28 Tasty and Budget-Friendly Meals for Large Families

Feeding a large family on a budget can feel like a juggling act, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of creativity and some smart planning, you can whip up delicious and affordable meals that everyone will love. From hearty stews to comforting casseroles, these budget-friendly recipes are perfect for keeping everyone full and happy without breaking the bank. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just trying to make your grocery dollars stretch further, these meals are sure to become family favorites.

Hungarian Goulash

Hungarian Goulash is a hearty and flavorful stew perfect for feeding a large family on a budget. You’ll need 2 pounds of beef chuck, 2 large onions, 4 tablespoons of Hungarian paprika, 4 cups of beef broth, and 4 medium potatoes. Start by browning the beef in a large pot, then add the onions and paprika, allowing them to cook until fragrant. Pour in the broth and add the potatoes, simmering until everything is tender and flavorful. The paprika gives the dish a distinctive smoky and slightly sweet flavor, while the tender beef and potatoes make it incredibly satisfying. Serve this comforting meal with crusty bread or over noodles for a complete dinner.

Simple Chicken and Noodles

Simple Chicken and Noodles is a comforting dish that’s easy to make and light on the wallet. Gather 3 chicken breasts, 8 ounces of egg noodles, 1 can of cream of chicken soup, and 1 cup of milk. Boil the chicken breasts until cooked through, shred them, and set aside. In the same pot, cook the noodles and then stir in the chicken, soup, and milk. The result is a creamy and hearty dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. This meal is quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights when you need something simple yet satisfying.

Easy Taco Casserole

Taco Casserole is an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the flavors of a taco in a convenient baked format. You’ll need 1 pound of ground beef, 1 packet of taco seasoning, 8 corn tortillas, 1 can of refried beans, and 2 cups of shredded cheese. Brown the ground beef and mix with taco seasoning, then layer it with tortillas, beans, and cheese in a casserole dish. Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden. The dish delivers the perfect combination of seasoned beef, creamy beans, and melted cheese, all topped off with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream.

Winter Lentil Vegetable Soup

Winter Lentil Vegetable Soup is a budget-friendly, nourishing meal perfect for cold days. You’ll need 1 cup of lentils, 4 cups of vegetable broth, 2 carrots, 2 celery stalks, 1 can of diced tomatoes, and 1 tablespoon of cumin. Sauté the carrots and celery until softened, then add the lentils, tomatoes, broth, and spices. Simmer until the lentils are tender, about 30-40 minutes. This soup is earthy, slightly spiced, and incredibly filling, making it an ideal meal when you’re looking for warmth and nutrition. Serve it with some crusty bread for a wholesome and hearty meal.

Salisbury Steak

Salisbury Steak is a classic comfort dish that’s affordable and easy to prepare. You’ll need 1 pound of ground beef, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1 onion, 1 cup of beef broth, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Mix the beef with breadcrumbs and egg, form into patties, and brown them in a skillet. For the gravy, sauté onions, add broth and Worcestershire sauce, and simmer the patties in the gravy until fully cooked. The result is tender, flavorful beef patties covered in rich, savory gravy. Pair this dish with mashed potatoes for a filling, nostalgic meal.

Halloumi Flatbreads

Halloumi Flatbreads are a simple yet satisfying vegetarian meal that’s quick to prepare. You’ll need 8 ounces of halloumi cheese, 4 flatbreads, 2 tomatoes, 1 cucumber, and 1 red onion. Grill the halloumi until golden and crispy, then assemble the flatbreads with slices of tomato, cucumber, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for added freshness. The salty, chewy halloumi contrasts beautifully with the crunchy vegetables and the soft, warm flatbread. This meal is light yet filling, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Slow Cooker Ratatouille

Slow Cooker Ratatouille is an effortless, healthy vegetable dish that’s perfect for meal prep or serving a crowd. You’ll need 2 zucchini, 1 eggplant, 1 bell pepper, 4 tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 tablespoon of Italian herbs. Layer the sliced vegetables in your slow cooker, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with herbs. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the vegetables are tender and have absorbed the flavors of the herbs. The result is a richly flavored, aromatic stew that’s both comforting and nourishing. Serve it over rice or with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Easy Sausage Casserole

Easy Sausage Casserole is a filling, one-pot dish perfect for large families on a budget. You’ll need 1 pound of sausages, 1 onion, 1 bell pepper, 1 can of diced tomatoes, and 1 can of beans. Brown the sausages in a skillet, then sauté the onions and bell peppers. Add the tomatoes and beans, and simmer until the sausages are cooked through. The casserole is hearty, with the savory sausages complemented by the slightly sweet vegetables and the rich tomato sauce. Serve with mashed potatoes or rice for a complete, comforting meal.

