13 sensational meals that are cheaper than eating out

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Dining out can be costly, but why spend excessively when you can recreate restaurant-quality dishes at home? We’ve assembled delicious recipes that bring the restaurant experience to your dining table without the extravagant expenses. Say goodbye to the high cost of eating out and welcome the opportunity to enjoy top-notch meals in the comfort of your home.

Air fryer filet mignon with sliced potatoes.
Air Fryer Filet Mignon. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Stuffed Chicken Marsala

Stuffed chicken marsala in a cast iron skillet.
Stuffed Chicken Marsala. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Try this stuffed chicken marsala for a twist on a classic. It’s chicken filled with melted mozzarella, tomato butter, and fresh basil. It’s a budget-friendly way to make a fancy dish at home. This recipe is great for a family meal or when you want to make something special. It’s tasty and not too hard to make.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Chicken Marsala

Glazed Pork Chops and Apples

Tea glazed pork chops with sauteeed apples on top and sage garnish.
Glazed Pork Chops and Apples. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This recipe is for pork chops with a sweet pumpkin tea glaze and apples cooked in the same glaze. It’s a perfect meal for fall and brings a bit of gourmet to your table without costing too much. The sweet and savory mix of the glaze makes the pork and apples really stand out. Plus, it’s easier to make than it sounds!
Get the Recipe: Glazed Pork Chops and Apples

Lamb Bolognese

Lamb bolognese with tagliatelle noodles.
Lamb Bolognese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This lamb bolognese is a flavorful spin on a classic Italian sauce. It’s cooked with carrots, onions, garlic, tomatoes, red wine, and fresh herbs. Serving it over tagliatelle makes a cozy and hearty meal. It’s a fancy dish you can make at home without spending too much, perfect for a family dinner or impressing guests.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Bolognese

Bucatini with Garlic Shrimp

Bucatini pasta with shrimp in a white bowl.
Bucatini with Garlic Shrimp. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Bucatini pasta with garlic shrimp and cherry tomatoes is a quick meal, ready in under 30 minutes. It’s great for busy weeknights and offers a tasty and easy alternative to dining out. The combination of shrimp and cherry tomatoes adds a fresh touch to the pasta.
Get the Recipe: Bucatini with Garlic Shrimp

Pan Seared Duck Breast

Pan seared duck sliced on a cutting board with cranberry sauce in a small bowl to the side.
Pan Seared Duck Breast. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This duck breast recipe is simple and elegant. You just need a few ingredients and a quick pan-sear on the stove. It’s a great way to make a special dinner at home, whether for a romantic evening or entertaining guests. It shows how you can create an impressive dish without too much effort.
Get the Recipe: Pan Seared Duck Breast

Air Fryer Filet Mignon

Air fryer filet mignon with sliced potatoes.
Air Fryer Filet Mignon. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Make a fancy dinner easily with this air fryer filet mignon. It’s a simple way to cook a steak perfectly. This recipe is great for a special night and is cheaper than going to a steakhouse. The air fryer does most of the work, so you get a tender and juicy steak without much hassle. It’s a good pick for a treat or a date night at home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Filet Mignon

Bacon Wrapped Salmon

Plate of salmon with bacon.
Bacon Wrapped Salmon. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

For a mix of luxury and health, try this bacon-wrapped salmon. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. The bacon adds a rich flavor to the salmon, making it a delightful choice for a special meal or when you want something a bit fancy.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon

Cod Piccata

Cod piccata on a plate with asparagus and rice.
Cod Piccata. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Enjoy this tangy and flavorful cod piccata. The cod is coated in almond flour and pan-fried until flaky. Capers, lemon juice, and shallots add a burst of flavor to this easy dish. It’s a simple, yet delicious way to enjoy a seafood meal at home, offering a lighter alternative to traditional piccata.
Get the Recipe: Cod Piccata

Chorizo Chili Mussels

Mussels with chorizo and chilis in a pot.
Chorizo Chili Mussels. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Spice up your mealtime with these chorizo chili mussels. It’s a one-pot dish that’s ready in 20 minutes, featuring mussels with spicy dried chilis, fennel, and chorizo in a tomato broth. Serve with crusty bread for a complete seafood feast that’s easy to make and fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: Chorizo Chili Mussels

Balsamic Dijon Beef Tenderloin

Balsamic Dijon crusted beef tenderloin sliced on a cutting board.
Balsamic Dijon Beef Tenderloin. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This balsamic dijon beef tenderloin is perfect for special occasions. It’s simple to prepare but looks and tastes impressive. The Meyer lemon gremolata adds a unique flavor. It’s an ideal recipe for when you want to make a restaurant-style meal at home, perfect for celebrations or a fancy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Balsamic Dijon Beef Tenderloin

Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Mushroom risotto with peas and mushrooms in a pot with wooden spoon.
Creamy Mushroom Risotto. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Try this mushroom risotto with peas for a creamy and comforting dish. It’s rich and full of flavor without any dairy. This risotto is a great way to enjoy a luxurious meal at home, offering a comforting and satisfying experience.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Slow Cooker Short Rib Ragu

Slow cooker short rib ragu in a bowl over mashed sweet potatoes with a fork.
Slow Cooker Short Rib Ragu. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This slow cooker short rib ragu is perfect for cooler weather. Serve it over mashed sweet potatoes or pasta for a comforting meal. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty dish with minimal effort, perfect for a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Short Rib Ragu

Pistachio Crusted Lamb Chops

Pistachio crusted lamb chops served over mashed potatoes with cherry sauce.
Pistachio Crusted Lamb Chops. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Pistachio crusted lamb chops with a red wine cherry sauce and creamy parmesan polenta make for a fancy, yet simple meal. It’s perfect for a special night in, offering a restaurant-style experience without the cost. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a memorable dish.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Crusted Lamb Chops

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