Cheap and Easy Dinner Recipes

Eating well doesn’t have to break the bank! Whether you’re looking for cheap meal ideas, budget-friendly dinners, or cheap family meals, I’ve got you covered with delicious, affordable recipes.

The best part? Every meal is budgeted using Walmart prices (as of March 2025), so you can easily stick to your food budget. I priced everything as if you’re starting from scratch with no ingredients on hand—but chances are, you already have some staples.

Plus, many ingredients stretch across multiple meals. For example, if you buy a rotisserie chicken for one recipe, you might have half left for another, making each meal even more affordable than the listed price!

Let’s dive into some cheap easy meals that taste great and won’t leave your wallet empty.

How to Plan Cheap Easy Meals on a Budget

Before we jump into the recipes, here are a few smart strategies to keep your grocery bill low while still making satisfying meals:

• Buy in bulk: Stock up on pantry staples like rice, pasta, beans, and canned goods.
• Use affordable proteins: Ground turkey, chicken thighs, and beans are great alternatives to expensive cuts of meat.
• Stretch ingredients: Make meals that use overlapping ingredients to minimize waste.
• Shop store brands: Walmart’s Great Value brand often offers the same quality at a lower price.
• Plan ahead: Meal planning prevents impulse purchases and food waste.

Cheap Dinner Ideas for Every Night of the Week

Here’s a collection of cheap easy dinners that will feed your family without stretching your budget. Each recipe includes a breakdown of cost, so you know exactly what to expect.

1. Baked Quesadillas – $12.64 ($3.16 per serving)

Brush the tortillas with a little oil before baking for an extra crispy texture. Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze!

2. Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs – $12.76 ($1.59 per serving)

Serve over rice or noodles to make it a more filling meal. Using frozen meatballs makes this an easy win for leftovers.

3. Fajita Quesadilla- $13.69 ($3.41 per serving)

Use leftover grilled chicken or steak to save time and money.

4. Crock Pot Ranch Chicken- $15.08 ($2.51 per person)

Shred the chicken and use it for sandwiches, wraps, or even over rice for multiple meal options. Swap fresh garlic for garlic powder if you’re in a pinch.

5. Salisbury Steak- $15.50 ($3.01 per person)

The perfect slow cooker and freezer meal. Serve with mashed potatoes or egg noodles to stretch the meal further.

6. KFC Bowls- $14.06 ($2.81 per person)

Use microwave mashed potatoes for a faster prep, or make homemade if you have extra time. A drizzle of gravy brings everything together for the perfect comfort meal.

7. Caprese Chicken- $14.59 ($3.65 per person)

Swap fresh mozzarella for shredded to save a little extra money. If fresh basil isn’t available, dried basil works in a pinch.

8. Beef Taquitos- $12.66 ($2.53 per person)

Baked instead of frying for a healthier version with less mess. Add a little cream cheese to the beef mixture for extra creaminess.

9. Chicken Parmesan Bake- $13.48 ($3.37 per serving)

Use store-bought marinara to cut down on prep time. Toasting the breadcrumbs before adding them on top gives a crispier texture.

10. French Bread Pizza- $9.49 ($2.37 per person)

Use day-old French bread to save money and get the perfect crispy base. Customize with any leftover veggies or proteins in the fridge.

11. Buffalo Chicken Quesadilla- $15.93 ($3.98 per person)

Use rotisserie chicken for a quick prep, and mix in a little ranch to balance the spice. Cook on medium heat to prevent burning while keeping the tortilla crispy.

12. Beef Tips- $18.00 ($3.00 per person)

Sear the beef before slow cooking to lock in flavor. Serve over mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious gravy.

13. Teriyaki Chicken- $12.83 ($3.20 per person)

Marinate the chicken overnight for extra flavor without extra effort. Serve with steamed broccoli and rice for a balanced meal.

14. Orange Chicken- $16.55 ($2.75 per person)

Use frozen popcorn chicken for a shortcut when short on time. Add a splash of orange juice to the sauce for a fresher citrus flavor.

15. Pizza Pockets- $12.13 ($3.03 per person)

Use refrigerated biscuit dough or crescent rolls for a quick shortcut. Let them cool slightly before eating to prevent burning your mouth!

16. Philly Sliders- $23.96 ($1.96 per serving)

Toast the buns before assembling to prevent sogginess. Use deli roast beef for a fast and easy prep option.

17. Flatbread Pizza – $13.49 ($3.37 per person)

Pre-bake the flatbread for a crispier crust. Use whatever cheese you have on hand to save money.

18. Alfredo Pasta- $11.04 ($2.85 per person)

Thin the Alfredo sauce with a bit of pasta water to help it coat the noodles better. Add frozen or canned chicken for a protein boost without extra prep.

19. Burgers- $14.32 ($3.58 per person)

Mix in a little Worcestershire sauce for extra juicy patties. Toast the buns for a better texture, especially if skipping toppings. Price does not include toppings

20. Ravioli Bake- $13.13 ($1.64 per person)

Use frozen or refrigerated ravioli for a super quick prep. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top adds a nice cheesy crust.

21. Tater Tot Casserole- $12.13 ($2.02 per person)

Layer the tater tots in a single layer for the crispiest top. Add frozen mixed veggies to stretch the meal and sneak in more nutrients.

22. Roast Beef Sandwich- $13.39 ($1.12 per person)

Use leftover roast beef from a previous meal to cut costs. Toast the bread with butter for an extra flavorful crunch.

23. Meatball Subs- $12.77 ($3.19 per person)

Using frozen meatballs to makes this a super quick dinner. Toast the sub rolls before adding the meatballs to prevent sogginess.

24. Pulled Pork- $16.62 ($2.07 per person)

Slow cook on low for the most tender meat. Use leftovers for tacos, quesadillas, or even a BBQ pizza!

25. Philly Sloppy Joes – $13.18 ( $3.30 per serving)

Adding a little Worcestershire sauce deepens the flavor. Serve on toasted buns with melted provolone for the full Philly experience.

Quick and Affordable Ingredient Swaps

If a recipe calls for something you don’t have, try these budget-friendly swaps:

• Ground beef → Ground turkey or lentils
• Chicken breast → Chicken thighs
• Fresh veggies → Frozen or canned vegetables
• Sour cream → Plain yogurt
• Cheese → A smaller portion or skipping entirely

Cheap Meal Ideas: Budget-Friendly Dinners Your Family Will Love

Making cheap easy meals doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. With a little creativity and planning, you can serve cheap easy dinners that are both delicious and affordable.

Try out these budget dinner ideas, and let me know your favorites! What’s your go-to cheap meal when you need to save money? Drop it in the comments below!

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