Start by coating chicken breasts in breadcrumbs and frying until golden. Top with tomato sauce and melted cheese.

Serve your chicken parm with pasta or a side salad. It’s filling and doesn’t cost much to make.

This dish is great for families or when you have guests. You can prep parts ahead of time to make cooking faster.

25. Sweet and Sour Tofu

Sweet and sour tofu is a tasty, budget-friendly dinner option. You’ll need extra-firm tofu, cornstarch, and oil for frying.

For the sauce, mix coconut sugar, apple cider vinegar, tomato juice, and sriracha. Add vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

Coat the tofu in cornstarch and fry until crispy. Then toss it with the sauce and veggies. This dish combines tangy and sweet flavors with different textures.

Serve your sweet and sour tofu over rice or quinoa for a filling meal. It’s a great way to enjoy plant-based protein on a budget.

26. Lemon Garlic Salmon

Lemon garlic salmon is a quick and tasty dinner option. You can make it in about 20 minutes with just a few ingredients.

Start by placing salmon fillets on a foil-lined baking sheet.

Mix melted butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, and herbs in a bowl. Pour this mixture over the salmon.

Fold the foil around the fish to create a packet. Bake it in the oven for 15-17 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

Serve your lemon garlic salmon with veggies like broccoli or asparagus for a complete meal. This dish is both healthy and budget-friendly, perfect for busy weeknights.

Budget-Friendly Cooking Techniques

Smart cooking methods can help you save money while making tasty meals. Try these tips to stretch your food budget further.

Maximizing Ingredients

  • Use every part of your ingredients.
  • Save vegetable scraps to make stock.
  • Freeze leftover herbs in ice cube trays with oil.
  • Repurpose leftovers into new meals.
  • Turn roast chicken into soup or sandwiches.
  • Use stale bread for croutons or breadcrumbs.
  • Buy whole ingredients and prep them yourself.
  • Whole chickens and blocks of cheese cost less than pre-cut options.
  • Shred your own cheese and cut up your own veggies.
  • Look for versatile ingredients you can use in many dishes.
  • Eggs, potatoes, and rice are cheap and go with lots of meals.

Efficient Meal Planning

  • Plan your meals for the week before shopping.
  • Make a list and stick to it to avoid impulse buys.
  • Check your pantry and fridge before shopping.
  • Use up what you have first to cut down on waste.
  • Cook in batches and freeze extra portions.
  • This saves time and energy costs. It also helps you avoid takeout on busy nights.
  • Try “cook once, eat twice” recipes.
  • Make a big batch of chili or soup to eat for a few days. Or cook extra chicken to use in salads and wraps later.
  • Pick recipes with overlapping ingredients.
  • This cuts down on waste and helps use up perishables.

Nutritional Balance on a Budget

Eating well on a tight budget is possible with some smart planning. You can create cheap, healthy meals by focusing on affordable nutrient-dense foods and simple cooking methods.

Incorporating Vegetables

  • Frozen veggies are a budget-friendly way to add nutrients to your meals.
  • Buy in bulk when on sale and use in stir-fries, soups, and casseroles.
  • Canned tomatoes, corn, and beans are also cheap and versatile.
  • Try growing your own herbs in small pots.
  • Fresh herbs add flavor without extra calories or cost.
  • Lettuce, spinach, and other leafy greens are easy to grow at home too.
  • Seasonal produce is often cheaper.
  • Check local farmers markets for deals on fresh fruits and vegetables.
  • Buy extra when prices are low and freeze for later use.

Affordable Protein Sources

Eggs are a cheap protein powerhouse. Use them for quick omelets, frittatas, or hard-boiled eggs as snacks.

Canned tuna and sardines are budget-friendly seafood options packed with omega-3s.

Beans and lentils are very cheap sources of protein and fiber. Buy dry beans in bulk to save even more.

Use in soups, chili, burritos, and salads.

Look for sales on chicken, especially whole chickens or less popular cuts like thighs and drumsticks. Buy larger packs to freeze portions for later use.

Tofu is an affordable plant-based protein. It takes on the flavor of whatever you cook it with.

Try it in stir-fries, curries, or scrambled like eggs.