Grocery bills don’t have to be terrifying. These 31 budget recipes keep costs down while still delivering solid meals. They skip the expensive extras and focus on what actually works—good food that’s simple to make and satisfying to eat. There’s no sacrificing taste, just smarter choices that make the most of every dollar. Whether feeding a family or just looking for an easy, low-cost dinner, these meals make eating cheap feel like an upgrade.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup
A bowl of Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a budget-friendly way to eat well without cutting corners on flavor. This classic dish is hearty enough to be a full meal, packed with simple ingredients that come together in a way that feels anything but basic. It’s easy to make in big batches, so there’s always something ready to go when hunger hits. No need for expensive ingredients when something this simple can be so satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Chicken Fried Rice
Takeout is great, but making Chicken Fried Rice at home is easier on the wallet and just as satisfying. It’s a great way to use what’s already in the kitchen and turn it into a filling meal. Everything comes together in one pan, making cleanup simple and mealtime fast. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a weeknight dinner, this dish proves that budget-friendly meals can still feel like a treat.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice
Sweet Potato Cornbread
The perfect balance of hearty and slightly sweet, Sweet Potato Cornbread is a smart way to upgrade any meal without spending extra. It’s great as a side but just as good on its own, especially when paired with something warm and comforting. The texture is just right—not too heavy, not too crumbly—making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. A simple, low-cost way to add something special to the table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread
Eggless Breakfast Casserole with Sausage
No eggs? No problem. Eggless Breakfast Casserole with Sausage delivers all the comfort of a classic breakfast dish without relying on expensive ingredients. It’s hearty enough to keep everyone full and easy enough to make ahead for busy mornings. Just bake, serve, and enjoy a meal that doesn’t break the budget.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Breakfast Casserole with Sausage
Ukrainian Potatoes
Comfort food doesn’t have to cost much, and Ukrainian Potatoes are proof of that. This dish takes a few affordable ingredients and turns them into something rich, filling, and hard to resist. It’s a great way to stretch a meal without making it feel like anything is missing. Whether served as a side or the star of the plate, these potatoes know how to deliver.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes
Beef & Broccoli
Skip the takeout and make Beef & Broccoli at home for a fraction of the cost. It’s a quick, budget-friendly meal that doesn’t cut corners on flavor. Tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce come together in a way that makes dinner feel like a treat. When something this good is this easy, ordering out starts to feel unnecessary.
Get the Recipe: Beef & Broccoli
Cream of Onion Soup
Simple ingredients turn into something surprisingly rich with Cream of Onion Soup. It’s a budget-friendly way to get that comforting, creamy texture without needing anything fancy. Whether served on its own or paired with something crunchy, it’s proof that good food doesn’t have to cost much. One pot, a handful of ingredients, and a meal that feels way more expensive than it actually is.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Onion Soup
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
A big pan of Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole is the answer to feeding a crowd without spending much. It takes a simple side dish and turns it into something even better—creamy, hearty, and perfect for making ahead. This is the kind of meal that stretches ingredients without feeling like a compromise. Leftovers, if there are any, are just as good the next day.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Pineapple Upside Down Cake
No expensive extras needed—just a classic cake that proves simple can still be impressive. Pineapple Upside Down Cake is the kind of dessert that looks fancy but is surprisingly budget-friendly. A simple mix of ingredients creates a sweet, caramelized topping that keeps every bite interesting. It’s perfect for gatherings, weeknight desserts, or just because.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon
The mix of tangy, smoky, and just a little sweet makes Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon a surprisingly bold dish for such a simple ingredient list. It’s the kind of recipe that makes a little go a long way, stretching the budget without skimping on flavor. Serve it as a side, pile it on a sandwich, or enjoy it on its own—it’s versatile enough to work with whatever’s on hand. A perfect example of how inexpensive ingredients can make something great.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef is the kind of meal that works for just about anything—tacos, bowls, or even on its own. It’s a simple, affordable way to pack in bold flavors without spending extra. The best part? It comes together quickly, making it a go-to for busy nights. Good food doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive, and this dish proves it.
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef
Easy Mexican Rice
Making restaurant-style Easy Mexican Rice at home is easier and cheaper than you’d think. This dish turns a few pantry staples into something flavorful and satisfying, perfect for pairing with just about anything. It’s simple to make in large batches, making it a great option for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Who needs takeout when something this good is this affordable?
Get the Recipe: Easy Mexican Rice
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Restaurant-quality pasta at home? Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka brings that creamy, rich flavor to the table without the high price tag. The sauce coats every piece of pasta perfectly, making every bite as good as the last. It’s proof that a budget-friendly meal can still feel a little fancy. Why pay more when you can make something this good for less?
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Birria de Res
A good slow-cooked meal like Birria de Res brings big flavors without a big price tag. This dish takes time, but the payoff is tender, flavorful meat that can be used in tacos, bowls, or eaten straight from the plate. It’s the kind of meal that’s even better the next day, stretching every dollar while keeping dinner exciting. A little patience turns an affordable cut of meat into something incredible.
Get the Recipe: Birria de Res
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich brings classic diner flavors to the table without the cost of eating out. It’s simple, hearty, and packed with all the familiar goodness of a well-seasoned sandwich. The loose meat texture makes every bite flavorful, and it pairs well with whatever sides are on hand. When craving something satisfying on a budget, this one always delivers.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
A smart way to enjoy a familiar favorite without overspending. Deviled Egg Pasta Salad takes classic flavors and turns them into a filling, budget-friendly dish. It’s great for picnics, meal prep, or a quick lunch when something easy is needed. The combination of textures and flavors makes it interesting without being complicated.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
Corned Beef Hash
Corned Beef Hash is the perfect way to make the most of simple ingredients while keeping things filling. It’s great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, making it one of the most versatile budget-friendly meals. A little crispiness, a little saltiness, and a whole lot of comfort make this dish a favorite. No need for anything fancy—just good food made right.
Get the Recipe: Corned Beef Hash
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots bring all the crispy, cheesy goodness of the original without the takeout price. They’re simple to make and perfect for snacking, game nights, or even a quick meal. Budget-friendly ingredients come together to make something that feels like a treat. No delivery fee required.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup
A bowl of Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup is comfort food at its best, without the restaurant price tag. It’s thick, creamy, and full of flavor, making it a filling option for a budget-friendly meal. Whether paired with a sandwich or enjoyed on its own, it’s a reliable go-to for chilly nights. Good soup doesn’t have to cost much—this one proves it.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup
Baked Spanish Rice
A little time in the oven turns everyday ingredients into something worth looking forward to. Baked Spanish Rice is an easy way to turn a simple side into something more flavorful and satisfying. Baking it gives it the perfect texture, making it a great addition to just about any meal. It’s a budget-friendly option that’s filling enough to stretch a dish without feeling like an afterthought.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice
Beef and Barley Soup
A pot of Beef and Barley Soup is the definition of a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t feel cheap. It’s hearty, full of simple ingredients, and perfect for making in large batches. The longer it cooks, the better it gets, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. A warm, filling dinner without the high grocery bill—what’s not to love?
Get the Recipe: Beef and Barley Soup
Texas BLT
A Texas BLT takes a simple classic and gives it a little more substance without adding extra cost. It’s proof that sometimes, small changes make a big difference in making a meal more satisfying. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, it delivers all the flavor without breaking the budget. A little crunch, a little salt, and a whole lot of satisfaction.
Get the Recipe: Texas BLT
Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes
Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes is a smart way to put together a filling meal without spending much. It’s packed with simple ingredients that work together to make something light but satisfying. Whether as a meal on its own or a side, it’s a great way to keep things fresh without overspending. A solid option when looking for something easy, healthy, and affordable.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes
Pizza Pasta Salad
All the fun of pizza, but at a fraction of the cost. Pizza Pasta Salad is what happens when a classic favorite meets an easy, affordable dish. It’s a great way to serve up familiar flavors without needing an oven or expensive toppings. Perfect for meal prep, parties, or a quick weeknight dinner, it’s a solid go-to when keeping things simple.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad
Mexican Street Corn Soup
Good food doesn’t have to cost much, and this soup proves it. Mexican Street Corn Soup takes the bold flavors of a street food favorite and turns them into an easy, affordable meal. It’s creamy, a little smoky, and packed with enough flavor to make it feel like something special. Whether served as a starter or a main dish, it’s a great way to stretch simple ingredients into something exciting.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Soup
Greek Spaghetti
A plate of Greek Spaghetti is a simple way to bring bold flavors to the table without spending extra. It’s a great option for when a quick, filling meal is needed without a complicated ingredient list. The balance of flavors makes every bite interesting, proving that simple can still be satisfying. A perfect example of budget-friendly cooking at its best.
Get the Recipe: Greek Spaghetti
Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes
Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes is a no-fuss meal that turns affordable pantry staples into something comforting and rich. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the bright, simple flavors, making every bite balanced. It’s great for a quick weeknight dinner that feels a little more special without the high price tag. A solid go-to for easy, affordable cooking.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes
Creamy Spinach Orzo
A great option when looking for something affordable that still feels a little special. Creamy Spinach Orzo is a budget-friendly way to enjoy a rich, comforting dish without spending much. The texture is smooth, the flavors blend perfectly, and it works as either a main dish or a side. It’s easy to put together and just as easy to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Orzo
Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick, inexpensive meal that delivers big on flavor. It’s easy to make, filling, and works for both lunch and dinner. The best part? It’s a takeout favorite that’s even better when made at home. A smart way to get a great meal without the restaurant bill.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ham Fried Rice
Making Ham Fried Rice at home is a great way to use up leftovers while keeping meals budget-friendly. It’s quick, filling, and packed with flavor, proving that simple ingredients can still make a great dish. Whether for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, it’s a reliable option that’s easy on the wallet. No need to spend extra when something this good is so easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Ham Fried Rice
Classic Meatballs
A batch of Classic Meatballs is a great way to stretch an affordable protein into multiple meals. Whether served over pasta, in a sandwich, or on their own, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. They freeze well, making them a smart choice for meal prep and busy nights. Good food doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive, and these prove it.
Get the Recipe: Classic Meatballs