Pizza Pasta Casserole

Pizza Pasta Casserole combines the flavors of pizza and pasta in one fun, kid-friendly dish. You’ll need 1 pound of pasta, 2 cups of marinara sauce, 1 cup of sliced pepperoni, and 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. Cook the pasta and mix with the marinara sauce, then transfer to a baking dish and top with pepperoni and cheese. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This dish is a hit with its gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and tender pasta. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken Fried Rice is a quick and budget-friendly meal that delivers plenty of flavor. You’ll need 3 cups of cooked rice, 2 chicken breasts, 1 cup of peas and carrots, 2 eggs, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Start by cooking diced chicken in a hot skillet, then scramble the eggs and set aside. Sauté the vegetables, add the cooked rice, chicken, eggs, soy sauce, and sesame oil, and stir until everything is heated through. The result is a savory, slightly smoky fried rice that’s packed with tender chicken and veggies. This dish is perfect for using up leftover rice and makes a satisfying dinner for the whole family.

Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti is a comforting, cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd on a budget. You’ll need 1 pound of ziti pasta, 2 cups of marinara sauce, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan. Cook the pasta and mix with the marinara and ricotta, then transfer to a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan, and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. The baked pasta absorbs the rich tomato sauce, while the melted cheeses create a gooey, satisfying texture. It’s a delicious, easy-to-make meal that everyone will love.

Vegetable Stir-Fry

Vegetable Stir-Fry is a healthy, affordable, and quick meal perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll need 1 red bell pepper, 1 cup of broccoli, 1 carrot, 1 onion, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Sauté the vegetables in a hot skillet with sesame oil until tender-crisp, then stir in soy sauce and any other seasonings you like. The vegetables retain a slight crunch while being coated in a savory sauce that brings out their natural flavors. Serve the stir-fry over rice or noodles for a complete and nutritious meal. It’s versatile, so you can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand.

Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic, hearty dish that combines ground beef, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes. You’ll need 1 pound of ground beef, 1 onion, 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots, 2 cups of mashed potatoes, and 1/2 cup of beef broth. Brown the beef with the onion, add the vegetables and broth, and simmer until thickened. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread mashed potatoes on top. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until the potatoes are golden and the filling is bubbling. This dish is rich and satisfying, with the creamy potatoes balancing the savory meat and vegetables.

Tuna Noodle Casserole

Tuna Noodle Casserole is an easy and economical dish that delivers creamy, comforting flavors. You’ll need 1 can of tuna, 2 cups of egg noodles, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of frozen peas, and 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs. Cook the noodles, mix with the tuna, soup, and peas, then transfer to a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. The creamy sauce binds the noodles and tuna together, while the breadcrumbs provide a crispy texture that contrasts with the rich filling. This dish is a nostalgic favorite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.

Black Bean Tacos

Black Bean Tacos are a simple, flavorful, and budget-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare. You’ll need 1 can of black beans, 1 tablespoon of cumin, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 8 tortillas, and your choice of toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese. Sauté the black beans with spices until heated through, then slightly mash them for a hearty texture. Fill the tortillas with the beans and top with your favorite toppings for added freshness and flavor. These tacos are smoky, savory, and satisfying, with the beans providing plenty of protein and fiber. It’s a quick, versatile meal that can be customized to suit your family’s tastes.

Sloppy Joes

Sloppy Joes are a classic, budget-friendly meal that kids and adults both love. You’ll need 1 pound of ground beef, 1 onion, 1 green bell pepper, 1/2 cup of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of mustard, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Brown the beef with diced onion and bell pepper, then stir in the ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar. Simmer the mixture until thickened and serve it on toasted hamburger buns. The savory-sweet filling is juicy and flavorful, making every bite messy yet delicious. Sloppy Joes are perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner with a side of fries or a fresh salad.

Lentil Curry

Lentil Curry is a nutritious, flavorful, and budget-friendly dish that can be made in large batches. You’ll need 1 cup of lentils, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 can of coconut milk, 1 onion, 2 tablespoons of curry powder, and 2 cloves of garlic. Sauté the onions and garlic, then add the lentils, tomatoes, coconut milk, and curry powder. Simmer until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together. The result is a creamy, spicy curry that’s rich in protein and fiber. Serve with rice or naan for a complete meal that’s hearty and satisfying.

Spaghetti Carbonara

Spaghetti Carbonara is a rich and creamy Italian dish that’s simple and affordable to make. You’ll need 1 pound of spaghetti, 4 eggs, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 pound of pancetta, and black pepper. Cook the spaghetti and in a separate skillet, brown the pancetta. Whisk together eggs, cheese, and pepper, then toss with the hot spaghetti and pancetta until the sauce thickens. The heat from the pasta cooks the eggs, creating a creamy sauce without the need for cream. It’s a quick and indulgent meal that feels luxurious but is made with pantry staples.

Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken Pot Pie is a comforting, hearty dish that combines chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce beneath a flaky crust. You’ll need 2 cups of cooked chicken, 1 cup of mixed vegetables, 1 cup of chicken broth, 1/2 cup of cream, and 1 pie crust. Combine the chicken, vegetables, broth, and cream, then pour into a baking dish and cover with the pie crust. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly. The rich, savory filling contrasts perfectly with the crisp, buttery crust, making this a family favorite.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful, nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and customize. You’ll need 4 large bell peppers, 1 pound of ground beef, 1 cup of cooked rice, 1 can of diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese. Hollow out the peppers, then stuff them with a mixture of cooked ground beef, rice, and tomatoes. Top with cheese and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted. The peppers become sweet and tender as they bake, while the savory filling is flavorful and hearty. This dish is a great way to use up leftover rice and makes for an impressive yet simple dinner.

Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and Cheese is a classic comfort food that’s both affordable and delicious. You’ll need 2 cups of elbow macaroni, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of flour, and 1 cup of milk. Cook the macaroni and set aside, then make a cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, and gradually adding milk and cheese. Stir in the cooked macaroni and transfer to a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden. The result is creamy, cheesy perfection with a crispy topping that’s hard to resist.

Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and Dumplings is a classic, comforting dish that warms the soul. You’ll need 2 cups of cooked chicken, 4 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 cup of milk, and 1/4 cup of butter. Start by simmering the chicken in broth along with some diced carrots and celery. To make the dumplings, mix the flour, baking powder, milk, and butter into a dough, then drop spoonfuls into the simmering broth. Cover and cook for 15 minutes until the dumplings are fluffy and tender. The rich, savory broth combined with the light, pillowy dumplings creates a filling and heartwarming meal perfect for chilly evenings.

Veggie Quesadillas

Veggie Quesadillas are a quick, affordable meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll need 4 large tortillas, 1 cup of shredded cheese, 1/2 cup of sautéed bell peppers and onions, and 1/2 cup of black beans. Place the sautéed veggies and black beans on one half of each tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, and fold in half. Cook each quesadilla in a skillet until the tortilla is golden and the cheese is melted. The combination of melty cheese and seasoned vegetables creates a flavorful, satisfying dish. Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for an extra kick.

Baked Beans and Sausages

Baked Beans and Sausages is a hearty and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. You’ll need 1 pound of sausages, 2 cans of baked beans, 1 onion, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of mustard. Brown the sausages in a skillet, then remove and sauté the onion until soft. Combine the baked beans, brown sugar, and mustard in a baking dish, add the sausages, and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes. The beans become sweet and tangy while the sausages add a savory richness. This dish is comforting, filling, and ideal for family dinners.

Beef and Barley Soup

Beef and Barley Soup is a nourishing meal that’s perfect for large families. You’ll need 1 pound of beef stew meat, 1/2 cup of barley, 4 cups of beef broth, 2 carrots, and 1 onion. Brown the beef in a large pot, then add the broth, diced vegetables, and barley. Simmer for an hour until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through. The result is a thick, hearty soup that’s full of flavor and nutrition. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal that’s great for cold winter nights.

Chicken Alfredo

Chicken Alfredo is a creamy, indulgent pasta dish that’s easy to make on a budget. You’ll need 1 pound of fettuccine, 1/2 pound of chicken breast, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan, and 2 tablespoons of butter. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions, and sauté the chicken in a skillet until cooked through. In the same skillet, make a sauce by melting the butter, adding the cream, and stirring in the Parmesan cheese until smooth. Toss the cooked pasta and chicken in the sauce until everything is coated in the rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a comforting dinner.

Potato and Leek Soup

Potato and Leek Soup is a simple, hearty soup that’s both creamy and comforting. You’ll need 4 large potatoes, 2 leeks, 4 cups of vegetable broth, 1/2 cup of cream, and 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté the sliced leeks in butter until soft, then add the diced potatoes and broth. Simmer until the potatoes are tender, then blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the cream for added richness. The result is a velvety soup with a mild, savory flavor that’s perfect for a light meal or starter.

Chili Mac

Chili Mac is a crowd-pleasing, budget-friendly dish that combines two comfort food classics: chili and macaroni. You’ll need 1 pound of ground beef, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 can of kidney beans, 1 packet of chili seasoning, 2 cups of elbow macaroni, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet, then add the tomatoes, beans, and chili seasoning. Let it simmer while cooking the macaroni separately. Once the macaroni is cooked, stir it into the chili mixture, top with cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This dish is hearty, spicy, and cheesy, making it a perfect family-friendly meal.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout

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