29 Cheap Meals You Can’t Help But Enjoy

Finding delicious meals on a tight budget doesn’t have to be hard. I’ve put together a list of 29 cheap and tasty meals that are perfect for any time you’re looking to save some money without sacrificing flavor. From hearty soups and stews to quick stir-fries and comforting pasta dishes, this list has got something for everyone. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, these recipes are easy to make and light on the wallet.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a traditional Italian pasta dish that is both simple and affordable. It features garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes as its main ingredients. To prepare, cook the spaghetti until al dente, then sauté minced garlic in olive oil until golden brown. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the garlic oil, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. This dish is ready in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner. Enjoy a burst of flavors with minimal ingredients.

Rice and Beans

Rice and beans is a staple in many cultures due to its affordability and nutritional value. Start by cooking rice according to package instructions. In a separate pan, sauté onions and garlic, then add canned beans (black or pinto) and season with cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix the beans with the cooked rice and simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors. You can add a splash of lime juice and chopped cilantro for extra zest. This dish is hearty, filling, and can be made in large batches for meal prep.

Vegetable Stir-Fry

A vegetable stir-fry is a versatile and cost-effective meal. Begin by chopping a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok, then add the vegetables and cook until tender-crisp. Season with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Serve the stir-fry over steamed rice or noodles. This dish is quick to prepare, typically taking under 30 minutes. It’s a great way to use up leftover veggies and can be easily customized with your favorite sauces and seasonings.

Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is a nutritious and budget-friendly option. To make it, sauté onions, carrots, and celery in a large pot until softened. Add lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Season with cumin, paprika, and bay leaves. Simmer until the lentils are tender, about 30-40 minutes. This soup is hearty and can be enjoyed as a main course or a starter. It’s perfect for batch cooking and freezing for future meals. Lentil soup is both filling and comforting, especially on a cold day.

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Chicken and rice casserole is a comforting and inexpensive meal. Begin by cooking rice and setting it aside. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked, shredded chicken with cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and seasonings like garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix in the cooked rice and transfer to a baking dish. Top with shredded cheese and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden. This dish is easy to prepare and can feed a family with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Tuna Salad Sandwiches

Tuna salad sandwiches are quick and economical. Drain canned tuna and mix it with mayonnaise, chopped celery, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Spread the tuna mixture on slices of bread, and add lettuce and tomato if desired. These sandwiches can be prepared in under 10 minutes and are perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Tuna salad is also great on crackers or as a filling for wraps. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite ingredients.

Bean and Cheese Burritos

Bean and cheese burritos are a simple and satisfying meal. Heat canned refried beans and spread them on flour tortillas. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and roll up the tortillas. For added flavor, include salsa or chopped jalapeños. Heat the burritos in a skillet or microwave until the cheese is melted. Serve with a side of rice or a salad. These burritos are perfect for a quick dinner or a packed lunch. They can also be frozen for later use, making them a convenient meal option.

Egg Fried Rice

Egg fried rice is an excellent way to use leftover rice. Start by scrambling eggs in a large pan, then set them aside. In the same pan, sauté chopped onions, peas, and carrots until tender. Add the cooked rice and stir-fry with soy sauce and sesame oil. Mix in the scrambled eggs and cook until everything is well combined. This dish is ready in about 15 minutes and can be made with whatever vegetables you have on hand. It’s a great way to transform simple ingredients into a delicious meal.

Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwiches

Peanut butter and banana sandwiches are a sweet and affordable snack or meal. Spread peanut butter on slices of bread and top with sliced bananas. You can also drizzle honey for extra sweetness. These sandwiches are quick to make and provide a good source of protein and energy. They’re perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack. This combination is a childhood favorite that remains popular for its simplicity and taste.

Vegetable Quesadillas

Vegetable quesadillas are an easy and inexpensive meal option. Start by sautéing chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Place a tortilla in a skillet and sprinkle with shredded cheese and the cooked vegetables. Top with another tortilla and cook until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are golden brown. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa or sour cream. These quesadillas are ready in about 15 minutes and are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ramen Noodle Stir-Fry

Ramen noodle stir-fry is a quick and budget-friendly dish. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions, discarding the seasoning packet. In a skillet, sauté vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. Add the cooked noodles and stir-fry with soy sauce and a bit of sugar. You can also add scrambled eggs or leftover meat for extra protein. This meal is ready in under 20 minutes and is a great way to elevate simple ramen noodles into a more substantial dish.

Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie is a comforting and economical meal. Start by browning ground beef with chopped onions and carrots. Add a can of corn and season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Spread the mixture in a baking dish and top with mashed potatoes. Bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes, until the top is golden brown. This dish is hearty and filling, perfect for feeding a family on a budget. It’s also a great way to use leftover mashed potatoes.

Tuna Casserole

Tuna Casserole is a comforting, budget-friendly dish that can be made with pantry staples. Ingredients include canned tuna, egg noodles, a can of cream of mushroom soup, frozen peas, and shredded cheese. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, drained tuna, soup, peas, and half of the cheese. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with the remaining cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. This casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a family on a budget.

Black Bean Tacos

Black Bean Tacos are a delicious and economical meal option. The main ingredients include black beans, tortillas, onions, garlic, and your favorite taco toppings. Start by sautéing diced onions and minced garlic in a pan until softened. Add the black beans, along with some cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Cook until heated through. Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave. Spoon the black bean mixture onto the tortillas and top with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and salsa. These tacos are quick to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste.

Oatmeal with Fruit

Oatmeal with Fruit is a healthy and inexpensive breakfast option. You’ll need rolled oats, water or milk, and your choice of fruit. Cook the oats according to the package instructions, using either water or milk. Once the oats are cooked, stir in a bit of honey or maple syrup for sweetness. Top with sliced bananas, berries, or any other fruit you like. This breakfast is not only filling but also packed with fiber and nutrients, making it a great way to start your day without breaking the bank.

Chicken and Vegetable Skewers

Chicken and Vegetable Skewers are a fun and budget-friendly meal option. You’ll need chicken breasts, bell peppers, onions, zucchini, olive oil, and some seasoning. Cut the chicken and vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Thread them onto skewers, alternating between the chicken and vegetables. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through. Serve with rice or a simple salad. These skewers are perfect for a quick and healthy dinner.

Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and Cheese is a classic comfort food that is also very affordable. The ingredients include elbow macaroni, butter, flour, milk, and cheddar cheese. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. In a separate pot, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to make a roux. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni and serve. This dish is creamy, cheesy, and loved by both kids and adults alike.

Vegetable Frittata

A Vegetable Frittata is a versatile and inexpensive dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The main ingredients include eggs, milk, and a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and spinach. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Stir in the chopped vegetables and season with salt and pepper. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until the eggs are set. This frittata is not only easy to make but also a great way to use up leftover veggies.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed Bell Peppers are a hearty and inexpensive meal that can be made with ground meat, rice, and vegetables. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, browned ground meat (or a meat substitute), diced tomatoes, and your favorite seasonings. Stuff the mixture into the bell peppers and place them in a baking dish. Top with shredded cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted. These stuffed peppers are both delicious and filling.

Chicken Quesadillas

Chicken Quesadillas are a quick and easy meal that can be made with leftover chicken, tortillas, and cheese. Start by shredding the cooked chicken and mixing it with some salsa. Heat a tortilla in a skillet over medium heat, then sprinkle with shredded cheese and the chicken mixture. Top with another tortilla and cook for a few minutes on each side until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are golden and crispy. Cut into wedges and serve with sour cream and guacamole. These quesadillas are perfect for a fast and satisfying dinner.

Baked Potatoes

Baked Potatoes are a simple and budget-friendly meal that can be topped with a variety of ingredients. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean and pierce them several times with a fork. Bake directly on the oven rack for about 45-60 minutes until tender. Top with butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, and chives, or get creative with toppings like chili, broccoli, and cheese, or bacon and ranch dressing. Baked potatoes are versatile and can be customized to suit your taste.

Chickpea Curry

Chickpea Curry is a flavorful and inexpensive dish that is also vegan-friendly. The primary ingredients include chickpeas, onions, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, and a blend of spices like curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Start by sautéing chopped onions, garlic, and grated ginger in a large pot. Add the spices and cook until fragrant. Stir in the tomatoes and cook until they break down into a sauce. Add the chickpeas and simmer for about 20 minutes. Serve with rice or naan bread. This curry is hearty, healthy, and packed with flavor.

Pancakes

Pancakes are a simple and budget-friendly meal that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You will need flour, baking powder, sugar, milk, eggs, and a pinch of salt. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients, then combine both mixtures until smooth. Heat a non-stick skillet and pour in the batter to form pancakes. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown. Serve with syrup, butter, or fresh fruit. These pancakes are fluffy, delicious, and incredibly easy to make.

Potato Soup

Potato Soup is a comforting and affordable dish made with potatoes, onions, celery, broth, and cream. Start by sautéing chopped onions and celery in a large pot until softened. Add diced potatoes and cover with broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, then stir in a bit of cream for richness. Season with salt and pepper. This soup is warm, filling, and perfect for a budget-friendly meal.

Sloppy Joes

Sloppy Joes are a classic, inexpensive meal that kids and adults alike enjoy. You will need ground beef, onions, garlic, tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and hamburger buns. Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then add chopped onions and garlic and cook until softened. Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce and simmer until thickened. Serve the meat mixture on hamburger buns. These sandwiches are messy, delicious, and easy to prepare.

Veggie Pasta Primavera

Veggie Pasta Primavera is a light and budget-friendly dish that makes use of fresh or frozen vegetables. Common ingredients include pasta, bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. In a large skillet, sauté minced garlic in olive oil, then add the chopped vegetables and cook until tender. Toss the cooked pasta with the vegetable mixture and season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This dish is colorful, nutritious, and perfect for a quick dinner.

Corn Chowder

Corn Chowder is a creamy and comforting soup that is also very economical. Ingredients include corn, potatoes, onions, celery, broth, and cream. Start by sautéing chopped onions and celery in a large pot until softened. Add diced potatoes and corn, then cover with broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender. Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Stir in the cream and season with salt and pepper. This chowder is rich, satisfying, and easy on the wallet.

Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a North African and Middle Eastern dish of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce. The main ingredients include eggs, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, garlic, and spices like cumin and paprika. Start by sautéing chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic in a large skillet. Add the spices and cook until fragrant, then stir in the tomatoes. Simmer until the sauce thickens. Make wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each well. Cover and cook until the eggs are set. Serve with crusty bread. Shakshuka is flavorful, nutritious, and perfect for any meal of the day.

Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti is a classic, affordable Italian-American dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Ingredients include ziti pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Cook the ziti according to the package instructions. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce and ricotta cheese. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. This dish is cheesy, comforting, and easy to prepare, making it a favorite for family dinners.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout

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