Looking for cheap recipes to help you slash your grocery bill? You’re in the right spot. We’ve rounded up 21 budget-friendly dishes that are great for your wallet and perfect for your meal planning. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, these easy-to-make meals are just what you need to keep your spending in check without sacrificing flavor or variety.
![Ground meat dish topped with melted cheese and garnished with herbs in a skillet.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Creamy-Ground-Beef-Skillet-with-Cauliflower-Rice-1-1024x723.jpg)
Baked Ravioli
![A close-up of a cheesy baked ravioli garnished with herbs, with a fork lifting a portion to show the melted cheese.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Baked-Ravioli.jpg)
This Baked Ravioli is a game-changer for hectic weeknight meals. Opting for frozen cheese ravioli not only saves you prep time but also keeps costs low, making it a cheap recipe that doesn’t skimp on the good stuff. All you need to do is layer the ravioli with some marinara sauce and a mix of affordable cheeses for a simple, hearty meal. It’s a no-stress dish that comes together in about an hour and is a smart pick for anyone trying to keep their grocery bills in check.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli
Shake and Bake Pork Chops
![Two shake and bake pork chops on a plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shake-and-Bake-Pork-Chops-1.jpg)
Shake and Bake Pork Chops are a fantastic choice when you need a cheap, fast meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With just pork chops and a few pantry staples, you can have crispy, delicious pork on the table in 25 minutes flat. No frying required! This straightforward recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to feed your family well without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, using affordable cuts of pork and ingredients you likely already have on hand helps keep your grocery budget in check.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops
Cabbage and Sausage
![A fork in a bowl of food.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Cabbage-and-Sausage-1024x723.jpg)
This one-pan cabbage and sausage meal is a hearty pick when you need a cheap, fast recipe that doesn’t take all night to make. With affordable ingredients like cabbage and pre-cooked sausage, this no-nonsense dinner is great for busy weeknights. Serve it with bread, potatoes, or on its own — it’s filling either way. Plus, it’s perfect for using up extra veggies, so you can stretch your budget even more. Leftovers taste just as good for up to 3 days. When you’re tired of the same old expensive meals, this dish will keep your wallet and your stomach happy.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
![Loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole in a baking dish garnished with green onions.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Loaded-Broccoli-Cauliflower-Casserole.jpg)
This Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is a budget-friendly meal that tastes like a million bucks. Frozen broccoli and cauliflower are combined with a homemade cheese sauce, crispy bacon bits, and a sprinkle of green onions to create a rich, hearty casserole that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. It’s quick to put together and easy on your wallet, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. Plus, the leftovers reheat well, so you can enjoy them for days to come. Using frozen veggies and making your own cheese sauce helps keep costs low without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
![Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Sausage-And-Veggies-Sheet-Pan-Dinner-rotated.jpg)
This Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is your answer if you’re looking for a budget-friendly meal that’s easy to throw together. Mix and match sausages, veggies, leftovers, and sale items to create a custom meal that suits your taste and wallet. Toss everything in one pan and bake to save time and energy costs. It’s a simple, practical solution for busy nights, and the leftovers make great lunches or dinners later in the week. By using ingredients you already have or can get on sale, you’ll save money without sacrificing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
White Bean Soup
![A bowl of white bean soup with carrots and croutons.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/White-Bean-Soup-rotated.jpg)
When time and money are tight, this White Bean Soup is a lifesaver. With just veggies, white beans, broth, and a few seasonings, you can whip up a hearty, comforting soup in 40 minutes. It’s perfect for those evenings when you’re short on time and ingredients but still want a wholesome meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s easy on your budget and leaves you with plenty of leftovers for later. Using inexpensive ingredients like dried beans and veggies helps keep costs low while serving you a filling, nutritious meal.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
![A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Garlic-Butter-Chicken-Bites.jpg)
