Are you tired of blowing your budget on dinner every night? You’re not alone.
Many people struggle to find affordable dinner options that are both delicious and easy to prepare.
The good news is that eating well doesn’t have to be expensive. With a bit of creativity and some smart shopping, you can whip up tasty meals without emptying your wallet.
This blog post is your ultimate guide to 28 cheap dinner ideas that are perfect for weeknights, weekends, and everything in between.
Each meal is budget-friendly, easy to make, and sure to satisfy your taste buds. From hearty soups to flavorful stir-fries, you’ll find a variety of dishes to please every palate.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, these recipes will help you save money and enjoy great food.
28 Cheap Dinner Ideas
1. Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken
Spinach and feta cheese come together to create a savory filling for chicken breasts. This dish is rich in protein and packed with flavor, making it a great option for a satisfying dinner.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens.
2. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This classic Italian dish is incredibly simple yet bursting with flavor.
Made with just spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes, it’s a pantry-friendly meal that’s both quick and delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Black Beans and Rice
A staple in many cultures, black beans and rice are a match made in heaven.
This meal is not only cheap but also nutritious, providing a good balance of protein, fiber, and carbs. Add some spices and a squeeze of lime to elevate the flavors.
4. Broccoli and Cheese Soup
Warm, comforting, and loaded with broccoli, this cheesy soup is a family favorite.
It’s a great way to use up leftover veggies and can be made in large batches for meal prep. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
5. Loaded Sweet Potato
Sweet potatoes are versatile and affordable. Top them with black beans, corn, cheese, and a dollop of sour cream for a hearty and nutritious dinner.
They’re also perfect for customizing with your favorite toppings.
6. Fish Cakes
Made with canned fish, these cakes are an economical way to enjoy seafood. Mix with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, then pan-fry until golden brown.
Serve with a side salad or veggies for a balanced meal.
7. Tuna Salad with Avocado
Upgrade your traditional tuna salad by adding creamy avocado.
This dish is light yet filling, making it ideal for a quick dinner. Serve it on a bed of lettuce or as a sandwich filling for a convenient meal.
8. One-Pot Chicken and Rice
One-pot meals are a lifesaver for busy nights, and this chicken and rice dish is no exception.
Cooked together with spices and vegetables, it’s a flavorful and fuss-free dinner option that requires minimal cleanup.
9. Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese
A classic comfort food combo, tomato soup and grilled cheese never disappoint.
Use pantry staples like canned tomatoes and dried herbs for the soup, and serve with a melty grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate cozy meal.
10. Shakshuka
This Middle Eastern dish features poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce.
It’s a budget-friendly meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Enjoy it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
11. Soba Noodle Stir Fry
Soba noodles are a great alternative to regular pasta and pair well with a variety of stir-fried veggies.
Tossed in a simple soy-based sauce, this dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a light dinner.
12. Eggs in Purgatory
Similar to shakshuka, this Italian dish features eggs cooked in a spicy tomato sauce.
It’s a hearty and flavorful meal that’s easy on the wallet. Serve with a slice of toasted bread for a complete dinner.
13. Tomato Pasta with Bacon
A simple yet delicious pasta dish that combines the richness of bacon with the freshness of tomatoes.
It’s a quick meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor.
14. Oven-Baked Chicken with Potatoes
Baking chicken and potatoes together is a time-saving and budget-friendly way to prepare dinner.
Season with herbs and spices, and bake until crispy and golden. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
15. Spicy Lentil Soup
Lentils are a cost-effective source of protein and fiber.
This spicy lentil soup is both hearty and nutritious, making it a great option for a budget-friendly dinner. Serve with a side of bread for a filling meal.
16. Spaghetti With Mushroom Tomato Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with a mushroom tomato sauce.
It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner. Mushrooms add a meaty texture and depth of flavor to the sauce, making it a satisfying meal.
17. Slow-Cooker Chili
Chili is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and budget-friendly.
Use your slow cooker for a hands-off cooking experience. Packed with beans, tomatoes, and spices, it’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for cold nights.
18. Grilled Chicken and Vegetables
Grilled chicken paired with a medley of vegetables is a nutritious and delicious dinner option.
It’s a simple meal that can be customized with your favorite seasonings and veggies. Serve with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
19. Summer Salad
A refreshing summer salad is perfect for a light dinner.
Combine fresh greens, seasonal fruits, nuts, and a tangy dressing for a vibrant and flavorful meal. It’s a great way to enjoy the bounty of summer produce.
20. Instant Pot Beef Stew
The Instant Pot makes cooking beef stew a breeze.
This hearty and comforting meal is perfect for busy nights. Packed with tender beef, potatoes, and carrots, it’s a nutritious and filling dinner option.
21. Greek Salad Wraps
Turn a classic Greek salad into a portable wrap for an easy dinner option.
Filled with fresh veggies, feta cheese, and a tangy dressing, these wraps are both delicious and satisfying. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
22. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Bell peppers make a great vessel for a variety of fillings. Stuff them with a mixture of rice, beans, and cheese for a nutritious and budget-friendly dinner.
Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
23. Vegetable Stir-Fry
A vegetable stir-fry is a quick and easy way to use up any leftover veggies in your fridge.
Tossed in a savory sauce and served over rice or noodles, it’s a delicious and budget-friendly dinner option.
24. Margherita Pizza
Homemade pizza is both fun to make and easy on the wallet.
A Margherita pizza with fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella is a classic choice. It’s a simple yet flavorful meal that everyone will love.
25. Chicken Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a versatile and budget-friendly dinner option.
Fill them with shredded chicken, cheese, and your favorite veggies. Serve with salsa and sour cream for a delicious and satisfying meal.
26. Vegetable Fried Rice
Fried rice is a great way to use up leftover rice and veggies. It’s a quick and easy dinner option that’s both delicious and budget-friendly. Add a scrambled egg for extra protein.
27. Egg Fried Rice
Egg fried rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice and can be customized with your favorite veggies and seasonings.
28. Baked Ziti
Baked ziti is a comforting and budget-friendly pasta dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
It’s loaded with cheese and baked until bubbly and golden. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Eating well on a budget doesn’t have to be difficult. With these 28 cheap dinner ideas, you can enjoy delicious and satisfying meals without breaking the bank.
From hearty soups to flavorful stir-fries, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, these recipes will help you save money and enjoy great food.
Ready to take your cooking to the next level? Try out these recipes and see how easy and delicious budget-friendly dinners can be. Happy cooking!
