23 lip-smacking recipes that cost next to nothing to make

Keeping your kitchen budget-friendly doesn’t mean you have to miss out on delicious meals. With these 23 recipes, you can whip up various lip-smacking dishes that won’t empty your pockets. Each recipe is easy to prepare and uses affordable ingredients, proving that economical cooking can be just as flavorful. If you want to save on your food budget without sacrificing taste, these recipes are your answer.

Easy Flatbread Pizza

Create a delicious pizza in just minutes with a simple flatbread. Top it with your favorite sauce, a sprinkle of cheese, and whatever toppings you have on hand. It’s not only super easy and quick but also incredibly budget-friendly. It is a perfect solution for those pizza cravings without the hassle or cost of delivery.
Get the Recipe: Easy Flatbread Pizza

Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

This easy recipe brings the tangy flavors of Chipotle’s corn salsa to your kitchen. It’s a fresh mix of sweet corn, lime, and cilantro that’s surprisingly simple to make. Perfect for adding flavor to tacos or as a vibrant side dish. It’s so affordable that you’ll be making it all the time!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

Hash Browns

Crispy hash browns are a breakfast classic that’s both delicious and economical. Grate some potatoes, give them a quick fry, and get a golden, crunchy delight. They’re the perfect way to transform humble potatoes into something everyone will love. It is great as a side or a base for more elaborate breakfast dishes.
Get the Recipe: Hash Browns

Corn Casserole

This corn casserole is a comfort food gem that’s both tasty and budget-friendly. It’s a creamy blend of corn, cheese, and a touch of sweetness, all baked to perfection. Easy to make and even more accessible to love, it’s perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Tortilla Pizza

For a quick, cost-effective twist on traditional pizza, try tortilla pizza. Grab a tortilla, add sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings, then bake until crispy. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy homemade pizza without the fuss or expense of dough. It’s a fun and easy recipe that everyone can customize.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza

Vegetable Fritters

Upgrade your leftover veggies into delicious fritters. These little bites are tasty and an excellent way to reduce waste and save money. Just mix your veggies with some batter and fry to crispy perfection. They make a great snack or a light meal and are as economical as yummy.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fritters

Sweet Potato Cubes

Roasted sweet potato cubes are a simple, nutritious, inexpensive side dish. They’re seasoned and roasted until they’re perfectly caramelized and tender. This dish is a great way to add color and flavor to any meal. Sweet potatoes are often budget-friendly, making this a go-to for healthy eating on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cubes

Hashbrown Casserole

This hashbrown casserole is a crowd-pleaser that won’t strain your wallet. It combines shredded potatoes, cheese, and a creamy sauce, all baked to a golden brown. It’s perfect for a hearty breakfast or a comforting dinner side. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Enjoy the rich, smoky flavor of Chipotle’s black beans right in your own kitchen. This copycat recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly affordable. Serve them as a side, in burritos, or as a protein-packed addition to bowls. They’re a versatile, budget-friendly staple that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Broccoli Casserole with Crackers

This broccoli casserole with crackers is a delicious and economical way to enjoy your greens. It’s a creamy blend of broccoli, cheese, and a crunchy cracker topping. Easy to make and even easier on your wallet, it’s a perfect dish for family dinners or potlucks. It’s a great way to make broccoli the star of the show.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole with Crackers

25 Minute Black Bean Burger

Whip up these savory black bean burgers in just 25 minutes. They’re not only full of flavor but also extremely budget-friendly. Packed with protein and spices, they make a satisfying meal that’s both easy and economical. Perfect for a quick, healthy dinner on a budget.
Get the Recipe: 25 Minute Black Bean Burger

Pizza Rolls

Create your own pizza rolls for a fraction of the store-bought price. They’re fun to make, packed with your favorite pizza flavors, and perfect for snacking. Whether for a party or a quick meal, these homemade rolls are a budget-friendly alternative to the freezer aisle. Plus, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

Make a delicious cheese quesadilla using an air fryer in no time. It’s a quick, cheesy delight that’s both satisfying and easy on the budget. Perfect for a fast meal or snack, you can add any leftovers you have for an extra flavor boost. It’s the epitome of simple, affordable comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

Cacio e Pepe

Cacio e Pepe is a classic Italian pasta dish that’s affordable and easy to make. It’s a minimalist recipe with just pasta, cheese, and pepper, delivering maximum flavor. It is ideal for those nights when you want something quick, comforting, and cost-effective.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Yellow Squash Casserole

This yellow squash casserole is a delightful way to enjoy a budget-friendly vegetable. It’s a creamy, cheesy dish with a crispy topping, perfect for any occasion. Not only is it easy to make, but it also turns an often-overlooked veggie into a star. A great choice for a nutritious, affordable meal.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Squash Casserole

French Bread Pizza

Turn a loaf of French bread into a delicious, budget-friendly pizza. Cut the bread in half, add your favorite toppings, and bake. It’s a quick and cost-effective way to satisfy your pizza cravings. Plus, it’s a fun way to get creative with leftovers.
Get the Recipe: French Bread Pizza

Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

Recreate the famous Chipotle burrito bowl at home for a fraction of the price. It’s a customizable, flavorful meal that’s both filling and affordable. Mix and match ingredients based on what you have – endless possibilities. A perfect solution for a delicious, low-cost meal any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

Southern Mash

Enjoy the comfort of Southern mash, a simple and affordable side dish. It’s a hearty blend of mashed potatoes and flavorful additions that bring warmth to any meal. Easy to prepare and gentle on the wallet, it’s a staple that complements a wide range of main dishes. It is a must-try for lovers of classic comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

Mashed Potato Fritters

Turn leftover mashed potatoes into delicious fritters. Mix with some simple ingredients, pan-fry, and enjoy a tasty treat that’s both economical and satisfying. They’re great for using up leftovers and can be served as a snack or a side. A clever and delicious way to minimize waste and maximize flavor.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Fritters

Refried Beans

These homemade refried beans are a budget-friendly, versatile, and delicious staple. Perfect as a side, in burritos, or as a dip, they’re packed with flavor and nutrients. Plus, making them at home is much more affordable than buying canned. An excellent base for a variety of budget-conscious meals.
Get the Recipe: Refried Beans

Cilantro Lime Rice

Add a burst of flavor to your meals with cilantro-lime rice. This simple yet tasty side dish is incredibly cheap. The fresh cilantro and tangy lime juice turn plain rice into something special. It pairs well with various dishes and is perfect for budget meal planning.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Breakfast Potatoes

These breakfast potatoes are a satisfying way to start the day without spending a lot. Crispy, seasoned, and delicious, they’re easy to make and go great with eggs or on their own. A budget-friendly breakfast option that’s both filling and flavorful. A great choice for those mornings when you want a hearty meal without a hefty price tag.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Potatoes

Sweetcorn Fritters

Sweetcorn fritters are a tasty and economical way to enjoy corn. They’re easy to whip up, require just a few ingredients, and can be customized with whatever herbs or spices you like. Perfect as a snack, side, or light meal, they’re a budget-friendly treat that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Sweetcorn Fritters