These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are proof that you don’t need expensive ingredients to make a delicious meal. Affordable chicken pieces are transformed with the power of garlic, butter, and a few pantry staples, creating a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Serve with rice, veggies, or whatever you have on hand for a complete meal. The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, helping you stretch your budget even further. By using budget-friendly chicken and ingredients you likely already have, you can create a flavorful meal without overspending.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
![Creamy ground beef skillet with cauliflower rice garnished with fresh herbs with a fork.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Creamy-Ground-Beef-And-Cauliflower-Rice-Skillet-1024x683.jpg)
This one-pan meal with ground beef and cauliflower rice is a great pick when you need a cheap, fast recipe that won’t take forever to make. It’s budget-friendly and easy to whip up, making it perfect for those busy weeknights. Pair it with a simple side salad for a complete meal that won’t cost a fortune. Plus, the leftovers make for a quick lunch or dinner the next day, and you’ll get some extra veggies in your diet, too. When you’re trying to eat healthy on a budget, this recipe is a lifesaver.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats
![Bacon ranch chicken salad cucumber boats lined up on a plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bacon-Ranch-Chicken-Salad-Cucumber-Boats-rotated.jpg)
These Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats are a creative, affordable meal that’s perfect when you’re short on time and money. Who says eating on a budget has to be boring? With canned chicken, bacon bits, ranch dressing, and crisp cucumbers, you can make a fun, light meal that everyone will love. They’re quick to assemble and easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins. Plus, any leftover filling keeps well, so you can enjoy it for lunches or snacks later on. Using affordable ingredients like canned chicken and cucumbers lets you enjoy a hearty meal while helping keep costs down.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
![Stuffed bell pepper casserole in a pan with a wooden spoon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Stuffed-Bell-Pepper-Casserole.jpg)
This Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is the perfect solution when you’re craving stuffed bell peppers but don’t have the time or budget. Ground meat, rice, bell peppers, and a few simple seasonings come together in a budget-friendly casserole that’s easy to make and feeds the whole family. It’s a great way to get the flavors you love without the extra work or cost. Plus, it’s a time-saving recipe that lets you focus on what matters most. Using affordable ingredients like ground meat and rice helps keep this dish budget-friendly without sacrificing taste.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
Canned Chicken Patties
![Chicken patties with broccoli on a plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Canned-Chicken-Patties-rotated.jpg)
These canned chicken patties are a smart choice when you’re looking for a cheap, fast recipe that won’t break the bank. Add your favorite spices to change up the flavor, and serve with veggies or salad for a quick, hearty meal. These patties are best fresh but can be reheated for a fast bite later on. When you’re short on time and money, this recipe will save the day.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties
Fried Cabbage with Bacon
![A bowl of cabbage with bacon and parsley.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Fried-Cabbage-with-Bacon-1024x683.jpg)
Fried cabbage with bacon is a budget-friendly side that’s loaded with flavor. With just two main ingredients–cabbage and bacon–it’s a cheap, fast recipe that’s perfect when you don’t have a lot of time or money to spare. This dish tastes best fresh, but you can easily reheat leftovers for a quick side later on. It’s proof that you don’t have to spend a lot to eat well. When you’re looking for a delicious way to stretch your grocery budget, this recipe is the answer.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Chicken Tortellini Soup
![A bowl of chicken tortellini soup with vegetables and herbs.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Chicken-Tortellini-Soup-rotated.jpg)
This Chicken Tortellini Soup recipe is a fantastic choice when you need a cheap, fast meal that won’t take all night to make. Using affordable ingredients like generic store-brand tortellini and leftover or rotisserie chicken, this soup is easy on your wallet and your schedule. It’s ready in just 40 minutes and only needs one pot, making it perfect for hectic weeknights. You can even save more time by using pre-chopped veggies from the store. When you’re looking for a comforting meal that won’t stress you out, this soup is the way to go.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup
Broccoli Casserole
![A casserole dish with broccoli and cheese in it.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Broccoli-Casserole-2-1024x723.jpg)
