29 Recipes That Are Easier On Your Wallet Than Takeout
Takeout is convenient, but so is keeping more money in your pocket. These 29 recipes prove that eating well doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Quick, easy, and way cheaper than delivery fees, they make homemade meals the clear winner. Your wallet will definitely approve of this plan.
Best Lemon Pasta
If you want a wonderful and fresh pasta dish, then Best Lemon Pasta is your go-to meal. It’s simple to make but delivers a punchy citrus flavor that brightens up your dinner plate. Combining with pasta, it creates a perfect balance, making it a weekday dinner winner. Plus, it costs less than takeout, so it’s a win for your wallet too.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta
Dinner Rolls
Nothing beats homemade Dinner Rolls when you need soft and fluffy bread to accompany your meal. Making them from scratch saves money and you get that irresistible fresh-baked aroma. They pair well with almost any dish, making them incredibly versatile. You’ll wonder why you ever settled for store-bought.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls
Minestrone Soup
For a hearty and comforting meal, Minestrone Soup is perfect. It’s packed with a variety of ingredients that make it a filling option for dinner. The homemade version is far more budget-friendly than ordering from a restaurant. Plus, it’s a great way to use up what’s in your fridge.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup
Ravioli Casserole
When you need a dish that’s both easy and pleasing, Ravioli Casserole comes through. Layers of cheesy goodness combined with a simple assembly make it a family favorite. It’s a lot cheaper than buying takeout, with the bonus of having control over the ingredients. Serve it up hot and watch it disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole
Epic Bean Chili
If you’re looking for something warm and comforting, Epic Bean Chili is a fantastic choice. It’s hearty, easy to make in big batches, and perfect for feeding a crowd on a budget. The flavors blend so well together, and it’s an excellent way to get more beans into your diet. Plus, leftovers just get better, making it ideal for meal planning.
Get the Recipe: Epic Bean Chili
Hashbrown Casserole
Craving a classic comfort food dish? Hashbrown Casserole will hit the spot every time. It’s rich and creamy, and making it at home is much more budget-friendly than hitting up a diner. It makes a great side dish or even a main meal. Plus, it’s a hit at potlucks and family gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole
Cacio e Pepe
Simple yet flavorful, Cacio e Pepe is a pasta dish that relies on just a few ingredients. Making it at home is a great way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the hefty price tag. The combination of creamy and peppery notes is perfect. Quick to prepare, it’s ideal for a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe
Twice Baked Potatoes
For a twist on the usual side dish, Twice Baked Potatoes offer delicious flavors and textures. They’re creamy, cheesy, and have just a hint of crunch. Making them yourself is far cheaper than ordering out and you can customize the fillings to your taste. They make any meal feel special.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Need a cozy bowl of soup? Roasted Butternut Squash Soup is perfect. Its smooth texture and rich flavor make it feel like a restaurant-quality dish. Making it at home saves you money and gives you a nutritious meal. Warm and comforting, it’s great for chilly days.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Southern Mash
If you’re in the mood for comfort food, Southern Mash hits the spot. It’s creamy and rich, perfect as a side for many dishes. Homemade is way cheaper than ordering out, and you can make it just the way you like it. Plus, it’s so easy you’ll want to make it all the time.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash
Tortellini Soup
When you need a quick dinner solution, Tortellini Soup is a great choice. It’s hearty and comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy nights. It’s far cheaper than takeout and you get to control the quality of the ingredients. It’s filling and sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup
Udon Noodles
If you love Asian-inspired dishes, Udon Noodles will become a favorite. They’re thick, chewy, and the dish can be whipped up faster than waiting for delivery. Making it at home is budget-friendly and lets you control the flavors. It’s an enjoyable meal for lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Udon Noodles
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Step up your comfort food game with Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese. It’s a healthier spin on traditional recipes, giving you creamy deliciousness. Making it yourself saves money and it’s easy to prepare. The flavors meld together wonderfully, making it a unique and tasty option.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
25 Minute Black Bean Burger
When you want a quick and enjoyable meal, the 25 Minute Black Bean Burger is perfect. It’s budget-friendly and full of flavor, and making it at home ensures everything is fresh. Perfect for weeknights when you don’t want to order out. Customize it with your favorite toppings for an extra treat.
