29 Budget-Friendly Dishes To Curb Your Takeout Habit

Takeout is easy, but so is making these 29 budget-friendly dishes. They cost less, take less time, and won’t leave you waiting by the door. Plus, you won’t have to guess if they got your order right or deal with flimsy containers leaking everywhere. Cook at home, eat well, and keep your wallet from crying.

Garlic Knots

When you’re in need of a bread fix without the hefty price tag, Garlic Knots are there to save the day. They come together quickly and promise a punch of flavor. With minimal ingredients, they’re bound to become a staple in your meal plans. And everybody knows, nothing beats homemade when you’re keeping an eye on your budget.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Penne Alla Vodka

Skip the high-cost Italian restaurant and bring the same vibe home with Penne Alla Vodka. This dish combines simple elements into a creamy and comforting meal. It’s one of those meals that seem fancy but are incredibly wallet-friendly. Plus, it’s bound to impress guests or just make your weeknight dinner a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Southern Mash

For the nights when you crave something soul-soothing, Southern Mash is there for you. It’s all about transforming basic components into a decadent side dish. There’s no need for high-end ingredients to create a heartwarming addition to your table. It’s the perfect example of how home cooking can be both luxurious and economical.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Ready for a dip that wins at parties but doesn’t cost a fortune? Look no further than Spinach Artichoke Dip. It turns a handful of staples into a dish that’s always a crowd favorite. If you’ve got a craving for something creamy and indulgent, this dip hits the spot without a hit to your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip

Lentil Soup

There’s nothing like a bowl of Lentil Soup to keep both your stomach and your purse full. It’s the ideal choice for a hearty, wholesome meal that’s easy to make. What’s better is that this soup often tastes better the next day, so it’s perfect for leftovers. Simple and cost-effective, it’s a smart choice for any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

Ravioli Casserole

Feel like mixing things up without spending much? Ravioli Casserole is your answer. This dish transforms a favorite pasta into a hearty, bake-and-serve treat. It’s clever, cost-effective, and sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Grilled Peppers

Brighten up your plate and add some sweet char to your meals with Grilled Peppers. They’re fuss-free, adding an instant flavor boost to any dish. Whether you have them stand alone or mix into other recipes, they’re an affordable way to enhance your cooking. They prove that simplicity often yields the most enjoyable results.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peppers

Twice Baked Potatoes

Indulge in something special with Twice Baked Potatoes without the upscale price. Taking a simple ingredient, these spuds are jazzed up to create a dish that punches above its weight class. Everyone will think you went all out, but only you’ll know how simple and budget-friendly they are.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

Udon Noodles

With Udon Noodles, you’ve got a fast track to a meal that’s both fulfilling and easy on the budget. These noodles bring a unique texture that makes your dinner more interesting. Toss ’em up with whatever you’ve got, and you’ve got a meal that’s far from ordinary. They’re a surefire way to shake up your routine without shaking out all your coins.
Get the Recipe: Udon Noodles

Hashbrown Casserole

Dig into the cozy world of Hashbrown Casserole, where comfort meets convenience at a low cost. It’s a dish that brings simple ingredients together for a mouthwatering outcome. Whether it’s for a family breakfast or a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Best part? It’s friendly on your budget and can feed a bunch without a bunch of fuss.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Mac and Cheese

Everyone agrees that Mac and Cheese is the go-to for a no-fuss, universally loved meal. It’s a creamy, dreamy comfort classic that won’t demand much from your pocket. This dish is a lifesaver whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just need a quick and comforting dinner. It’s the kind of recipe that proves the best things in life (and the kitchen) are the simplest.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Hasselback Potatoes

Hasselback Potatoes are the ultimate way to dress up your spuds without draining your wallet. With their crisp edges and tender centers, they hit all the right notes for a standout side. They’re the proof that a little effort goes a long way in creating something that looks and tastes high-end.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes

Tuscan Pasta

This dish is your quick escape to Italy without the hefty price tag of a flight. It’s a seamless blend of humble ingredients coming together to create a rich and fulfilling dish. Tuscan Pasta is perfect for when you want something heartwarming without spending hours in the kitchen. A practical choice to make any dinner feel a touch more special.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta

Vegetable Soup

Even on a tight budget, a pot of Vegetable Soup can provide a nutritious and delicious fix. It’s a brilliant way to make use of veggies you’ve got on hand, reducing waste and saving money. The warmth and simplicity of this soup make it a no-brainer for health-conscious, cost-effective eating.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Soup

Epic Bean Chili

Ready to serve something heartwarming that’s both epic and economical? Epic Bean Chili is rich in flavor and perfect for batch cooking. It’s all about digging into a comforting bowl without digging into your savings. You’ll be amazed at how this simple dish can bring so much joy and so many leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Epic Bean Chili

Mushroom Pizza

If you’re after a quick dinner fix, Mushroom Pizza should be your go-to. It’ll cost you less than ordering out and can be whipped up with pantry staples. Ideal for those evenings when you’re not feeling up for a kitchen marathon. Everyone at your table will be happy, trust me.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza

Tortellini Soup

Looking for a comforting bowl that won’t break the bank? Tortellini Soup has got you covered. It’s the kind of meal that warms you up and leaves you satisfied without too much fuss or expense. Quick, easy, and exactly what you need on a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

Pasta alla Norma

For a taste of Italy that doesn’t require a plane ticket, try Pasta alla Norma. This dish is all about bringing big flavor with minimal effort. You don’t have to spend much to create a meal that feels indulgent. Whip it up on a weeknight to make dinner feel a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Mushroom Soup

When you’re in need of comfort food without the hassle, Mushroom Soup is there for you. Creamy, hearty, and utterly warming, it’s like a cozy embrace in bowl form. No complicated steps here, just straightforward goodness. It’s the go-to soup for a feel-good meal.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Soup

Refried Beans

Don’t overlook Refried Beans when considering budget-friendly staples. They add depth to any meal and are super versatile. Not only are they nutritious, but they also keep your meals cost-effective. It’s proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients to make a meal stand out.
Get the Recipe: Refried Beans

Pea and Mint Soup

This soup offers an unexpectedly elegant yet easy option for mealtime. Its fresh flavor always impresses without any need for pricey ingredients. Pea and Mint Soup is a solid choice for those seeking something light and nutritious. Who knew simple could taste so sophisticated?
Get the Recipe: Pea and Mint Soup

Southern Cornbread

Southern Cornbread is your answer to an easy, budget-friendly side that complements almost any meal. Its distinct taste makes it a crowd-pleaser. A simple baking adventure yielding comforting results. It’s proof that basic ingredients can create something extraordinary.
Get the Recipe: Southern Cornbread

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

On those nights you need something warming without fuss, Roasted Butternut Squash Soup fits the bill perfectly. Its creamy texture and hearty quality make it a go-to comfort food. Simple ingredients, big impact. Plus, it’s easy on your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Sweet Potato Wedges

When cravings hit, Sweet Potato Wedges are the perfect snack or side. They’re as nutritious as they are budget-friendly. Forget store-bought options; these homemade wedges are where it’s at. Easy to prep and always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Wedges

Roasted Tomato Soup

For a simple yet richly flavored meal, Roasted Tomato Soup can’t be beaten. Costs little to make and always delivers on comfort. This soup is a celebration of simplicity done right. A comforting classic that’s perfect for any meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Soup

Vegan Ratatouille

Keeping meals vibrant and budget-friendly is easy with Vegan Ratatouille. This dish is packed with nutrition and proves eating your veggies doesn’t have to be boring. It’s straightforward, healthy, and perfect for a hassle-free dinner. A great choice for introducing more vegetables into your diet.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Ratatouille

Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed Peppers prove that you can have flavor-packed meals without a high price tag. They’re versatile enough to fit any budget and taste preference. This dish is a clever way to serve up a nutritious, complete meal. Fun to make and even more fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

Vegetable Stir Fry

For a quick and lively meal that won’t empty your pockets, you can’t go wrong with Vegetable Stir Fry. It’s the perfect use-up-what-you-have kind of dish. Comes together quickly and never fails to please a crowd. The ideal choice for a nutritious, low-cost dinner.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Minestrone Soup

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Minestrone Soup to make you feel at home. It’s budget-friendly, packed with goodness, and straightforward to make. This soup celebrates the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something delicious. A timeless meal that’s always satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup