Dinner doesn’t have to be expensive to be delicious and filling. Imagine enjoying a hearty bowl of vegetable soup or with a fork through a plate of creamy lemon pasta – and all without breaking the bank. We are here to tell you that it is quite possible to create a variety of delicious meals that are so good for your budget as they are for your taste buds. Discover our 13 favorite cheap dinner ideas that prove that great taste doesn’t have to be expensive!
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Fried rice
Leftover rice is the key to preparation bomb fried rice. For the vegetables, you can use frozen carrots, peas, and peppers, which is much more cost-effective than buying them fresh. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Shrimp fajitas from the tray
These sheet pan fajitas require just a few ingredients and plenty of spices you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, since this recipe is made in just one pan, it’s super quick and easy – an ideal meal for busy weeknights. (via Brit + Co)
Rebecca Firsker
Citrus Shakshuka
This zesty, lemony shaksuka only costs about $2 per serving. If you use canned goods, you’ll save tons of money! (via Brit + Co)
Vikalinka
Simple Dan Dan Noodles
The limited ingredient list for this pasta recipe means you’ll spend less at the supermarket. But just because you’ll spend less doesn’t mean this dish isn’t packed with flavor! Plus, these noodles are absolutely on par with any expensive takeaway option. (via Vikalinka)
Averie cooks
Easy Shrimp Scampi in 10 minutes
These shrimp scampi are So it’s worth it, but it won’t break the bank. And what’s even better: it’s packed with protein! (via Averie Cooks)
A virtual vegan
Vegan vegetable soup
This vegan soup is the tastiest excuse to clean out your fridge and freezer. You can easily use canned or frozen vegetables instead of fresh to save money. (via A Virtual Vegan)
The first chaos
Oven-roasted cabbage wedges with caper-raisin relish
Any vegetarian dish is a little more budget-friendly since you don’t necessarily have to spend a lot of money on meaty proteins. These sophisticated roasted cabbage wedges hit all the flavor notes and are ready in just 30 minutes. (via The First Mess)
Whole and heavenly oven
Pasta with brown butter and lemon dill
Brown butter is a quick and easy way to enhance any recipe from savory to sweet, but it really shines in this simple pasta dish with lemon and dill, adding complexity and roundness to the flavors. This inexpensive dinner idea only requires 5 easy-to-find ingredients! (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)
The quick recipe
Easy Spam Egg and Rice
Spam, eggs, and rice are some of the cheapest foods you can grab at the grocery store. Combine all three for a delicious, easy meal to enjoy after a long day! (via The Fast Recipe)
Rachel Mansfield
Crispy Sweet Potato Chicken Taquitos
You only need 6 simple ingredients to make these taquitos that are extra crispy on the outside and soft and cheesy on the inside. You can even freeze the leftovers when you’re done so you can cook longer and save money in the future. (via Rachel Mansfield)
The Girl on Bloor
Chana Masala from the pressure cooker
If you’re willing to do a little prep work, this chana masala is ready in about 20 minutes. The most expensive ingredients are probably the canned chickpeas, onions, and tomatoes – but they won’t cost you too much. Plus This recipe makes lots of servings, so there will be plenty of leftovers. (via The Girl on Bloor)
Earthly supplies
Vegan chickpea and broccoli stir-fry
Toss chickpeas and broccoli in a pan with this recipe’s delicious pan sauce, then serve with some freshly cooked rice for a healthy and inexpensive dinner. (via Earthly Provisions)
Absolutely delicious
Salmon patties
This easy salmon cake dinner idea is easy to make and even easier to eat. Each piece is seasoned to perfection with lemon and herbs. The best part is that you can use canned salmon or even leftover cooked salmon (much cheaper than fresh) for each bite! (via Completely Delicious)
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