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Fancy on a Budget: 17 Gourmet Recipes That Use Cheap Ingredients

Discover how to eat like royalty without spending much. These gourmet recipes use affordable ingredients to create fancy dishes. Perfect for anyone who wants to impress guests or just treat themselves without breaking the bank. You don’t need a huge wallet to create a meal that looks and tastes amazing. It’s all about smart choices and a touch of creativity.

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pizza Pasta Salad

A fork with pizza pasta salad in a bowl.
Pizza Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

This recipe combines two favorite comfort foods into one. Imagine a flavorful pasta salad enriched with ingredients reminiscent of your favorite pizza. You get the best of both worlds, with just a bit of creativity and affordable ingredients. It’s an appealing twist for gatherings or family meals without breaking the bank. Everyone loves the familiar flavors, and it can be made ahead of time. Affordable and fun, this fusion idea is a sure hit.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

A white bowl of rigatoni pasta with creamy sauce, garnished with cheese and green herbs, is placed on a wooden surface. A hand is holding a fork with a piece of pasta.
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

You won’t believe how restaurant-quality this meal is. Making Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka at home saves you money and time. Each bite brings a rich, creamy experience without the high cost. It’s surprisingly simple yet feels like you’re dining out. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. The taste is unbeatable, and it becomes a family favorite quickly.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

A tray of cheddar bacon loaded tater tots, drizzled with Alfredo sauce, with a hand-picking one up.
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Preparing these at home means you can enjoy them without ordering in. With Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots, every bite is a burst of flavor. They’re crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Surprisingly easy and cost-effective to make, they’re an excellent option for game nights or when you need fast comfort food. Kids and adults alike can’t resist them. Save money and enjoy these often!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

A closeup of Jason's Deli Irish Potato Soup.`
Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Whip up a pot of cozy goodness without the restaurant bill. Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup is rich and hearty. You get creamy and warm flavors perfect for chilly nights. Using accessible ingredients, it’s an affordable way to feed a crowd. It’s satisfying and feels like a hug in a bowl. Perfect for meal prep, it reheats beautifully too.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich on a white plate with chips.
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Recreate a diner classic at your home. Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich brings that savory taste you love. It’s an easy, budget-friendly recipe that packs a punch in flavor. Enjoy the simplicity and the fact you’re saving money. Perfect for lunch or a casual dinner, everyone loves how flavorful it is. This recipe is great for a quick meal solution.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole on a tray.
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Think of this as comfort food made easy and inexpensive. Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole is a staple for any family gathering. Simple, affordable ingredients make it budget-friendly. It’s a warm, hearty dish that fills you up without costing much. Perfect as a side dish and beloved by all ages. You can even prep it the night before to save time.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Easy Mexican Rice

Mexican Rice with a slice of lime on a black bowl.
Easy Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Spicing up your meal doesn’t have to be costly. Easy Mexican Rice provides that vibrant, delicious side for just pennies. With minimal ingredients, you take a simple meal to the next level. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a standalone dish. It’s quick and effortless, making it a go-to recipe. A staple side in many homes, it’s sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mexican Rice

Baked Spanish Rice

Baked Spanish Rice in two black baking dishes.
Baked Spanish Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Infuse some classic flavors into your meal rotation. Baked Spanish Rice is delicious and simple to prepare. Using basic pantry staples, it’s both affordable and appealing. Great as a side or even mixed with proteins for a full meal. It’s a versatile, cost-effective addition to any dinner table. Make it once, and it’s sure to make regular appearances.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice

Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Sauerkraut in a serving dish with a spoon.
Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Want an interesting dish without much cost? Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon combines savory and sweet. Budget-friendly and unique, it’s a great way to use simple ingredients. Perfect for those looking to expand their flavor profiles. It pairs well with many main dishes and adds a twist to standard meals. Unexpectedly good and easy on the wallet.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Sweet Potato Cornbread

A piece of cornbread on a plate next to a few potatoes.
Sweet Potato Cornbread. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Give your cornbread a sweet upgrade without spending more. Sweet Potato Cornbread adds a unique twist to an old favorite. It’s moist and delicious using inexpensive ingredients. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, everyone loves this version. Easy to prep and bake, it’s a delightful addition to any meal. You’ll find yourself making it often due to its simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread

Eggless Breakfast Casserole with Sausage

A plate of breakfast casserole on a black plate.
Eggless Breakfast Casserole with Sausage. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Save some dollars while enjoying a hearty breakfast. Eggless Breakfast Casserole with Sausage is perfect for family mornings. Using simple ingredients ensures it’s budget-friendly and tasty. An excellent way to start the day with protein-packed goodness. It reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep. Kids and adults both enjoy this filling breakfast option.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Breakfast Casserole with Sausage

Beef and Barley Soup

A bowl of Beef and Barley Soup with a burger on a long white tray.
Beef and Barley Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Nothing beats a hearty soup that’s both filling and affordable. Beef and Barley Soup is perfect for colder days. It’s nutritious and easy on the pocket, using basic ingredients. Perfect for large batches, meaning leftovers for the week. A great way to stretch your budget without compromising on taste. Pair it with simple sides for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Barley Soup

Creamy Spinach Orzo

Creamy spinach orzo in a blue bowl with tomatoes nearby.
Creamy Spinach Orzo. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enjoy a luxurious meal without spending much. Creamy Spinach Orzo offers richness and flavor in each bite. Simple ingredients keep it economical and delightful. Perfect as a main or a side dish, enhancing any meal lineup. Quick to make, it’s ideal for weeknights. You’ll love its versatility and ease of preparation.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Orzo

Corned Beef Fritters

Corned beef fritters on a white plate with a sunflower.
Corned Beef Fritters. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Transform leftover meats into a mouth-watering dish. Corned Beef Fritters do just that without extra cost. These fritters are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It’s an inexpensive way to enjoy those familiar flavors. Perfect for snacks or as a part of a meal, they’re a hit. Easy to whip up and enjoy any time.
Get the Recipe: Corned Beef Fritters

Greek Spaghetti

A bowl of pasta with tomatoes, feta and kalamata olives.
Greek Spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mixing Mediterranean elements without high costs. Greek Spaghetti is a delightful mix of familiar and new. Using everyday ingredients, it’s easy on your wallet. Perfect for a twist on standard pasta dishes. Great for family dinners and small gatherings alike. It’s an enjoyable and unique pasta offering.
Get the Recipe: Greek Spaghetti

Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes

Ricotta and Tomato Pasta in a white bowl.
Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a twist to your basic pasta night. Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes upgrades the simplicity of pasta with new flavors. Inexpensive ingredients make this recipe budget-friendly. Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for busy evenings. It’s both nutritious and satisfying. You’ll find it’s an easy favorite for a simple and tasty dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Takeout cravings on a budget? Make Chicken Fried Rice at home. It’s much cheaper and doesn’t compromise on flavor. Using basic ingredients, it’s perfect for quick, delicious meals. Great for using up leftovers and meal prepping. It’s a hit for weeknight dinners without spending much.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

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