I wanted to host without needing to sell a kidney. With these 29 low cost recipes, I didn’t even have to crack open the emergency snack stash. People ate, talked, and nobody suspected I was running on a tight budget. Honestly, the only thing missing was someone thanking me for not ordering takeout again.
Egg Drop Soup
When you’re looking for a quick meal that feels comforting without overspending, Egg Drop Soup is a winner. This dish is easy to whip up and can be filling on its own. It’s great for a lighter dinner option that won’t break the bank. Plus, it’s perfect for those days when you want something simple but fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup
Best Tuna Casserole
Best Tuna Casserole is a great go-to when you want a meal that stretches your budget. It’s an easy-to-make dish that provides enough for a crowd without costing much. You can throw it together in no time and have something that hits all the right spots. It’s the kind of dish that just works, no matter the occasion.
Get the Recipe: Best Tuna Casserole
General Tso’s Chicken
If you’re craving takeout but want to keep things affordable, General Tso’s Chicken is the perfect alternative. It delivers a fulfilling punch of flavor and makes for a hearty meal. This dish can easily feed a group without spending too much. Plus, it’s a great way to recreate your favorite restaurant dish right at home.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken
Garlic Knots
Garlic Knots are a simple yet effective way to fill up your guests without overspending. These little bites are full of flavor and can be made in bulk. They’re perfect for pairing with almost any meal, adding that touch of comfort. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a family gathering, they’ll be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots
Big Mac Sloppy Joe
Need something hearty and easy to make? Big Mac Sloppy Joe is the way to go. It combines the best of both worlds and is perfect for serving a group without stretching your budget. You’ll be surprised at how simple it is to make, but how much everyone will enjoy it.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Sloppy Joe
Gnocchi
When you want something filling yet affordable, Gnocchi is a solid choice. It’s quick to make and doesn’t require a lot of ingredients to taste great. This dish can be dressed up or kept simple, making it a versatile meal option. It’s an easy way to feed a group without spending a lot.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi
Pizza Casserole
Pizza Casserole is like a pizza in casserole form, and it’s an inexpensive way to get the flavors everyone loves. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that can feed a crowd without breaking the bank. This is the kind of dish that can be made in bulk and is always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it comes together without a lot of prep work.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole
Sesame Chicken
Looking for something savory and easy? Sesame Chicken gives you all the comfort without the high price tag. It’s quick to make and goes a long way, feeding plenty for less. This dish is great when you want something a little different but still easy to pull together.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken
Ravioli Casserole
Ravioli Casserole is a cozy, low-cost option that’s perfect for when you want something filling without much fuss. You get the satisfaction of a hearty meal with minimal ingredients. It’s the type of dish that everyone can enjoy, and it’s super simple to put together. Plus, it’s one of those meals that can feed a lot of people for very little.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole
Sheet Pan Chicken Quesadillas
These quesadillas are great for making a lot without spending a lot. You can throw everything onto one sheet pan and let it bake while you do other things. Sheet Pan Chicken Quesadillas are perfect for a crowd and keeps things simple, yet delicious. It’s a go-to for those busy nights when you just want something easy and affordable.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Quesadillas
Sausage Casserole
Sausage Casserole is an affordable dish that’s hearty and can feed plenty without overspending. This casserole is easy to make and can be adjusted based on what you have available. It’s a simple recipe that doesn’t take much time to prepare, yet it feels like a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Casserole
Sloppy Joe
You can’t go wrong with Sloppy Joe when you need a quick, budget-friendly meal. It’s simple, hearty, and filling, making it an ideal choice for any busy weeknight. This classic dish is always a crowd-pleaser and won’t leave you spending too much. Plus, it’s easy to make and hard to mess up.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe
Pork Chops
Pork Chops are a low-cost yet fulfilling option when you want a more hearty dinner. They cook quickly and are versatile enough to pair with almost anything. Whether you keep it simple or dress it up, they’ll deliver on taste without the high cost. A great way to fill up without overspending.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops
Ham and Swiss Sliders
These sliders are the perfect way to host a dinner that doesn’t break the bank. They’re quick to make and incredibly easy to serve in large batches. You get a filling meal with minimal effort, and they’re great for fulfilling a crowd. Ham and Swiss Sliders are always a hit at any meal or gathering.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Swiss Sliders
Birria Ramen
If you’re looking for something a little different, Birria Ramen offers a fresh take on two favorite dishes. It’s easy to make and can be a crowd-pleaser without overspending. This dish offers rich flavors without needing a ton of ingredients, making it a cost-effective meal. It’s the kind of meal you can make for less but still feel great about serving.
