Looking to satisfy your taste buds without breaking the bank? We've got you covered! In today's blog post, we're diving into the world of budget-friendly cooking and revealing the best cheap recipes that will make your wallet and your taste buds sing.
From hearty soups to flavorful stir-fries, these dishes prove that deliciousness doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag. So, grab your apron and get ready to discover the secrets to cooking up amazing meals on a shoestring budget. Let's get cooking!
1. Crockpot Whole Chicken
Crockpot Whole Chicken is a cheap and healthy recipe that is perfect for budget-conscious individuals. This recipe utilizes a whole chicken, which is more affordable compared to buying individual chicken parts.
With minimal ingredients and the convenience of a slow cooker, this dish is both easy to make and delicious. It's a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly and nutritious meal.
2. One-Pan Ham and Rice Skillet
One-Pan Ham and Rice Skillet is a budget-friendly meal that can be made in under 20 minutes. With minimal ingredients and simple instructions, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and easy dinner option.
The combination of diced ham, rice, and cheese creates a flavorful and satisfying dish. Overall, One-Pan Ham and Rice Skillet is a great choice for those on a tight budget or in need of a hassle-free meal.
3. Cheesy Corn Hotdish
Cheesy Corn Hotdish is a delicious and budget-friendly recipe that requires only five ingredients. It's a simple yet flavorful combination of canned corn, creamed corn, melted butter, uncooked elbow macaroni, and cubed Velveeta cheese.
Toppings like red bell pepper, green onions, and bacon bits can be added for extra flavor. This vegetarian dish is easy to prepare and perfect for potlucks or a quick weeknight meal.
4. Easy Wonton Soup
Easy Wonton Soup is a quick and delicious Asian-style meal made with frozen dumplings or wontons. It's a shortcut version of the classic soup that can be ready in just minutes. The recipe includes chicken broth, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, carrots, green onions, and sesame oil for flavor.
Optional garnishes include fresh cilantro. This soup is a hit with the whole family and can be customized with additional vegetables. It's a great option for a cheap and easy meal.
5. One Pot Creamy Spaghetti
One Pot Creamy Spaghetti is a simple and affordable dinner recipe that combines spaghetti, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and marinara sauce. The creamy sauce coats the pasta perfectly, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
With a cost of just $0.43 per serving, it's a budget-friendly option for busy families. Serve it with French style green beans for a complete and inexpensive meal.
6. Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a delicious and budget-friendly chicken dish with a creamy garlic parmesan sauce and chopped spinach. It can be served with fettuccine noodles or mashed potatoes.
The recipe is easy to make and offers a flavorful twist on chicken alfredo. With simple ingredients like chicken, half and half, flour, and parmesan cheese, this recipe is a great option for a cheap and satisfying meal.
7. Weight Watchers Chili
Weight Watchers Chili is a budget-friendly recipe that is both healthy and satisfying. Made with lean ground meat and three types of beans, this chili is zero points on the Weight Watchers Freestyle and My WW Blue programs. It can be easily prepared in a pressure cooker, Instant Pot, or slow cooker, making it convenient for meal prep.
With the option to add various vegetables and garnishes, this chili allows for customization and versatility. Overall, Weight Watchers Chili is a delicious and low-calorie option for those looking for an affordable and nutritious meal.
8. Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
The Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a quick and budget-friendly one-pot meal that is full of flavor. The combination of ground beef, garlic, and melted mozzarella creates a savory and satisfying dish.
It's a great way to use up leftover pasta and can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. Perfect for a family dinner or even for entertaining guests.
9. Barbecue Tofu Sandwiches with Pineapple Relish
Barbecue Tofu Sandwiches with Pineapple Relish is a delicious and affordable recipe perfect for summer picnics or cozy dinners. The combination of tangy barbecue sauce, chewy tofu, and sweet pineapple relish creates a crowd-pleasing meal.
The addition of avocado and vegan mayo adds a creamy and satisfying element to the sandwich. Overall, this recipe is a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly and flavorful meal.
10. Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes
Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes is an easy and budget-friendly recipe that is perfect for busy families.
Made with frozen diced potatoes, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheese, it is a simple and delicious side dish that can be prepared in a slow cooker or oven. The gooey melted cheese on top adds a satisfying touch to this comforting dish.
11. Ramen
Ramen is a cheap and satisfying dish that can be easily elevated with a few simple ingredients. This recipe, inspired by Kylie Jenner, combines instant ramen noodles with butter, garlic powder, and a beaten egg for a flavorful twist.
The result is a buttery and garlicky ramen that is more satisfying than your average instant noodles. It's a quick and easy recipe that takes only about 5 minutes to make. Give it a try if you're looking for a delicious and budget-friendly meal option.
12. Focaccia Bread
Focaccia Bread is a ridiculously easy and delicious recipe that requires minimal effort. It does not involve kneading and can be made in advance, making it convenient for busy schedules.
With only 2 tablespoons of olive oil, it is a healthier option compared to other recipes. The bread can be topped with various herbs and sea salt for added flavor and crunch. It is versatile and can be enjoyed with meals, as a sandwich bread, or even as a crispy snack.
13. Cheesy Taco Penne Ziti
Cheesy Taco Penne Ziti is a simple and delicious ground beef pasta dish that is perfect for busy nights. It's a great way to use leftover ground beef from tacos and can be made quickly in a skillet. The recipe calls for jarred salsa, but you can easily customize it with your favorite salsa.
Topped with melted cheese, this cheesy pasta is a comforting and satisfying meal. It can be served with guacamole, sour cream, and tortilla chips for added flavor. Overall, Cheesy Taco Penne Ziti is a budget-friendly recipe that is perfect for Taco Tuesday or any day of the week.
14. Instant Pot Sausage and Chicken Jambalaya
The Instant Pot Sausage and Chicken Jambalaya is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines Creole seasoning, onions, peppers, celery, sausage, chicken, and rice.
It is a quick and easy recipe that can be prepared in the Instant Pot, saving time and effort. The tender meats, flavorful veggies, and perfectly cooked rice make this jambalaya a delicious and budget-friendly option.
15. Old-Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints
These Old-Fashioned Cream Cheese Mints are a nostalgic treat that can be customized for any occasion. Creamy and sweet, they can be flavored and colored to your liking. With a cost of just $3.48 for the entire recipe, these mints are a budget-friendly option.
The recipe yields approximately 120 mints, making them perfect for large gatherings or events. They can also be frozen ahead of time, making them convenient for party planning. Overall, these mints are a simple and affordable option for a sweet treat.
16. Hibachi Chicken Skewers & Veggies
Hibachi Chicken Skewers & Veggies is a delicious and budget-friendly recipe that is perfect for meal prep. The chicken skewers are seasoned with coconut aminos and grilled to perfection, while the veggies are cooked with olive oil, coconut aminos, and ground ginger.
The dish is served drizzled with a flavorful Bang Bang Sauce. It is Whole30, Keto, and Paleo compliant, making it a healthy option for those following specific diets. Overall, this recipe is a showstopper that is easy to make and incredibly tasty.
17. Crock Pot Apricot Chicken
Crock Pot Apricot Chicken is a sweet and savory dish that is both delicious and budget-friendly. The combination of apricot preserves, soy sauce, and ginger creates a flavorful chicken that is tender and falls apart easily.
This easy recipe is reminiscent of sweet and sour chicken, with a unique twist. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that the whole family will enjoy.
18. Red Beans and Rice
Red Beans and Rice is a soul food dish made with dry red beans, smoked turkey wing, onions, celery, garlic, and various seasonings. It is slow cooked in a crockpot for 6 hours, resulting in a flavorful and hearty dish.
This recipe is perfect as a side dish or main course and pairs well with hot rice. Overall, Red Beans and Rice is a delicious and budget-friendly option for those looking for a cheap and satisfying meal.
19. Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil
Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil is a simple and inexpensive pasta dish that is packed with flavor. The combination of garlic, chili flakes, and olive oil creates a fragrant and delicious sauce that coats the spaghetti perfectly.
This recipe is quick and easy to make, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or when you're short on time. The addition of fresh parsley and grated parmesan cheese adds a nice touch. Overall, this dish is a budget-friendly and satisfying option for pasta lovers.
20. Mozzarella Stuffed Crockpot Meatloaf
The Mozzarella Stuffed Crockpot Meatloaf is an easy and delicious recipe that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. This juicy meatloaf is cooked in the slow cooker, resulting in a tender and super juicy meal.
The addition of melty cheese stuffed in the middle takes it to the next level. It's a satisfying and budget-friendly dinner idea that is sure to please.
21. Slow Cooker Spaghetti & Meatballs
Slow Cooker Spaghetti & Meatballs is a classic and easy-to-make recipe that requires minimal effort. The dish consists of spaghetti noodles, tomato sauce, beef broth, Rotel, Italian seasoning, and frozen meatballs.
Simply combine the ingredients in a slow cooker and let it cook on high for a few hours. The result is a delicious and hearty meal that the whole family will enjoy. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a budget-friendly option that delivers on taste and convenience.
22. Pepperoni Pizza Quesadillas
Pepperoni Pizza Quesadillas are a cheap and easy meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Stuffed with gooey cheese, crispy pepperoni, and seasoned with Italian spices, these quesadillas are a fun twist on classic comfort food.
Perfect for last-minute dinners or serving a crowd, they can be paired with your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor. Experiment with additional toppings like mushrooms, jalapeños, or olives to customize to your taste. Overall, Pepperoni Pizza Quesadillas are a budget-friendly and delicious option for a quick and satisfying meal.
23. Cheesy Cannellini Beans
Cheesy Cannellini Beans is a flavorful and filling dish made with Bush's Cannellini Beans, bacon, spinach, garlic, onions, and Parmesan cheese. It is a quick and easy recipe that can be served as a side or as a main course.
The beans are creamy and smooth, and the combination of flavors from the bacon, garlic, and cheese is delicious. It is a great option for a gluten-free side dish and can be enjoyed by everyone.
24. Johnny Marzetti
Johnny Marzetti is a cheap and satisfying casserole that combines ground beef, pasta, and a flavorful tomato sauce. It's a cheesy and hearty dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving comfort food.
The recipe is easy to make and kid-friendly, making it a great option for family dinners. Overall, Johnny Marzetti is a delicious and budget-friendly choice for those looking for a tasty and filling meal.
25. Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is a budget-friendly recipe that delivers on taste and comfort. With the addition of potato, thyme, and oregano, this soup is creamy yet light.
Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor. The soup is thickened with flour or cornstarch, and milk or half-and-half gives it a creamy texture. Serve with bread or rolls for a satisfying and filling meal.
26. Oil-Free Vegan Fried Rice
Oil-Free Vegan Fried Rice is a budget-friendly and easy-to-make recipe that is perfect for those following a plant-based diet. Made with brown rice, tofu scramble, and a variety of vegetables, this dish is both healthy and delicious. The recipe provides tips on how to cook without oil, making it a great option for those looking to reduce their oil intake.
Whether you prefer white rice or brown rice, this recipe can be adapted to suit your preferences. Overall, Oil-Free Vegan Fried Rice is a satisfying and affordable meal option for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful plant-based dish.
27. Old Fashioned in a Jar
The Old Fashioned in a Jar is a budget-friendly and creative gift idea for cocktail lovers. This DIY cocktail kit includes dehydrated fruits, spices, and sugar cubes, along with a small jar of Jack Daniel's or your preferred whiskey.
Simply infuse the ingredients in the jar with the alcohol for a few days, strain, and serve over ice. With endless possibilities for other cocktail combinations, this recipe offers a fun and affordable way to enjoy homemade cocktails.
28. White Bread
White Bread is a simple and affordable recipe that yields incredibly tall, soft, and fluffy loaves. With a quick preparation time and two rises, the bread is ready to be enjoyed in just two hours.
The use of water instead of milk results in a surprisingly light and perfect texture. This recipe has become a favorite due to its impressive size and delicious taste.
29. Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana
Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana is a hearty and flavorful soup made with sausage, bacon, potatoes, and kale in a creamy broth. It's a budget-friendly recipe that can be easily prepared in the Instant Pot, making it a convenient and quick meal option.
The soup is rich and satisfying, perfect for a cold winter night or a comforting lunch. With its combination of ingredients, it offers a delicious taste without breaking the bank.
30. Copy Cat McDonalds Sweet Tea
Copy Cat McDonalds Sweet Tea is a refreshing and affordable recipe that requires just three simple ingredients: water, Lipton tea bags, and sugar. It can be easily adapted to personal taste preferences by adjusting the amount of sugar or even making it unsweetened.
This homemade version of McDonald's Sweet Tea is a great alternative to store-bought beverages and is perfect for quenching your thirst on a budget.
31. Salsa Fresca Chicken
Salsa Fresca Chicken is a budget-friendly recipe that delivers big on flavor. This Tex-Mex inspired dish features tender chicken seasoned with spices, smothered in fresh salsa, and topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese.
It's a simple, one-dish meal that can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining. The combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors make this a crowd-pleasing option for those looking for a healthy and delicious dinner.
