There is nothing like a delicious, cheap go-to meal to fill your stomach now and then. With a few pantry items and a few spare minutes, it’s easy to whip up a meal.
Here are 15 quick and easy cheap meal ideas for a budget-friendly dinner.
1. Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food that’s both satisfying and economical. Using a few simple ingredients like chicken, flour, and broth, you can create a hearty meal that feels like home.
2. Chicken Fried Rice
Fried rice transforms leftover rice into a flavorful dish with minimal cost. Add some chicken, veggies, and soy sauce, and you’ve got a quick, delicious dinner that beats takeout every time.
3. Tuna Noodle Casserole
Tuna noodle casserole is a classic, budget-friendly option that combines canned tuna, noodles, and a creamy sauce. It’s easy to make and provides a filling meal with everyday pantry items.
4. Homemade Cheeseburger Helper
Making a cheeseburger helper at home is simple and cost-effective. Just brown some ground beef, add cooked pasta, and create a cheesy sauce for a comforting dish that rivals the boxed version.
5. Black Bean Tostadas
Black bean tostadas are an affordable and tasty meal choice. With black beans, tortillas, and your choice of toppings, you can enjoy a customizable and satisfying dinner.
6. Split Pea and Ham Soup
Split pea and ham soup is a great way to use leftover ham to create a warm, filling soup. Peas and ham simmer together to form a meal that’s both nutritious and comforting.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers offer a versatile and budget-friendly meal option. Fill them with a mix of meat, rice, and spices for a colorful and tasty dinner.
8. Ground Beef Tacos
Ground beef tacos are a simple and inexpensive way to feed a crowd. Season the beef with taco spices, and serve with tortillas and your favorite toppings for a customizable meal.
9. Jambalaya
Jambalaya is a flavorful, one-pot meal that combines rice, meat, and vegetables with Cajun seasoning. It’s a cost-effective way to bring a little spice to dinner time.
10. Lentil Soup
Lentil soup is a nourishing and affordable dish that’s rich in flavor and nutrients. Simmer lentils with vegetables and spices for a comforting meal that’s both filling and healthy.
11. Twice Baked Potato
Twice-baked potatoes are a fantastic way to use up leftovers and create a tasty dish. Mix the scooped potato with ingredients like cheese and bacon, then bake again for a crispy, stuffed treat.
12. Pierogies
Pierogies are a cheap and hearty option, filled with potatoes, cheese, or other fillings. They make for a satisfying meal that’s easy on the wallet.
13. Smoked Sausage and Potatoes
Combine sliced smoked sausage with potatoes, season with your favorite spices, and bake. This simple dish is flavorful, filling, and easy to make.
14. Ramen With Egg
Elevate instant ramen by adding an egg, creating a more nutritious and satisfying meal. It’s a quick, inexpensive way to enhance a simple noodle dish.
15. Egg Roll in a Bowl
Egg roll in a bowl is a frugal and tasty dish that captures the essence of an egg roll without the wrapper. Sauté cabbage, carrots, and ground meat with Asian seasonings for a simple, deconstructed version of the classic.
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