20 Budget-Friendly Cheap Dinner Recipes for Family Delights

Title: 20 Budget-Friendly Cheap Dinner Recipes for Family Delights

Are you tired of breaking the bank every time you want to cook a delicious meal for your family? Look no further! In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 20 mouth-watering and wallet-friendly dinner recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic comfort foods to international twists, these recipes are designed to be easy on the budget without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick weeknight meals or a college student trying to make ends meet, we’ve got you covered. Our list of budget-friendly cheap dinner recipes includes everything from one-pot wonders to casseroles, stir-fries, and more. And the best part? Each recipe is under $10 per serving!

One-Pot Spaghetti with Garlic Bread

A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and delicious! This one-pot spaghetti dish is a crowd-pleaser, served with crispy garlic bread on the side.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 slices of bread
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

1. Cook spaghetti in a large pot according to package directions.
2. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer sauce for 10-12 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Butter bread slices and sprinkle with minced garlic.
6. Place bread on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
7. Serve spaghetti with garlic bread on the side.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice

Whip up a quick and flavorful meal with this easy-to-make vegetable stir-fry served over fluffy rice.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, etc.)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
6. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the vegetable stir-fry over cooked rice.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Cheesy Baked Ziti

A classic comfort food recipe that’s sure to please the whole family! This creamy, cheesy pasta dish is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Combine marinara sauce with the cooked ziti pasta.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
6. Layer half of the pasta mixture, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, and then half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers.
7. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Black Bean and Corn Tacos

A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the richness of black beans with the sweetness of corn and a hint of spices.

Ingredients:

– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, salsa

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the black beans, corn kernels, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the tacos by spooning the bean and corn mixture onto a tortilla and adding your desired toppings.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Homemade Chicken and Rice Casserole

A comforting and satisfying casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the cooked rice, peas and carrots, cream of chicken soup, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add the cooked chicken mixture to the rice mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Lentil and Vegetable Soup

This hearty soup is a perfect blend of tender lentils, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic spices, making it a comforting and nutritious meal option.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies

This recipe is a simple and satisfying one-dish wonder that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a flavorful and filling dish on the table in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 2 large red potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Arrange the sausage slices, carrots, bell peppers, and potatoes in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Cheesy Potato and Broccoli Bake

A comforting and creamy casserole perfect for a cozy night in, this Cheesy Potato and Broccoli Bake combines the flavors of roasted potatoes, steamed broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese.

Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, boil the potato slices for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Arrange half of the potatoes in the bottom. Top with broccoli, then pour the cheese sauce over it. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining potatoes on top.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs (if using) and cheddar cheese evenly over the potatoes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Beef and Bean Chili

A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a chilly day or a busy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder and cumin. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Vegetable Fried Rice

Transform leftover rice into a flavorful and nutritious meal with this simple Vegetable Fried Rice recipe.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in the beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through.
6. Mix the eggs with the vegetables. Stir-fry the rice into the pan, breaking up any clumps.
7. Add soy sauce to taste, then season with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Transfer the Vegetable Fried Rice to a serving platter and garnish with chopped scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Pasta with Marinara and Garlic Breadsticks

Savor a classic Italian-inspired dinner with this easy-to-make pasta dish, paired with crispy garlic breadsticks.

Ingredients:

For the pasta:

– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

For the garlic breadsticks:

– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat marinara sauce over medium-low heat.
4. Meanwhile, roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Cut into strips for breadsticks.
5. Mix minced garlic and Parmesan cheese. Brush olive oil on each breadstick, then sprinkle with garlic-cheese mixture.
6. Bake breadsticks in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Toss cooked spaghetti with marinara sauce. Serve hot with garlic breadsticks.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Egg and Veggie Scramble with Toast

Egg and Veggie Scramble with Toast Recipe

Start your day off right with this protein-packed breakfast recipe that combines scrambled eggs, colorful vegetables, and crispy toast.

Ingredients:

– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced mushrooms
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices of whole wheat bread
– 1 tablespoon butter or non-stick cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the butter or non-stick cooking spray and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook until the eggs start to set, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the diced bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach to the eggs. Stir everything together to combine.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the eggs are fully cooked.
6. Meanwhile, toast the bread slices until they’re lightly browned.
7. Serve the egg scramble with the toasted bread on the side.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Tomato and Basil Pasta

A classic Italian dish that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in the chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Once the pasta is cooked, drain and add it to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Homemade Pizza with Veggie Toppings

Create a delicious homemade pizza loaded with colorful veggie toppings, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– Toppings:
+ 1 cup sliced bell peppers
+ 1 cup sliced mushrooms
+ 1 cup sliced cherry tomatoes
+ 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
+ Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add olive oil, salt, and flour; mix until dough forms.
4. Knead dough on floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth.
5. Roll out dough to desired thickness (about 1/4 inch).
6. Top with bell peppers, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and toppings are tender.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry

A quick and flavorful stir-fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch, this recipe combines the savory taste of chicken with the crunch of colorful vegetables.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and garlic to the pan, cooking for 4-5 minutes or until tender-crisp.
4. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burritos

A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional burritos, this recipe combines roasted sweet potatoes with the savory taste of black beans, wrapped in a crispy tortilla.

Ingredients:

– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa, sour cream, and avocado (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pan, sauté onion and bell pepper until softened. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in black beans and roasted sweet potatoes.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by filling with the sweet potato and black bean mixture, and top with cheese, salsa, sour cream, and avocado if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Mac and Cheese with Peas

A comforting classic gets a fresh twist with the addition of sweet peas. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
– 2 tbsp butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Add cooked macaroni and peas to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the mac and cheese is heated through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Vegetable and Bean Soup

This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with the comforting warmth of beans and vegetables.

Ingredients:

– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, vegetable broth, and thyme.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet

Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet Recipe

A hearty, one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. This recipe combines the flavors of ground turkey, rice, and spices with some crunchy vegetables.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, frozen peas and carrots, diced bell peppers, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Cheesy Quesadillas with Salsa

Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these easy and delicious cheesy quesadillas, served with a tangy homemade salsa.

Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, cilantro

Instructions:

1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle one-quarter of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
3. Add a few chopped onion and jalapeño pieces on top of the cheese.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Serve hot with salsa, sour cream, avocado, and cilantro (optional).

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Summary

Looking for delicious and budget-friendly dinner recipes to delight your family? Look no further! This article features 20 mouth-watering options that won’t break the bank. From classic comfort foods like cheesy baked ziti and homemade chicken and rice casserole, to international-inspired dishes like black bean and corn tacos and vegetable stir-fry with rice, there’s something for everyone. These recipes are perfect for busy families who want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without sacrificing flavor or quality. Check out these affordable and easy-to-make dinner ideas that will please even the pickiest eaters!