Finding quick and affordable meals for busy weeknights can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be. With these 18 budget-friendly recipes, you can whip up satisfying dishes that won't break the bank or take too much time. From hearty pastas to simple soups, these meals are perfect for anyone looking to save time and money while still enjoying delicious food. We know "cheap" can mean different things to different people, so here you will find recipes fitting a variety of budgets - but all without any unnecessarily expensive ingredients.
Slow Cooker Maple Balsamic Chicken
This recipe features tender and juicy chicken breasts that require only 5 minutes of prep time. It's a simple option for a weeknight dinner.
3-Ingredient Chili
This chili is simple to prepare and can be made on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. It's a delicious meal that everyone in the family will enjoy.
Creamy Curry Pasta
This creamy curry pasta is a quick and tasty dinner that you can whip up in just 35 minutes. It's filling and you can easily add your choice of protein and vegetables, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Chicken Goujons
These baked chicken goujons are a healthier twist on chicken nuggets and can be ready in just 30 minutes. They're great for a simple family dinner during the week.
One-Pot Hummus Pasta
Dinner can be simple with just 12 minutes, 5 ingredients, and one pot. This is an easy and affordable meal option that anyone can whip up.
Garlic Butter Pasta
This is a quick pasta dish that you can whip up using ingredients you likely have on hand. It's perfect for busy nights when you want something simple and satisfying.
Lemon Kale White Bean Soup
This soup is packed with fresh veggies and vibrant flavors, perfect for any day of the week. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, making it a comforting option for busy nights.
Olive Garden Vegan Gnocchi Soup
Olive Garden Vegan Gnocchi Soup is a cozy and satisfying dish that's perfect for any day. Packed with fresh vegetables and soft gnocchi in a creamy broth, it comes together in just 30 minutes using ingredients you probably already have at home.
Cajun Alfredo Pasta
This Alfredo sauce has a spicy kick that gives a new spin to the classic recipe. Using just common powdered seasonings you likely have in your pantry, this is a great option when you're looking to save some money.
Instant Pot Chicken & Potatoes
Instant Pot Chicken and Potatoes is a tasty meal that you can whip up in less than 45 minutes. The dish features a flavorful tomato sauce made with fresh tomatoes, tomato paste, and oregano, making it a great choice for busy nights.
Marinated Chicken Legs
This recipe gives you chicken with a crispy skin and juicy meat. The outside is golden brown while the inside stays tender and flavorful.
Cherry Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Walnuts
This 15-minute Cherry Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Walnuts is a quick and easy dish that packs a lot of flavor. It's great on its own, but adding some mozzarella or burrata cheese takes it to the next level.
Lemon Ricotta Pasta
This pasta dish is incredibly easy to make. It's perfect for a quick meal that won't break the bank.
Creamy Pesto Pasta
This creamy pesto pasta is quick to make with just three ingredients and takes only 10 minutes to cook. The bright pesto sauce combined with Greek yogurt creates a simple and satisfying meal that you'll want to have regularly.
Potato Soup
This crock pot potato soup takes about 10 minutes to prep, is loaded with tons of flavor, and the best part is the slow cooker does most of the work for you! Whether you need an easy dinner on a busy weeknight or something cozy for Sunday night dinner, this potato soup is sure to be a family favorite!
Slow Cooker Three Bean Taco Soup
This Slow Cooker Three Bean Taco Soup is quick to prepare and perfect for a simple meal. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it cook, then enjoy it with your favorite taco toppings like cheese and sour cream.
Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
This slow cooker minestrone soup is a filling vegetarian meal packed with pasta, beans, and zucchini. It's a simple and tasty dinner that everyone in the family will enjoy!
Chickpea Fritters
These tasty fritters can be enjoyed in many ways. You can dip them, toss them in a salad, or add them to a burger.
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