Get the Recipe: Birria Ramen
Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Hosting a dinner on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a simple yet fulfilling meal. It’s easy to prep, and cleanup is a breeze. Plus, it’s a hit with everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Focaccia Bread
Focaccia Bread is the perfect addition to any meal without breaking the bank. It’s surprisingly easy to make and adds that comforting, fresh-baked touch. This recipe has the right balance of texture and flavor. It’s a simple way to impress your guests.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread
Big Mac Crunchwrap
If you want to serve something everyone loves without the high cost, Big Mac Crunchwrap is the way to go. It’s a fun twist on the classic fast food favorite. You’ll get all the flavors but with a homemade touch. Plus, it’s easy to adjust the recipe for any dietary needs.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Crunchwrap
Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas
Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas are a budget-friendly way to enjoy bold flavors. They come together quickly and are customizable for picky eaters. This dish makes a great go-to for any casual dinner. It’s easy to make and keeps everyone satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas
Pasta Carbonara
For a rich and comforting meal, Pasta Carbonara is a perfect choice. It’s simple to prepare and fills up the table without costing too much. This dish is the perfect balance of creamy and savory. It works well for any night when you’re craving something easy.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara
Taco Soup
Need a meal that goes a long way? Taco Soup is an affordable option that feeds a crowd. It’s full of flavors, and the best part is it’s super simple to throw together. You can easily make it ahead of time, and it only gets better the longer it sits. Perfect for a filling dinner on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Taco Soup
Best Lemon Pasta
Want something light and refreshing? Best Lemon Pasta brings the right balance of tanginess without being too heavy. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for any busy night. Everyone will enjoy this simple but fulfilling dish.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta
Pizza Pinwheels
Pizza Pinwheels make a fun and inexpensive dinner option. They’re easy to customize and make the perfect hand-held meal. This recipe turns classic pizza into something unique. It’s a great way to serve up something familiar in a fresh way.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pinwheels
Penne Alla Vodka
If you’re looking to serve up something a little fancier without the high cost, Penne Alla Vodka is your answer. It’s creamy and comforting, yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner. This dish is hearty and filling. It’s a great way to enjoy a little indulgence without overspending.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka
Potato Soup
Potato Soup is a great option when you want to keep it simple. It’s easy to make, filling, and great for stretching your budget. This hearty soup is perfect for any night when you want something warm and comforting. It’s satisfying without being expensive.
Get the Recipe: Potato Soup
Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
For a side dish that doesn’t cost much, Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables is an easy and flavorful choice. It’s versatile and goes well with almost anything. You can make a big batch without worrying about the cost. This dish is as simple as it is filling.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
Spaghetti Bolognese
Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic that never disappoints. It’s affordable, filling, and always a crowd-pleaser. This dish is easy to make, and everyone will enjoy it without fuss. Plus, it’s a great way to feed a group without overspending or stressing about what to serve.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese
Black Bean Burger
This burger is a fantastic, budget-friendly alternative to traditional burgers. It’s packed with flavor and easy to make. Black Bean Burger is perfect for anyone looking for a filling, plant-based option. It’s simple, satisfying, and cost-effective.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Burger
Orange Chicken
Orange Chicken is a crowd favorite that won’t drain your wallet. It’s sweet, tangy, and easy to whip up at home. This dish offers all the flavors you crave from takeout but at a fraction of the price. It’s simple to make and perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken
