29 Low-Cost Recipes To Create Amazing Meals For Less

There’s no shame in checking the receipt after every grocery run. These recipes help stretch every cent without cutting corners on what matters—like having enough for seconds. Affordable doesn’t mean boring, it just means smarter meals with fewer leftovers. And honestly, your fridge could use the break.

Bowl of hot and sour soup with mushrooms, tofu, and sliced green onions, with a spoon on the side.
Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Kimchi Stew

Close-up of a wooden spoon in a vibrant kimchi stew with tofu and pork, garnished with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes.
Kimchi Stew. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

It’s simple to turn a few pantry items into a warm and hearty meal with Kimchi Stew. This dish has a rich blend of textures and is quick to prepare. Leftovers are a bonus, providing a tasty lunch the next day. Your kitchen will be filled with inviting aromas as it simmers.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Healthy Chicken Salad

Close-up of a salad with grilled chicken, strawberries, blueberries, pecans, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing on a bed of leafy greens.
Healthy Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you’re seeking a meal that’s light on the wallet but high on nutrition, Healthy Chicken Salad is your answer. This recipe is great for a hassle-free dinner or as a prep-ahead lunch. You’re in for a refreshing meal that will keep both your wallet and your health in check. Plus, you’ll appreciate the minimal cleanup involved.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Chicken Salad

Baked Beef Tacos

Two tacos with beef, diced tomatoes, jalapeño slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro on a white plate.
Baked Beef Tacos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Creating a budget-friendly fiesta is a breeze with Baked Beef Tacos. The edges get nice and crispy in the oven, adding a crunch. They’re crowd-pleasers that allow guests to personalize their tacos with various toppings. A great choice for a casual dinner without a hefty price tag.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

Korean Burgers

Close-up of a hamburger with a sesame seed bun, beef patty, green onions, and rich brown sauce.
Korean Burgers. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Shake up your usual burger routine economically with Korean Burgers. They’re juicy with a unique blend of flavors that stand out. These burgers are bound to be a hit at your table and will have you coming back to this recipe. It’s a tasty alternative that’s surprisingly budget-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

A baked potato topped with shredded barbecue chicken, sour cream, and chopped herbs on a white plate.
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes mesh the heartiness of stuffed potatoes with the tang of BBQ chicken. You’ll have a filling meal that’s hassle-free and perfect for any evening. They’re meal prep-friendly and excellent for laid-back dining. The flavors in this dish make it a favorite without overstretching your budget.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

Mississippi Mud Potatoes

A baked dish with melted cheese, diced pineapples, browned bacon, and chopped green onions on top.
Mississippi Mud Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Looking for an indulgent dish without a hefty price? Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a creamy and comforting option that won’t let you down. Whether as a side or a main dish, it’s a real crowd-pleaser. It’s a recipe that promises to make regular appearances in your meal planning.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Meatball Sliders

Close-up of a cheesy meatball slider with a seasoned bun, showing melted cheese and tomato sauce. Other sliders are visible in the background.
Meatball Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Small in size but big in flavor, Meatball Sliders are easy on the wallet. They’re perfect for any gathering where some hands-on food is a hit. Make them ahead of time, and watch them disappear quickly at the table. Not only are they fun to assemble, but they also make eating just as enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sliders

Minestrone Soup

A bowl of hearty minestrone soup packed with green beans, pasta, zucchini, tomatoes, and herbs, served with crusty bread slices.
Minestrone Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Nothing beats the versatility and comfort of a big pot of Minestrone Soup. It’s a great way to make use of pantry staples and wind up with a meal that feels complete. On a busy day, this soup is the ideal set-it-and-forget-it meal. Everyone will savor the rich variety of textures and tastes.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Stuffed Pepper Casserole

A spoonful of stuffed pepper casserole with ground meat, red and green bell peppers, cheese, and rice, garnished with herbs.
Stuffed Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For a no-fuss dinner that’s both vibrant and filling, consider Stuffed Pepper Casserole. It’s straightforward to throw together on a hectic night. The dish boasts an array of tastes that come together perfectly in the casserole dish. Not to mention, it’s wholesome and doesn’t stress your food budget.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Mini Hasselback Potatoes

A plate of sliced, roasted baby potatoes is garnished with herbs. A small bowl of creamy sauce is placed in the center.
Mini Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Mini Hasselback Potatoes upgrade an ordinary potato to an impressive side without additional cost. With crispy exteriors and tender insides, they are impossible to resist. They’re just the thing for a small gathering and are super easy to make. Your guests will think you’ve outdone yourself.
Get the Recipe: Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas

Quesadillas filled with rice, beans, and chicken, topped with sour cream and cilantro. Sliced tomato and jalapeño are on the side.
Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you want to add a little kick to your evening meal, Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas are the way to do it. This dish is a quick fix that brings a lively flavor to the table without much effort. They’re great for those nights when you need something hearty in a hurry. Plus, you can make them with just a few basic ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Close-up of a serving of cheesy baked spaghetti with meat sauce, topped with fresh parsley, being lifted from a dish.
Million Dollar Spaghetti. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Enjoy a pasta dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly economical with Million Dollar Spaghetti. It’s a cheesy, creamy favorite that doesn’t demand expensive ingredients. Great for a large dinner gathering or to have ample leftovers. Reheating is a breeze, with flavors that blend even better over time.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Leek and Potato Soup

A bowl of creamy soup garnished with sautéed green onions and herbs.
Leek and Potato Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

With Leek and Potato Soup, you’re in for a treat that’s as affordable as it is comforting. This soup strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and homestyle taste. It’s an example of economical cooking at its best, with simple ingredients that come together to create something truly wonderful.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

A plate with honey chicken tenders, broccoli florets, and mashed potatoes.
Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

