27 Money-Saving Dinners You’ll Want to Make Again and Again
Cooking on a budget doesn’t mean eating the same thing every night. These 27 money-saving dinner recipes prove just that. Think dishes that use fewer ingredients in more imaginative ways and meals that make the most of every grocery item. It’s not just about saving money; it’s about enjoying the process and the result. These are meals that you’ll want to revisit, not just for their cost-effectiveness but for their satisfying flavors.
Egg Casserole – Make Ahead Breakfast
Start your day right with this make-ahead egg casserole, a budget-friendly breakfast that saves you time. It’s perfect for busy mornings, packed with protein, and customizable to your taste. It’s a great way to begin your day with something easy, nutritious, and affordable.
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Pizza Rolls
These
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Hash Browns
Homemade hash browns are a simple, inexpensive way to add a crispy, comforting side to your breakfast or dinner. They’re easy to make from scratch, saving you money compared to pre-made versions. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these are versatile dishes that pair well with just about anything.
Get the Recipe: Hash Browns
25 Minute Black Bean Burger
Enjoy a hearty, delicious black bean burger in just 25 minutes – a budget-friendly and vegetarian alternative to traditional burgers. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, they’re great for a quick, satisfying meal. These burgers are kind to your wallet and a healthier choice.
Get the Recipe: 25 Minute Black Bean Burger
Vegetable Fritters
Vegetable fritters are a tasty, economical way to use up leftover veggies. They’re quick to whip up, wonderfully crispy, and can be customized based on what you have on hand. Serve them with a dollop of yogurt or your favorite dip for a delightful meal. It’s a budget-friendly dish that turns simple ingredients into something special.
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Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla
Whip up a cheese quesadilla in your air fryer for a quick, cost-effective meal. It’s a simple, no-fuss way to get a crispy, cheesy quesadilla without much oil. Perfect for a speedy lunch or casual dinner, and great for using leftover cheese and tortillas. This dish is an excellent example of how an air fryer can make meal prep easy and economical.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla
Hashbrown Casserole
This hashbrown casserole is a comfort food classic that’s easy on the wallet. It combines simple, inexpensive ingredients into a delicious, hearty dish. It’s a budget-friendly way to make everyone happy, perfect for feeding a family or a crowd. It’s so easy to put together, making it a stress-free option for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole
Flour Tortilla
Homemade flour tortillas are cheaper than store-bought but also fresher and more delicious. Surprisingly simple to make, they can be used for various meals, from tacos to wraps. They’re a versatile base for whatever ingredients you have. Making your tortillas is a cost-effective and satisfying way to enhance any meal.
Get the Recipe: Flour Tortilla
Sweet Potato Cubes
Sweet potato cubes are an easy, nutritious side dish that won’t strain your budget. They’re simple to prepare, versatile, and a great way to add color and flavor to your meal. Roasted to perfection, they offer a sweet and savory element that complements any dish. This is a wallet-friendly way to enjoy a delicious, healthy vegetable.
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Easy Flatbread Pizza
Create an easy, budget-friendly
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Vegetable StewEasy
This vegetable stew is a hearty, affordable meal perfect for a cozy dinner. It’s packed with nutritious vegetables and can be made with whatever you have in your pantry. It’s a simple, one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare and easy on a budget. This stew is a delicious way to feed your family a nutritious meal without spending a lot.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable StewEasy
Mashed Potato Fritters
Turn leftover mashed potatoes into tasty fritters for an economical, satisfying meal. They’re easy to make and perfect for using up leftovers in a delicious way. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these fritters are a hit with all ages. It’s a resourceful and delicious way to minimize waste and maximize flavor.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Fritters
French Bread
Baking your French bread is not only cost-effective but also incredibly satisfying. It’s simpler than you think and yields a fresh, delicious loaf perfect for any meal. Pair it with soup, use it for sandwiches, or enjoy it with butter – it’s versatile and always a treat.
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Broccoli Casserole with Crackers
This broccoli casserole with crackers is a comforting, budget-friendly dish perfect for a family dinner. It combines nutritious broccoli with a creamy sauce and a crispy cracker topping. This dish makes veggies appealing and is easy on the wallet.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole with Crackers
Cacio e Pepe
Cacio e Pepe is a classic Italian dish that’s economical and incredibly tasty. With just a few ingredients – pasta, cheese, and pepper – it delivers a rich and comforting flavor. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients create an extraordinary meal. This dish is a go-to for a quick, affordable, and satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe
Fingerling Potatoes
If you’re looking for a simple and budget-friendly side dish that’s full of flavor, you can’t go wrong with roasted fingerling potatoes. These delicious spuds are easy to prepare, and you can season them in a variety of ways to suit your taste. Best of all, they’re an affordable way to give your dinner table a gourmet feel.
Get the Recipe: Fingerling Potatoes
Spaghetti Marinara
Spaghetti Marinara is a timeless, budget-friendly meal that’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s a simple dish packed with flavor, perfect for a quick and easy dinner. The rich tomato sauce clings beautifully to the spaghetti, satisfying every bite.
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Baked Sweet Potato
Baked sweet potatoes are an affordable, nutritious, and delicious option for any meal. They’re easy to prepare and can be enjoyed in various ways – topped with butter, stuffed, or simply on their own. This dish is a great way to add some healthy carbs to your dinner without spending a lot.
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Veggie Burger
Make your veggie burgers for a healthy, budget-friendly meal packed with flavor. They’re a great alternative to meat and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re vegetarian or want to reduce meat consumption, these burgers are a delicious choice.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Burger
Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are a fantastic way to enjoy a balanced, economical meal. They’re filled with a tasty mixture, easy to make, and great for a comforting dinner. This dish is a great way to use up leftovers and turn them into something new and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers
Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole
This egg and potato breakfast casserole is a versatile dish perfect for any time of day. It’s a budget-friendly option that combines simple ingredients into a satisfying meal. It’s a great way to start or end your day, perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole
Refried Beans
Homemade refried beans are a tasty, cost-effective side dish. They’re perfect for pairing with various meals and are a great way to add protein to your diet. Making them at home is cheaper and allows you to customize the flavor to your liking.
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Easy Burrito
Whip up an easy burrito for a quick, budget-friendly meal that never disappoints. Fill it with beans, rice, cheese, and your favorite veggies for a satisfying dinner that’s both simple and delicious. It’s a versatile dish that lets you use up leftovers in a creative way.
Get the Recipe: Easy Burrito
Cheesy Zucchini Casserole
Dig into this cheesy zucchini casserole, a delicious way to enjoy your veggies without breaking the bank. Layered with tender zucchini and melted cheese, it’s a comforting dish perfect for a cozy night. It’s a great budget-friendly option that brings home-cooked warmth to your table.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Zucchini Casserole
Baked Potato
A baked potato is a classic, economical comfort food that’s filling and versatile. Load it up with your favorite toppings – from simple butter and sour cream to cheese and chives – for a customizable meal. It’s an easy, wallet-friendly option that can be dressed up or down depending on what you have on hand.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato
Sweetcorn Fritters
Sweetcorn fritters are an inexpensive way to enjoy a light meal or side dish. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside are a tasty combination of sweet corn and savory batter. They’re easy to whip up and perfect for using up leftover corn. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious treat.
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Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
This cheesy cauliflower casserole is a comforting dish that’s easy on your budget and palate. Loaded with creamy cheese and tender cauliflower, it’s a satisfying meal perfect for those looking for low-carb comfort food. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty dish without spending a lot.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole