Ditch the Drive-Thru for 25 Cheap, Easy Recipes

Convenience is important, but homemade meals don’t have to take long to prepare. These recipes prove that fast doesn’t have to mean takeout, with quick and affordable options for any day of the week. With a little planning, meals at home can be just as easy as ordering out—without the extra expense.

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

Ravioli Casserole

Close-up of a baked dish with ravioli, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheese on top.
Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

With Ravioli Casserole, your weeknight dinners just got a lot more exciting. This dish is a comforting option that’s both filling and affordable. It’s easier to prepare than you might think, making it a solid choice for leaving those drive-thru visits behind. Wrap up your day with this hearty meal that promises to keep you warm.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Spaghetti Marinara

Fork twirling spaghetti marinara with rich tomato sauce.
Spaghetti Marinara. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Nothing beats the classics, and Spaghetti Marinara is a testament to that. This dish proves you can have a delicious meal without spending much time or money. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a homemade dinner that feels special without the fuss. End your day with this dinner that’s easy to make and even easier to love.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

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

If you’re in the mood for something cozy, Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole should be on your menu. This dish marries comfort with nutrition in a way that’s both simple and inexpensive. It’s the perfect solution to those chilly evenings when you crave warmth and fullness. Enjoy the comfort of your kitchen with this warm, inviting dish.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Easy Flatbread Pizza

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

Swap out your pizza delivery for Easy Flatbread Pizza, a quick and delicious alternative. This recipe allows for endless creativity without the steep price tag of dining out. It’s a fantastic way to bring some warmth into your kitchen and your dining experience. Gather around for a pizza night that’s effortlessly charming and homemade.
Get the Recipe: Easy Flatbread Pizza

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.

Warm up with a bowl of Vegetable Soup, a healthy and soothing option for any day. This soup is not only easy to make but also packed with flavors that remind you of home cooking. It’s an affordable way to fill your table with warmth without much hassle. Slurp up the warmth and enjoy a simple, yet nurturing meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Soup

Stuffed Peppers

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

Warming and nutritious, Stuffed Peppers offer a colorful way to dine in and skip the fast-food line. This meal is brimming with flavors that make it a welcoming dish during any chilly evening. It combines affordability with the joy of cooking at home. Let these peppers brighten your dinner plans with their wholesome goodness.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

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.

For a light yet cozy meal, Pea and Mint Soup is unbeatable. It brings a smooth texture and heartwarming flavor to your table, proving that simple ingredients can create magic. This soup is a budget-friendly and easy-to-make option, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy homemade comfort. Serve this and watch it become a quick favorite in your home.
Get the Recipe: Pea and Mint Soup

Best Lemon Pasta

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

Brighten up your dinner with Best Lemon Pasta, a cheerful dish sure to warm your spirits. This pasta is straightforward to prepare, making it a hassle-free choice for a homemade meal. It blends simplicity with a flavor that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s guaranteed to add a spark of joy to your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

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.

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is your ticket to a comforting, creamy dinner without the high cost. This dish puts a seasonal twist on a classic favorite, offering both nutrition and warmth. It’s an easy, wallet-friendly way to serve something that feels gourmet. Enjoyment comes easily with this cozy, creamy treat.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

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.

Level up your pasta night with Cacio e Pepe, an elegantly simple masterpiece. This dish proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something warm and fulfilling. It’s the perfect option for a cozy evening, promising to keep your kitchen a drive-thru-free zone. Relish in the simplicity and warmth this dish brings to the table.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Vegetable Stir Fry

Colorful vegetable stir-fry with mushrooms, peppers, and black seeds.
Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Turn up the heat with Vegetable Stir Fry, a vibrant dish that packs a punch of flavor. It’s a cost-effective way to bring nutritional diversity to your dinner table. This meal is as easy to make as it is delicious, affirming that homemade can indeed beat takeout. It’s sure to bring a delicious warmth to any cold evening.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Egg Casserole

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

Start your morning right with Egg Casserole, a dish that makes breakfast worth waking up for. It’s an affordable, cozy way to kickstart your day, providing warmth and satisfaction. This meal demonstrates that a hearty breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. Serve it up for a morning that feels special and inviting.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole

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.

Embrace the essence of warmth with Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. This dish offers a creamy texture and a taste that epitomizes home cooking. It’s an affordable, straightforward way to enjoy the richness of seasonal flavors. Let this soup envelop you in its comforting embrace during the colder days.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

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.

Tuscan Pasta brings a piece of Italy into your kitchen without the need for a plane ticket. This dish is simple, warming, and budget-friendly, making it an excellent alternative to eating out. It’s perfect for those evenings when you desire something heartwarming yet easy to prepare. Indulge in the taste of Tuscany with this comforting pasta dish.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta

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.

Revisit a favorite with Mac and Cheese, a classic dish that never goes out of style. This recipe is all about bringing comfort and warmth to your table without emptying your wallet. It’s quick and easy to prepare, showing that comfort food can be straightforward and affordable. Let this dish remind you of the simple joys of home-cooked meals.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

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.

Roasted Tomato Soup is a heartwarming option that combines ease with affordability. This dish is a testament to the fact that homemade can be superior to any restaurant offering. It’s a perfect choice for anyone seeking a warm, simple meal that feels nurturing. Ladle up some love and warmth with this nurturing soup.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Soup

Broccoli Casserole

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

Indulge in the warmth of Broccoli Casserole, a dish that’s both comforting and straightforward. This meal is ideal for those looking to enjoy a bit of greenery in their comfort food. It’s affordable, easy to make, and perfect for warming up on a chilly day. It’s guaranteed to become a comforting staple in your meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli 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.

You can enjoy a pot full of warmth and homely flavors with Minestrone Soup. This dish is a comforting, budget-friendly option for anyone wanting to steer clear of fast food. It’s simple to make and offers a fulfilling way to warm up. Gather around the table for a serving of this heartening soup.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Corn Casserole

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

Corn Casserole is a must-try for anyone looking for an easy, comforting dish that won’t break the bank. This recipe is perfect for bringing a bit of warmth and sweetness to your dinner table. It showcases that you don’t need elaborate meals to make dinner feel special. Cozy up with this dish for a simple, yet warming dinner.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

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.

Delve into the earthy flavors of Mushroom Soup, a perfect blend of simplicity and warmth. This dish is an affordable choice that brings a rich and comforting experience to your dining table. It’s wonderfully easy to prepare, proving that hearty meals don’t need to be hard work. Enjoy a bowl of this soup and let the warmth settle in.
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.

Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole is here to transform your mornings with its hearty appeal. This meal offers a comforting start to your day, proving that a fulfilling breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. It’s perfect for those cold mornings when you need a bit more warmth to start your day. Wake up to a dish that’s homely and fulfilling.
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.

For a meal that’s both nourishing and warming, Lentil Soup stands out. This dish combines ease of preparation with the joy of a homemade meal. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting to enjoy the comforts of home cooking without much fuss. This soup is sure to bring a comforting warmth to your evening.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

Southern Mash

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

Experience the heartwarming comfort of Southern Mash, a dish that brings simplicity and warmth together. This meal is a reminder that some of the most enjoyable dinners are the ones that are easy to make and gentle on the wallet. It’s perfect for those evenings when you crave something comforting but straightforward.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

Hashbrown Casserole

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

Brighten your breakfast table with Hashbrown Casserole, a dish that proves homely food can be easy and inexpensive. This casserole is the ideal choice for mornings when you want something warming without much fuss. It’s a delicious way to start your day, offering comfort and fullness. Embrace the morning with this cozy and satisfying dish.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

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.

25 Minute Black Bean Burger is here to shake up your meal routine with something quick, easy, and warm. This burger is a great way to enjoy a hearty meal that’s both affordable and satisfying. It’s perfect for those evenings when you crave something filling but don’t want to spend much time cooking. Bite into warmth and simplicity with this straightforward recipe.
Get the Recipe: 25 Minute Black Bean Burger

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