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.
Shortcut Chicken Salad
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
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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