25 Dinners That Won’t Break Your Grocery Budget

Tired of restaurant prices wrecking your budget? Craving delicious, home-cooked meals without emptying your wallet? You’re in the right place!

We’ve compiled 25 fantastic dinner ideas that are both budget-friendly and bursting with flavor. Get ready to impress your taste buds (and your bank account!)

These recipes are designed to be easy on the wallet, using readily available ingredients and minimizing waste. Many are also easily adaptable – feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or what’s on sale.

Black Beans and Rice

A classic comfort food that’s both cheap and incredibly satisfying. This vibrant dish is packed with protein and fiber, keeping you full and energized.

Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

Minimize cleanup and maximize flavor with this one-pan wonder. Toss chicken and veggies with fajita seasoning and roast to perfection. Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings.

Lentil Soup

Hearty, healthy, and unbelievably cheap, lentil soup is a true budget champion. This protein-packed soup is perfect for a chilly evening.

Tuna Noodle Casserole

A nostalgic classic that’s surprisingly affordable. This creamy, cheesy casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a family dinner.

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice

Load up on colorful veggies and enjoy a healthy, delicious, and budget-friendly stir-fry. Serve over rice for a complete meal.

Pasta with Marinara and Meatballs

A comforting Italian classic that’s always a winner. Homemade meatballs are easy and cost-effective, especially when you use ground turkey or a blend of meats.

Chickpea Curry

This flavorful and fragrant curry is packed with protein and healthy spices. Chickpeas are an inexpensive source of protein, making this dish a budget-friendly delight.

Breakfast for Dinner (Pancakes & Eggs)

Sometimes the simplest meals are the best! Pancakes and eggs are a fun, cheap, and satisfying way to switch things up.

Baked Potato Bar

Baked potatoes are incredibly cheap and versatile. Set up a bar with toppings like cheese, chili, sour cream, and chives for a customizable and fun meal.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

This simple yet elegant pasta dish is made with just a few ingredients: garlic, olive oil, chili flakes, and pasta. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful.

Rice and Bean Burritos

A budget-friendly Mexican classic. Fill tortillas with rice, beans, and your favorite toppings for a satisfying and customizable meal.

Split Pea Soup

Another hearty and healthy soup option, split pea soup is incredibly budget-friendly and perfect for a cold night.

Egg Fried Rice

A quick and easy meal that’s perfect for using up leftover rice. Add in some veggies and eggs for a complete and satisfying dish.

Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese

A classic comfort food combo that’s always a hit. This simple yet satisfying meal is perfect for a cozy night in.

Slow Cooker Chili

Let your slow cooker do the work with this hearty and flavorful chili. This is a perfect make-ahead meal that’s budget-friendly and delicious.

Potato and Corn Chowder

Creamy, comforting, and budget-friendly, this chowder is a perfect meal for a chilly evening. Potatoes and corn are inexpensive ingredients that pack a flavor punch.

Cabbage and Noodles

A simple and inexpensive dish that’s surprisingly satisfying. This classic comfort food is perfect for a budget-conscious meal.

Baked Ziti

A cheesy and comforting baked pasta dish that’s perfect for a crowd. It’s surprisingly affordable, especially when you make your own sauce.

Red Beans and Rice

Another southern classic that’s both delicious and inexpensive. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a weeknight meal.

Peanut Butter Noodles

A quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal. This simple dish is a budget-friendly weeknight dinner winner.

Shepherd’s Pie with Lentils

A healthier and more budget-friendly twist on a classic comfort food. Lentils replace the ground meat for a delicious and affordable meal.

Spanish Rice and Beans

A flavorful and filling dish that’s perfect for a budget-friendly meal. Spanish rice and beans are a staple of many cuisines, and for good reason!

Potato and Onion Frittata

A simple and versatile egg dish that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Potatoes and onions are inexpensive ingredients that add a lot of flavor.

Bean and Cheese Quesadillas

A quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. This simple dish is packed with protein and flavor.

Pasta e Ceci (Pasta with Chickpeas)

This hearty Italian pasta and chickpea soup is both budget-friendly and delicious. A comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cold night.