Get the Recipe: 25 Minute Black Bean Burger
Corn Casserole
For a side dish that is both sweet and flavorful, Corn Casserole is excellent. It’s budget-friendly and great for feeding a crowd. The sweet corn balances perfectly with the creamy texture. Whether it’s for a holiday meal or a simple family dinner, it’s quick to become a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole
White Bean Soup
For a filling and nutritious meal, White Bean Soup should be on your list. It’s easy to make and incredibly affordable. The flavors blend beautifully, providing a comforting dish. It’s perfect for meal prep or serving a big family without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup
Easy Flatbread Pizza
Craving pizza but don’t want to spend on delivery? Easy Flatbread Pizza is your answer. It comes together quickly and allows for endless customization. You can make it as simple or as loaded as you like, saving money and getting creative. Perfect for a weeknight treat.
Get the Recipe: Easy Flatbread Pizza
Garlic Knots
For an irresistible side, Garlic Knots are a must. They’re soft, flavorful, and making them at home is easier on the wallet than ordering out. Enjoy them fresh from the oven, dipped in your favorite sauce. Great for sharing or just treating yourself.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots
Hasselback Potatoes
Fancy up your potatoes with Hasselback Potatoes. They look impressive and are easier to make than you’d think. The crispy edges and soft inside make for a wonderful contrast. Making them at home is way cheaper than a fancy restaurant.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes
Lentil Soup
Lentil Soup is hearty, nutritious, and incredibly budget-friendly. It’s perfect for making in big batches to use throughout the week. The flavors develop wonderfully over time, making leftovers even better. With minimal effort, you get a enjoyable meal that’s easy on your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup
Mac and Cheese
You can’t go wrong with Mac and Cheese. It’s a classic comfort food that’s easy to whip up and costs less than ordering out. Making it at home lets you control the ingredients, ensuring a dish everyone will love. Creamy, cheesy, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese
Penne Alla Vodka
For a pasta dish that feels elegant without the cost, try Penne Alla Vodka. It’s creamy, rich, and surprisingly easy to make yourself. Far less expensive than dining out, it’s perfect for treating yourself. You get a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka
Refried Beans
As a versatile side or a main, Refried Beans are a winner. They’re easy to make and cost just a fraction of what you’d pay at a restaurant. Use them in a variety of dishes for added flavor and texture. Perfect for meal prepping and ensuring you always have a tasty option ready.
Get the Recipe: Refried Beans
Stuffed Peppers
For a meal that’s both filling and flavorful, Stuffed Peppers are an excellent choice. They’re easy to prepare and great for using up leftovers. Making them at home is far cheaper than takeout and you can customize the fillings. Ideal for a hearty and budget-friendly dinner.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers
Tuscan Pasta
Tuscan Pasta offers rich flavors that are easy and quick to make at home. It’s a cost-effective alternative to dining out and you still get to enjoy a delicious meal. Perfect for impressing guests without spending a lot. It’s versatile, making it a reliable option anytime.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta
Vegan Ratatouille
Looking for a plant-based dish that’s packed with flavor? Vegan Ratatouille is vibrant and easy on the budget. It’s a great way to get your veggies in a tasty, enjoyable way. Great for meal prepping or serving to guests. Plus, it’s delicious hot or cold.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Ratatouille
Roasted Tomato Soup
For a comforting and classic option, Roasted Tomato Soup is hard to beat. It’s simple to make and costs far less than ordering from a café. Enjoy it with a sandwich or on its own. Perfect for a warm and cozy meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Soup
Vegetarian Stew
When you need a hearty meal, Vegetarian Stew is perfect. It’s filling, nutritious, and budget-friendly. Easy to make in large batches, it’s great for weekly meal prep. Ideal for those looking for a wholesome and enjoyable dinner option on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Stew
Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole
Start your day with Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole. It’s filling, easy to make, and a great way to save money. Perfect for a big family breakfast or prepping for the week. Enjoy a hot and enjoyable meal without ordering out.
Get the Recipe: Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole
