18 Budget-Friendly Eating on a Dime Recipes Delicious

Delicious Meals on a Dime: 18 Budget-Friendly Recipes to Try!

Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for your wallet? You don’t have to! With these 18 delicious and easy-to-make budget-friendly recipes, you can enjoy a variety of tasty meals without breaking the bank. From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll share our favorite affordable recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Whether you’re a college student on a tight budget or a busy professional looking for quick and easy meal solutions, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to stretch their food dollars without sacrificing flavor or quality. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the taste of a delicious meal without blowing your budget!

One-Pot Spaghetti with Garlic Bread

Satisfy your pasta cravings without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. This one-pot spaghetti recipe is a cinch to make and pairs perfectly with crispy garlic bread.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook spaghetti in a large pot of boiling, salted water until al dente.
2. Drain pasta, then add garlic, onion, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and olive oil to the same pot.
3. Stir to combine, then bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.

Garlic Bread:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice a baguette into 1-inch thick slices.
3. Mix minced garlic and butter in a bowl.
4. Brush garlic butter mixture onto bread slices.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice

This quick and flavorful recipe combines a variety of colorful vegetables with savory rice, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch. With minimal prep time and cooking effort, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 2-3 minutes.
4. Add bell pepper and mixed vegetables; cook until tender-crisp, 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve vegetable stir-fry over cooked rice. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Cheesy Baked Potato Skins

Get ready for a deliciously cheesy twist on traditional baked potato skins! This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy snack or as a side dish.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 large baking potatoes
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions, sour cream, or crumbled bacon for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and dry them with a paper towel.
3. Poke some holes in each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape.
4. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake the potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for 10-15 minutes.
7. Slice the potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh to create a shell.
8. Stuff each potato skin with shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese, dividing it evenly among the skins.
9. Return the stuffed potato skins to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve hot, topped with your choice of chopped scallions, sour cream, or crumbled bacon.

Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

Lentil and Vegetable Soup

This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, packed with protein-rich lentils and a variety of colorful vegetables. It’s a comforting and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as diced bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery stalks. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, lentils, vegetable broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes

Homemade Pizza with Store-Bought Dough

Elevate your pizza game with this simple recipe that uses store-bought dough as a base. In just a few steps, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful homemade pizza that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of store-bought pizza dough (homemade or refrigerated)
– 1 cup of pizza sauce
– 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
– Toppings of your choice (e.g. pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the store-bought dough on a floured surface to desired thickness.
3. Spread pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and your choice of toppings.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Egg Fried Rice with Mixed Vegetables

A classic Chinese dish that combines the flavors of scrambled eggs, mixed vegetables, and cooked rice, this recipe is a quick and easy solution for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or oyster sauce for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and mixed vegetables; stir-fry until they are tender-crisp.
3. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. Crack the eggs into the other side and scramble them until cooked through.
4. Mix the eggs with the vegetables.
5. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Black Bean and Corn Tacos

This recipe combines the flavors of Latin America with a simple and delicious twist on traditional tacos. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the black beans and corn kernels; cook until heated through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with the bean and corn mixture, and add your desired toppings.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Pasta with Marinara Sauce and Parmesan

This comforting pasta dish is a staple of Italian cuisine, featuring tender noodles tossed in a rich marinara sauce and topped with the salty, nutty flavor of parmesan cheese. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be prepared in no time.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
3. Add the marinara sauce to the reserved pasta water, stirring to combine.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat, adding more pasta water if needed.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Serve hot and enjoy!

Chickpea Salad Sandwiches

A refreshing twist on traditional sandwiches, these chickpea salad sandwiches are perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup celery, diced
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 whole wheat bread slices
– Lettuce leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine chickpeas, celery, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and stir until combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading about 1/4 cup of the chickpea salad on each bread slice.
6. Top with lettuce leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

Grilled cheese sandwiches paired with warm tomato soup make for a match made in heaven. This simple recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.

Ingredients:

– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 slices of cheese (American, cheddar, or mozzarella work well)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Add cheese and top with second bread slice, butter-side up.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, combine diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and milk in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Serve grilled cheese with warm tomato soup and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Vegetable and Bean Chili

This comforting chili recipe is packed with a variety of colorful vegetables and nutritious beans, making it a perfect option for a quick and satisfying meal. With its rich flavor profile and tender texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add bell pepper, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, vegetable broth, and chili powder. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Homemade Pancakes with Maple Syrup

Start your day off right with a stack of fluffy homemade pancakes and a drizzle of pure maple syrup. This classic recipe is easy to make and yields tender, flavorful pancakes that are sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup (optional).

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Tuna Casserole with Peas

This classic casserole is a simple and satisfying way to enjoy tuna, peas, and pasta all in one delicious dish. With just a few ingredients, you can have a comforting meal ready in no time!

Ingredients:

– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as penne or elbow macaroni)
– 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, pasta, peas, and milk. Mix well.
3. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the tuna mixture in an even layer.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Oatmeal with Fresh Fruit and Honey

Start your day off right with a warm and satisfying bowl of oatmeal, perfectly balanced with sweet fresh fruit and a drizzle of golden honey.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon butter or spread (optional)
– 1/2 cup fresh fruit (such as berries, sliced banana, or diced apples)
– 1-2 tablespoons pure honey
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats and reduce heat to low. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached your desired consistency.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter or spread (if using).
4. Top with fresh fruit and drizzle with honey to taste.
5. Season with a pinch of salt to bring out the flavors.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Rice and Beans with Salsa

This classic Latin-inspired dish is a staple of comfort food, combining the simplicity of rice and beans with the bold flavors of fresh salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 cup uncooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh salsa (store-bought or homemade), for serving

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, and olive oil. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
3. In a separate pan, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the black beans and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the rice topped with the bean mixture and a spoonful of fresh salsa.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey

A hearty and satisfying casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup ziti pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, turkey mixture, and beaten egg. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Vegetable Fried Noodles

A classic Chinese-inspired dish, Vegetable Fried Noodles is a quick and flavorful meal that combines sautéed vegetables with crispy noodles. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup noodles (preferably thin and flat)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, etc.)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender (about 3-4 minutes).
5. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes, ensuring noodles are well coated.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burritos

Get ready to wrap up a flavorful meal with this delicious combination of roasted sweet potatoes and black beans, wrapped in a warm tortilla. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch that’s packed with nutritious goodness.

Ingredients:

– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 whole wheat tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the sweet potatoes for 45 minutes or until tender.
3. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add black beans to the pan and stir to combine with onion mixture.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by filling with roasted sweet potatoes, black bean mixture, and desired toppings.

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Summary

Discover delicious and budget-friendly meal ideas with these 18 easy-to-make recipes. From hearty one-pot pasta dishes to flavorful tacos and satisfying sandwiches, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whip up a quick and tasty vegetable stir-fry or lentil soup, or indulge in comforting classics like grilled cheese and tomato soup. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, these affordable recipes are sure to please.