Skip the drive-thru: 21 quick-and-easy meals that save you money

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Let’s be honest: not everyone has the time or money to play gourmet chef every night. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to break the bank or spend hours in the kitchen to serve something delightful. With our 21 straightforward and budget-friendly recipes, delicious meals become an everyday reality. And trust us, your taste buds (and wallet) will thank you.

Harissa chicken in a baking pan with a plate of it over rice with yogurt and herbs on the side.
Harissa Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Thai Shrimp Curry

Overhead shot of a bowl of Thai shrimp curry over rice with silverware and lime wedges on the side.
Thai Shrimp Curry. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Tired of the usual dinner lineup? Dive into the Thai Shrimp Curry. It’s a dish that packs a flavorful punch without taking a hit on your wallet. Bring home the authentic taste of Thai without the restaurant price tag.
Get the Recipe: Thai Shrimp Curry

Veggie Pad Thai

Low angle shot of a light blue bowl of pad thai.
Veggie Pad Thai. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When takeout cravings hit, Veggie Pad Thai is the answer. Experience those vibrant, bustling flavors of Thai markets right in your home kitchen. It’s cost-effective, delicious, and will quickly become a repeat request at your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pad Thai

Yum Woon Sen

Yum woon sen salad on a white plate with a green napkin.
Yum Woon Sen. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

On the hunt for a refreshing Thai salad? Look no further than Yum Woon Sen. Light on your pocketbook but big on flavor, it’s the go-to for a simple yet flavorful treat. Perfect for those days when you’re craving something different and delightful.
Get the Recipe: Yum Woon Sen

Thai Turkey Meatballs

An inexpensive meal consisting of a forkful of meatballs with sauce.
Thai Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bored with the regular meatball routine? The Thai Turkey Meatballs offer a delightful change of pace. Not only are they a tasty deviation from the norm, but they’re also a cost-effective way to introduce a global flair to your mealtime.
Get the Recipe: Thai Turkey Meatballs

Mochiko Chicken

A hand holding a crispy piece of mochiko chicken.
Mochiko Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Hawaii’s delectable Mochiko Chicken is gives you a taste of the tropics and is surprisingly affordable. Enjoy a little Hawaiian paradise in the comfort of your home without the need for pricey ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Mochiko Chicken

Char Siu

Sliced char siu pork with lettuce leaves.
Char Siu. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Think classic BBQ but with an irresistibly Asian touch. Char Siu is that delightful blend of sweet and savory that’s both palate-pleasing and budget-friendly. A perfect way to mix up your usual BBQ spread without stretching your expenses.
Get the Recipe: Char Siu

Szechuan Shrimp

Low angle shot of szechuan shrimp in a wok.
Szechuan Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Ready to add some excitement to your meal rotation? Szechuan Shrimp is the way to go. Quick to whip up, bursting with bold flavors, and still gentle on the budget. It’s an excellent choice for those nights when you want to turn up the heat without burning your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp

Vegetarian Dan Dan Noodles

Low angle shot of a plate of vegetarian dan dan noodles with broccoli.
Vegetarian Dan Dan Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Passionate about noodles? The Vegetarian Dan Dan Noodles offer a hearty experience without the hefty price or meat. It’s a dish that’s filling, flavorful, and friendly to both your taste buds and wallet.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Dan Dan Noodles

Instant Pot Kalua Pork

Low angle shot of kalua pork on a white plate with pineapple and pepper chunks.
Instant Pot Kalua Pork. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Running low on time but high on hunger? The Instant Pot Kalua Pork has your back. With its rich flavor and economical approach, it brings forward a dish that’s both quick to make and kind on your pocket.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Kalua Pork

Vietnamese Summer Rolls

Low angle shot of vietnamese summer rolls with edible flowers.
Vietnamese Summer Rolls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Whether it’s a starter or a light snack, Vietnamese Summer Rolls fit the bill. They’re fresh, packed with flavor, and best of all, won’t set your budget back. Enjoy the delicate tastes of Vietnam without the expense of dining out.
Get the Recipe: Vietnamese Summer Rolls

Salpicon de Res

Low angle shot of mini tostadas with salpicon de res or shredded beef salad on top.
Salpicon de Res. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Ready to savor a slice of Latin America? Salpicon de Res brings forward that authentic Latin flavor without straining the budget. Dive into this dish and enjoy a taste of tradition without emptying your pockets.
Get the Recipe: Salpicon de Res

Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Basket of fried chicken with chilies and garlic.
Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Need a crowd-pleaser that won’t break the bank? The Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings are the answer. Simple, delectable, and wallet-friendly – they’re guaranteed to elevate any gathering or mealtime.
Get the Recipe: Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Samosa Chaat

Low angle shot of a plate of samosa chaat.
Samosa Chaat. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Dreaming of an Indian street food adventure? The Samosa Chaat brings that dream to life. Rich in flavor, generous in portion, and still easy on the budget, it’s the perfect way to take a culinary journey without the travel cost.
Get the Recipe: Samosa Chaat

Harissa Chicken

Harissa chicken in a baking pan with a plate of it over rice with yogurt and herbs on the side.
Harissa Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For those nights when you’re craving something spicy and flavorful, Harissa Chicken delivers. Offering bold flavors that won’t hurt the pocketbook, it’s a journey of taste that’s both fiery and budget-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Harissa Chicken

Sesame Noodles

Sesame noodles on a black plate.
Sesame Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Busy schedule? Sesame Noodles to the rescue. These are not only a delight to the taste buds but also friendly to your wallet. A dish that promises simplicity without compromising on flavor, perfect for those rushed weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Noodles

Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos

Shrimp tacos on a plate with lime wedges.
Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you’re in the mood for a fusion of flavors, Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos won’t disappoint. They combine the best of two worlds, offering a delightful mix that’s as pleasing to your palate as it is to your budget.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos

Mongolian Chicken

Two bowls of chicken curry with spices and rice.
Mongolian Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Want to venture beyond the usual chicken recipes? Mongolian Chicken is your ticket to a flavorful escape. With its unique taste profile and cost-effective approach, it’s a surefire way to make dinner exciting without a high bill.
Get the Recipe: Mongolian Chicken

Mulligatawny Soup

Bowl of mulligatawny soup with a hand lifting a spoonful of soup.
Mulligatawny Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When comfort food calls, Mulligatawny Soup answers. It’s a rich, flavorful experience that’s both warming to the soul and kind to the budget. Dive into a bowl and enjoy the perfect blend of comfort and affordability.
Get the Recipe: Mulligatawny Soup

Pad Kee Mao with Chicken

A bowl of pad kee mao with chicken shot from above.
Pad Kee Mao with Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Dreaming of authentic Thai flavors without the cost? Pad Kee Mao with Chicken brings the streets of Thailand to your plate. Flavorful, easy to prepare, and wallet-friendly, it’s a culinary win all around.
Get the Recipe: Pad Kee Mao with Chicken

Pollo Pibil

Pollo pibil on a grey plate with limes and shredded lettuce.
Pollo Pibil. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Embark on a Yucatecan culinary journey with Pollo Pibil. Deep in flavor and rich in tradition, this dish showcases the best of Mexican cuisine without the need to overspend. A flavorful experience that respects your budget.
Get the Recipe: Pollo Pibil

Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup

A bowl of wonton soup with shrimp in it.
Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

On chilly days or when you need a pick-me-up, Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup is the comforting answer. It’s a nourishing bowl of goodness that promises to be as gentle on your pocket as it is on your soul. A true taste of Asian comfort without the price tag.
Get the Recipe: Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup

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