29 one-hour dinners that are cheaper than your delivery habit

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Turns out, making dinner doesn’t have to mean spending your whole paycheck on takeout or staring into your fridge like it owes you an apology. These quick, one-hour meals are perfect for the nights when you want something great without the delivery fees, the tips, or the lukewarm fries. It’s simple, budget-friendly food that gets the job done and actually tastes good, no gimmicks, no stress.

A dish of seasoned shrimp, corn on the cob, sausage slices, and potato chunks garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Tuscan garlic shrimp and spinach with tomatoes in a pan.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach recipe makes eating at home feel like a smart move, saving you time and cash. In just 25 minutes, shrimp, grape tomatoes, and fresh spinach come together with a hint of red pepper flakes for a little heat. It’s a straightforward dinner that skips the high cost of eating out. Making it yourself keeps it lighter and fresher than most takeout options.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a pan.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a 30-minute dinner that makes skipping another restaurant night seem obvious. Juicy chicken thighs pair with a rich mushroom sauce flavored with simple spices like Italian herbs and paprika. It’s all done in one pan, keeping cleanup simple while delivering bold flavors. When you need something easy that feels a little special, this recipe comes through.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Coconut curry Thai turkey meatballs on top of cauliflower rice in a bowl.
Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Ready in just 30 minutes, these Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs bring bold flavors to your dinner routine without overcomplicating things. Juicy turkey meatballs simmered in a creamy coconut curry sauce feel like a treat without the takeout price tag. This recipe is a rewarding option if you’re looking for something fresh and fast that keeps your budget in check.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Baked Ravioli

A close-up of a cheesy baked ravioli garnished with herbs, with a fork lifting a portion to show the melted cheese.
Baked Ravioli. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Baked Ravioli makes busy nights easier, combining layers of cheese ravioli, marinara sauce, and melted cheese for a meal ready in about an hour. This dish is a solid way to enjoy something comforting without turning to pricey takeout. It’s an easy dinner option that brings everyone to the table while keeping things affordable and stress-free. Perfect for when you want something hearty but simple.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli

Sausage Curry

Sausage curry in a skillet garnished with herbs.
Sausage Curry. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage Curry is a one-pan dinner ready in 45 minutes and loaded with hearty ingredients like sausage, sweet potatoes, carrots, onions, and peas. The curry sauce ties it all together for a filling meal that skips dining out costs. Whether you’re feeding the family or just need something quick, this recipe checks all the boxes for saving money while enjoying something flavorful and different from your usual routine.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken is all about making dinner at home feel just as rewarding as eating out without the high price tag. In 40 minutes, you get tender chicken thighs, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. It’s simple to make and feels like a step up from your usual weeknight meals. This dish is always a smart choice for guests or just yourself.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Reuben Bowls

A bowl of coleslaw with creamy dressing, garnished with green onions, served in a ceramic bowl with a fork.
Reuben Bowls. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Reuben Bowls are your answer if you’re sick of blowing your cash on deli sandwiches. Ready in 30 minutes, they’re made with corned beef, sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese on top. Toss in some creamy coleslaw and drizzle with Thousand Island dressing, and you have a meal that beats takeout any day. It’s fast and affordable, and the leftovers are even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Bowls

Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil

A tray of baked shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob slices, and potatoes garnished with lemon wedges and chopped parsley.
Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

No need to spend a fortune on seafood when you can make this Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil in under an hour. Baby potatoes, corn, sausage, and shrimp seasoned with Old Bay all cook together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. It’s quick, easy, and won’t break the bank. Plus, the leftovers are just as good the next day if you’re lucky enough to have any. Easy, flavorful, and minimal cleanup — what’s not to love?
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

A casserole dish filled with tater tots, shredded chicken, and corn, topped with melted cheese and green onions.
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is craving comfort food without the price tag. It’s ready in under an hour with pantry staples like cream of mushroom soup, tater tots, and cheddar cheese. It’s an easy, budget-friendly dinner that’s sure to please the whole family. Bonus: you can broil it for a crispy cheese layer. Less work, more flavor, and no need to spend on takeout.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Grilled chicken pieces with a glossy glaze, garnished with chopped herbs, served on a beige plate.
Grilled Hot Honey Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken is all about the sweet heat, and it comes together in 40 minutes. A quick marinade and fast grill time make it simple, and it’s the kind of meal that feels fancy without the fancy price tag. It’s an easy way to skip takeout, and any leftovers are perfect for lunch the next day. Cooking at home has never been this delicious — or this affordable.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Two bowls of sweet potato and red pepper soup with sour cream and parsley.
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup is a cozy, flavorful dish that’s ready in just an hour. With a hint of cumin and paprika, the sweet potatoes and bell peppers come together for a hearty meal. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and pairs perfectly with crusty bread. It’s the kind of dish that makes staying in feel like the smarter choice than overspending on dinner out.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Hungarian Mushroom Soup

A bowl of Hungarian mushroom soup with a gold spoon.
Hungarian Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Hungarian Mushroom Soup is a creamy, hearty dish that’s ready in 45 minutes, making it a smart choice for skipping expensive takeout. It’s comforting and easy to pull together with mushrooms, sour cream, milk, onions, and just the right spices. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, so you’ll save time on cleanup while enjoying something homemade after a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Creamy Dijon Chicken

A pan of creamy dijon chicken with herbs and bacon.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Dijon Chicken brings together tender chicken thighs, a rich Dijon sauce, and fresh spinach in just 30 minutes. It’s the kind of dish that feels a bit special without being complicated or pricey. This one-pan meal is quick to clean up and perfect for those nights when you want something hearty at home instead of heading out to a restaurant.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Stuffed bell pepper casserole in a pan with a wooden spoon.
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole turns classic stuffed peppers into a quick, easy 45-minute dinner. Bell peppers, ground meat, rice, and cheese come together in one hearty dish that skips the need for dining out. Perfect for feeding the family or saving leftovers for later, it’s a solid pick for busy evenings when you want a homemade meal without a lot of hassle.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Cabbage and Sausage