You cannot go wrong with Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders, a meal that’s sure to be well-received by both kids and adults alike. Quick, inexpensive, and fulfilling, they tick all the boxes for a great family meal. The honey mustard coating gives them a special taste that’s hard to beat. They’re also perfect for meal prep, making your week easier.
Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

Spaghetti Casserole

A serving of cheesy baked spaghetti is being lifted with a utensil. The dish is topped with melted cheese and garnished with herbs.
Spaghetti Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When looking for a comforting and easy-to-make dinner, turn to Spaghetti Casserole. It’s a casserole that effortlessly feeds many without costing much. Designed to be enjoyed at home, it guarantees a cozy meal experience. Not to worry about leftovers, as they’re just as enjoyable the next day, if not more.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Miso Soup

A bowl of miso soup with tofu cubes, seaweed, and green onions.
Miso Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sometimes you just need a simple option that warms you up without breaking the bank. Miso Soup is that minimal effort, cost-effective choice perfect for quick and easy dinners. Light on the wallet but heavy on comfort, it’s a go-to for a soothing meal.
Get the Recipe: Miso Soup

Baked Chicken Thighs

Roasted chicken thighs with sliced potatoes garnished with herbs.
Baked Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Who said eating well means spending a lot? Baked Chicken Thighs are a wallet-friendly meal that’s both satisfying and convenient. They’re a smart choice for anyone looking to keep dinner costs down, and the leftovers make for great next-day lunches.
Get the Recipe: Baked Chicken Thighs

Beef Chili

Two bowls of chili with kidney beans, meat, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and cilantro. A black spoon in one bowl. Additional chili flakes in a small dish nearby.
Beef Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When you’re in the mood for something hearty without the hefty price tag, Beef Chili answers the call. It’s filled with fulfilling flavors and can be made in large batches for future meals. This dish proves cozy evenings at home can be affordable too.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

Kung Pao Chicken

A close-up of a stir-fry dish featuring pieces of chicken, snap peas, red bell peppers, scallions, and black sesame seeds.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fancy a bit of spice without paying a lot? Kung Pao Chicken offers that spicy kick wrapped up in a budget-friendly meal. It’s quick to prepare, delivering a feast that’s kind to both your wallet and your taste preferences.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Lentil Soup

A hearty bowl of savory lentil soup, beautifully garnished with fresh cilantro, a swirl of cream, and an aromatic blend of spices.
Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Lentil Soup is your go-to for comfort in a bowl on a budget. Easy to make and economical, it’s perfect for those who are mindful of their spending. It’s hearty, nutritious, and doesn’t cost much, making for a wallet-friendly dining option.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

Lemongrass Chicken

Grilled chicken with herbs on white rice, garnished with shredded carrots and cabbage.
Lemongrass Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re after something that’s light on your finances, try Lemongrass Chicken. This dish brings a refreshing twist to dinner without costly ingredients. It’s simple to cook and easy on the budget—a fantastic choice for a no-fuss meal.
Get the Recipe: Lemongrass Chicken

Southern Mash

Mashed potatoes on a white plate.
Southern Mash. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Southern Mash might just be the comfort food you’re craving that doesn’t stretch your budget. Hearty, affordable, and simple, it’s the essence of down-home cooking. Enjoy its fulfilling taste and keep everyone’s stomachs and wallets happy.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

Spaghetti Bolognese

A plate of spaghetti topped with meat sauce and a fresh basil leaf, accompanied by a fork on the side.
Spaghetti Bolognese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This dish is a classic that doesn’t break the bank. A great option for feeding a crowd without a hefty cost, Spaghetti Bolognese keeps meal planning affordable. Plus, its leftovers make for an easy meal prep solution.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Close-up of a baked spinach and artichoke dip in a dark dish, showing a golden brown, bubbly cheese topping with a portion scooped out, revealing the creamy interior.
Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a snack or party starter that keeps the costs down, Spinach Artichoke Dip is ideal. Easy, enjoyable, and economical, it’s great with any simple side. This dip is a crowd-pleaser, proving you don’t need to spend a lot to serve up something tasty.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip

Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Baked sweet potato topped with black beans, corn, avocado, sliced jalapeños, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and cilantro, with lime slices on the side.
Southwest Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Southwest Sweet Potatoes bring color and flair to your table without a high price tag. This budget-friendly dish is as tasteful as it’s vibrant. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a twist to their meal routine without overspending.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing says comfort like Mac and Cheese. Affordable and beloved, it’s a meal that recalls simpler times. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, it appeals to both young and old while keeping your budget in check.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Beef Enchilada Casserole

Close-up of a cheesy dish with melted cheese, beef, beans, and scattered cilantro leaves. Red onion slices are visible in the foreground.
Beef Enchilada Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For comfort food that’s both tasty and economical, Beef Enchilada Casserole has you covered. Flavor-packed and satisfying, it’s perfect for making in large quantities to save time and money. A wallet-friendly dish that ensures you don’t miss out on great taste.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada Casserole

Spaghetti Marinara

Spaghetti marinara in a bowl with fresh basil on top..
Spaghetti Marinara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spaghetti Marinara provides a simple, cost-effective meal solution. This dish is a great pick for those busy days when you need something quick and affordable. Dependable and delicious, it’s a straightforward choice that keeps mealtime easy and budget-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Hot and Sour Soup

Bowl of hot and sour soup with mushrooms, tofu, and sliced green onions, with a spoon on the side.
Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For those looking for a cost-effective dish with a bit more kick, Hot and Sour Soup fits the bill. Affordable and loaded with flavors, it’s perfect for adding some excitement to your meals without spending much. An ideal choice for an economical yet comforting dish.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

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