29 Low Cost Dinners I’d Cook Again Even If I Was Rich

Most budget meals don’t exactly get repeat requests, but these ones? They’d still make the cut even if money rained from the ceiling. The list of 29 low cost dinners proves that great food doesn’t need a gold card. If anything, they’re so reliable they might stick around out of pure habit.

French Onion Casserole

A classic comfort dish with a simple twist makes weeknights feel fancy, even on a budget. French Onion Casserole mixes bold flavors of caramelized ingredients into a baked dish you’ll want to make often. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you need a meal that fills you up fast. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Casserole

Big Mac Crunchwrap

Craving something fast but homemade and affordable? Big Mac Crunchwrap brings big flavor and was made for anyone trying to bring iconic fast food to their kitchen. It’s a quick fix and a crowd-pleaser that’s hearty and comforting. You won’t miss the drive-thru after trying this.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Crunchwrap

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

These are the kind of tacos that make meatless meals shine without breaking the bank. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos are loaded with protein, fiber, and texture in every bite. They’re a great way to experiment with something fresh and filling. Keep this one in your rotation whenever you want a simple, budget-friendly dish.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

Beef Chili

Sometimes, you just need a warm bowl of something hearty, and Beef Chili hits the spot every time. This chili is affordable, easy to make for any crowd, and leftovers get even better the next day. It’s an ideal dish for colder nights or when you’re simply craving a filling meal. Don’t be surprised if this one becomes a regular on your menu.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

Blackened Chicken Clubs

If you’re in the mood for something bold, this is the perfect sandwich upgrade. Blackened Chicken Clubs pair spicy, seared chicken with fresh crunch to make a meal that’s simple yet fulfilling. It’s a go-to for lunch or dinner that’s great for meal prep, too. All you need is a few staples to whip this up whenever you want.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Chicken Clubs

Asian Slaw

Light, crunchy, and budget-friendly, Asian Slaw keeps things fresh on the side. This dish is a super affordable mix that pairs with almost everything and adds texture to your plate. It’s great for potlucks or weekday dinners when you need something quick. Plus, it’s a side dish that never feels boring.
Get the Recipe: Asian Slaw

Focaccia Bread

Bringing fresh-baked goodness to your table has never been easier or cheaper. Focaccia Bread is the kind of recipe that’s soft inside with just enough texture on the outside. It’s perfect for dipping, sharing, or turning into an irresistible sandwich. Once you make it, you’ll see why people keep baking it again and again.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

Broccoli Casserole

This is the kind of meal that combines comfort and simplicity in one dish. Broccoli Casserole gives you creamy layers and hearty bites wrapped in a baked, no-hassle recipe. It’s a family-friendly option made to stretch your dollar. You’ll keep this one bookmarked for those nights when you need something simple yet filling.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Air Fryer Chicken Fritters

Easy to whip up, Air Fryer Chicken Fritters are good enough for any table, fancy or not. They pack just the right combination of texture and taste. Don’t underestimate their simplicity, they’re a solid go-to for low-cost cooking. Whether feeding a family or a friend, they’re worth making again and again.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Fritters

Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

Got a meal craving that won’t break the bank? Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup is all about a balance between budget-friendly and bowls-you-can-make-on-repeat. Its smooth texture makes it easy to love, and it’s far from complicated to prepare. You’ll find yourself putting it back on the menu, rich or not.
Get the Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

Butter Chicken

You don’t need an over-the-top dinner plan to enjoy Butter Chicken. It’s right in that sweet spot between being affordable and still giving you a solid meal fix. Its richness is approachable, not overdone, a practical choice for any kitchen. Served with a simple side, it’s the kind of dish you’ll want in your regular cooking lineup.
Get the Recipe: Butter Chicken

Cowboy Casserole

Year-round favorite, Cowboy Casserole, is one of those meals everyone can agree on. It’s hearty without being overcomplicated, which makes it perfect for budget-friendly meals. The baked finish gives it a bit of fun texture, while the taste keeps everyone happy. It’s easy to make once—and easier to want again.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Casserole

Baked Zucchini

Looking for something quick but still worth serving? Baked Zucchini hits that spot, it’s simple, inexpensive, and packs a little excitement into veggies. The baked finish works wonders, and you can tweak it if you ever feel fancy. No matter who you’re feeding, it’s a keeper for convenient dinners.
Get the Recipe: Baked Zucchini

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

When a solid dinner option is needed, Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe does the trick. It’s straightforward enough to be a go-to dish yet fulfilling enough for guests. It doesn’t take much to pull together, making it perfect for days when you need something low-cost. You’ll probably catch yourself saving the recipe for future use.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Mini Hasselback Potatoes

A plate of Mini Hasselback Potatoes fits right into any meal plan without breaking the budget. These cute potato servings bring a little variety in presentation, but they’re still easy enough to pull together. Budget-conscious and still fun, they’re definitely worth adding again next week. Even folks who don’t fuss over potatoes seem to like them.
Get the Recipe: Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Baked Beef Tacos

It’s always fun to make something everyone loves. These Baked Beef Tacos are the kind of dish that’s easy on your wallet but feels special. Perfect for picky eaters or someone who wants a no-fuss meal. You’ll probably come back to this one even when you have more options.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies

You don’t need a fancy meal to make the day feel complete. Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies combines just the right combo to keep everyone happy. It’s affordable, filling, and leaves room for leftovers. This is a great recipe to lean on when you don’t want to overspend.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

Stuffed potatoes are underrated, and this one proves it. BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes are hearty, cheap, and full of surprises. You can whip these up for a quick dinner or even save the leftovers for lunch. Either way, this one’s a keeper for any day.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

Miso Soup

Sometimes, all you need is something simple that hits the spot. Miso Soup is ridiculously inexpensive but feels like comfort in a bowl. You can make this part of a bigger meal or enjoy it on its own. It’s a recipe you’ll end up making again without a second thought.
Get the Recipe: Miso Soup

Spaghetti Casserole

Quick, filling, and easy meals don’t get enough credit. That’s what Spaghetti Casserole is, budget-friendly and perfect for feeding a group. You’ll get big portions without a big price tag. It’s one of those dishes you’ll keep coming back to because it just makes sense.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Sloppy Joe

When’s the last time you had one of those dinners that brings back memories? Sloppy Joe is that kind of meal, straightforward and full of value. It’s crazy affordable and always worth the effort. You’ll end up wondering why you didn’t make these sooner.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe

Birria Ramen

Thinking outside the box with ramen doesn’t have to cost much. Birria Ramen mixes things up and brings big flavors with no high price tag. It’s a fun twist that makes instant noodles feel anything but basic. Trust me, this is one you’ll want to repeat.
Get the Recipe: Birria Ramen

Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Here’s one for potato lovers. Mississippi Mud Potatoes are fulfilling, budget-friendly, and a hit with everyone. It’s the kind of dish that works for a weeknight or a relaxed weekend. You’ll probably make it again because it’s just that low-effort and good.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Big Mac Sloppy Joe

Who doesn’t love a good mash-up idea for dinner? Big Mac Sloppy Joe is a fun, cheap way to get creative without needing a drive-thru. It’s a great combination that doesn’t skimp on portions or taste. This is one you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Sloppy Joe

Taco Salad

Eating light doesn’t mean spending a lot. Taco Salad gives you all the fun of tacos with fewer decisions to make while staying budget-friendly. It’s quick to toss together and super adaptable for what you have on hand. You’ll want to keep this in mind for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Taco Salad

Garlic Knots

Sometimes, the simplest things are the most rewarding. Garlic Knots make it easy to turn a basic dinner into something a little more special. They’re crazy cheap to make and pair well with just about anything. You just can’t go wrong with these on the side.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

If you’re looking for no-hassle dishes, this delivers. Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables combine cheap ingredients into something that feels hearty and fresh. It’s perfect as a side, or you can load it up to make it the main attraction. Either way, it’s a solid pick.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Spaghetti Bolognese

Tried-and-true meals are hard to beat. Spaghetti Bolognese is easy to make, affordable, and always a crowd favorite. It’s the kind of dish that works any time you don’t want to think too much about dinner. You’ll always have a reason to come back to this classic.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

Black Bean Burger

Veggie-based dishes don’t need to be expensive to be great. Black Bean Burger is proof that you can have hearty, satisfying meals on a budget. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a break from meat-heavy dishes without a big price tag. Definitely worth a repeat.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Burger