Spend Less In The Kitchen And More On Life With 29 Affordable Meals

Cooking on a budget doesn’t mean boring meals. These 29 affordable options prove that cheap and easy can still be filling and delicious. Spend less time over the stove and more time doing literally anything else. Your wallet will thank you, and so will anyone lucky enough to eat with you.

Egg Drop Soup

With Egg Drop Soup, grab a spoon and get ready for a comforting classic without emptying your wallet. It’s simple, quick, and the epitome of budget-friendly. This soup adds a cozy touch to your meal routine, offering warmth and comfort on any day. And the best part? It won’t have you stressing over a complicated grocery bill.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup

Mac and Cheese

Everyone loves a good bowl of Mac and Cheese, creamy comfort without the big spend. With this dish, you can whip up something that’s all about indulgent, gooey goodness. It’s a childhood favorite that adults can’t get enough of either. Plus, it’s perfect for those who want to keep both time in the kitchen and costs low.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Leek and Potato Soup

Leek and Potato Soup is your ticket to a hearty meal that goes easy on your budget. It’s the kind of dish that proves simplicity equals satisfaction. Dinner just got a whole lot cozier, and your savings account will thank you. You’ll be amazed at how such a humble meal can provide so much comfort.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Get kitchen savvy with Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe, a one-pan wonder that’s as wallet-friendly as it is delicious. This recipe keeps clean-up to a minimum and the cooking fuss-free. It’s all about maximum flavor with minimal effort and expense. Serve it up and watch how quickly it brings everyone to the table.
Get the Recipe: Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Cheeseburger Soup

Why settle for fast food when you can have a homemade bowl of thriftiness and flavor with Cheeseburger Soup? This soup brings the joy of a cheeseburger into a spoonable form. It’s not only easy on your funds but also a hit with the whole crowd. Plus, it’s a clever way to stretch ingredients for a cost-effective meal.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

Cashew Chicken

Forget takeout – Cashew Chicken has you eating well without the big spend. Create a dish that’s all about bringing out big taste with what you’ve got on hand. It turns simple elements into a meal that’s both fulfilling and friendly on the purse. And everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Lentil Soup

Dig into a bowl of Lentil Soup, frugal yet filling goodness that won’t break the bank. It’s the go-to choice for anyone looking to maximize flavor while minimizing expenses. A slow simmered pot of this is sure to become a repeat request. Plus, you’ll love how it makes meal planning both straightforward and affordable.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

Chicken Alfredo

Chicken Alfredo stands out as a go-to for everyone craving something rich and creamy on a dime. Discover how easy it is to create a crowd-pleaser that keeps your budget in check. It’s all about making the most of ingredients for a restaurant-quality meal at home. You’ll be dishing out second helpings before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Alfredo

Focaccia Bread

Put on your baker’s hat and get ready to make Focaccia Bread that’ll warm your home and your pockets. This is bread-making at its most rewarding—simple, fragrant, and easy on the wallet. Pair it with any meal, and you’ve got an instant hit that’s surprisingly economical. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your bank account will remain intact.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

Hot and Sour Soup

Spice things up with Hot and Sour Soup, known for its kick and wallet-friendly ingredients. It’s the perfect pick-me-up that proves you don’t need to spend much for a lot of flavors. If you’re in the mood for something that stimulates your senses without draining your wallet, this is it. Each spoonful is a testament to how a modest soup can boast big personality.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

General Tso’s Chicken

Who needs delivery when General Tso’s Chicken can be created at home without the high cost? It’s a punchy, fulfilling dish that marries both sweet and heat. You’ll be proud to serve up this takeout alternative that keeps cash in your pocket. Plus, you get to control the ingredients and flavor to your liking.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

Tuscan Pasta

Tuscan Pasta brings a touch of rusticity to your table with a dish that buzzes with simplicity and thrift. It shows how you can achieve a meal that’s both hearty and cost-conscious. Get ready for a pasta experience that speaks to your soul as well as your savings. And it’s perfect for those days when you need something quick and fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta

Kimchi Stew

Infuse a little tradition into your budget meals with Kimchi Stew, both unique and economical. It’s an experience that bridges the gap between exotic and frugal. Gather around with family or friends for a meal that’s as pocket-friendly as it is pleasing. And it proves that a tight grocery budget doesn’t mean skimping on taste.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Tonkotsu Ramen

Who said you can’t have gourmet on a shoestring budget? Tonkotsu Ramen turns humble ingredients into a rich, soothing bowl of savings. This dish offers a chance to enjoy something a bit special without the restaurant tab. It’s the perfect at-home treat that respects both your cravings and your finances.
Get the Recipe: Tonkotsu Ramen

Cattle Drive Casserole

Embrace the spirit of the Old West with Cattle Drive Casserole, big on flavor and small on spending. This meal brings ease to your busy schedule along with some smart savings. It’s packed with hearty goodness and is sure to be a weeknight winner. And, you’ll love how this feeds a crowd without costing a fortune.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

Garlic Knots

If you’re looking for a snack that’s easy on the wallet, Garlic Knots have you covered. They’re perfect for sharing, whether you’re chilling at home or with friends. You won’t need a bunch of fancy stuff to whip them up. Plus, they hit the spot every single time.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

White Bean Soup

Nothing screams comfort like a bowl of White Bean Soup. It’s the kind of meal that’s good for the soul without breaking the bank. You can have it on its own or pair it up with something else if you’re feeling extra hungry. And yeah, making it is no big deal at all.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Hashbrown Casserole

Talk about a breakfast champion, Hashbrown Casserole stands tall. It’s the perfect dish to kick-start your day without spending a ton. It’s hearty, it’s filling, and most of all, it’s budget-friendly. Trust me, your morning self will thank you for it.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili is the answer when you’re tired of the same old meals. It switches things up without straining your wallet. This meal is all about keeping things light while still packing a punch. Also, it’s a cinch to make, which is always a bonus.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Chili

Twice Baked Potatoes

These potatoes are downright awesome if you’re into something that feels fancy but isn’t priced that way. They have this amazing mix of textures that’s hard not to love. Plus, Twice Baked Potatoes are versatile enough for a casual dinner or something a bit more special. And yes, they’re absolutely budget-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

Tortellini Soup

When you’re in a soup mood, Tortellini Soup is the way to go. It’s simple, delicious, and yes, easy on the pocket. This soup is a great way to make a meal feel complete without too much fuss. And the best part? It’s pretty straightforward to get it done.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

For those nights when you need a meal that comes together fast, Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a lifesaver. It’s not just quick; it’s wallet-friendly too. There’s no need for a ton of ingredients to make it happen. Plus, it’s filling and tastes excellent.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Hasselback Potatoes

Fancy a twist to the usual potato dish? Hasselback Potatoes got your back. These beauties are easy to prep and even easier on your budget. They’re crispy, tender, and oh-so-satisfying without all the fuss. Just slice, bake, and watch them disappear faster than you made them!
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes

Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings

Craving something with a bit of a kick? Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings have got you sorted. These wings are all about bringing that flavor without emptying your pockets. They’re perfect for a game day or just when you want to munch on something good.
Get the Recipe: Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings

Cheese Grits

Morning or night, Cheese Grits can be the comfort food you’re reaching for. They’re ridiculously easy to make and won’t have you spending much at all. Whether it’s the base of your meal or a side, they’re always a hit. Plus, they’re versatile as heck.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Grits

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

If you’re all about that crunch, Buttermilk Fried Chicken is where it’s at. This dish is a crowd-pleaser without costing a fortune. It’s perfect for those days when you’re craving something classic. And yeah, getting it just right is no sweat.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a game-changer for your morning routine. It’s hearty, tasty, and doesn’t ask much from your wallet. This casserole is all about making your breakfast worth waking up for. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to throw together.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Taco Soup

For a meal that’s both easy and comforting, Taco Soup packs a punch. It’s light on the pocket and heavy on the satisfaction. You won’t need to fuss over a ton of ingredients to get it right. And it’s bound to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Taco Soup

Egg Casserole

Egg Casserole is the ultimate breakfast dish for those on a budget. It’s filling, it’s easy to make, and it won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Whether you’re feeding just yourself or a crowd, this casserole has got you covered. Plus, it’s perfect for those busy mornings.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole