Good Italian food doesn’t have to feel like it came with a side bill for your whole paycheck. These 29 Italian recipes keep it easy on the wallet but still manage to feel like a win. They skip the expensive extras and get straight to the good part without making you miss anything.
Marry Me Chicken Casserole
This dish is a crowd favorite that brings bold flavors to your table without breaking the bank. Marry Me Chicken Casserole combines creamy textures and hearty portions into one pan, making it a convenient choice for busy weekdays. Serve it up for dinner, and watch it disappear quickly! It’s an ideal option for family dinners or small gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Casserole
Million Dollar Spaghetti
If you’re looking for a pasta dish that’s filling and easy to prepare, Million Dollar Spaghetti is always a top choice. It layers a rich pasta base with comforting flavors that everyone loves, and leftovers are just as enjoyable as fresh servings. It’s a dish that balances taste and budget perfectly. Share it with friends or keep it for a cozy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti
Three Cheese Manicotti
Combining simplicity with big flavor, Three Cheese Manicotti is a fantastic choice for cheese lovers. The stuffed pasta shells bring together creamy textures, making it a rich yet affordable recipe to enjoy. It’s ideal for both special dinners and low-key meals. Gather your family around and make this the centerpiece of your dinner.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti
Homemade Lasagna
Few dishes are as timeless as Homemade Lasagna, offering layers of flavor at a fraction of the cost of dining out. The layered pasta, blended with rich sauces, makes it a hearty option for feeding a group. You’ll love how it comes together easily and tastes even better the next day. Perfect for meal prepping or casual entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna
Tiramisu
As desserts go, Tiramisu is one that feels indulgent while being surprisingly easy to whip up. The flavors work harmoniously together to create a dessert with depth and texture that everyone enjoys. This recipe is wallet-friendly and easy to adjust for individual servings. Add a sense of fun to the end of any meal with this classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu
Best Lemon Pasta
For something bright and fresh, Best Lemon Pasta delivers with its simple preparation and great flavor. It’s a quick recipe that pairs well with any meal, whether you’re hosting or eating on your own. Affordable to make yet full of heart, it’s great for those seeking an easy, flavorful dish. Bring some vibrancy to your dinner table with this dish.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta
Ravioli Casserole
When comfort food is what you’re craving, Ravioli Casserole fits the bill perfectly. This recipe gives you approachable flavors and a hearty texture that guests will enjoy. Its simple preparation makes it ideal for serving a crowd without stress. Make it the star of your dinner rotation when you need something filling but cost-effective.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole
Antipasto Salad
If you want a no-cook option that feels layered in flavor, Antipasto Salad is a great recipe to try. This dish works perfectly as a side, lunch, or light dinner while being wallet-friendly and refreshing. It’s a recipe that brings variety without overcomplicating preparation. Perfect for when you need something quick but deeply enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad
Cheese Ravioli
For an affordable way to enjoy pasta night, Cheese Ravioli delivers delicious flavor in record time. Easy to make, it’s a recipe that feels filling without requiring a long list of steps. It’s a recipe ideal for busy evenings or when you’d rather keep things simple. Put this on your meal plan for an easy dinner option without compromising on taste.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ravioli
Caesar Salad
Crisp and refreshing, Caesar Salad is a great low-cost addition to your mealtime routine. This recipe offers a simple way to balance lighter ingredients with great flavor. It pairs nicely with more savory dishes or works on its own as a light meal option. Keep this recipe in your rotation for quick and budget-friendly meal planning.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad
Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta
Combining comforting chicken with simple pasta, Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta is a wonderful recipe to make any day better. It’s hearty without being overwhelming, and the corn brings a sweeter layer of flavor to the dish. Budget-friendly and satisfying, this dish is one to make again and again. Great for sharing or just enjoying leftovers yourself later.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta
Caprese Appetizer
This recipe works perfectly as a light introduction to any meal, and Caprese Appetizer always impresses without costing much. It’s simple to prepare yet looks elegant when plated alongside other dishes. Affordable and quick, it’s an easy win for party spreads or solo bites. Keep this recipe handy when you need a quick starter for your menu.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer
Marry Me Chicken Soup
Rich and warming, Marry Me Chicken Soup is the perfect way to enjoy bold flavors while keeping costs low. It’s easy to make and works beautifully for family dinners or small gatherings. This recipe feels familiar and wholesome every time you serve it. Make it when you need a nourishing meal without spending a lot on groceries.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup
Veggie Pizza
A homemade favorite, Veggie Pizza is both versatile and budget-conscious, perfect for experimenting with whatever’s available in your fridge. Easy to customize, it works for snacks, lunch, or a lighter dinner option. It’s a recipe that brings people together while staying affordable. Turn to this meal when you want something quick and adaptable.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pizza
Chicken Alfredo
