15 budget-friendly dinners that don’t skimp on flavor

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Dinner doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a little creativity and some basic ingredients, you can whip up tasty meals that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re cooking for the family or just yourself, these recipes are here to save the day. Say goodbye to boring weeknight dinners and hello to a world of flavor without the hefty price tag.

Loaded brisket potatoes.
Loaded Brisket Potatoes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Bomb Meatloaf

Meatloaf on a white plate cut into slices with fresh parsley garnish.
Bomb Meatloaf. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This meatloaf is easy to make, tender, and juicy, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. It’s a great choice for a budget-friendly, flavorful dinner.
Get the Recipe: Bomb Meatloaf

Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

Beef and broccoli stir fry served with white rice on a white plate.
Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Thinly sliced beef makes this quick stir-fry a breeze to cook. The sauce packs a punch, making it a perfect option for a fast, cost-effective meal that feels like takeout.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

Cheddar Chicken Bake

Chicken cheddar quinoa casserole in a pyrex dish.
Cheddar Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This cheddar chicken quinoa bake is a healthy casserole using leftover rotisserie chicken for a simple and affordable dinner, great for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Chicken Bake

Cream Cheese Chicken

Cream cheese chicken in a white skillet.
Cream Cheese Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Seasoned with five spices, this creamy, savory cream cheese chicken transforms weeknight meals into something special without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken

Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Ground beef and sweet potato skillet.
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This one-pan ground beef and sweet potato skillet is a Southwestern-inspired meal that’s easy to make and perfect for meal-prepping, offering great leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Ground beef pasta skillet garnished with parsley.
Ground Beef Pasta Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Made in under 30 minutes with any pasta you have, this ground beef pasta skillet tastes like it’s been simmering all day, making it a convenient and budget-friendly option.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Pretzel Crusted Pork Chops

Pretzel crusted pork chop on a plate with broccoli and sweet potato.
Pretzel Crusted Pork Chops. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These baked pretzel-crusted pork chops with maple dijon sauce are an easy dinner packed with lean protein, making them a nutritious and economical choice.
Get the Recipe: Pretzel Crusted Pork Chops

Kung Pao Chickpeas

Kung pao chickpea dish in a bowl with rice and skillet off to the left.
Kung Pao Chickpeas. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This vegan Kung Pao chickpea recipe brings bold flavors to your table, making it a great budget-friendly alternative to takeout.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chickpeas

Salsa Chicken

A white dish with chicken in a tomato sauce.
Salsa Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Salsa chicken is an easy weeknight meal with tender, juicy chicken breasts baked with salsa, corn, and cheddar cheese, ready in less than 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Salsa Chicken

Tofu Fried Rice

Tofu Fried Rice. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Tofu fried rice is a quick and flavorful meal that brings takeout vibes to your dinner table, perfect for using up any veggies you have on hand.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

Sausage Mac and Cheese

A bowl of macaroni and cheese with sausage and parsley.
Sausage Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This creamy homemade sausage mac and cheese recipe is always a hit, with a cheesy sauce and velvety texture that adults and kids love.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Mac and Cheese

Loaded Brisket Potatoes

Loaded brisket potatoes.
Loaded Brisket Potatoes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These loaded BBQ brisket baked potatoes are stuffed to the brim, making great use of leftover beef brisket for a budget-friendly meal.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Brisket Potatoes

Healthier Sloppy Joes

Sloppy Joe sandwiches on an English muffin.
Healthier Sloppy Joes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Made with lean ground beef, low-sugar ketchup, BBQ sauce, and low-fat cheese, these Sloppy Joes are a healthier take on the classic American dish.
Get the Recipe: Healthier Sloppy Joes

Honey Orange Sesame Chicken

Honey orange chicken with sesame seeds and green beans in a white bowl.
Honey Orange Sesame Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This honey orange sesame chicken dish is a quick, healthy takeout fake-out recipe you can make at home in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Honey Orange Sesame Chicken

Dijon Almond Crusted Tilapia

Almond crusted tilapia with fresh herbs.
Dijon Almond Crusted Tilapia. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This dijon almond crusted tilapia is pan-fried and ready in 10 minutes, making it a great, budget-friendly alternative to breaded fish.
Get the Recipe: Dijon Almond Crusted Tilapia

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