There’s no need to empty your wallet for a delicious meal! There are 29 meaty mains that won’t break the bank, and they’re perfect for relieving your cravings without draining your budget. From hearty dishes to savory stir-fries, these wallet-friendly recipes prove that you can enjoy mouthwatering meat dishes without spending a fortune. So, there you have it – affordable and tasty options for every meat lover out there!
Air Fryer Carnitas
If you’re into crispy, flavorful pork, the Air Fryer Carnitas are a game-changer. Imagine tender shreds of seasoned pork, perfectly cooked in the air fryer until they’re irresistibly crispy. These carnitas are versatile, making them a fantastic option for tacos, burritos, or even topping a bowl of rice.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Carnitas
Beef Bulgogi Bowls
Enjoy the world of Korean flavors with Beef Bulgogi Bowls. This dish features thinly sliced marinated beef that’s both sweet and savory. Paired with rice and your favorite veggies, these bowls are a quick and affordable way to enjoy the taste of Korean barbecue without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls
Instant Pot Spare Ribs
Craving fall-off-the-bone ribs without the wait? Enter Instant Pot Spare Ribs. This recipe delivers tender and flavorful ribs in a fraction of the time it takes using traditional methods. The Instant Pot works its magic to infuse the meat with mouthwatering goodness, making it a budget-friendly way to enjoy a classic barbecue favorite without the need for a grill or a long cooking process.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spare Ribs
Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos
For a crunchy and delicious snack or meal, turn to Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos. These rolled-up tortillas are filled with seasoned shredded chicken and air-fried to crispy perfection. The result? A delightful finger food or a quick and easy dinner option that won’t break the bank. These taquitos are not only budget-friendly but also a crowd-pleaser, making them perfect for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos
Beef Birria
Take yourself on a flavorful trip with Beef Birria. This Mexican dish features slow-cooked and shredded beef infused with a rich and savory broth. Traditionally served in tacos or as a stew, Beef Birria offers a budget-friendly way to enjoy authentic Mexican flavors at home.
Get the Recipe: Beef Birria
Thai Turkey Meatballs
Level up your meatball game with Thai Turkey Meatballs. These flavorful bites combine ground turkey with Thai-inspired seasonings, creating a unique twist on a classic dish. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these turkey meatballs bring a burst of Asian-inspired flavors to the table without breaking the bank. Get ready to enjoy a budget-friendly and delicious alternative to the usual meatball fare.
Get the Recipe: Thai Turkey Meatballs
Air Fryer Fried Chicken
Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside – that’s what you can expect from Air Fryer Fried Chicken. This recipe takes the classic comfort food and gives it a healthier twist by using the air fryer. Enjoy the satisfaction of biting into perfectly crispy chicken without the need for deep frying. It’s a budget-friendly way to indulge in the deliciousness of fried chicken without the guilt or the hefty price tag.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fried Chicken
Instant Pot Pho
Bring the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine to your table with Instant Pot Pho. This aromatic and hearty soup features tender meat, rice noodles, and a flavorful broth, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. Skip the long hours of simmering and enjoy a budget-friendly version of this beloved dish without sacrificing taste. Instant Pot Pho offers a quick and affordable way to savor the complex flavors of traditional Vietnamese pho.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Pho
Pork Belly Banh Mi
Experience the fusion of flavors in Pork Belly Banh Mi. This Vietnamese-inspired sandwich combines succulent slices of pork belly with crisp vegetables and a tangy sauce. It’s a budget-friendly alternative to restaurant-bought banh mi, allowing you to enjoy the delicious marriage of textures and tastes without spending a fortune. Get ready to savor the goodness of this iconic Vietnamese sandwich without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Banh Mi
Thai Chicken Curry
Spice up your mealtime with Thai Chicken Curry. This dish brings together tender chicken, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk for a delicious and budget-friendly curry. With its balance of flavors and comforting warmth, Thai Chicken Curry is an excellent option for a quick and delicious dinner without the need for expensive ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Curry
Korean Bulgogi Tacos
Craving a fusion of Korean and Mexican flavors? Try Korean Bulgogi Tacos. Thinly sliced marinated beef meets soft tortillas for a tasty cross-cultural delight that won’t hurt your wallet. Top with your favorite fixings for an easy and affordable meal.
Get the Recipe: Korean Bulgogi Tacos
Char Siu
Bring a taste of Cantonese cuisine to your table with Char Siu. This sweet and savory Chinese barbecue pork is a wallet-friendly option that packs a flavorful punch. Slice it up, and you’ve got a versatile protein that goes well with rice, noodles, or even in sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Char Siu
Kung Pao Chicken
Spice up your dinner without burning a hole in your pocket with Kung Pao Chicken. This Chinese-American classic combines tender chicken, peanuts, and veggies in a zesty sauce. Quick to make and easy on the budget, it’s a perfect solution for a worthy weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken
Air Fryer Lamb Chops
For a succulent and affordable treat, try Air Fryer Lamb Chops. The air fryer ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. Seasoned to perfection, these lamb chops are a hassle-free way to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lamb Chops
Instant Pot Country Ribs
Craving fall-off-the-bone ribs without the hefty price tag? Instant Pot Country Ribs are the answer. With the magic of the Instant Pot, these ribs become tender and flavorful in no time. A budget-friendly alternative to slow-cooked ribs, perfect for a delicious meal on a dime.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Country Ribs
Air Fryer Pork Belly
Get crispy and flavorful pork belly without splurging at a restaurant with Air Fryer Pork Belly. The air fryer ensures that delightful crunch while keeping things affordable. Slice it thin and serve with your favorite side dishes for a budget-friendly feast that satisfies your pork cravings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly
Thai Chicken Satay
Transport your senses to Thailand with Thai Chicken Satay. Marinated and grilled to perfection, these skewers are a budget-friendly way to enjoy the exotic flavors of Thai cuisine. Dip them in peanut sauce for an extra kick, creating a simple and affordable Thai-inspired feast.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Satay
Spicy Miso Ramen
Craving restaurant-style ramen without the hefty price tag? Try Spicy Miso Ramen at home. This budget-friendly recipe combines rich miso broth with spicy flavors and chewy noodles for a delicious meal. Customize with your favorite toppings for a delicious bowl that won’t dent your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Miso Ramen
Jewish Brisket
Dive into the heartiness of Jewish cuisine with Jewish Brisket. Slow-cooked to perfection, this affordable cut of meat becomes tender and flavorful. Serve it up with your favorite sides for a comforting and budget-friendly meal that pays homage to tradition without the extravagant cost.
Get the Recipe: Jewish Brisket
Instant Pot Ham
There’s nothing like the simplicity of making Instant Pot Ham. Throw it in, let it cook, and you’ve got a deliciously juicy and flavorful ham without breaking the bank. It’s a fuss-free way to enjoy a meaty main with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Ham
Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken
If you’re a fan of crispy and flavorful chicken without the hefty price tag, the Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken is a winner. The air fryer ensures a pleasing crunch, and the simple seasoning lets the natural taste of the chicken shine through. It’s a budget-friendly option for a tasty meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken
Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter
Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter is a meat lover’s dream without the gourmet price. The flank steak is grilled to perfection, and the chile butter adds a kick of flavor without complicating things. It’s a straightforward and affordable way to enjoy a delicious steak dinner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter
Instant Pot Ramen Noodle Stir-Fry
Instant Pot Ramen Noodle Stir-Fry is a quick and wallet-friendly twist on traditional ramen. Throw in your favorite meat, veggies, and noodles, and let the Instant Pot work its magic. It’s a simple yet tasty way to enjoy a meaty stir-fry without splurging on expensive ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Ramen Noodle Stir-Fry
Chicken Biryani
For a hearty and budget-friendly meal, Chicken Biryani is the way to go. This flavorful dish combines tender chicken with aromatic rice and spices. It’s a comforting and worthy option that won’t break the bank, making it perfect for a delicious home-cooked meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Biryani
Air Fryer Spring Rolls
Crispy and delicious, Air Fryer Spring Rolls are an affordable and easy-to-make option for a meaty appetizer or main. The air fryer ensures a golden and crunchy exterior without the need for excess oil. It’s a tasty choice that won’t have you stressing over your budget.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Spring Rolls
Ramen Fried Chicken
Ramen Fried Chicken is a simple and budget-friendly twist on the classic fried chicken. The ramen coating adds a unique crunch, and the flavors are both comforting and delicious. It’s an easy way to elevate your fried chicken game without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Fried Chicken
Lamb Kofta Kebabs
If you’re looking for a flavorful meaty main on a budget, Lamb Kofta Kebabs fit the bill. The spiced lamb mixture is shaped into kebabs and grilled to perfection. It’s a straightforward yet delicious option that allows you to enjoy lamb without the high price tag.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Kofta Kebabs
Thai Fried Rice
Thai Fried Rice is a quick and economical way to enjoy a meaty main with a burst of flavors. With simple ingredients and a bit of Thai flair, it’s a delicious dish that won’t strain your wallet. It’s perfect for those looking for a tasty and budget-friendly weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fried Rice
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo is a fuss-free way to savor the rich and savory flavors of this Filipino classic without overspending. The Instant Pot streamlines the cooking process, and the result is tender and flavorful chicken with minimal effort. It’s a wallet-friendly option for enjoying a taste of Filipino cuisine at home.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Adobo