Cheap suppers don’t have to be boring or repetitive. This post is all about stretching your budget with 27 great recipes that make every penny count. We’re talking about good food that’s easy on the wallet, perfect for those of us keeping a close eye on our spending. No fancy ingredients or complicated steps here — just straightforward, wallet-friendly meals that’ll keep you and your bank account happy.
Tuna Macaroni Salad
This Tuna Macaroni Salad is great for your budget. It’s quick to make and uses ingredients you probably have at home. Perfect for lunch prep or a no-stress dinner. Just boil some elbow macaroni and toss it with canned tuna, chopped hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, sweet relish, and mustard. Feel free to change the mustard or swap some mayo for Greek yogurt or sour cream. It’s a straightforward dish that’s perfect for saving money.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Macaroni Salad
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is a great option for comfort food that won’t break the bank. It’s quick to make and can be prepared ahead of time. Ready in under an hour, it combines pantry items like cream of mushroom soup and spices with frozen tater tots and corn. It’s a hit with kids and adults, and leftovers freeze well. Perfect for days when you want a great meal without spending too much. Simple and affordable, it’s great for families looking to save money while enjoying hearty meals.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is a one-pan meal perfect for whipping up a hearty dinner without spending a lot. Polish sausage roasts with zucchini, broccoli, and mini sweet peppers, making it simple to prepare and clean up after. It’s perfect for using leftover veggies and saving cash, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Ready in 30 minutes using one pan, it’s great for anyone who doesn’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen or clean up many dishes.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is great for stretching your dollars and using ingredients you may already have. It turns a classic stuffed bell pepper into a budget-friendly and easier-to-make casserole. Ground beef, rice, and bell peppers come together in a dish that’s quick to make and perfect for leftovers. It’s a smart way to use up ingredients and avoid wasting food. This dish also helps you save time by making enough for future meals, keeping your grocery bills low while feeding the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
Cabbage and Sausage
Cabbage and Sausage is budget-friendly and filling, combining cabbage and sausage for great taste without high costs. Sautéed cabbage and onions mixed with spices and sausage in one pan for simplicity. The addition of butter and apple cider vinegar adds flavor. It’s quick to make and stretches your budget effectively. Cabbage is inexpensive and healthy, making it a great choice for families who want to eat well without spending a lot. This meal is also for busy people who want a quick and hearty dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
This straightforward Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole transforms pantry staples into a comforting meal that’s easy on your wallet. It’s great for extending meals through the week and minimizing grocery store trips. It’s made with egg noodles, canned tuna, and other simple ingredients, and it’s affordable and easy to whip up anytime. Plus, it’s a practical solution for using up what you have in the pantry, making it perfect for those who want to save money and avoid food waste. This meal is great for feeding a crowd or preparing for the week.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Reuben Bowls
These Reuben Bowls are great for saving money while getting dinner done quickly. Ready in 30 minutes, they’re perfect for busy nights or packing lunches. Brown some sliced corned beef, mix with coleslaw or shredded cabbage and sauerkraut, and top with Swiss cheese until it melts. Drizzle with homemade Thousand Island dressing for a meal that is easy on your time and wallet. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making this a perfect meal to keep your budget in check while enjoying a hearty dish. If you’re looking for a quick meal that won’t break the bank, this is the one for you.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Bowls
Shake and Bake Pork Chops
These Shake and Bake Pork Chops are perfect for a budget-friendly, quick meal. Coat pork chops in mayo, breadcrumbs and herbs, then bake. Coating chops with mayonnaise before the breading keeps the meat moist with a crisp exterior. Buying pork chops in bulk makes this a smart budget choice. This dish is great for busy people who want a good dinner without spending much time or money. The simple preparation and cost-effective ingredients make it a perfect choice for those looking to save money while enjoying a filling meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is great for keeping your cash from going to waste while enjoying a quick meal. Ready in just 25 minutes, it combines chicken, lettuce, and pasta with creamy Caesar dressing. Perfect for work lunches, speedy dinners, or get-togethers, it uses pre-cooked chicken and store-bought dressing for no stress. The combination of tender chicken, crisp lettuce, and pasta makes for a refreshing and filling meal that’s light on your wallet. This salad is perfect if you want to avoid takeout and stretch your dollar.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
This Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is perfect for busy days and easy on the wallet. Just toss in split peas, broth, ham, and veggies, and let the slow cooker do all the work. You’ll come back to a hearty soup that’s ready to eat and saves you money, using up simple ingredients and keeping energy bills low while reducing waste. It’s a smart way to save time and money, especially for those who want to prepare meals in advance and have something ready to eat when they get home. This soup is comforting and filling for cool evenings.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is great for saving money while eating your greens. Frozen broccoli and cauliflower get a boost with a creamy cheese sauce topped with more cheese and bacon. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a side dish, it’s ready in just 30 minutes. Leftovers make for quick bites later, helping you avoid extra grocery costs. The use of frozen vegetables and a few simple ingredients makes this dish both budget-friendly and delicious. If you want a meal that helps you save both time and money, this casserole is perfect for you.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Crock Pot Taco Soup
This Crock Pot Taco Soup is perfect for keeping your budget in check. It’s a breeze to make with budget-friendly ground beef and pantry items like canned tomatoes. Cook the beef, toss everything in the Crock Pot, and let it simmer for a hearty meal. This dish lasts for days; freezing some means future meals will be sorted without extra spending. The simple ingredients and easy preparation make it great for those who want a filling dish that stretches their dollar. If you’re looking for an economical meal that’s easy to make, this soup is for you.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are perfect for stretching your budget. Use cost-effective chicken, sizzle it up, and toss it in a garlic butter mix for a simple yet flavorful dish. Ready in 20 minutes with one pan, this meal pairs well with rice or veggies. The buttery garlic flavor is a hit with both kids and adults. Sticking to pantry basics means fewer store trips and more money saved. The quick cooking time and minimal ingredients make this a perfect meal for those wanting to save time and money. If you need a budget-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare, these chicken bites are a great choice.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Baked Ravioli
Baked Ravioli is a perfect go-to for an easy, filling meal that’s light on your wallet. Layer frozen ravioli with marinara sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, and dried herbs, then bake for about an hour. Great for busy evenings, it’s perfect for families, couples, or individuals wanting a convenient and affordable dinner. It’s also a smart way to use leftover cheese or marinara, reducing waste and grocery expenses. The simple ingredients and easy preparation make this dish perfect for those looking to save money while enjoying a hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli
Canned Chicken Patties
These Canned Chicken Patties are perfect for saving money. Mix canned chicken with eggs, Parmesan, and sunflower seed meal or almond flour, plus a few spices. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a meal that pairs well with veggies or a salad. They store well in the fridge or freezer. Canned chicken is a great choice to save on meat costs while still getting protein. This dish helps you make great meals without spending too much. With minimal ingredients and effort, this recipe is a real bank account saver and perfect for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties
Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats
These Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats are great for stretching your budget. Mix canned chicken with bacon, cheese, and spices, then fill cucumber halves. These boats are fresh, quick to make, and easy on your wallet. They’re perfect for a quick meal or snack that’s also refreshing. It’s a clever way to use what’s in your fridge, saving money while enjoying a delicious treat. This recipe lets you turn simple ingredients into a light, hearty meal that won’t strain your budget.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats
White Bean Soup
White Bean Soup is a thrifty and healthy meal. You can whip up a hearty meal in about 40 minutes with canned beans, veggies, and spinach. The soup is thickened by blending the beans, making it creamy without needing any cream. It’s great for staying healthy while keeping costs low. Canned beans help you save even more. This meal is filling and comforting, perfect for a quick dinner when you want to save money. This soup is a budget-friendly solution that still delivers flavor and nutrition.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
This Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice is perfect for your wallet and ready in 30 minutes. It’s got ground beef, cheddar cheese, cauliflower rice, and mushrooms, all cooked in one pan. It’s a smart pick for adding more veggies to your meals. Pair it with a side salad for a complete dinner. Ground beef is budget-friendly, and using it in dishes like this is a great move. This skillet is filling, nutritious, and easy to make, perfect for busy nights. This dish helps you quickly get a hearty meal on the table without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
Broccoli Casserole
Broccoli Casserole is a great way to turn simple, affordable ingredients into a cheesy dish without spending too much. It’s packed with fresh broccoli, creamy mushroom soup, eggs, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and shredded cheese topped with cracker crumbs for crunch. It’s perfect for getting everyone to eat their veggies and just as good the next day. Cooking big batches of budget-friendly meals like this casserole helps you save money and prepare meals ahead of time. It’s perfect for families looking for a hearty meal that’s easy on the wallet.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad is a thrifty yet flavorful choice. Bake your chicken and bacon, broil the jalapeños until charred, then mix them with mayo or sour cream, hot sauce, and spices. You’ll get a chicken salad with a spicy kick and a great crunch from the bacon. Meals like this help you save by eating in instead of ordering out. This salad is perfect for those wanting a bold meal without spending much. With a mix of spicy and creamy flavors, this dish is a cost-effective way to enjoy a great meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach is a great budget-friendly meal that combines ground beef, cauliflower rice, spinach, and cheddar cheese for a fancy dinner that doesn’t cost much. It’s ready in just 30 minutes, and you can freeze it for up to 2 months, which helps stretch your grocery budget. This creamy and cheesy casserole is comforting and filling, perfect for families looking for easy and affordable meals that can be enjoyed multiple times. This dish is a smart way to feed your family a hearty dinner without spending a lot.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
Green Chile Chicken
Green Chile Chicken is a great way to stretch your budget while enjoying a quick and delicious meal. This dish combines chicken, green chilis, jalapeños, cheddar cheese, and spices to create a mildly spicy and creamy flavor in just 20 minutes. You can serve it with rice or use it as a taco filling, adding variety to your meals. This recipe is great for using leftover chicken and avoiding food waste, which saves money. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick dinner solution.
Get the Recipe: Green Chile Chicken
Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties
Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties are a great budget-friendly option that uses canned salmon, which is more affordable than fresh salmon. These patties are made with canned salmon, eggs, ground pork rinds, jalapeños, and spices to create a delicious and exciting meal. They are easy to prepare and perfect for families looking to save money while enjoying a nutritious dinner. These patties can be served as a main dish or a snack, making them versatile for different meal times. They’re great for those who want a quick, affordable, healthy option.
Get the Recipe: Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties
Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken
Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken is perfect for anyone looking to keep dinner costs down without sacrificing flavor. This dish combines chicken, cream cheese, mozzarella, and sweet peppers to prepare a Mexican-inspired meal in just 30 minutes. Serve it with a side salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal. Simple, affordable ingredients make this dish great for families trying to stay within budget while enjoying a hearty and filling meal. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy households.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken
Spinach Chicken Bake
Spinach Chicken Bake is a budget-friendly meal that combines chicken thighs, cream cheese, mozzarella, fresh spinach, and spices like paprika and Italian seasoning. It’s a simple dish to prepare and can even be frozen for later use, helping you save money and time. The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a favorite among kids and adults, serving families a filling and rich dinner option. This dish is great for anyone looking for an easy-to-cook meal that won’t break the bank and can be ready quickly on busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake
Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a quick and cost-effective dish with basic ingredients like cabbage, bacon, and onion. Cooked in a skillet, it brings together perfectly balanced flavors and textures, making it a great way to use up what’s already in your fridge and save money. It’s a great side dish or main course for families who want a budget-friendly and delicious meal option. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you need something quick, easy, and affordable to feed the family without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Chicken Corn Soup
Chicken Corn Soup is a hearty and affordable meal made with chicken, potatoes, carrots, creamed corn, and corn kernels in a rich broth. This soup is very filling and can be frozen for later, making it a great budget-friendly option that also helps minimize waste. The comforting flavors make it perfect for cold days and a great way to use leftover ingredients. This dish is great for families looking to save money while enjoying a comforting dinner. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for those chilly evenings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup