Cooking dinner doesn’t have to be an elaborate or expensive affair. Whether you’re feeding a family, cooking for one, or trying to stick to a budget, there are countless recipes that can be both cheap and easy to make, without sacrificing flavor.
With these 80 dinner ideas, you’ll have a variety of affordable, flavorful meals that will keep your dinners exciting night after night. From hearty soups to creative pasta dishes and satisfying casseroles, these recipes will help you save time, money, and stress in the kitchen.
1. One-Pan Chicken Alfredo
A creamy, cheesy classic that comes together in one pan for minimal cleanup. Cook chicken and garlic, then add pasta, cream, and Parmesan for a restaurant-quality meal in minutes.
2. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This traditional Italian dish uses simple ingredients like spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes, but delivers a flavorful punch that’s anything but boring.
3. Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Toss cheap cuts of beef, carrots, potatoes, and onions into your slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a warm, hearty stew that tastes like it simmered all day.
4. Bean and Cheese Quesadillas
A super cheap and quick meal that requires just tortillas, refried beans, and cheese. Customize with salsa, avocado, or sour cream for added flavor.
5. Ramen Stir-Fry
Transform budget-friendly ramen noodles into a delicious stir-fry by adding frozen veggies, soy sauce, and scrambled eggs or leftover meat.
6. Chicken and Rice Casserole
A filling and inexpensive dinner that combines chicken, rice, and a can of cream of mushroom soup, topped with breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.
7. Tuna Noodle Casserole
An old-school favorite that combines canned tuna, egg noodles, and a creamy sauce made from a can of soup. It’s cheap, easy, and kid-approved.
8. Vegetable Stir-Fry
Use whatever veggies you have on hand, toss them in a hot pan with soy sauce and garlic, and serve over rice for a quick, nutritious meal.
9. Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies
Roast sausages with sliced bell peppers, onions, and potatoes on a single sheet pan. It’s an easy, hands-off dinner that’s packed with flavor and texture.
10. Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
A classic pairing that’s comforting, cheap, and super easy to make. Use canned tomato soup and upgrade your grilled cheese with sharp cheddar or a sprinkle of herbs.
11. Chickpea Curry
Canned chickpeas, coconut milk, curry powder, and a handful of spices come together to create a warm, filling, and budget-friendly meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
12. BBQ Chicken Pizza
Use store-bought pizza dough or flatbread, add some shredded chicken (leftovers work great), BBQ sauce, cheese, and red onion for a quick and tasty homemade pizza.
13. Baked Ziti
An Italian-American classic that’s as easy as boiling pasta, mixing it with marinara sauce and ricotta cheese, and baking it with a generous layer of mozzarella.
14. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ground beef or turkey, rice, and tomato sauce are stuffed into colorful bell peppers for a hearty, filling meal. Customize with cheese or beans for extra flavor.
15. Pasta Primavera
Pasta tossed with fresh or frozen vegetables and olive oil makes for a light, nutritious, and cost-effective meal. Top with Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon for added zest.
16. Chicken Stir-Fry
Sautéed chicken breasts combined with fresh or frozen vegetables and a simple soy sauce-based stir-fry sauce makes for a healthy and quick meal over rice or noodles.
17. Loaded Baked Potatoes
Bake a few potatoes and load them up with toppings like sour cream, cheese, bacon, or steamed broccoli for a filling and cheap dinner.
18. Sloppy Joes
Ground beef simmered in a tangy tomato sauce and served on a bun is a family favorite that’s easy to make and even easier on your wallet.
19. Black Bean Tacos
Canned black beans seasoned with cumin and garlic make an inexpensive, protein-rich taco filling. Top with cheese, salsa, and avocado for a delicious, vegetarian-friendly meal.
20. Garlic Butter Shrimp
Shrimp may sound fancy, but buying frozen can be affordable. Sauté shrimp with garlic and butter, and serve over rice or pasta for a quick, restaurant-quality meal.
21. Tomato and Mozzarella Salad
A simple salad of tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and olive oil makes for a light and refreshing dinner that’s perfect during summer or paired with crusty bread.
22. Ham and Cheese Roll-Ups
Ham and cheese rolled into tortillas and baked until crispy makes for a simple and tasty meal. Serve with a side salad or chips for a complete dinner.
23. Pork Fried Rice
Transform leftover rice into a delicious meal by stir-frying it with pork, veggies, and soy sauce. It’s quick, satisfying, and a great way to use up leftovers.
24. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili
A vegetarian chili that’s hearty and filling, thanks to sweet potatoes and black beans. The flavors deepen as it simmers, making it a cozy and inexpensive dinner.
25. Chicken Fajitas
Slice up some chicken breasts, bell peppers, and onions, sauté them with fajita seasoning, and serve in tortillas for a flavorful, easy-to-make meal.
26. Egg Fried Rice
Day-old rice, scrambled eggs, and a handful of veggies make for a cheap and delicious fried rice dish that comes together in minutes.
27. Lentil Soup
Lentils are one of the most affordable sources of protein, and they make a rich and filling soup when combined with carrots, onions, and spices.
28. Meatball Subs
Frozen or homemade meatballs simmered in marinara sauce and served on sub rolls with melted cheese make for a delicious, budget-friendly dinner.
29. BLT Sandwiches
Bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwiches are a simple, classic dinner option. Pair with a bowl of soup or some chips for a quick and satisfying meal.
30. Shrimp Tacos
Frozen shrimp tossed with chili powder and lime juice, then served in tortillas with cabbage slaw and a drizzle of sour cream, make for an easy, flavorful dinner.
31. Chicken Parmesan
Breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella is an Italian favorite that’s easy to make at home without breaking the bank.
32. Cornbread Casserole
Ground beef, cornbread mix, and canned corn come together to make a hearty casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd on a budget.
33. Spaghetti Carbonara
A simple pasta dish made with eggs, cheese, bacon, and black pepper. It’s rich, creamy, and super easy to make with pantry staples.
34. Taco Salad
Ground beef, shredded lettuce, cheese, and your favorite taco toppings make for a light yet filling meal. Top with salsa or sour cream for extra flavor.
35. Mac and Cheese with Hot Dogs
Upgrade your boxed mac and cheese by stirring in sliced hot dogs for a kid-approved meal that’s fast, cheap, and filling.
36. Vegetarian Chili
Canned beans, tomatoes, and spices come together in this easy-to-make, budget-friendly chili that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
37. Chicken Enchiladas
Roll up tortillas filled with chicken, cheese, and enchilada sauce, and bake until bubbly. It’s a simple, delicious dinner that’s perfect for leftovers.
38. Grilled Sausage and Peppers
Grill or sauté sausages with bell peppers and onions for an easy, flavorful dinner. Serve on buns or over rice for a complete meal.
39. Frittata
Eggs, cheese, and whatever vegetables or meats you have on hand are all you need to make a delicious frittata. It’s a great way to use up leftovers.
40. Pesto Pasta
Toss pasta with store-bought or homemade pesto for a quick, delicious meal that’s packed with flavor. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
The list continues with more affordable, easy-to-make meals, ensuring you always have a delicious dinner option without spending hours in the kitchen. Keep experimenting with ingredients, flavors, and techniques to avoid falling into a dinner rut, and enjoy the variety and savings these recipes bring to your table.
41. Broccoli and Cheddar Soup
This rich, creamy soup is as easy as combining broccoli, milk, and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for a cozy night in and pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread.
42. Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Hollow out zucchini halves and fill them with a mixture of ground beef or turkey, tomato sauce, and cheese, then bake for a satisfying, low-carb dinner option.
43. Cabbage Stir-Fry
This budget-friendly stir-fry uses sliced cabbage as the base, along with carrots, soy sauce, and any leftover protein you have on hand. It’s healthy, quick, and delicious.
44. Pesto Chicken Bake
Spread store-bought pesto over chicken breasts, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake for a flavorful, low-effort meal. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or pasta.
45. Grilled Cheese with Avocado
Upgrade the classic grilled cheese by adding slices of avocado and tomato. It’s a quick, cheap, and nutritious twist on an old favorite.
46. Chicken Fried Rice
Takeout-level fried rice is easy to make at home with leftover rice, scrambled eggs, veggies, and soy sauce. Add chicken for a protein boost, and dinner is served.
47. Pasta with Garlic and Oil
Also known as “Aglio e Olio,” this simple pasta dish is made by sautéing garlic in olive oil and tossing it with spaghetti. It’s a quick, flavorful meal that requires only a few pantry staples.
48. Baked Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are affordable, flavorful, and easy to cook. Simply season and bake until crispy, then serve with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
49. Pork Chops with Apples
Pan-seared pork chops paired with sautéed apples create a sweet and savory meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. It’s both inexpensive and surprisingly elegant.
50. Sausage and Bean Soup
Canned beans, sausage, and a few vegetables combine into a hearty, budget-friendly soup. Add in some spices, and let it simmer for a delicious one-pot meal.
51. Tacos Al Pastor
This Mexican-inspired dish features marinated pork, pineapple, and cilantro, served in soft corn tortillas. It’s a delicious and inexpensive way to mix up your taco game.
52. Baked Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are cheap and versatile. Bake them and top with black beans, sour cream, salsa, and cheese for a simple, filling meal.
53. Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
Combine cooked pasta with grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and pesto for a light, refreshing pasta salad that can be made ahead of time for busy weeknights.
54. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This takeout favorite can easily be made at home with strips of beef, broccoli florets, and a simple soy sauce-based stir-fry sauce. Serve over rice for a complete meal.
55. Zucchini Fritters
Shredded zucchini mixed with eggs, flour, and cheese, then fried until crispy, makes for a quick and budget-friendly dinner. Serve with sour cream or a side salad.
56. Baked Salmon with Lemon
Salmon is a bit pricier than some proteins, but buying frozen filets can save you money. Bake it with lemon and olive oil for a healthy, easy dinner that feels indulgent.
57. Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Large pasta shells filled with ricotta, spinach, and mozzarella, then baked in marinara sauce, make for a comforting, meatless dinner.
58. Potato Soup
A hearty soup made from potatoes, onions, garlic, and broth is both affordable and filling. Top with bacon bits and cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
59. Chicken Tacos
Cooked chicken, seasoned with taco spices, served in tortillas with lettuce, salsa, and cheese, makes for a quick and customizable taco night.
60. Mushroom Risotto
With just a handful of ingredients—rice, broth, mushrooms, and Parmesan—you can create a creamy, comforting risotto that feels gourmet but is actually easy to make.
61. Sautéed Shrimp with Garlic
Frozen shrimp sautéed with garlic, butter, and lemon juice is a quick and elegant meal that’s ready in under 15 minutes. Serve over pasta or rice for a complete dinner.
62. Lentil Tacos
Lentils make a cheap and protein-packed alternative to meat for taco fillings. Season them with taco spices, and serve with your favorite toppings in tortillas.
63. Chicken Pot Pie
Use frozen vegetables and store-bought pie crust to create an easy, comforting chicken pot pie that will satisfy the whole family without costing much.
64. Vegetarian Quesadillas
Fill tortillas with black beans, cheese, and sautéed veggies for a quick, meat-free meal. Serve with sour cream and salsa for extra flavor.
65. Beef and Cheese Nachos
Layer tortilla chips with ground beef, melted cheese, and toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, and guacamole for a fun, budget-friendly dinner.
66. Fajita Bowls
Skip the tortillas and create fajita bowls with sautéed peppers, onions, and your choice of meat or beans, served over rice and topped with avocado and salsa.
67. Meatball Stroganoff
Combine frozen meatballs with a creamy mushroom sauce, and serve over egg noodles for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to make.
68. Chicken and Dumplings
This Southern classic is made affordable and easy with store-bought biscuit dough and simple ingredients like chicken, broth, and veggies for a filling meal.
69. Pasta with Sausage and Peppers
Sauté Italian sausage with bell peppers and onions, then toss with cooked pasta and marinara sauce for a filling, flavor-packed dinner.
70. Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Cook a pork shoulder in the slow cooker with barbecue sauce, and shred for delicious pulled pork sandwiches. Serve with coleslaw for a full meal.
71. Shrimp Scampi
Sauté shrimp in a garlic butter sauce and serve over pasta for a quick, delicious meal. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor.
72. Chili Mac
Combine homemade or canned chili with macaroni and cheese for a hearty, comforting dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
73. Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Stuff chicken breasts with spinach and feta cheese, then bake for a flavorful, low-carb dinner that pairs well with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
74. Tomato Basil Pasta
Toss pasta with a simple tomato sauce made from canned tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil. Top with Parmesan for a quick, fresh, and flavorful dinner.
75. Roasted Vegetable Tacos
Roast a variety of vegetables like sweet potatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers, and serve them in tortillas with salsa and avocado for a vegetarian taco night.
76. BBQ Chicken Baked Potatoes
Top baked potatoes with shredded BBQ chicken, cheese, and sour cream for a filling, budget-friendly meal that’s packed with flavor.
77. Beef Stroganoff
Thin strips of beef cooked in a creamy mushroom sauce served over egg noodles make for a comforting and filling dinner that’s perfect for colder nights.
78. Caprese Salad with Chicken
A simple Caprese salad of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil can be turned into a full meal with the addition of grilled or roasted chicken.
79. Chicken Teriyaki Stir-Fry
Sauté chicken with a simple homemade teriyaki sauce and a mix of veggies for a quick, satisfying stir-fry. Serve over rice for a complete meal.
80. Vegetarian Enchiladas
Fill corn tortillas with a mixture of beans, cheese, and veggies, top with enchilada sauce, and bake for an easy, meatless dinner that’s sure to please.
With these 80 recipes, you’ll never have to settle for a boring or expensive dinner again. Each dish is designed to be budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and packed with flavor, so you can enjoy a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen or draining your wallet.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, these ideas will keep your dinners exciting and delicious night after night.