A pan of cabbage and sausage garnished with fresh herbs.
Cabbage and Sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cabbage and Sausage keeps dinner simple and quick, ready to serve in just 25 minutes. Chicken sausage, cabbage, onions, and butter come together in one skillet for a filling and easy option on the wallet. Skip the restaurant and make this veggie-packed meal at home when you need something fast, flavorful, and practical.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites bring bold flavor to your table in just 20 minutes. Pan-seared chicken tossed in garlic butter pairs well with rice or veggies for a quick and filling dinner. Why spend money eating out when this meal is just as good and twice as easy? It’s a go-to for busy nights when you want something comforting but don’t have much time to spare.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Spinach Chicken Bake is ready in 30 minutes and feels like a hearty solution to dinner without the need for a restaurant. Creamy chicken thighs, fresh spinach, and melted mozzarella come together in an easy dish that’s great for busy schedules. Minimal prep means you’ll have time to relax while still enjoying something homemade and filling after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Keto Zuppa Toscana

A bowl of keto zuppa Toscana with a spoon in it.
Keto Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Skip the pricey dinner out with this Keto Zuppa Toscana, ready in just an hour. Sausage, radish, kale, and Parmesan make for a light but filling soup that hits the spot on a cozy night. This one-pot dish swaps traditional potatoes for radishes, bringing a similar texture and taste. It’s a simple, comforting meal that lets you enjoy restaurant-quality food at home without the hefty bill.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is a quick, one-pan meal that’ll save you from another expensive night out. In 30 minutes, you’ll have zucchini, broccoli, and sweet peppers seasoned with spices like smoked paprika and thyme for a flavorful kick. Roasting with sausage gives the ingredients a perfect mix of crispiness and tenderness. It’s an easy dinner that skips the takeout and keeps cleanup minimal.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole in a baking dish garnished with green onions.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is easy to make and beats any takeout. Ready in 30 minutes, it combines broccoli, cauliflower, and crispy bacon with a rich mix of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, sour cream, and cream cheese to coat the veggies. It’s a filling dish that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty without leaving the house or spending too much.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Chicken Corn Soup

Two bowls of chicken corn soup garnished with parsley.
Chicken Corn Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Make this Chicken Corn Soup in under an hour and forget about heading out for dinner. With tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy texture, it’s a comforting, simple meal that fills you up without the hassle. For a fresh finish, the broth is flavored with thyme, garlic, and a touch of lemon. This cozy dish makes staying home feel like the best choice, saving you money and time.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy ground beef skillet with cauliflower rice with a wooden spoon.
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

The Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice is a 30-minute, one-pan meal that’ll keep you out of the takeout line. It features ground beef, mushrooms, and cauliflower rice, all coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce made with cream cheese, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar. This creamy dish is a no-stress way to make a delicious dinner without spending too much time or money.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

A skillet of creamy sun dried tomato chicken with a wooden spoon.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When you want a meal that feels fancy but doesn’t take forever to make, the Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken is ready in just 30 minutes. Tender chicken in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce with Parmesan is an easy way to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home. It’s a great way to avoid the cost of dining out when you’re craving something a little extra.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Fajita Baked Chicken

Cheesy chicken fajita bake in a baking pan.
Fajita Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Skip the pricey restaurant tab and make Fajita Baked Chicken instead. This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, with seasoned chicken, cream cheese, sweet peppers, and melted mozzarella. It’s a colorful, creamy meal that’s easy to put together and even easier to clean up. It is a smart pick for anyone wanting a flavorful dinner without the wait and cost of eating out.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

A pan full of bacon and cabbage with a wooden spoon.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Fried Cabbage with Bacon is the solution when you want something fast, flavorful, and far cheaper than dining out. In 25 minutes, you’ve got a dish that combines crispy bacon with fresh cabbage for a simple, filling meal. It’s an easy way to enjoy vegetables with plenty of flavor without breaking the bank. Save time, save money, and skip the restaurant.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Creamy chicken thighs with artichoke hearts in a pan.
Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

No need for a night out when you can make Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts in just 30 minutes. This dish pairs juicy chicken thighs with artichokes in a creamy sauce, with a touch of lemon to keep things fresh. It’s a quick, comforting meal that keeps dinner low-key while treating you to a hearty, flavorful dish. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, so cleanup is a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white skillet of creamy garlic chicken garnished with herbs.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Skip the restaurant and whip up Creamy Garlic Chicken instead. In just 30 minutes, this dish features tender chicken breasts in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. It’s a fast, filling meal that’s easy to make and gives you all the comforting flavors you crave without the high cost of dining out. You’ll have everything you need for a delicious dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

A casserole dish filled with pasta and peas.
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Don’t bother with takeout — Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is your quick and simple fix. Ready in under an hour, this dish combines tuna, creamy sauce, and noodles for a cheesy, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare. Plus, it’s great for leftovers, making it an even smarter choice when you want to skip the expensive restaurant run and still enjoy a good meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Broccoli Casserole

A casserole dish with broccoli and cheese in it.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Broccoli Casserole is a budget-friendly, hearty option that saves you from spending on a night out. This dish takes 50 minutes from start to finish, with broccoli, cheddar cheese, and cream of mushroom soup, all topped with a crunchy cracker layer and baked. It’s easy to prep and serves plenty of comfort without the hassle of dining out. Your evening is simpler and saves you money in the process.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

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