Thrifty Thursday: 14 recipes to make on a budget

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When you’re on a budget, you don’t want to compromise flavor. Let’s figure out how you can craft tasty meals on a budget.These 14 recipes are perfect for a tight budget for both seasoned penny-pinchers and those simply looking to savor clever cooking without breaking the bank. Buckle up and enjoy these Thrifty Thursday meal ideas.

Two homemade black bean burgers in buns ready to eat.
Air Fryer Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

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.

Indulge in the simplicity of Cacio e Pepe, a budget-friendly dish that offers cheesy satisfaction in just 15 minutes. Elevate your pasta game without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Spicy Tuna Rolls

Image shows Chopsticks holding spicy tuna roll over a plate with more of the roll.
Spicy Tuna Rolls. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Elevate your sushi cravings with budget-friendly spicy tuna rolls, showcasing canned tuna as a delicious alternative. Satisfy your palate without compromising your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Rolls

Creamy Pea Pasta

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

Satisfy your palate with Creamy Pea Pasta, an inexpensive meatless Monday favorite that’s both quick and flavorful. Treat yourself to budget-friendly comfort on any weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Pasta

25 Minute Black Bean Burger

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

If you’re on a budget but still want to eat well, the 25 Minute Black Bean Burger is your go-to meal. This burger not only promises big flavors but is also wallet-friendly. Made from staple pantry ingredients, it’s a nutritious alternative to meat burgers. Whip one up, and you’ll see that delicious doesn’t have to be expensive.
Get the Recipe: 25 Minute Black Bean Burger

Crescent Roll Bagel Dogs

Image shows Hot dogs wrapped in crescent roll dough on a baking sheet.
Crescent Roll Bagel Dogs. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Enjoy the fun and flavor of budget-friendly crescent roll bagel dogs, perfect for dinner or school lunches the next day. Delight in the savings and the smiles they bring.
Get the Recipe: Crescent Roll Bagel Dogs

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.

This budget-friendly tuna and tomato pasta is a quick weeknight fix, ready in about 25 minutes. Enjoy a simple and satisfying meal that won’t strain your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Tuna and Tomato Pasta

Semi-homemade Chicken Enchiladas

Image shows baked cheesy chicken enchiladas in a blue Pyrex casserole.
Semi-homemade Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Transform your dinners with budget-friendly, mouthwatering chicken enchiladas. Utilize rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful family meal that won’t strain your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Semi-homemade Chicken Enchiladas

Potato Gnocchi

Image shows a bowl of Potato Gnocchi with grated cheese atop it.
Potato Gnocchi. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Delight in the homemade goodness of budget-friendly Potato Gnocchi, offering comfort and flavor without the high cost. Create a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.
Get the Recipe: Potato Gnocchi

Mexican Skillet Quinoa

Image shows a wooden spoon holding a scoop of Mexican skillet quinoa with the full pot behind it.
Mexican Skillet Quinoa. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Delicious meatless meals are always friendly on the wallet. This naturally gluten-free recipe is filled with protein between the quinoa and beans plus has tons of flavor with the salsa, corn, and more. This one-pot meal has it all, and it’s super easy to make, too.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Skillet Quinoa

Canned Chicken Salad

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

Enjoy a hassle-free and refreshing summertime meal with budget-friendly canned chicken salad. Embrace the convenience and affordability while savoring the flavors.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Salad

Vegan Couscous Salad

Image shows a closeup of an enameled cast iron pan filled with a vegan couscous salad.
Vegan Couscous Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Rediscover the versatility of couscous in this budget-friendly vegan salad that’s filling enough for a meal. Packed with veggies, it’s a delicious choice that won’t break the bank.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous Salad

Caprese Panini

Image shows a sliced caprese panini on a wooden board with the melted cheese oozing out.
Caprese Panini. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Experience the fusion of classic flavors in this budget-friendly caprese panini. Enjoy melty cheese and comfort without the high cost, perfect for a quick and “fancy” meal.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Panini

Tempting Tuna Medley Salad

Tuna Salad as appetizer on a pieces of baked zucchini.
Tempting Tuna Medley Salad. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Elevate your meal plan with this wallet-friendly tuna salad, seamlessly uniting flaky tuna, crisp veggies, and a zesty dressing. The amalgamation of flavors and crunch forms a gratifying, cost-effective salad solution suitable for any time of day. Immerse yourself in the invigorating appeal of this delightful, budget-wise tuna salad.
Get the Recipe: Tempting Tuna Medley Salad

Spaghetti and Meatballs Soup

two silver spoons and two bowls of spaghetti and meatballs soup in brown ceramic bowls.
Spaghetti and Meatballs Soup. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Craving Italian takeout? Save money and make this ever-comforting Spaghetti and Meatballs soup. It’s even cozier than pasta! This easy dinner idea takes pasta night to a new level.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti and Meatballs Soup

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