25 Dinner Ideas That’ll Shock Your Wallet

ByMandy

Dinner doesn’t have to be expensive to taste great. Simple meals that are easy to make can still be full of flavor without breaking the bank. With 25 options to choose from, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a meal without spending too much. These recipes make it easy to save money while still having something delicious on the table.

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Best Lemon Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pea and Mint Soup

A bowl of creamy green pea soup garnished with mint leaves, black pepper, and pieces of crusty bread.
Pea and Mint Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fresh, green peas with a hint of mint make a creamy, smooth soup perfect for dinner. Pea and Mint Soup is light yet filling. Simply blend and heat. It’s elegant and easy on your budget. These ideas show that cooking at home can be both affordable and delicious. Great for a cozy evening.
Get the Recipe: Pea and Mint Soup

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 beats the comfort of creamy mac and cheese after a long day. Mac and Cheese mixes cheesy goodness with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s an all-time family favorite. Simple ingredients make it budget-friendly. Ideal for a quick, hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Vegetable Soup

Close-up of a bowl of vegetable soup with spinach, peas, carrots, celery, and large beans, topped with grated cheese. A spoon rests in the bowl.
Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A warm bowl filled with mixed veggies can make dinner delicious. Vegetable Soup is packed with seasonal produce. It’s healthy, simple, and easy to prepare. Perfect for a wholesome dinner without straining your wallet. Excellent for a feel-good meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Soup

Broccoli Casserole

Someone serving broccoli casserole.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Imagine enjoying a baked dish with fresh broccoli and a crispy top layer. Broccoli Casserole pairs well with anything. It’s both nutritious and inexpensive. Easy to make and delicious. It’s both healthy and delicious without breaking the bank. A great addition to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Tuscan Pasta

A close-up of a plate of Creamy Tuscan Pasta topped with a rich white sauce, grated cheese, and garnished with chopped parsley.
Tuscan Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Enjoy a tasty pasta dish that feels like it’s straight from an Italian kitchen. Tuscan Pasta is rich with simple flavors. Easy to prepare and cost-effective. A perfect mix of traditional tastes and comfort. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to prepare. Great for a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta

Corn Casserole

Corn casserole in a casserole dish with a portion removed.
Corn Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A sweet and savory dish that pairs corn with delicious flavors. Corn Casserole is perfect for any dinner. It’s filling and budget-friendly. Quick to make with ingredients you probably have on hand. Perfect when you need a simple side or main.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Southern Mash

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

Creamy mashed potatoes with a Southern twist can make dinner special. Southern Mash is rich with buttery flavors. It’s easy to prepare and oh-so-comforting. Affordable and great with any main dish. Perfect for a homestyle meal.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

25 Minute Black Bean Burger

A black bean burger in a burger bap with relish oozing out over it.
25 Minute Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Whip up a tasty, protein-packed burger in no time. 25 Minute Black Bean Burger is a quick and economical dinner fix. Packed with flavor and easy to make. Perfect for a filling, healthy meal. Budget-friendly and delicious. Plus, it’s so easy to make.
Get the Recipe: 25 Minute Black Bean Burger

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Mix hashbrowns with a creamy sauce for a delicious dinner option. Hashbrown Casserole is both hearty and comforting. Great for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank. Simple, easy, and tasty. Perfect for a cozy night.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Easy Flatbread Pizza

Two slices of pizza with tomatoes and herbs.
Easy Flatbread Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Create a personalized pizza with minimal effort. Easy Flatbread Pizza is quick to assemble and bake. Use whatever toppings you like. It’s cost-effective and fun to make. Great for a simple yet perfect dinner. You’ll be impressed with how something so simple can be so perfect.
Get the Recipe: Easy Flatbread Pizza

Spaghetti Marinara

Spaghetti marinara in a bowl with fresh basil on top..
Spaghetti Marinara. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Enjoy a classic Italian dish with tangy tomato sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. Spaghetti Marinara is always a hit. Simple ingredients make it budget-friendly. Easy to prepare and comforting. Ideal for a quick, tasty dinner.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Cacio e Pepe

Close-up of cooked spaghetti with cracked black pepper and a fork partially visible.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A traditional Italian pasta dish with a peppery kick. Cacio e Pepe combines cheese and pepper into a creamy sauce. Only a few ingredients needed. It’s an affordable and impressive dish. Perfect for a quick, delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Stuffed Peppers

Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers in a white bowl.
Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A colorful and nutritious dinner option that’s easy to prepare. Stuffed Peppers are filled with a tasty mix and baked to perfection. Economical and delicious. Great for a healthy, flavorful meal. Perfect for any dinner night.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable stir fry with sesame seeds.
Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Start your dinner with a quick, budget-friendly dish that will fill you up. Vegetable Stir Fry is perfect for using up those extra veggies in your fridge. It’s fast to make and packed with flavor. You just toss everything in a pan and cook it up in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Egg Casserole

A casserole dish containing egg casserole.
Egg Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Mix things up tonight with something simple and delicious. Egg Casserole is a versatile dish that you can whip up without much effort. It uses basic ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Just toss in some veggies, maybe some cheese if you have it, and let the oven do the work. It’s affordable and perfect for a hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole

Roasted Tomato Soup

Close-up of a bowl of roasted tomato soup topped with toasted bread chunks, fresh thyme, and a sprinkle of black pepper.
Roasted Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Ready for a rich, flavorful meal that won’t hurt your budget, Roasted Tomato Soup is just what you need. Using ingredients that you probably already have, this soup brings deep taste with minimal effort. Just roast the tomatoes and blend them up for a comforting bowl that’s perfect any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Soup

Vegetarian Stew

Vegetable Stew in a pot with lid.
Vegetarian Stew. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Craving something warm and filling for dinner. Vegetarian Stew is an excellent choice that won’t break the bank. This hearty dish combines various veggies into a one-pot wonder. It’s easy to make and leaves you with plenty of leftovers for another meal. Perfect for a cozy evening in.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Stew

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Close-up of a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup garnished with herbs, seeds, and two slices of seasoned bread. The soup has a swirled texture and a vibrant orange color.
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

How about a meal that’s both sweet and savory without spending much. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup brings a mix of flavors that’s perfect for a simple dinner. Just roast the squash, blend it up, and enjoy. It’s creamy, comforting, and made with just a handful of ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Cheesy cauliflower casserole in a white dish with spoons.
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Enjoy a classic dish that’s easy on your wallet. Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole comes together with just a few items but delivers so much flavor. It’s creamy and cheesy, making it a family favorite. Simply mix everything and bake until golden. A deliciously simple and cost-effective meal awaits you.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

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.

Dinner tonight is taken care of with an Italian classic. Minestrone Soup is not only delicious but also budget-friendly. With a variety of veggies and pasta, it’s a complete meal in a bowl. You can make a big batch and enjoy it for days. Plus, it’s a great way to use up whatever you have in your pantry.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy macaroni and cheese dish with visible black pepper seasoning.
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Looking for comfort food without the hefty price tag, try Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese. It’s a twist on the traditional mac and cheese with a healthy addition. The squash adds a creamy texture and a bit of sweetness, making it unique. Budget-friendly and perfect for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Mushroom Soup

Mushroom soup that's delightfully creamy, adorned with sautéed mushrooms, a dollop of cream, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of parsley.
Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Make your evening special with something warm and hearty. Mushroom Soup is an affordable option that doesn’t skimp on taste. It’s earthy and rich, using simple ingredients simmered to perfection. A great dish when you’re looking to save money.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Soup

Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

A plate with a slice of Egg & Potato Breakfast Casserole and a fork.
Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Why not have breakfast for dinner, Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole is an ideal choice that’s both filling and cheap. With simple ingredients you already have, it’s easy to prepare. Just mix and bake for a delicious meal. Perfect for those nights when you want something quick and hearty.
Get the Recipe: Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

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.

Fill your evening with something nutritious and cost-effective. Lentil Soup is an excellent choice that delivers in both taste and value. It’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. Packed with protein and flavor, it’s a simple dish that satisfies. Ideal for a cozy night at home.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

Best Lemon Pasta

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Best Lemon Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Try something light yet flavorful without spending much. Best Lemon Pasta brings a tangy twist to your dinner table. With just a handful of pantry ingredients, it comes together in no time. It’s perfect for a quick meal that’s both refreshing and delicious. Enjoy a perfect dinner without the cost.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

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