Creamy without being overly complicated, Chicken Alfredo is a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners. This recipe offers rich textures that make it feel filling and enjoyable for the whole family. Affordable and easy, it’s a great go-to dish for tight schedules. Prepare this whenever you need a reliable, satisfying meal everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Alfredo
Gnocchi
Soft and pillowy, Gnocchi offers delicious simplicity for affordable dinners everyone enjoys. Paired with simple sauces or eaten on its own, this dish makes a strong impression while being easy to prepare. It’s perfect for anyone looking to stretch their grocery budget without sacrificing flavor. Consider this recipe for quick, hearty meal ideas.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi
Easy Caprese Salad
When you need a quick and fresh recipe, Easy Caprese Salad is always a fantastic option to prepare. Affordable and light, it complements other dishes beautifully or works on its own as a flavorful side. Simple to make and easy to enjoy, this recipe is a great go-to for all skill levels. Share this dish among friends or enjoy it on your own anytime.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad
Garlic Bread
Perfect for pairing with other recipes, Garlic Bread is an affordable way to add a flavorful side to your table. Crunchy and full of flavor, it’s approachable while adding a savory flair to any meal. This side dish is easy on your wallet and quick to prep in a pinch. Keep this recipe on hand whenever you need a last-minute addition to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread
Italian Sliders
Simple yet packed with flavor, Italian Sliders offer a budget-friendly way to enjoy a snack-like lunch or dinner without feeling strapped for time. These bite-sized sandwiches are ideal for serving at gatherings or making ahead. Affordable and versatile, they fit perfectly into game days or casual sit-downs. Make them your next easy win for small meals.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders
Garlic Knots
Full of texture with a garlic kick, Garlic Knots are the perfect side or snack when you want great flavor on a budget. These simple-to-prepare bites work for appetizers or lunch without overcomplicating your meal. A classic favorite everyone enjoys, they fit into many menus with ease. Keep this recipe ready to surprise guests or enjoy yourself!
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots
Spicy Lasagna Soup
Bold and warming, Spicy Lasagna Soup transforms pasta night into something unique yet affordable for any meal plan. Full of approachable flavors, this recipe stays exciting without being overwhelming. It’s an economical way to try something different that still tastes familiar. Bring this recipe out whenever you want a heartwarming dinner idea.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Lasagna Soup
Neapolitan Pizza
With its thin, crispy base, Neapolitan Pizza remains a timeless choice for home dinners without spending too much. Simple but flavorful, this dish is fun to prepare and works for quick meals or casual dinner parties. Keep toppings light to stay true to its personality and wallet-friendly roots. This recipe shows how easy pizza nights can truly be!
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza
Minestrone Soup
Rich, comforting, and very affordable, Minestrone Soup makes for a wholesome addition to your recipe list. Easy to prepare, it works as a side or main dish without much effort. It’s a recipe that feeds a crowd without straining your grocery budget. Try it when you need something versatile that feels approachable yet filling at the same time.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup
Ooni Pizza Dough
Great pizzas start with a great base, and Ooni Pizza Dough gives you a chance to prepare restaurant-quality pizza at home. Affordable ingredients make this an easy choice for family meals or casual hangouts. It’s surprisingly easy to work with for cheaper homemade pizza options.
Get the Recipe: Ooni Pizza Dough
Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna
Hearty yet simple to make, Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna offers an affordable way to enjoy pasta night with a twist. This recipe keeps things fresh without sacrificing warmth and approachability. Great for weekend prep or a casual dinner with friends, it’s easy to love without straining your wallet. Make it once, and it’ll be sure to stay in your rotation!
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna
Pizza Pinwheels
A fun and adaptable snack, Pizza Pinwheels bring together familiar flavors into bite-sized servings for all to try. Affordable and portable, this recipe works for busy schedules or small parties without much stress. Kids and adults alike love these rolled treats whenever they’re served. Make them ahead of time for quick, ready-to-go snacks!
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pinwheels
Tortellini Soup
Warm and comforting, Tortellini Soup is a fantastic way to enjoy pasta flavors in liquid form while staying budget-conscious. Easy to adjust for portions, this recipe makes busy meal planning easier than ever before. Great for leftovers or larger crowds, its versatility shines through. Keep this one handy when you need flexible yet filling meal ideas.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup
Pizza Salad
Unique yet wallet-friendly, Pizza Salad adds a lighter spin to classic pizza dishes without complicating your schedule. Affordable and easy, this recipe mixes approachable flavors into one hassle-free dish. Great for lunch or dinner, it’s flexible without being expensive. Whenever you want a fun twist on traditional flavors, this option works.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad
Spaghetti Marinara
Tried-and-true, Spaghetti Marinara brings you affordable flavor with minimal preparation needed. Its straightforward nature makes it a favorite for rushed evenings or when you need a meal on the table quickly. Serve it hot, and watch everyone enjoy its simple charm. This staple recipe is perfect for adding to your regular dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara
