15 Must-Try Affordable Dinner Recipes for Every Night

Dinner doesn’t have to be expensive to be delicious and satisfying.

Affordable dinner recipes make it possible to create hearty, flavorful meals while staying on budget.

From pasta dishes and casseroles to stir-fries, soups, and one-pot meals, there are plenty of cost-effective options.

These 15 affordable dinner recipes are designed to be easy, tasty, and wallet-friendly, perfect for busy weeknights or family meals.

Whether cooking for yourself, family, or friends, these recipes prove that budget-friendly dinners can be creative, nourishing, and satisfying.

15 Must-Try Affordable Dinner Recipes for Every Night

Affordable dinner recipes show that eating well doesn’t require spending a fortune.

These 15 recipes highlight versatile ingredients, simple techniques, and budget-friendly options that everyone will enjoy.

Incorporating these meals into your weekly routine saves money without compromising flavor or nutrition.

Experimenting with these recipes can make dinners both exciting and economical.

Whether for family, friends, or a solo meal, these affordable dinner creations are sure to inspire, satisfy, and keep your budget intact.

One-Pot Chicken and Rice

One-Pot Chicken and Rice is an affordable, hearty dinner perfect for busy weeknights.

Tender chicken thighs are cooked with rice, onions, and vegetables in a flavorful broth, creating a complete meal in a single pot.

It’s filling, budget-friendly, and packed with protein and fiber, making it a convenient and satisfying family dinner option.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in or boneless
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp oil

Instructions:

• Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat and brown chicken thighs on both sides.
• Remove chicken and set aside.
• Sauté onion and garlic in the same pot until translucent.
• Add rice, paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring for a minute.
• Pour in chicken broth and return chicken to the pot.
• Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes until rice is cooked and chicken is tender.
• Stir in mixed vegetables during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
• Serve warm.

One-Pot Chicken and Rice is comforting, budget-friendly, and complete.

It provides protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables in a single dish.

Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping.

A simple, affordable, and delicious dinner everyone will enjoy.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic, inexpensive Italian dinner that is simple yet flavorful.

This dish features spaghetti tossed with sautéed garlic, red pepper flakes, and olive oil, garnished with parsley and Parmesan cheese.

It’s quick to prepare, satisfying, and ideal for a light, budget-conscious dinner.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Salt to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions:

• Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté garlic until golden.
• Add red pepper flakes and stir for 30 seconds.
• Toss cooked spaghetti in the garlic oil until well coated.
• Season with salt and sprinkle parsley on top.
• Serve immediately with grated Parmesan if desired.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is quick, flavorful, and affordable.

It combines simple ingredients into a satisfying dinner.

Perfect for busy weeknights or when pantry staples are on hand.

A timeless, budget-friendly meal with Italian flair.

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice is a colorful, nutritious, and economical dinner.

A medley of vegetables is quickly stir-fried in a savory sauce and served over steamed rice for a balanced meal.

It’s high in fiber, low in cost, and can be customized with whatever vegetables are available in your fridge.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 2 tbsp oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add garlic and ginger, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add vegetables and stir-fry for 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp.
• Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
• Serve stir-fried vegetables over cooked rice.

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice is nutritious, flavorful, and inexpensive.

It provides fiber, vitamins, and a satisfying meal without breaking the budget.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or leftover vegetable use.

A quick, affordable, and healthy dinner option.

Lentil and Tomato Stew

Lentil and Tomato Stew is a hearty, protein-packed, and affordable dinner.

Red or brown lentils are simmered with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices, creating a rich, warming stew.

It’s nutritious, filling, and budget-friendly, ideal for meatless dinners or feeding a family without overspending.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup lentils, rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp oil

Instructions:

• Heat oil in a pot and sauté onions and garlic until soft.
• Add cumin and paprika, cooking for 30 seconds.
• Stir in lentils, diced tomatoes, and broth.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes until lentils are tender.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Serve warm with bread or rice.

Lentil and Tomato Stew is filling, nutritious, and inexpensive.

It’s a hearty dinner option that’s protein-rich and satisfying.

Perfect for meatless nights or budget-friendly meal planning.

A comforting, affordable dish that feeds the whole family.

Baked Chicken Thighs with Roasted Vegetables

Baked Chicken Thighs with Roasted Vegetables is a simple, cost-effective dinner full of flavor.

Chicken thighs are baked alongside potatoes, carrots, and onions, absorbing herbs and spices for a delicious, wholesome meal.

It’s easy to prepare, low-cost, and a complete dinner with protein, carbs, and vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in or boneless
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Toss potatoes, carrots, and onions with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, pepper, and half the paprika and thyme.
• Place vegetables on a baking sheet and arrange chicken thighs on top.
• Rub remaining spices and olive oil on chicken.
• Bake for 35–40 minutes until chicken is cooked and vegetables are tender.
• Serve warm.

Baked Chicken Thighs with Roasted Vegetables is hearty, flavorful, and budget-friendly.

It provides a complete, balanced meal with minimal effort.

Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping on a budget.

An affordable, wholesome dinner that’s simple and satisfying

Easy Beef and Vegetable Skillet

Easy Beef and Vegetable Skillet is a quick, affordable dinner packed with protein and vegetables.

Ground beef is cooked with onions, bell peppers, and carrots in a savory sauce, creating a one-pan meal that’s hearty and satisfying.

It’s budget-friendly, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights when time and money are limited.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced thin
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp oil

Instructions:

• Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
• Add ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned.
• Stir in bell pepper and carrots, cooking for 5–7 minutes until tender.
• Add soy sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
• Serve hot, optionally over rice or noodles.

Easy Beef and Vegetable Skillet is filling, flavorful, and affordable.

It provides protein, vitamins, and minerals in one pan.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping.

A quick, budget-friendly meal that satisfies the whole family.

Budget-Friendly Chicken Tacos

Budget-Friendly Chicken Tacos are a simple, tasty, and inexpensive dinner.

Shredded chicken is cooked with spices and served in tortillas with vegetables and toppings, creating a customizable, crowd-pleasing meal.

They’re quick to prepare, low-cost, and perfect for feeding a family without breaking the bank.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 small tortillas
• ½ cup shredded lettuce
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• ¼ cup shredded cheese
• 1 tbsp oil

Instructions:

• Heat oil in a skillet and cook chicken breasts until fully cooked.
• Shred chicken with two forks and season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Warm tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
• Assemble tacos with chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese.
• Serve immediately.

Budget-Friendly Chicken Tacos are savory, filling, and inexpensive.

They provide protein, vegetables, and a complete meal.

Perfect for casual dinners or family nights.

A versatile, low-cost recipe that’s flavorful and satisfying.

Simple Vegetable Soup

Simple Vegetable Soup is a light, nutritious, and affordable dinner option.

A variety of seasonal vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth creates a comforting, low-cost meal that’s rich in vitamins and fiber.

It’s easy to make in large batches, perfect for leftovers or feeding a family on a budget.

Ingredients:

• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp oil

Instructions:

• Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté onion, carrots, and celery until soft.
• Add potatoes, zucchini, broth, thyme, and basil.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes until vegetables are tender.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Serve hot with bread if desired.

Simple Vegetable Soup is warm, nutritious, and budget-friendly.

It provides fiber, vitamins, and a comforting meal.

Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping.

A wholesome, affordable dinner that’s light yet satisfying.

Baked Ziti with Cheese

Baked Ziti with Cheese is a comforting, affordable pasta dinner that the whole family loves.

Pasta is combined with tomato sauce, seasonings, and cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden.

It’s hearty, low-cost, and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd on a budget.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook ziti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
• In a bowl, mix pasta with marinara sauce, half the mozzarella, and oregano.
• Pour mixture into a baking dish, top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Serve warm.

Baked Ziti with Cheese is cheesy, hearty, and budget-friendly.

It provides carbohydrates and protein in an affordable dish.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a family.

A classic, satisfying dinner that’s simple and low-cost.

Chickpea Curry

Chickpea Curry is an affordable, flavorful, and protein-rich vegetarian dinner.

Canned or cooked chickpeas are simmered with onions, tomatoes, garlic, and spices to create a warming, hearty dish.

It’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and pairs perfectly with rice or flatbreads for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked or canned chickpeas
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp oil
• Optional: fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

• Heat oil in a pot over medium heat and sauté onions and garlic until soft.
• Add cumin, turmeric, and paprika, cooking for 30 seconds.
• Stir in tomatoes and chickpeas, bring to a simmer for 15–20 minutes.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or bread.

Chickpea Curry is hearty, flavorful, and budget-friendly.

It provides plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

Perfect for vegetarian dinners or cost-conscious meals.

A simple, affordable, and delicious dinner that satisfies both taste and budget.

Creamy Tomato Pasta

Creamy Tomato Pasta is a simple, budget-friendly dinner that’s rich, comforting, and easy to prepare.

Pasta is tossed in a creamy tomato sauce made from canned tomatoes, garlic, and a touch of cream, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal.

It’s affordable, filling, and perfect for weeknight dinners when time and money are limited.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (penne or spaghetti)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup heavy cream or milk
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan for topping

Instructions:

• Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
• Add diced tomatoes and basil, simmering for 5–7 minutes.
• Stir in cream and season with salt and pepper.
• Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until well coated.
• Serve with grated Parmesan on top.

Creamy Tomato Pasta is creamy, comforting, and affordable.

It provides carbohydrates and a satisfying, hearty meal.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a family on a budget.

A simple, tasty dish that’s easy to prepare and enjoy.

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs is an inexpensive, flavorful dinner that’s juicy and tender.

Chicken thighs are seared and baked with garlic, butter, and herbs, creating a simple yet delicious meal.

It’s budget-friendly, filling, and pairs well with rice, potatoes, or vegetables for a complete dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in or boneless
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear chicken thighs until golden brown on both sides.
• Remove from heat and top with butter, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
• Serve warm with sides of your choice.

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are tender, flavorful, and budget-friendly.

They provide protein and a hearty dinner option.

Perfect for weeknight meals or feeding a family economically.

A simple, delicious, and satisfying dinner everyone will enjoy.

Simple Tuna Casserole

Simple Tuna Casserole is a classic, inexpensive dinner that’s quick and comforting.

Pasta is mixed with canned tuna, cream, and vegetables, then baked until bubbly for a hearty, family-friendly meal.

It’s filling, low-cost, and perfect for using pantry staples to create a delicious dinner.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (elbow macaroni or penne)
• 1 can tuna, drained
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 tbsp butter
• ½ cup shredded cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
• In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux.
• Gradually add milk, stirring until smooth and thickened.
• Mix in tuna, peas, salt, and pepper.
• Combine sauce with cooked pasta and transfer to a baking dish.
• Top with shredded cheese and bake for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Simple Tuna Casserole is creamy, comforting, and budget-friendly.

It provides protein, carbs, and vegetables in a single dish.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a family economically.

A hearty, classic, and affordable meal.

Stir-Fried Rice with Egg

Stir-Fried Rice with Egg is an affordable, quick dinner that’s filling and flavorful.

Leftover rice is sautéed with eggs, garlic, vegetables, and soy sauce to create a complete, budget-friendly meal.

It’s simple, versatile, and perfect for using pantry staples and leftovers while keeping costs low.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
• Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
• Push vegetables to the side and scramble eggs in the same skillet.
• Add cooked rice and soy sauce, mixing everything together.
• Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, and season with salt and pepper.
• Serve hot.

Stir-Fried Rice with Egg is quick, versatile, and budget-friendly.

It provides protein, fiber, and a satisfying dinner in one pan.

Perfect for weeknight meals or using leftovers efficiently.

A simple, affordable, and delicious dinner option.

Sausage and Potato Skillet

Sausage and Potato Skillet is a hearty, inexpensive dinner perfect for feeding a family.

Sliced sausages are cooked with diced potatoes, onions, and bell peppers, creating a savory one-pan meal that’s filling and budget-conscious.

It’s simple to prepare, flavorful, and provides protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables in one dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 sausages, sliced
• 3 potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add potatoes and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until partially tender.
• Add onion, bell pepper, and sliced sausages, cooking for another 8–10 minutes.
• Season with paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring well.
• Cook until potatoes are fully tender and sausages are browned.
• Serve immediately.

Sausage and Potato Skillet is hearty, flavorful, and affordable.

It provides protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables in one meal.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or budget-conscious family meals.

A satisfying, simple, and low-cost dinner everyone will enjoy.