I Make 29 Budget Friendly Recipes Every Sunday Night

Sunday dinners can sometimes feel like a negotiation between appetite and budget, and usually the budget wins. Having 29 affordable choices waiting changes that into a game worth playing, with everyone leaving the table happier than expected. It’s not about fancy tricks but about meals that get the job done without drama.

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

Amish Breakfast Casserole

A close-up of a serving of savory bread pudding with bacon and herbs being lifted from a white baking dish.
Amish Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Layers of warmth and hearty flavors make this a great option for feeding a crowd. Amish Breakfast Casserole works well as a weekend meal that provides leftovers for busy mornings. Easy to prepare in bulk for a cost-effective choice. Perfect for sharing without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Amish Breakfast Casserole

General Tso’s Chicken

Stir-fried chicken pieces in a spicy sauce, garnished with chopped green onions, served in a round metal dish on an orange placemat.
General Tso’s Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Crispy bites coated in bold sauce make this a takeout-style favorite at home. General Tso’s Chicken gives restaurant-quality taste on a small budget. Perfect for serving with simple sides like rice. Always reliable when aiming to stretch ingredients.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

Asian Slaw

A bowl of colorful coleslaw with shredded purple and green cabbage, carrots, chopped peanuts, and greens, mixed with dressing.
Asian Slaw. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crisp mixed veggies tossed in a light dressing create a refreshing side dish. Asian Slaw pairs well with grilled proteins or stands alone as a budget-friendly meal. Easy to make large batches for minimal cost. A clean and simple way to stretch the menu.
Get the Recipe: Asian Slaw

Ham and Swiss Sliders

Three ham and cheese sliders on seeded buns are placed on parchment paper. Bright green parsley is visible in the background.
Ham and Swiss Sliders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Small sandwiches packed with flavorful layers make feeding groups effortless. Ham and Swiss Sliders are perfect for creating filling meals on a budget. Easy to serve and even better for leftover setups. A smart choice for gatherings without overspending.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Swiss Sliders

Air Fryer Chicken Fritters

Stack of golden-brown fritters topped with a red sauce, showing crispy edges and bits of herbs.
Air Fryer Chicken Fritters. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Tender chicken bites cooked with minimal effort make this recipe great for saving dollars and time. Air Fryer Chicken Fritters deliver protein-packed portions that are family-friendly. Great for mixing into meals or enjoying as snacks. A quick go-to for budget-conscious households.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Fritters

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

Three tacos filled with black beans, tofu, and vegetables, topped with sauce and cilantro, served with lime wedges on a white plate.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Easy-to-prep fillings provide a hearty and affordable take on dinner. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos are satisfying and perfect for stretching a tight meal plan. Great for vegetarian nights without compromising taste. Budget-friendly without skimping on portions.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

Baked Croissant Breakfast Sandwich

Croissant sandwich with scrambled eggs, sausage patty, melted cheese, and spinach on parchment paper.
Baked Croissant Breakfast Sandwich. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Flaky croissants filled with simple ingredients make this breakfast perfect for busy mornings. Baked Croissant Breakfast Sandwich is easy to prep for groups while keeping costs low. Great for reheating if there are leftovers. An excellent choice when planning meals on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Baked Croissant Breakfast Sandwich

Dinner Rolls

Close-up of freshly baked golden-brown dinner rolls, with one roll partially torn to show its soft, fluffy interior.
Dinner Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Soft rolls baked fresh keep meals comforting without adding much expense. Dinner Rolls work as a side or snack to stretch meals out further. Perfect for pairing with soups or casseroles. A simple recipe that feels homemade without costing a lot.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Leek and Potato Soup

A bowl of creamy soup garnished with sautéed green onions and herbs.
Leek and Potato Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Creamy bowls of soup come together easily with affordable pantry staples. Leek and Potato Soup is perfect for warm, filling dinners that are also high-value. Easy to portion out and freeze for later use. A smart dish for eating well without spending extra.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

Taco Pasta Salad

A bowl of fusilli pasta mixed with ground beef, black beans, chopped tomatoes, and herbs, garnished with lime wedges.
Taco Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A mix of bold flavors blended into pasta keeps costs low while serving large portions. Taco Pasta Salad works for potlucks or quick family dinners on tight budgets. Great for making ahead without losing flavor. Always a go-to for budget-friendly meals with flair.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Soup

A close-up of a bowl of broccoli cheddar soup garnished with croutons, a sprig of mint, and grated cheese.
Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A rich soup packed with hearty texture is perfect for stretching ingredients. Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Soup is easy to make in big batches for minimal cost. Works great with simple rolls to round out the meal. A dependable recipe for filling bellies on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Soup

Sweet and Sour Chicken

Close-up of sweet and sour chicken with bell peppers and pineapple chunks in a thick sauce.
Sweet and Sour Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sticky bites full of flavor create cost-effective servings for family dinners. Sweet and Sour Chicken recreates takeout-style dishes without spending more. Perfect when paired with cheaper sides like rice. A favorite choice for staying under budget but full of taste.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken

Gnocchi

A bowl of gnocchi topped with grated cheese, fresh basil, and black pepper.
Gnocchi. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Soft dumplings serve as a filling main dish without needing many ingredients. Gnocchi is simple to prepare in bulk for affordable yet hearty meals. Great for pairing with lighter sauces for variety. Always practical when aiming for budget-conscious cooking.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

A close-up of Swedish meatballs covered in a creamy sauce, piled in a wooden bowl.
Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Rich creamy meatballs make this dish inexpensive and easy to adjust for large servings. Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat) provide comfort and protein without overspending. Pair well with noodles or mashed potatoes to complete the meal. Perfect for recreating takeout at home.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

Hasselback Potatoes

Roasted hasselback potatoes on a baking sheet with parmesan.
Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crispy cut potatoes with simple toppings create a budget-friendly side dish. Hasselback Potatoes are easy to bake and pair well with proteins or standalone sauces. Great for serving multiple people without much prep. A smart recipe to save money while adding variety.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes

Kung Pao Chicken

A close-up of a stir-fry dish featuring pieces of chicken, snap peas, red bell peppers, scallions, and black sesame seeds.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spicy stir-fried chicken delivers bold flavors in affordable portions. Kung Pao Chicken works well for building meals with budget-friendly staples like rice. A great choice for recreating takeout nights at home. Stretch meals with ease by adding simple vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Italian Pasta Salad

Bowtie pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze in a green bowl.
Italian Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Hearty tossed pasta delivers filling portions while staying affordable. Italian Pasta Salad is ideal for lunches or dinner sides when feeding larger groups. Easy to prep with minimal effort or cost. Perfect for potlucks without buying expensive ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta Salad

Easy Cornbread Casserole

A portion of a cheesy, golden-brown savory cornbread casserole is being lifted from the dish, showing its flaky crust and gooey cheese filling.
Easy Cornbread Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Layers of cornbread mixed into a casserole make stretching meals budget-minded and simple. Easy Cornbread Casserole pairs well with soups or proteins as comfort food. It’s easy to prepare in bulk for quick leftovers. A cost-effective way to brighten up Sunday dinners.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole

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.

Juicy baked tacos filled with great flavor fit perfectly into affordable meals. Baked Beef Tacos work well as a casual dinner option without lots of extra ingredients. Easy to serve for families or parties. Perfect for making ahead without spending on extra prep.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas

Close-up of folded tortillas filled with chicken, cheese, and herbs, garnished with cilantro.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spicy chicken bites stuffed into crispy tortillas create a bold dish on a budget. Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas come together quickly without requiring many pantry staples. Great for bold dinner ideas while sticking to simple options. An easy choice for frugal yet fun meals.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy layers packed into a casserole bring affordable comfort to any table. Hashbrown Casserole is easy to make for Sunday dinners with plenty of leftovers. Works perfectly as a side or simple main dish. A low-cost recipe that doesn’t skip on the hearty texture.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Korean Burgers

Close-up of a hamburger with a sesame seed bun, beef patty, green onions, and rich brown sauce.
Korean Burgers. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Juicy patties with global flavors keep meal costs low without sacrificing fun ideas for dinner. Korean Burgers work well for casual setups or handheld protein fixes. Standalone without needing expensive sides. A creative way to enjoy sandwiches without overthinking the budget.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

Taco Salad

A taco salad served in an edible tortilla bowl, topped with ground meat, lettuce, black beans, diced tomatoes, avocado, and shredded cheese.
Taco Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Crunchy layers mixed into a salad deliver bold taste with affordable portions. Taco Salad works as a standalone meal or lighter dinner option. Easy to share in bowls across bigger groups. A simple recipe for frugal choices with flair.
Get the Recipe: Taco Salad

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Three cooked chicken breasts in a creamy sauce, topped with herbs and sun-dried tomatoes, presented in a round dish.
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Slow-cooked chicken comes packed with flavor that’s easy to stretch for multiple meals. Crockpot Marry Me Chicken keeps costs low while working for leftovers or simple sides. Great for those Sunday night bulk cooking sessions. Efficient without missing bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Grilled Cheese

Close-up of two stacked grilled cheese sandwiches made with multigrain bread and melted cheese oozing out.
Grilled Cheese. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Quick, warm sandwiches save both money and time on simple dinner setups. Grilled Cheese keeps costs low while providing pleasing portions straight from the pan. Great for pairing with simple soups or enjoying alone. A dependable dish for stretching budgets without effort.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cheese

Taco Casserole

A bowl of taco casserole topped with melted cheese, black olives, tomatoes, and green onions, with a creamy dip in the background.
Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Layers of bold taco-inspired flavor keep costs minimal while staying fun for family meals. Taco Casserole is easy to prepare in bulk setups and serves leftovers reliably. Works for both parties and quick weeknight options. A creative yet frugal dinner recipe.
Get the Recipe: Taco Casserole

Kimchi Stew

Close-up of a wooden spoon in a vibrant kimchi stew with tofu and pork, garnished with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes.
Kimchi Stew. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Warm bowls of stew packed with hearty fillings make dinners affordable yet flavorful. Kimchi Stew works well for stretching ingredients while delivering bold taste. Great for customizing with simple proteins or extras. A reliable choice for tight budget planning.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Easy Flatbread Pizza

Two slices of pizza with tomatoes and herbs.
Easy Flatbread Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Thin crusts topped with simple ingredients make this pizza perfect for quick setups. Easy Flatbread Pizza skips expensive toppings while keeping meals exciting. Great for individual portions or serving groups. Always a smart choice for sticking to a budget.
Get the Recipe: Easy Flatbread Pizza

Baked Chicken Thighs

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

Juicy baked thighs are cost-effective and easy to pair with affordable sides. Baked Chicken Thighs work perfectly for doubling as leftovers for meals later. Simple to prepare without extra hassle. A dependable protein choice for keeping budgets down.
Get the Recipe: Baked Chicken Thighs

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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