19 affordable dinners that make you forget takeout exists

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Tired of spending too much on takeout that never quite hits the spot? You’re not alone. Instead of waiting for delivery, why not make something delicious at home? These 19 affordable dinners are easy to cook, cost less, and taste even better than your favorite takeout. In just a little time, you’ll have a meal that’s cheaper, faster, and more satisfying than anything you could order.

Image shows an overhead shot of Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas on a white tray with a bowl of guacamole to the left of them.
Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Shortcut Chicken Salad

Image shows a Canned Chicken Salad sandwich on a wooden table.
Shortcut Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Canned chicken salad is a quick meal that doesn’t require any cooking, making it perfect for busy days. This refreshing salad is simple to prepare and pairs nicely with greens or as a sandwich for lunch. It’s a fast and tasty option for when a home-cooked meal is preferred.
Get the Recipe: Shortcut Chicken Salad

Honey Habanero Tacos

Image shows three honey habanero tacos with corn shells sitting on a wooden board.
Honey Habanero Tacos. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

These honey habanero tacos add a delightful twist to any taco night with their sweet and spicy flavors. The combination of taste transforms a quick dinner into something truly special that everyone will love. They provide a fun and delicious alternative to ordinary dinners.
Get the Recipe: Honey Habanero Tacos

Honey Glazed Chicken

Honey glazed chicken on a blue plate.
Honey Glazed Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Honey glazed chicken is an easy recipe that brings both flavor and health to the dinner table. The sweet and sticky glaze gives the chicken a taste that is hard to beat, and it pairs perfectly with favorite sides. This homemade dish is a great way to enjoy something delicious without relying on delivery.
Get the Recipe: Honey Glazed Chicken

Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl

Image shows a closeup of chicken egg roll in a bowl in a blue enameled cast iron pot.
Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl mixes tender chicken, crisp veggies, and tasty seasonings into one satisfying meal. This quick recipe can be made in a single bowl, making it easy to prepare and clean up afterward. It’s a flavorful option that is sure to please everyone.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl

Cacio e Pepe

Image shows a plate with cacio e pepe in a neat pile topped with shaved parmesan cheese.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Cacio e pepe is a simple yet delicious dish that takes only about 15 minutes to make, including boiling the water. With its cheesy, peppery flavor, this pasta is a comforting meal that everyone will love. This quick recipe makes it easy to enjoy restaurant-quality food at home.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas

Image shows an overhead shot of Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas on a white tray with a bowl of guacamole to the left of them.
Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Puff pastry beef empanadas are packed with savory beef and wrapped in flaky pastry, making them a delightful handheld treat. Perfect for gatherings or as a quick dinner option, these empanadas offer a satisfying bite. They are a delicious way to enjoy a homemade meal instead of ordering out.
Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas

Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas

Image shows an overhead shot of puff pastry Chicken Empanadas on a white tray.
Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

These chicken empanadas are bursting with flavorful chicken and wrapped in a golden, flaky crust that is sure to impress. They are simple to prepare and provide a satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoying these empanadas means savoring something delicious at home.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas

Italian Meatball Soup

Image shows A bowl of italian meatball soup with a basil leaf on top.
Italian Meatball Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Italian Meatball Soup is filled with hearty meatballs and savory broth that makes every spoonful comforting and satisfying. This rich dish is perfect for dinner and is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoying this homemade soup is a warm option for those cozy nights.
Get the Recipe: Italian Meatball Soup

Tomato Lime Chicken

Image shows a Bite of tomato lime chicken on a fork with rice and the rest of the bowl in the background.
Tomato Lime Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This tomato lime chicken is an easy dump-and-go recipe that offers tons of flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for tacos, salads, or rice bowls, it’s versatile enough for any night of the week. Making this dish at home provides a delicious option that’s ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Lime Chicken

