27 cheap and easy dinners to get you through that last painful week before payday

Photo of author

| Published:

Cheap and easy dinners really come through when payday is still a week away, and you’re trying to make the most of what’s left in your kitchen. If your fridge looks a little empty and the pantry’s down to basics, don’t worry — there are still plenty of great meals you can pull together without stressing or spending more. These recipes keep things simple, using ingredients you probably have on hand, and they won’t leave you with a sink full of dishes.

Slow cooker split pea soup in a slow cooker with a wooden spoon.
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Baked Ravioli

A close-up of a cheesy baked ravioli garnished with herbs, with a fork lifting a portion to show the melted cheese.
Baked Ravioli. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Baked Ravioli is a great choice when you’re looking for a dinner that’s easy on your time and wallet. This dish involves layering frozen ravioli with a rich marinara sauce and a generous sprinkle of cheese before baking. It transforms into a bubbly, cheesy in about an hour. Perfect for those busy evenings when cooking feels like a chore, this dish makes sure you can still serve a hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli

Tuna Egg Salad

A close-up of a bowl of tuna egg salad mixed with celery, onions, and dill, topped with freshly ground black pepper, with a spoon placed on the side.
Tuna Egg Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tuna Egg Salad is the hero for weeknight dinners or weekend lunches when you need something quick and affordable. In just 25 minutes, this dish combines hard-boiled eggs, flaky tuna, crunchy celery, and onions with a light, creamy dressing. It’s quick to prepare and packs a nutritional punch, perfect for keeping you and your family satisfied without splurging.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Egg Salad

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole in a baking dish garnished with green onions.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is a comforting and economical dish ready in 30 minutes. This recipe combines nutritious broccoli and cauliflower with the rich flavors of crispy bacon and a creamy cheese sauce. It tops everything off with a crunchy breadcrumb layer before baking it perfectly. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is affordable and easy to make — great for days when you need a filling meal that won’t make you worry about your budget.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Spinach Chicken Bake is a simple yet flavorful meal option when feeling the pinch but still wanting to eat well. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a dish with tender chicken thighs, fresh spinach, creamy cheese, and a touch of garlic — all baked together until hot and bubbly. It’s affordable, using ingredients that won’t break the bank but still allow you to enjoy a rich, comforting meal at the end of a long day. Plus, it’s a great way to include some greens in your dinner in a way that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Tuna Macaroni Salad

Close-up of a creamy pasta salad sprinkled with paprika and garnished with chopped herbs in a white bowl.
Tuna Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tuna Macaroni Salad is a classic dish that’s wallet-friendly and easy to prepare, making it perfect for those days just before payday. Ready in about 40 minutes, it features elbow macaroni, creamy mayonnaise, crisp celery, sweet relish, and hearty tuna and eggs. Perfect for meal prep, it keeps well in the fridge and can help stretch your food budget while serving delicious, nutritious meals.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Macaroni Salad

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

A fresh Caesar salad with chicken, croutons, tomatoes, and dressing, served in a large white bowl with a fork.
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a lifesaver when looking at your budget. Just grab some leftover chicken, pasta, and Caesar dressing, toss in some fresh lettuce and tomatoes, sprinkle with Parmesan, and get yourself a delicious salad in just 25 minutes. It’s the perfect dish for a light dinner on those busy nights or a quick lunch throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a real treat when you need something fast and cost-effective. Made by frying chicken pieces and tossing them in heaps of garlic and a dollop of butter, then seasoned with fresh herbs. These bites are ready in just 20 minutes and a great alternative to more expensive meals, giving a rich flavor that belies their simple ingredients. A practical solution for those end-of-the-week tight budgets!
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Slow cooker split pea soup in a bowl a spoon.
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Settle in with a Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup bowl. Combine split peas, ham, carrots, and onions in your slow cooker, pour some broth, and let it work its magic. When you’re ready to eat, you’ll have a creamy, filling soup that makes your meal feel special without a high cost. It’s a stress-free dish that nourishes and satisfies, perfect for those colder days or when you just need extra comfort.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy ground beef skillet with cauliflower rice with a wooden spoon.
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Try the Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice if you need a quick dinner that’s both delicious and budget-friendly. In just 30 minutes, you can cook up a meal that combines the hearty flavors of ground beef with the lightness of cauliflower rice, all in a creamy sauce. It’s a great way to end a long day, serving a comforting meal that doesn’t take much time or money to prepare. This dish is smart for anyone looking to enjoy a good meal without the stress.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

A casserole dish filled with tater tots, shredded chicken, and corn, topped with melted cheese and green onions.
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole gives the comfort of a home-cooked meal. Layer chicken, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and corn in a casserole dish, top with tater tots and cheese, and bake until golden. This meal is a great way to use what you already have at home, transforming simple ingredients into a delicious dinner in under an hour. It’s perfect for those evenings when you’re tempted to order out, but remember your budget needs a break. With this casserole, you can fill up without splurging — a true win for any cook!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Chicken pot pie soup in a white bowl with a spoon.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Pot Pie Soup delivers just that if you need a comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s filled with chunks of chicken, potatoes, carrots, and celery, all seasoned to remind you of a classic pot pie but in a soup form. This meal is ready in less than an hour and won’t stretch your budget, making it a great choice for those cozy evenings when you want something filling yet easy. Plus, it reheats well, making sure you can enjoy a delicious meal even on your busiest days.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Grilled chicken pieces with a glossy glaze, garnished with chopped herbs, served on a beige plate.
Grilled Hot Honey Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken is great for a quick, flavorful dinner that won’t break the bank. This dish involves marinating chicken in a homemade hot honey sauce, a mix of sweet and spicy that brings a kick to the meal. The ingredients are simple, which is great for keeping things budget-friendly. You can even prepare the hot honey sauce ahead of time to streamline your cooking process. This dish is affordable and keeps well, perfect for enjoying as leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Chicken Corn Soup

Two bowls of chicken corn soup garnished with parsley.
Chicken Corn Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Corn Soup is your go-to to stretch your budget without sacrificing flavor. This soup combines chicken breasts, creamed corn, potatoes, and carrots to prepare a filling meal in about an hour. Cooking this soup in batches can simplify your weekdays, serving a ready-to-go meal that heats up well for any occasion. It’s a practical choice for anyone who wants to save money without feeling pinched.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup

Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Bacon ranch chicken salad cucumber boats lined up on a plate.
Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats are a quirky, budget-friendly meal ready in about 30 minutes. Combine canned chicken, crispy bacon bits, and ranch dressing for a filling that’s easy and light on your finances. Scoop this mix into hollowed-out cucumber slices for a refreshing and fun dish. It’s perfect for a casual dinner, giving a creative take on regular salad.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Chicken Tortellini Soup

A bowl of chicken tortellini soup with vegetables and herbs.
Chicken Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Tortellini Soup is a comforting and economical choice, perfect for when you need a little extra warmth. This soup mixes cheese tortellini, chicken, and a variety of vegetables in a rich broth, all coming together in just 40 minutes. It’s a great quick dinner option that feels special and soothing. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, giving you the feel of a dine-out experience without the hefty price tag.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Stuffed bell pepper casserole in a pan with a wooden spoon.
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When payday is still a week away, Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is a great choice to stretch your budget while enjoying a hearty meal. Ground meat, rice, and bell peppers bake together in one dish for about an hour, giving you a filling dinner without much effort. It’s a simple dish that looks and tastes like it took more work than it did. Plus, with everything baked in one pan, cleanup is quick and easy.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Two shake and bake pork chops on a plate.
Shake and Bake Pork Chops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Shake and Bake Pork Chops are a great go-to when running low on funds and time. In just 25 minutes, you can have pork chops that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. A quick mayo coating helps the seasoned breadcrumbs stick, giving you that golden crust without much stress. These chops are a simple, affordable way to enjoy something that feels special, even when payday is still a week away. And the easy cleanup is a bonus when life’s a little hectic.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops

White Bean Soup

A bowl of white bean soup with carrots and croutons.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

White Bean Soup is a great option when you need a budget-friendly meal that still feels like a treat. Carrots, onions, and white beans simmer together in a hearty, comforting broth. Ready in about 40 minutes, this soup is perfect for making in bulk and saving the extras for another day. It’s a simple, affordable meal that lets you enjoy good food without worrying about cost. Perfect for warming up after a long day, especially when trying to stretch those last few dollars before payday.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is the perfect solution when payday is still a ways off and you need something quick, easy, and affordable. Toss your favorite sausages, zucchini, broccoli and peppers onto a sheet pan and bake. In 30 minutes, you have dinner ready without much effort. It’s a great way to use up any leftovers, and cleanup is super simple — just one pan to wash. This meal helps you get through those tighter weeks by giving you something filling and balanced without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Broccoli Casserole

A casserole dish with broccoli and cheese in it.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Broccoli Casserole is a great way to make the most of simple ingredients when you’re craving something comforting and filling but don’t want to spend too much. Mix steamed broccoli with mushroom soup, eggs, and cheddar cheese, then bake it with a crispy cracker topping, and it’s ready in less than an hour. Great for those nights when payday feels far away, but you still want a cozy meal.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Green Chile Chicken

Green chile chicken in a pan with a wooden spoon.
Green Chile Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Green Chile Chicken is perfect when payday is still a week away, and you need something quick, affordable, and flavorful. In just 20 minutes, you can turn leftover chicken into a delicious dish by mixing it with cream cheese, cheddar, and green chiles. This recipe is great for stretching what you’ve got in the fridge into a special meal. It’s simple to make and won’t take much time, which is always helpful when you’ve got a busy schedule but still want a meal that hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Green Chile Chicken

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

A casserole dish filled with pasta and peas.
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When payday seems like it’s forever away, Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a great way to fill up without spending much. It features canned tuna, egg noodles, peas, and breadcrumbs. It’s ready in less than an hour, perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting without much effort. The breadcrumb topping adds a bit of crunch, and the tuna and noodles make it hearty enough to feed the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Cabbage and Sausage

A pan of cabbage and sausage garnished with fresh herbs.
Cabbage and Sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cabbage and Sausage is the kind of meal that comes to the rescue when you’re watching every penny before payday. You can create a filling dinner in about 25 minutes with cabbage, sausage, and some herbs. It’s perfect for those nights when you need something quick but still filling. The sausage adds a little heartiness, and the cabbage cooks down into something tender and comforting. It’s easy and doesn’t leave you a mess to clean up afterward, making this meal great when you just want something simple and stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Cheesy beef casserole with cauliflower rice and spinach being spooned out of a baking dish.
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach is a great option when your budget is tight, but you still want something comforting. Ground beef, cauliflower rice, spinach, and cheese come together to prepare a filling meal in just 30 minutes. It’s the kind of meal that feels like comfort food without the high cost. Perfect for family dinners, this casserole delivers both flavor and value. It’s simple but feels like a great meal to share, helping you stretch your grocery budget without sacrificing taste.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Canned Chicken Patties

Chicken patties with broccoli on a plate.
Canned Chicken Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Canned Chicken Patties are perfect for those nights when payday feels too far away, but you still want a decent meal. Using canned chicken, Parmesan, and sunflower seed meal, these patties come together in just 20 minutes. They’re great for a quick dinner or lunch when you don’t want to spend too much time or money. The patties are crispy on the outside and tender, making them feel more special than just your typical weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

A pan full of bacon and cabbage with a wooden spoon.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a lifesaver when you’re running low on groceries but need something quick and filling. You can have a flavorful meal in under 30 minutes with just cabbage and bacon. The bacon adds a nice crunch, while the cabbage becomes soft and tender. This dish is about making the most of what’s available while feeling like you’ve put together a good meal.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a pan.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is perfect for those nights when you want to treat yourself but don’t want to spend much. With chicken thighs and a creamy mushroom sauce, it’s a meal that feels special without being expensive or complicated. It’s ready in 30 minutes, making it great for a quick but comforting dinner. Serve it with whatever you have on hand — rice, pasta, or vegetables — and you’ve got a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.