Who says delicious meals have to be pricey? With 31 wallet-friendly meals, your family can enjoy home-cooked goodness without splurging. These recipes make it easy to create satisfying dishes that won’t leave you questioning your bank balance. Bonus points if you’ve got a second helping on the way because these meals go fast. So, get ready for a few extra plates at dinner!
Chicken Fried Rice
If you need a quick and satisfying meal, Chicken Fried Rice has you covered. This dish comes together fast, making it perfect for those days when you’re in a rush. The beauty of fried rice is that it’s budget-friendly and can be customized with whatever you have in the fridge. Just be prepared for your family to ask for more, because this is one meal that’s hard to stop at one plate.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice
Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Looking for a cozy meal that’s filling and easy on the wallet? Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a crowd-pleaser that packs in plenty of flavor without the price tag. It’s a simple yet hearty dish that can feed the whole family with minimal effort. Expect seconds—and probably thirds—because this soup is a guaranteed hit at the dinner table. It’s comfort food, made affordable and delicious, perfect for a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Craving something rich and creamy? Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka is a perfect dish to scratch that itch. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and will keep everyone coming back for more. Serve it up with a side salad, and you’ve got a complete meal. Just be ready for requests for seconds because this dish is seriously addicting.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Birria de Res
Birria de Res brings the flavors of a traditional Mexican stew to your table with minimal fuss. It’s rich, savory, and perfect for any night when you need something hearty and satisfying. This dish is surprisingly budget-friendly, yet full of depth. Your family won’t be able to resist coming back for seconds—maybe even thirds.
Get the Recipe: Birria de Res
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich
If you’re in the mood for a comfort food classic, Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich is your go-to. This simple yet satisfying sandwich brings plenty of flavor without a high price tag. It’s quick to make and perfect for any meal of the day. Just don’t expect it to last long; your family will definitely be back for more.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich
Sweet Potato Cornbread
Sweet Potato Cornbread is the perfect side that goes with just about anything. This comforting cornbread has a touch of sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes. It’s also an inexpensive way to round out a meal and keep everyone satisfied. Once your family gets a taste, don’t be surprised if they go back for seconds or thirds—this cornbread has a way of disappearing fast.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread
Eggless Breakfast Casserole with Sausage
Want a breakfast that everyone can enjoy? Eggless Breakfast Casserole with Sausage brings all the flavors without the eggs, making it perfect for those with dietary needs. This dish is simple, filling, and easy to prepare ahead of time. Whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Expect lots of requests for leftovers after this one hits the table.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Breakfast Casserole with Sausage
Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon
Looking for a dish that’s a little different? Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon combines tangy and savory flavors for a unique side dish. It’s an inexpensive option that pairs well with a variety of meals. Don’t be shocked if your family ends up asking for seconds—this dish has a way of making people want more. It’s the perfect balance of flavors without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef
Be ready for your family to request more, because this is one meal that’s hard to stop eating. Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef is a quick and easy meal that’s packed with flavor. This dish is versatile and can be used in tacos, burritos, or served with rice—making it a go-to for any night of the week. It’s budget-friendly, filling, and sure to please the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef
Easy Mexican Rice
If you need a simple, budget-friendly side, Easy Mexican Rice is the way to go. It’s a quick dish that complements just about anything, and it’s packed with flavor. This rice can serve as the perfect base for tacos, burritos, or any other Mexican-inspired meal. Don’t be surprised if your family asks for seconds; it’s that satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mexican Rice
Ukrainian Potatoes
Looking to spice up your potato game? Ukrainian Potatoes are a unique twist on a classic side dish. They’re packed with flavor and will make your family rethink the way they look at potatoes. Plus, this dish is easy on the budget and always seems to disappear quickly, so get ready for seconds, maybe even thirds.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes
Beef & Broccoli
Need something that’s both tasty and quick? Beef & Broccoli is a go-to meal that delivers a satisfying combination of flavors in no time. This dish is perfect for busy nights, offering a hearty, nutritious meal that won’t break the bank. Once your family tries it, don’t be surprised if they’re asking for more. It’s one of those dishes that just hits the spot every time.
Get the Recipe: Beef & Broccoli
Cream of Onion Soup
If you love a good bowl of soup, Cream of Onion Soup is a must-try. It’s rich and creamy, and will warm you up on even the coldest days. This recipe is perfect for when you want a simple, comforting meal that doesn’t cost much. Expect your family to be asking for more after they finish their first bowl, because it’s that good.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Onion Soup
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Be prepared for some serious second-helping requests; it’s that satisfying. Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole brings a comforting twist to the classic mashed potatoes. This casserole is creamy, hearty, and full of flavor, making it a perfect side for any meal. It’s a great option when you need something to fill everyone up without spending too much.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Pineapple Upside Down Cake
For dessert, Pineapple Upside Down Cake will steal the show without costing a fortune. This cake is sweet, simple, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Its mix of flavors and textures makes it hard to stop at just one slice. So don’t be surprised if your family goes back for seconds—or thirds—because it’s a dessert everyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes
Looking for a healthy and filling meal that won’t break the bank? Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes is a great option. It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it both satisfying and nutritious. This salad is perfect for lunch or dinner, and it’s simple to put together. Your family will be asking for seconds, so don’t be surprised when it disappears quickly.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes
Baked Spanish Rice
This rice pairs well with a variety of dishes and is always a hit at the dinner table. Baked Spanish Rice is a great side dish that adds a pop of flavor to any meal. It’s simple to prepare and doesn’t require a lot of ingredients, making it a budget-friendly choice. Don’t be surprised if your family goes back for seconds—this rice is always a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice
Beef and Barley Soup
Expect your family to come back for seconds—this one’s too good to stop at just one bowl. Beef and Barley Soup is a filling, hearty meal that doesn’t cost a lot to make. It’s packed with rich flavor and can be easily made in a big batch to feed the whole family. This soup is perfect for those days when you want something warm and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Barley Soup
Texas BLT
Don’t be surprised if your family asks for more—they won’t be able to get enough of this sandwich. Texas BLT is a classic sandwich with a bit of extra flavor. It’s simple, quick, and packed with everything you love about a BLT, but with a Texas-sized twist. This meal is filling without being expensive, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Texas BLT
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
You’ll find your family asking for seconds—this one is a crowd-pleaser. Deviled Egg Pasta Salad combines the best of both worlds with creamy eggs and hearty pasta. This dish is perfect for a picnic or as a side for any meal. It’s an affordable way to feed a crowd and still have leftovers for later.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
Corned Beef Hash
Looking for a hearty, comforting meal? Corned Beef Hash is the perfect dish that’ll fill everyone up without breaking the bank. It’s simple, flavorful, and great for breakfast or dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers. Don’t be surprised if your family goes back for seconds, because this dish is always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Corned Beef Hash
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
If your family loves loaded fries, they’ll love this twist on the classic. Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots bring all the crispy, cheesy goodness right to your table. This easy-to-make dish is perfect as a snack or a side for any meal. It’s hard to stop at just one bite, so be ready for seconds—or thirds.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup
Warm, creamy, and full of flavor, Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup is a perfect comfort food. This soup is budget-friendly and filling, making it great for those chilly nights. It’s easy to make and sure to satisfy your family’s hunger. Expect to hear requests for seconds, because this soup is seriously satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup
Pizza Pasta Salad
Be ready for seconds to come your way because this pizza-inspired salad is always a hit. Pizza Pasta Salad brings all the flavors of pizza into a pasta salad form. It’s fun, easy to make, and perfect for a crowd. This dish is great for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a picnic.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad
Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy nights. It’s filling, flavorful, and packed with all the good stuff without costing too much. This dish will leave your family asking for seconds—maybe even thirds. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that hits the spot every time.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Broccoli
Ham Fried Rice
Ham Fried Rice is a perfect way to use up leftover ham while creating a meal that’s both tasty and budget-friendly. It’s quick to make, and it can feed the whole family with ease. This dish brings all the savory flavors together in one satisfying bowl. Your family will be back for more, so don’t expect any leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Ham Fried Rice
Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes
Looking for a light but filling meal? Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes is the perfect option. It’s a simple dish that brings out the best flavors without taking up too much time or money. This pasta is satisfying and always leaves everyone asking for more. So get ready for seconds because this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes
Creamy Spinach Orzo
If you’re in the mood for something creamy and comforting, Creamy Spinach Orzo is the way to go. This dish is filling without being too heavy, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s also budget-friendly and easy to prepare. Your family won’t be able to get enough, so be prepared for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Orzo
Mexican Street Corn Soup
If you’re craving a bit of spice and sweetness, Mexican Street Corn Soup hits the spot. It’s a creamy, flavorful soup that’ll keep everyone satisfied without costing a fortune. This soup is a great option when you want something filling and unique. Expect plenty of requests for seconds, as this soup is hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Soup
Greek Spaghetti
Don’t be surprised if they finish the whole pot—Greek Spaghetti has a way of disappearing fast. Greek Spaghetti takes a classic pasta dish and gives it a Mediterranean twist. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for any night when you need a quick meal. This dish is packed with flavors that will have your family asking for more.
Get the Recipe: Greek Spaghetti
Classic Meatballs
If you make enough, you might just get seconds—if you’re lucky. Classic Meatballs are a crowd favorite, whether they’re served with pasta or on their own. They’re easy to make and can be enjoyed with a variety of sides. These meatballs are sure to disappear quickly, so don’t be surprised when your family asks for more.
Get the Recipe: Classic Meatballs