21 dishes so good no one will believe they’re budget-friendly

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Want to shake up your meal routine without spending too much? These 21 recipes are just the thing. They’re easy on your budget but still pack a punch in the flavor department. There’s something here for everyone, from quick weekday meals to something special for the weekend. And the best part? They’re all effortless to put together, which means less time in the kitchen and more time to enjoy your food.

A black bean burger in a burger bap with relish oozing out over it.
25 Minute Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pizza Rolls

Freshly made pizza rolls stacked on each other.
Pizza Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Offering a tasty twist on classic pizza flavors, these Pizza Rolls are perfect for both snacks and parties. They’re easy on the budget and packed with your choice of delicious fillings, sure to surprise and please at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This comforting Hashbrown Casserole combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the heartiness of potatoes. It’s versatile enough to serve as a hearty breakfast or as an indulgent side dish, and it’s an affordable crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Easy Flatbread Pizza

Two slices of pizza with tomatoes and herbs.
Easy Flatbread Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Transform your pizza experience with Easy Flatbread Pizza, offering a quick and customizable way to enjoy your favorite pizza toppings. It’s a budget-friendly choice for a delicious, easy meal that’s guaranteed to be a hit with everyone.
Get the Recipe: Easy Flatbread Pizza

Cilantro Lime Rice

Chipotle rice in a bowl with sliced lime and spoons.
Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Refreshing and zesty, Cilantro Lime Rice is the perfect side to brighten up your meal. This dish adds a light and flavorful touch to your dining experience and is an affordable way to elevate simple meals.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Taco Seasoning

Taco seasoning in a glass bowl with a teaspoon in it.
Taco Seasoning. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Create a custom flavor for your taco nights with homemade Taco Seasoning. This blend is perfect for adding a personal touch to your dishes and offers a cost-effective way to bring zest to your meals.
Get the Recipe: Taco Seasoning

Hash Browns

Hah brown on a plate with eggs and avocado.
Hash Browns. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Kickstart your morning with delicious and crispy Hash Browns, a classic breakfast favorite. They’re versatile, satisfying, and a budget-friendly option for a hearty start to any day.
Get the Recipe: Hash Browns

Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

Sweet chili sauce in a small bowl on a light green cloth.
Sweet Chili Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Add a sweet and spicy kick to your dishes with Thai Sweet Chili Sauce. This versatile sauce serves as a perfect dip or glaze, bringing an affordable burst of Thai flavors to your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

French Bread

A person is holding French bread.
French Bread. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Savor the classic delight of French Bread with its crisp crust and soft interior. It’s versatile for sandwiches, soup sides, or just with some butter, offering a cost-effective way to complement any meal.
Get the Recipe: French Bread

Dipping Sauce for Sweet Potato Fries

Dipping sauce in a small bowl surrounding by sweet potato cubes.
Dipping Sauce For Sweet Potato Fries. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Elevate your sweet potato fries with this specially crafted Dipping Sauce. It’s a perfect blend of flavors that complements the fries, offering an easy and affordable way to turn a simple side into something special.
Get the Recipe: Dipping Sauce for Sweet Potato Fries

25 Minute Black Bean Burger

A black bean burger in a burger bap with relish oozing out over it.
Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Enjoy a quick and nutritious meal with the 25 Minute Black Bean Burger. Full of flavor and customizable with various toppings, it’s a budget-friendly and satisfying option for a hearty, plant-based meal.
Get the Recipe: 25 Minute Black Bean Burger

Breakfast Potatoes

Breakfast potatoes in a serving bowl, with serving spoons and a small bowl of fresh parsley.
Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Hearty and satisfying, Breakfast Potatoes are a great way to start the day. They’re versatile, delicious, and a budget-friendly option for a filling breakfast.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Potatoes

Spaghetti Marinara

Spaghetti marinara in a bowl with fresh basil on top..
Spaghetti Marinara. Photo credit: Splash Of Taste

Experience the comfort of Spaghetti Marinara, a classic dish loved for its simplicity and rich flavors. It’s an affordable and delightful way to enjoy a pasta favorite without any hassle.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Southern Mash

Mashed potatoes on a white plate.
Southern Mash. Photo credit: Splash Of Taste

Indulge in the creamy, comforting taste of Southern Mash, perfect as a side for various mains. This dish is an affordable way to add a touch of Southern comfort to your meals, providing a satisfying and hearty element.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

A delicious and simple pasta recipe topped with parmesan cheese and parsley.
Spaghetti aglio e olio. Photo credit: Splash Of Taste

Relish the simplicity and rich flavors of Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, made with minimal ingredients. This dish is a cost-effective and delicious way to enjoy a quick, classic Italian meal.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Mashed Potato Fritters

A stack of mashed potato fritters.
Mashed Potato Fritters. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Transform traditional mashed potatoes into delightful Mashed Potato Fritters. They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and a budget-friendly, delicious option for bringing a fun twist to your meals.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Fritters

Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

Air fryer glazed carrots in a bowl with parsley.
Air Fryer Glazed Carrots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Air Fryer Glazed Carrots offer a healthier take on a sweet and savory side dish. They’re easy to prepare and add a budget-friendly gourmet touch to your vegetables, with an appealing flavor and texture.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

Egg Casserole – Make Ahead Breakfast

A casserole dish containing egg casserole.
Egg Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For busy mornings or feeding a crowd, Egg Casserole is a versatile and convenient breakfast option. It’s flavorful, economical, and a great way to start your day with a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole – Make Ahead Breakfast

Refried Beans

A bowl of homemade refried beans and lime wedges.
Refried Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Enjoy Refried Beans as a flavorful and hearty side dish, a staple in many Mexican dishes. They can be customized to your taste, offering an affordable and tasty way to add variety to your meals.
Get the Recipe: Refried Beans

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Cheesy cauliflower casserole in a white dish with spoons.
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional casseroles. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, making it a budget-friendly and delightful option for a hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Crispy Shallots

A pile of crispy shallots on a plate.
Crispy Shallots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crispy Shallots add a simple yet flavorful touch to any dish. They provide a crunchy burst of flavor, serving as an easy and affordable way to elevate your meals.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shallots

Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

A plate with a slice of Egg & Potato Breakfast Casserole and a fork.
Egg & Potato Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

It is a filling and comforting way to start your day. Ideal for brunch or a large family breakfast, Egg and Potato Breakfast Casseroles is a budget-friendly and delicious way to feed a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

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