This broccoli casserole is a budget-friendly way to get your greens in. With simple ingredients like broccoli, a creamy base, and cheese, it’s a cheap, fast recipe that’s great as a main dish or a side. It’s an easy way to add veggies to your meal without spending a lot, and the leftovers keep well for a quick, veggie-packed option later on. When you’re trying to eat more vegetables without breaking the bank, this casserole is the perfect solution.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
![A casserole dish filled with pasta and peas.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Easy-Tuna-Noodle-Casserole-1.jpg)
Dive into this casserole for a mix of canned tuna, noodles, peas, and a creamy sauce that comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s a no-brainer for a quick, affordable meal on busy nights. Just mix the ingredients, bake until bubbly, and you’re set. The best part? Leftovers make meal planning a breeze, saving you time later in the week. This dish is a win for anyone trying to keep dinner simple and budget-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Chicken Pot Pie Soup
![Chicken pot pie soup in a white bowl with a spoon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Chicken-Pot-Pie-Soup-1.jpg)
This soup brings you the essence of chicken pot pie with less work. Key ingredients include chicken breast, frozen vegetables, and broth, simmered together to create a comforting soup in about 45 minutes. Serve it with bread for a complete meal. Cool any leftovers before storing them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something hearty but easy and economical.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
![Cheesy beef casserole with cauliflower rice and spinach being spooned out of a baking dish.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Cheesy-Beef-Casserole-With-Cauliflower-Rice-And-Spinach-7.jpg)
Whip up this casserole with cauliflower rice, ground beef, spinach, and a heap of cheese for a low-carb feast in just 30 minutes. It’s a straightforward dish that doesn’t skimp on taste while keeping your budget in check. Just brown the beef, mix it with the rest, and bake. Ideal for busy weeknights, and the leftovers save you from cooking the next day. It’s all about making your life easier without sacrificing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
Green Chile Chicken
![Green chile chicken in a pan with a wooden spoon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Green-Chile-Chicken-With-Leftover-Shredded-Chicken-Thighs-rotated.jpg)
Fast, flavorful, and frugal, green chile chicken uses leftover or rotisserie chicken, canned green chiles, and cheese. Serve it over rice or in tortillas for a versatile dish ready in 20 minutes. It’s a savvy choice for a quick and delicious meal that won’t drain your wallet. Simple ingredients, easy cooking, and the flexibility to serve it how you like to make this dish a go-to for busy evenings. To store leftovers, let them cool and then place them in a fridge-safe container for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave until hot, usually about 2 minutes, or in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Get the Recipe: Green Chile Chicken
Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken
![Cheesy chicken fajita bake in a baking pan.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Cheesy-Fajita-Baked-Chicken-With-Cream-Cheese.jpg)
Enjoy the flavors of fajitas with this easy recipe featuring chicken, bell peppers, onions, cream cheese, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Marinate, bake, and in about 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s bursting with taste. It’s a great way to bring a bit of excitement to your dinner table without a lot of work or money. Serve with rice or tortillas, and enjoy the leftovers the next day. This dish is proof that great meals don’t have to be hard or expensive.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken
Spinach Chicken Bake
![A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Creamy-Spinach-Chicken-Bake.jpg)
This bake is a combo of chicken thighs, spinach, cream cheese, and shredded mozzarella. It’s an easy meal that takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You get a deliciously creamy and comforting dish that’s also easy on your budget. It’s a great pick for when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend a lot or stand over the stove all evening. And it’s great for leftovers, too. For storage, let it cool, then refrigerate in a container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
![Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a pan.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Chicken-with-Creamy-Mushroom-Sauce-rotated.jpg)
Treat yourself to chicken thighs in a creamy mushroom sauce, a dish that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to pull off. You’ll need chicken, mushrooms, cream, and a few spices. It takes 30 minutes to cook, mostly hands-off, as the sauce simmers to perfection. Serve it with mashed potatoes or rice to make sure you get all that great sauce. This meal is a fantastic way to enjoy a touch of elegance without a lot of effort or expense. Plus, it’s just as good the next day.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce