17 Cheap Dinner Recipes

When it comes to figuring out what to eat at night, you might find yourself eating the EXACT same thing every week.

But why not mix things up without spending a ton of money?

A good, affordable meal can totally save the day when your wallet is feeling a little LIGHT.

I put together a list of the best cheap dinner recipes, so you never have to stress about what to make.

These budget-friendly dinner ideas include cozy comfort foods, quick weeknight meals, and super EASY dishes that take almost no time to put together.

There is something for every kind of craving – and every kind of cooking “skill level.”

So whether you are feeding a big family or just want a tasty meal for yourself, these simple recipes are totally worth trying.

1. Hamburger Skillet Dinner

Hamburger Skillet Dinner is a simple and comforting meal that comes together fast in one pan.

It is a great go-to option for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and filling without spending hours in the kitchen.

You will love how easy this classic ground beef dish is to make for your family.

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Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.

2. Khichdi (South Asian Rice and Lentils)

Khichdi (South Asian Rice and Lentils) is a comforting and wholesome dish made with a simple mix of rice and lentils.

It is a popular and nourishing dinner choice that brings warmth and traditional flavor to the table.

This warm bowl of food is soothing, easy to digest, and deeply satisfying.

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Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.

3. Liverpool Lamb and Vegetable Soup (Scouse)

Liverpool Lamb and Vegetable Soup (Scouse) is a traditional and hearty meal loaded with tender meat and fresh vegetables.

This classic dish is best served with buttered white bread and a side of pickled red cabbage or beetroot.

It is a warm, filling bowl of comfort food that has been loved for generations.

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Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.

4. Soy-Lentil-Vegetable Stew

Soy-Lentil-Vegetable Stew is a quick, healthy, and budget-friendly vegan meal that keeps you full for hours.

Packed with wholesome plant-based ingredients, this hearty dish is simple to whip up on a busy weeknight.

It is a great way to enjoy a warm and nourishing dinner without spending much money or time.

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Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.

5. Cheap & Easy Pasta Puttanesca

Cheap & Easy Pasta Puttanesca is a fast and flavorful weeknight dinner loaded with bold taste.

It uses pantry staples like olives, capers, and tomatoes to create a rich and delicious sauce in no time.

You can put this comforting Italian pasta meal on the table in just a few minutes.

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Recipe from Foodista.com.

6. Cheap Beef Stroganoff

Cheap Beef Stroganoff is a creamy and comforting pasta dish that is easy on your wallet.

Tender strips of beef and mushrooms are coated in a rich sauce and served over warm noodles.

It is a comforting and filling family dinner that tastes like it took hours to make.

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Recipe from Foodista.com.

7. Best Homemade Tater Tot Hotdish

Best Homemade Tater Tot Hotdish is a classic comfort food casserole featuring seasoned hamburger and crispy potatoes.

This family-friendly dinner layers savory meat and vegetables under a golden crown of tater tots.

It is a warm and satisfying casserole that everyone at the table will ask for again.

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Recipe from Foodista.com.

8. Black Bean and Peppers Taco Filling

Black Bean and Peppers Taco Filling is a quick and healthy vegetarian option for your next taco night.

Packed with black beans, fresh tomatoes, and crisp vegetables, it makes a great filling for burritos and wraps.

You can easily whip up this delicious plant-based mix for a fast lunch or dinner.

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Recipe from Foodista.com.

9. Black Bean Burger with Wild Mushrooms, Black Rice and Fresh Coriander

This delicious vegan burger packs bold flavor into a hearty meal.

Wild mushrooms, black rice, and fresh coriander combine for a great lunch or dinner.

You will love how satisfying this plant-based patty tastes on your plate.

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Recipe from Foodista.com.

10. Bisquick’s Impossibly Easy Cheeseburger Pie

Bisquick’s Impossibly Easy Cheeseburger Pie is a wonderful choice for a busy weeknight.

This quick and easy casserole brings comfort food to the table with minimal effort.

Serve this warm main dish for dinner and watch your family ask for seconds.

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Recipe from Foodista.com.

11. Black Rice with Coconut Milk and Spicy Chickpeas

Black Rice with Coconut Milk and Spicy Chickpeas makes a wonderful and healthy dinner.

This simple and quick vegan dish brings sweet and spicy flavors together in one bowl.

Nutritious grains and protein-packed beans create a truly satisfying meal.

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Recipe from Foodista.com.

12. Braised Tofu in Spicy Peanut Sauce

Braised Tofu in Spicy Peanut Sauce is a flavorful dairy-free and gluten-free meal.

This tasty vegan main dish brings bold nut flavors to your lunch or dinner table.

You can enjoy this satisfying plant-based recipe any day of the week.

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Recipe from Foodista.com.

13. Broccoli Chicken Roll-Ups

Broccoli Chicken Roll-Ups make a fun and tasty dinner option for the whole family.

These savory poultry snacks are loaded with tender meat and wholesome green vegetables.

They also work wonderfully as a warm appetizer for your next gathering.

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Recipe from Foodista.com.

14. Broccoli with Lemon Rigatoni

Broccoli with Lemon Rigatoni is a fresh and fast pasta dish for busy weeknights.

Bright citrus flavors pair wonderfully with tender green vegetables in just twenty minutes.

This simple vegetarian dinner brings comfort food to your table in no time.

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Recipe from Foodista.com.

15. Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos

Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos bring a fun kick to your next Taco Tuesday dinner.

Crispy roasted vegetables tossed in zesty sauce make these vegetarian tacos a huge hit.

Kids and adults alike will love this tasty twist on Mexican food.

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Recipe from Foodista.com.

16. Bruschetta Burger Sliders

Bruschetta Burger Sliders are a fun twist on a classic favorite for your next dinner.

These tasty entree bites feature the fresh flavors of tomato and basil right on top.

They make a wonderful meal when you want something a little bit special.

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Recipe from Foodista.com.

17. Buffalo Chicken and Black Bean Wrap

The Buffalo Chicken and Black Bean Wrap is a quick and flavorful meal that brings together spicy chicken and hearty beans.

This easy recipe uses simple ingredients to create a tasty dinner in no time.

You will love how these buffalo chicken wraps make busy weeknights much easier and more delicious.

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Recipe from Foodista.com.