Chicken and Dumplings

Image shows Chicken and dumplings on a spoon with more in the backgroumd.
Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Classic chicken and dumplings combine tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and savory broth for a dish that warms the heart. This recipe is made easier with leftover rotisserie chicken, making it a perfect choice for a comforting meal. Whipping this up at home is a delightful alternative to relying on takeout.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Dumplings

Hot Ham Salad Sandwiches

Image shows a white plate with a hot ham salad sandwich and scalloped potatoes.
Hot Ham Salad Sandwiches. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Hot ham salad sandwiches are a comforting meal that captures the cozy feeling of home-cooked food. Crispy ham paired with savory sauce creates a delicious dish that is quick and easy to prepare. These sandwiches offer a satisfying taste that can brighten any dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Hot Ham Salad Sandwiches

Simple Salmon Patties Recipe

Simple Salmon Patties Recipe. Photo credit: .

Salmon patties are a kid-friendly meal that can be prepared quickly using canned salmon, making them ideal for busy nights. They are tasty and provide a delicious option for a weeknight dinner. This homemade dish is a fantastic way to enjoy something special without the hassle of ordering.
Get the Recipe: Simple Salmon Patties Recipe

Cheesy Stuffed Shells

Image shows an overhead shot of Easy Cheesy Stuffed Shells with a small plate holding one and the rest of the pan next to it.
Cheesy Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Cheesy stuffed shells are filled with gooey goodness, creating a comforting meal that is perfect for busy evenings. The combination of rich filling and creamy cheese makes every bite satisfying. This easy recipe offers a meatless option that is sure to impress at the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Stuffed Shells

Chicken Fried Rice

Images shows a white Bowl of chicken fried rice.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Chicken fried rice is a flavorful dish that helps use up leftovers while packing in lots of taste. Loaded with savory goodness and plenty of veggies, it’s an easy choice for homemade comfort food. This satisfying meal is perfect for when comfort is the goal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Calzones

Image shows an overhead shot of a Calzone cut in half on a wooden board with a small bowl of marinara above it.
Calzones. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Calzones are delicious pockets filled with a variety of tasty ingredients that everyone will love. They provide a satisfying meal that is easy to make and perfect for family nights. Choosing calzones means enjoying a flavorful homemade dish that everyone can appreciate.
Get the Recipe: Calzones

Creamy Pea Pasta

Image shows Creamy Pea Pasta in an enameled cast iron pot.
Creamy Pea Pasta. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Creamy pea pasta is a delightful dish that comes together quickly, offering both flavor and comfort. With a creamy sauce and fresh peas, it’s an easy meal to prepare and perfect for busy nights. This recipe makes for a satisfying homemade dinner that tastes great.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Pasta

Slow Cooker Garlic Roast Pork

Image shows an overhead shot of Slow Cooker Garlic Roast Pork on a blue plate served with rice.
Slow Cooker Garlic Roast Pork. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Slow cooker garlic roast pork is a mouthwatering dish that cooks itself, delivering tender pork infused with rich garlic flavors. Simply set it up and let the slow cooker do the work, resulting in a delicious meal. This homemade option is sure to satisfy cravings and provide a comforting dinner.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Garlic Roast Pork

Chicken Tortellini Soup

Image shows Chicken tortellini soup in a ceramic enameled pot with a wooden spoon stirring it.
Chicken Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Chicken tortellini soup combines tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and flavorful broth for a comforting meal. This simple recipe is perfect for busy nights when time is short, making it easy to enjoy a satisfying dish. Savoring this soup at home means enjoying a meal that warms the soul.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup

Tuna and Tomato Pasta

Image shows a closeup view of tuna and tomato pasta in a white patterned bowl.
Tuna and Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Tuna and tomato pasta is so simple that kids can help make it, offering a great opportunity for family cooking. With tasty ingredients that come together in about 25 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for a quick weeknight meal. This dish provides a delicious and healthy option for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Tuna and Tomato Pasta

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