27 Recipes To Make Your Taste Buds Happy And Your Budget Happier

Looking for ways to keep both taste and wallet full? With 27 different recipes, there’s a whole world of flavors to explore without breaking the bank. Think simple, think affordable, and prepare for some serious smiles with every bite. It’s all about smart cooking that feels good for the belly and the budget.

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Best Lemon Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Baked Beef Tacos

Two tacos with beef, diced tomatoes, jalapeño slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro on a white plate.
Baked Beef Tacos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Wave goodbye to frying and say hello to baking for a crunch that satisfies. Baked Beef Tacos are the epitome of kitchen convenience. Everyone will adore their crispiness, and you’ll love how mess-free they are. They’re also kind on your budget, proving that good food doesn’t have to be expensive. Get ready to make them a staple at your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

Big Mac Crunchwrap

Close-up of a stack of folded tortillas filled with beef, melted cheese, lettuce, and onions on a white plate.
Big Mac Crunchwrap. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Satisfy your fast-food cravings right from your kitchen. Big Mac Crunchwrap puts a homemade twist on a familiar favorite. It’s packed with flavor but not with a high price tag. Enjoy the classic taste without leaving your home. Plus, it’s fun to make and even more enjoyable to eat.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Crunchwrap

Baked Chicken Thighs

Roasted chicken thighs with sliced potatoes garnished with herbs.
Baked Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re after simplicity and juiciness, look no further. Baked Chicken Thighs will become your new favorite dinner option. These thighs are fail-proof and succulent every time. They won’t put a strain on your wallet, either. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to have on repeat throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Baked Chicken Thighs

Beef Chili

Two bowls of chili with kidney beans, meat, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and cilantro. A black spoon in one bowl. Additional chili flakes in a small dish nearby.
Beef Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Nothing warms you up quite like a bowl of hearty chili. Beef Chili is the perfect answer to chilly evenings. Loaded with flavors that meld perfectly, it promises a comforting experience. Plus, it’s an economical way to feed a crowd or meal prep for the week. Who knew something so simple could be so rewarding?
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

Birria Ramen

A bowl of ramen with meat, cilantro, and a lime wedge, topped with noodles wrapped around chopsticks.
Birria Ramen. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Mix up your meal plan with a fusion that’s sure to impress. Birria Ramen combines the best of two worlds for a unique dining experience. Rich, hearty, and incredibly flavorful, it’s a budget-friendly way to explore new tastes. This dish is a talking point and a crowd-pleaser. Dare to try something different and embrace the fusion of flavors.
Get the Recipe: Birria Ramen

Breakfast Burritos

Close-up of a burrito cut in half, showing fillings of scrambled eggs, avocado, tomatoes, cheese, and herbs wrapped in a tortilla.
Breakfast Burritos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Start your day the right way with a packed, ready-to-go meal. Breakfast Burritos are not just for mornings but any time you need a quick boost. They’re easy, economical, and customizable to your liking. Wrap up your favorite ingredients and get ready to tackle the day. It’s the ultimate grab-and-go meal that keeps on giving.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Burritos

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

A baked potato topped with shredded barbecue chicken, sour cream, and chopped herbs on a white plate.
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Introduce a twist to your meal routine with a hint of BBQ flair. BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes blend two comforting favorites into one. They offer a hearty and fulfilling meal without needing a grill. Economical and delicious, they’re ideal for a wholesome dinner. You’ll find them becoming a regular request from family and friends.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

Mississippi Mud Potatoes

A baked dish with melted cheese, diced pineapples, browned bacon, and chopped green onions on top.
Mississippi Mud Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Side dishes are the highlights of the dinner table, and Mississippi Mud Potatoes prove just that. With its creamy texture and hearty taste, it promises to steal the show. Plus, it’s gentle on your pocket, making it a win-win. Get ready for a side that might just overshadow the main course.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Two pieces of fried chicken on a gray plate, garnished with small bits of green herbs.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Who knew something so simple could make dinner feel like a special occasion? Your kitchen will smell amazing while making Buttermilk Fried Chicken. It’s all about that crunchy comfort with a cost that keeps your wallet in check. Say hello to your new favorite way to get everyone running to the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Potato Soup

Close-up of a bowl of creamy soup topped with grilled bacon pieces and chopped parsley.
Potato Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When it’s time to cozy up and enjoy something familiar, Potato Soup has got you covered. It’s creamy, filling, and doesn’t cost a fortune to make. Whip this up for a quick dinner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s guaranteed to get everyone to the table in no time.
Get the Recipe: Potato Soup

Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Close-up of a stir-fry dish with chicken, broccoli, mushrooms, and sesame seeds, coated in a soy-based sauce.
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Looking for a quick fix that doesn’t skimp on flavor? Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is your answer. It’s all about fresh flavors coming together fast and on a budget. Perfect when you want something quick, easy, and thoroughly enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Mushroom Soup

Mushroom soup that's delightfully creamy, adorned with sautéed mushrooms, a dollop of cream, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of parsley.
Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes, all you need is a bowl of Mushroom Soup to make everything feel right. It’s earthy, creamy, and utterly comforting without costing you a fortune. It’s amazing what a few simple ingredients can do when combined. Here’s to making something extraordinary out of the ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Soup

Cashew Chicken

Close-up of Cashew Chicken featuring tender chicken, broccoli, edamame, cashews, and red bell peppers. This delightful dish is topped with sesame seeds and served over a bed of rice.
Cashew Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Weeknights get a lot more interesting with recipes like Cashew Chicken. It offers that perfect crunch and a hint of sweetness in every bite. Making it is as fun as eating it, and your bank account will thank you. Here’s to enjoying restaurant flavors without the restaurant price tag.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Close-up of a chicken and dumpling casserole dish filled with vegetables, including peas, carrots, and chunks of biscuit mixed with tender pieces of meat in a creamy sauce.
Chicken and Dumpling Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re in the mood for some serious comfort without all the work, it’s time to try Chicken and Dumpling Casserole. This dish promises a little bit of heaven in every spoonful. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it also keeps your expenses low. Gather around for a meal that feels like a hug in a casserole dish.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Pork Chops

Close-up of a cooked, seasoned pork chop topped with melted cheese and garnished with chopped parsley on a dark plate.
Pork Chops. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Let’s talk about turning a simple meal into a feast with Pork Chops. They’re juicy, tender, and full of flavor, making dinner a time to look forward to. Plus, they’re easy on your wallet, which makes them even better. Who knew something so simple could be so rewarding?
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops

Cheeseburger Soup

A pot of cheesy potato and meat stew garnished with chopped parsley and crispy bacon.
Cheeseburger Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ever wondered what comfort tastes like in a bowl? Cheeseburger Soup manages to capture that essence perfectly. It’s a creative twist on familiar flavors, proving that you don’t need to spend much for a heartwarming meal. Who said you can’t have your burger and sip it too?
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

Cattle Drive Casserole

A slice of cheesy lasagna being lifted from a baking dish, topped with melted cheese and parsley.
Cattle Drive Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Some dishes make you feel like you’ve struck dinner gold, and Cattle Drive Casserole is one of them. It combines hearty ingredients in a way that’s hard to resist. Not to mention, it will keep your expenses down while bringing everyone to the table in a hurry. Big flavors without a big bill? Yes, please.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

Roasted Tomato Soup

Close-up of a bowl of roasted tomato soup topped with toasted bread chunks, fresh thyme, and a sprinkle of black pepper.
Roasted Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Forget about the canned stuff, Roasted Tomato Soup brings a whole new level to what you expect from tomato soup. It’s rich, has a slight smoky undertone, and works perfectly for any meal. Plus, making it won’t drain your wallet. It’s the kind of DIY that brings everyone to the table, eager for the first taste.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Soup

25 Minute Black Bean Burger

A black bean burger in a burger bap with relish oozing out over it.
25 Minute Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who said quick meals can’t be fulfilling and packed with flavor? Whip up 25 Minute Black Bean Burgers in no time. They’re an excellent choice for a hearty meal when the clock is ticking. You won’t have to spend much, either. They’re incredibly wallet-friendly, making them a regular in meal plans.
Get the Recipe: 25 Minute Black Bean Burger

Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken

A dish of seasoned chicken breasts garnished with parsley, surrounded by carrots and potatoes in a bowl.
Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Let the slow cooker do all the heavy lifting with Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken. This dish means coming home to a dinner that’s all set to go. It’s the epitome of ‘set it and forget it,’ and it keeps the budget in check. Get ready for flavors that meld together perfectly, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken

Ravioli Casserole

Close-up of a baked dish with ravioli, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheese on top.
Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Turning an Italian classic into an easy casserole, Ravioli Casserole is a weeknight game-changer. This dish brings together rich flavors and cheesy goodness without breaking the bank. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a pasta night that’s a little different. Ovens ready for something that’s going to be requested over and over?
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

A close-up of saucy Salisbury steak meatballs served on a bed of egg noodles, garnished with chopped fresh herbs.
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Who says comfort food can’t be easy? Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs bring the comfort without all the fuss. Juicy meatballs in a mouthwatering sauce, and yes, your slow cooker does all the work. Your wallet will breathe a sigh of relief, knowing you can serve up smiles without the high costs.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Breakfast Casserole

Breakfast casserole topped with melted cheese, garnished with sliced green onions and chopped herbs.
Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Simplify your mornings with a dish that has everything in one place. Breakfast Casserole is the answer to your busy mornings. It’s hassle-free, delicious, and keeps well for days. Plus, it’s cost-effective, making it a smart choice for family meals. Enjoy more time in your morning with a meal that’s waiting for you.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Casserole

Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Baked sweet potato topped with black beans, corn, avocado, sliced jalapeños, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and cilantro, with lime slices on the side.
Southwest Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spice up your sides with Southwest Sweet Potatoes. These are not your average sweet potatoes; they’re packed with flavors that kick things up a notch. Easy to make and easy on your budget, they’re perfect for when you want something a little different. Get ready for a dish that brings color and flavor to any table.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Broccoli Casserole

Someone serving broccoli casserole.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Transform broccoli into a dish everyone will be eager to dig into. Broccoli Casserole is creamy, crispy, and utterly comforting. It’s an easy way to get your greens in while enjoying every bite. Budget-friendly and scrumptious, it’s great for any night. Let it be the highlight of your meal without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Southern Mash

Mashed potatoes on a white plate.
Southern Mash. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Think of Southern Mash as the ultimate comfort side dish that everyone needs to try. Creamy, buttery, and oh-so-smooth, it pairs with nearly everything. Plus, keeping costs low while making it is a breeze. Let’s hear it for a dish that’s simple, delicious, and easy on the wallet.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

Best Lemon Pasta

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Best Lemon Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Brighten up your dinner with some Best Lemon Pasta. This dish proves that simple ingredients can create big flavors. It’s light, refreshing, and won’t have you worrying about your budget. Plus, it’s a great way to add a twist to pasta night that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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