19 savvy meals to outsmart your food budget

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Savvy meal planning can be a game-changer when it comes to outsmarting your food budget. Here are 19 delicious and wallet-friendly meals that will make both you and your wallet happy. These recipes are not just easy to make but also easy on your budget. Savvy cooking is all about using affordable ingredients smartly without compromising on flavor. So, get ready to savor budget-friendly goodness that will keep both your stomach and your wallet full!

Low angle shot of a bowl of kung pao chicken.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Mongolian Chicken

Overhead shot of a bowl of mongolian chicken.
Mongolian Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spice up your dinner routine with Mongolian Chicken. Tender pieces of chicken, coated in a savory-sweet sauce, make for a delicious meal. Quick to whip up and easy on the wallet, this recipe proves that you don’t need fancy ingredients for fantastic flavor.
Get the Recipe: Mongolian Chicken

Thai Fried Rice

Overhead shot of Thai fried rice in a white bowl with a skillet of fried rice on the side.
Thai Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Take a delicious trip to Thailand with Thai Fried Rice. Packed with bold flavors, this dish combines rice, veggies, and a hint of spice to create a pleasing meal. Wallet-friendly and full of taste, it’s the perfect solution for those craving Thai cuisine on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fried Rice

Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Lamb kofta kebabs on a wooden board with  fresh herbs and vegetables.
Lamb Kofta Kebabs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Looking for something a bit different? Lamb Kofta Kebabs bring a taste of the Middle East to your table. These flavorful ground lamb skewers are a budget-friendly way to enjoy exotic flavors without breaking the bank. Get ready for a delicious adventure.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Chicken Hot and Sour Soup

Two bowls of hot and sour soup.
Chicken Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you need comfort in a bowl without hurting your wallet, Chicken Hot and Sour Soup is the way to go. A hearty blend of chicken, vegetables, and a kick of spice, this soup is a budget-friendly remedy for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and soothing.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Hot and Sour Soup

Singapore Noodles

Rice noodles with meat and veggies on a white plate.
Singapore Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spice up your noodle game with Singapore Noodles. Packed with a mix of flavors and textures, this dish is a budget-friendly option for those wanting to explore Asian cuisine. Quick to prepare and full of goodness, it’s a savory journey that won’t empty your pockets.
Get the Recipe: Singapore Noodles

Kung Pao Chicken

Low angle shot of a bowl of kung pao chicken.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bring a taste of China to your kitchen with Kung Pao Chicken. This dish offers a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors without breaking the bank. Quick to prepare and bursting with taste, it’s a budget-friendly way to satisfy your Chinese food cravings.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema

Fish tacos with shredded cabbage and cilantro lime crema.
Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Tacos on a budget? Absolutely! Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema bring a burst of flavor without burning a hole in your pocket. With simple ingredients and a zesty crema, these tacos are proof that you can enjoy a taste of the coast without splurging on expensive seafood.
Get the Recipe: Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema

Thai Chicken Satay

overhead shot of thai chicken satay on a black plate with peanut sauce on the side.
Thai Chicken Satay. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Level up your dinner with Thai Chicken Satay. These skewers are marinated to perfection, bringing the vibrant flavors of Thailand to your table. Budget-friendly and easy to prepare, it’s a tasty way to enjoy the exotic without spending a fortune on hard-to-find ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Satay

Pork Fried Rice

Pork fried rice in a blue and white striped bowl.
Pork Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Love takeout but not the price tag? Enter Pork Fried Rice – a savvy meal that satisfies your cravings without breaking the bank. Packed with veggies, savory pork, and perfectly seasoned rice, it’s a wallet-friendly alternative to your usual go-to order. Make it at home and enjoy a taste of your favorite Asian dish without sacrificing your budget.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice

Air Fryer Enchiladas

A hand holding a n empanada that is broken open so you can see the inside filling.
Air Fryer Enchiladas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spice up your meal routine with Air Fryer Enchiladas – a quick and budget-friendly twist on a classic. Stuffed with flavorful fillings and crisped to perfection in the air fryer, these enchiladas deliver a pleasing crunch without the hassle. Say goodbye to expensive restaurant options and whip up these budget-friendly delights for a tasty dinner without the extra cost.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Enchiladas

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.

Add some zing to your dinner with Harissa Chicken – a bold and budget-conscious choice for spice lovers. The fiery flavor of harissa combined with succulent chicken creates a mouthwatering dish that won’t burn a hole in your wallet. Skip the expensive restaurant bills and enjoy this spicy sensation at home, where flavor meets frugality.
Get the Recipe: Harissa Chicken

Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles

overhead shot of a bowl of noodles with vegetables and thai peanut sauce.
Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Craving Thai takeout but worried about the cost? Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles are here to save the day. With a simple yet flavorful combination of noodles, veggies, and a delectable peanut sauce, this budget-friendly dish brings the taste of Thailand to your kitchen without the hefty price tag. Enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal without compromising your food budget.
Get the Recipe: Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles

Blackened Fish Tacos

Blackened fish tacos in taco holders.
Blackened Fish Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Tacos on a budget? Blackened Fish Tacos make it possible. With seasoned fish, crisp veggies, and a squeeze of lime, these tacos are a wallet-friendly way to enjoy a taste of the coast. Forget about pricey seafood restaurants – make these at home for a worthwhile meal that won’t make your wallet swim away.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Fish Tacos

Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

stacked taquitos on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Transform your snack game with Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos – a budget-friendly alternative to store-bought options. These crispy delights, filled with seasoned chicken and cheese, are a crowd-pleaser without the restaurant price tag. Say goodbye to expensive appetizers and whip up these taquitos at home for a savory treat that won’t break the bank.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

Fish Tacos/Air Fryer Fish Tacos

Fish tacos on a small baking sheet with limes.
Fish Tacos/Air Fryer Fish Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Craving fish tacos without the high cost? Enter Fish Tacos or Air Fryer Fish Tacos – a budget-friendly way to enjoy this coastal favorite at home. With perfectly cooked fish, fresh toppings, and a squeeze of lime, these tacos deliver the flavors you love without the restaurant bill. Skip the seafood joint and opt for this wallet-friendly version that won’t compromise on taste.
Get the Recipe: Fish Tacos/Air Fryer Fish Tacos

Mochiko Chicken

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

Elevate your dinner routine with Mochiko Chicken – a budget-friendly dish that brings Japanese-inspired flavors to your table. Featuring crispy chicken coated in sweet and savory mochiko flour, this meal is a tasty alternative to pricey takeout. Enjoy the taste of Japan without the expense – make Mochiko Chicken at home for a delicious and wallet-friendly dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Mochiko Chicken

Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps

Closeup of a chicken shawarma wrap.
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Craving the bold flavors of shawarma without the big bill? Enter Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps – a budget-friendly alternative to your favorite street food. With perfectly seasoned chicken, crisp veggies, and a drizzle of sauce, these wraps satisfy your shawarma cravings without emptying your wallet. Skip the takeout and enjoy this savory sensation at home for a wallet-friendly delight.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps

Thai Fried Rice

Overhead shot of Thai fried rice in a white bowl with a skillet of fried rice on the side.
Thai Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Love the taste of Thai cuisine but not the cost? Thai Fried Rice is the answer. Packed with fragrant jasmine rice, colorful veggies, and a hint of soy sauce, this budget-friendly dish is a delicious way to bring the flavors of Thailand to your table without the extra expense. Skip the takeout and whip up this simple and delicious fried rice at home for a taste of Thailand on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fried Rice

Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma

Low angle shot of chicken shawarma on a white platter with harissa paste and tomatoes and cucumbers in the background.
Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Craving the bold and aromatic flavors of shawarma without the long wait? Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma is here to save the day. With perfectly seasoned chicken, warm spices, and a hint of garlic, this budget-friendly dish is a quick and tasty alternative to your favorite takeout. Say goodbye to the long lines and enjoy the convenience of making this flavorful dish at home without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma

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