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    Home » Recipe Roundups

    56 Satisfying Meals That Are Easy on Your Wallet

    By Emmeline Kemperyd on November 15, 2024, updated November 12, 2024 - Leave a Comment

    Finding meals that are both satisfying and budget-friendly can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be. With a little creativity and some simple ingredients, you can whip up delicious dishes that won't break the bank. From hearty soups to filling casseroles, there are plenty of options that are easy to make and perfect for any day of the week.

    Walking Taco Casserole

    Walking taco casserole.
    Photo credit: Emmeline Kemperyd.

    This taco casserole is a great option for a budget-friendly dinner, combining ground beef, salsa, and lots of cheese in one dish. It's ideal for a quick weeknight meal or for sharing at a potluck.

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    Air Fryer French Onion Pork Chops

    French onion pork chops.
    Image credit: Sustainable Cooks.

    Pork chops cooked in the air fryer are quick and easy, and they come out delicious. Pair them with a simple sauce made on the stovetop for a filling meal that won't break the bank.

    Get the recipe

    Crème Fraîche Carbonara

    Fake carbonara.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This version of carbonara adds extra flavor while keeping it simple and affordable. It's a delicious take on a classic dish that won't break the bank.

    Get the recipe

    Sticky Tofu

    A plate of sticky tofu.
    Image credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    This dinner is great for any day of the week. It's simple to make and won't break the bank.

    Get the recipe

    No-Boil Ravioli Casserole

    This cheesy ravioli casserole is one of the simplest dishes you can make. With just four simple ingredients and store-bought shortcuts, you can prep this dish in 5 minutes, and eat in under 40!
    Photo credit: Emmeline Kemperyd.

    This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, using just four basic ingredients and some convenient store-bought items. You can have it ready in about 5 minutes and on the table in less than 40.

    Get the recipe

    Homemade Chicken Burgers

    A stack of chicken patties.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    These chicken patties are easy to make and packed with flavor, thanks to some basic seasonings and a splash of fresh lemon juice. Just pop them in the air fryer for a quick and filling dinner any night.

    Get the recipe

    Vegetable Ramen with Spicy Miso Broth

    Bowls with vegetable ramen.
    Image credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    Instant ramen can be made even better with a few simple additions. Toss in some vegetables and spices to create a more flavorful and satisfying dish.

    Get the recipe

    Crockpot Chicken and Noodles

    Crockpot Chicken and Noodles.
    Photo Credit: Bowl Me Over.

    This cozy meal comes together in just 5 minutes of prep, making it a great choice for a satisfying dinner. It's the kind of comfort food that warms you up and fills you up without breaking the bank.

    Get the Recipe

    One-Pot Hummus Pasta

    Hummus pasta.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This simple dinner can be ready in just 12 minutes with only 5 ingredients, all cooked in one pot. It's a quick and budget-friendly meal that won't break the bank.

    Get the recipe

    Air Fryer Baked Potatoes

    An air fryer baked potato.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    These air fryer baked potatoes are a great choice for a simple and delicious meal. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they only need three ingredients and can be enjoyed as a side or topped to make a filling main dish.

    Get the recipe

    Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken

    Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken.
    Photo Credit: The Magical Slow Cooker.

    This chicken is seasoned with a zesty Italian dressing mix and a good amount of lemon. It's a simple and tasty dish that won't break the bank.

    Get the Recipe

    Sheet Pan Sausage & Veggies

    Sheet pan sausage and veggies.
    Photo credit: Inquiring Chef.

    This simple sheet pan dinner is both delicious and quick to make. With just a bit of garlic and herbs, you can have a satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes.

    Get the recipe

    Cheesy Tortellini Casserole

    A spoonful of cheesy tortellini casserole.
    Photo credit: alwaysusebutter.com.

    This dish is easy to make, cheesy, and really delicious, making it a great choice for a comforting meal any night. It's budget-friendly too, so you can enjoy it without breaking the bank.

    Get the recipe

    Tortilla Pizza

    Tortilla pizza.
    Image credit: Sustainable Cooks.

    Making pizza at home can be easy and fun with tortilla bread as the base. Just pile on some cheese and your favorite toppings, then pop it in the oven until it's done!

    Get the recipe

    Mediterranean Veggie Casserole

    A veggie and tomato casserole.
    Photo credit: The Fiery Vegetarian.

    This casserole is simple to prepare; just combine the ingredients and pop it in the oven. It features tasty vegetables coated in a savory garlic sauce.

    Get the recipe

    Air Fryer Calzones

    Homemade calzones.
    Image credit: Sustainable Cooks.

    Make your own calzones in no time with simple ingredients. They're perfect for a quick snack or a hassle-free dinner during the week.

    Get the recipe

    One Pot Lemony Kale Pasta

    Lemon and kale pasta.
    Image credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    This simple vegetarian dinner features lots of kale and a splash of lemon, making it a great choice for a fast weeknight meal. It's both filling and budget-friendly, perfect for those busy evenings.

    Get the recipe

    Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli

    Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli.
    Photo Credit: The Magical Slow Cooker.

    Chicken thighs and broccoli are cooked together in a tasty sauce made from soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and ginger paste. This simple one-pot meal is both satisfying and budget-friendly.

    Get the Recipe

    Pink Pasta Sauce with Bacon

    Pink pasta.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This dish features a tangy tomato sauce paired with crunchy bacon, for a very tasty meal. It's a satisfying option that won't break the bank.

    Get the recipe

    Naan Pizza

    Naan pizza.
    Image credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    Make a filling dinner with some store-bought naan bread. It's an easy way to enjoy a cheesy meal without spending too much time in the kitchen!

    Get the recipe

    Vegetarian Ravioli Bake

    Ravioli bake on a plate.
    Image credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    This meal is both comforting and easy on the wallet, featuring creamy cheese, fresh pasta, and healthy greens. It's a simple yet satisfying option that won't break the bank.

    Get the recipe

    Spanish Chicken Stew with Lemon & Rosemary

    Spanish chicken stew with rice.

    This stew is super quick to make thanks to the use of store-bought rotisserie chicken. And so flavorful!

    Get the recipe

    Vegetarian Gnocchi Bake

    Gnocchi bake with veggies.
    Image credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    This easy sheet pan dinner combines fresh vegetables, capers, and creamy ricotta for a filling meal. It's a great option that won't break the bank.

    Get the recipe

    Chicken Teriyaki Stir-fry

    Chicken teriyaki.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This dish is full of veggies and won't break the bank. You can enjoy it as is, or add some rice if you want, and just use store-bought teriyaki sauce or whip up your own.

    Get the recipe

    Easy Taco Casserole

    Easy Taco Casserole.
    Photo Credit; The Clean Eating Couple.

    This taco casserole is a fantastic dinner option that you can whip up in less than an hour. It's packed with ground beef, tortillas, and plenty of cheese, making it a hearty and budget-friendly meal.

    Get the Recipe

    Vegetarian Chili

    Vegetarian chili.

    Swap meat for eggplant & zucchini to make this healthier, cheaper chili. All the flavor, none of the meat!

    Get the recipe

    One Pan Fish & Broccoli in Lemon Butter Caper Sauce

    Fish and broccoli with sauce.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    A simple lemon butter caper sauce can be made in just one pan, making it a great addition to fish and broccoli. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also budget-friendly, perfect for a satisfying meal.

    Get the recipe

    Instant Pot Chicken Soup

    A bowl of chicken soup.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This chicken soup is rich and has a nice kick, making it easy to whip up. It's a great option for a filling dinner any day.

    Get the recipe

    Baked Halloumi with Ratatouille

    Halloumi and ratatouille in a bowl.
    Image credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    This easy one-pot dish is a great addition to your weekly dinner plans. It's budget-friendly and will fill you up without breaking the bank.

    Get the recipe

    Homemade Meatballs

    A stack of meatballs.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    These Swedish-inspired meatballs are a tasty and affordable dinner choice. Juicy and tender, they make a great meal for any night of the week.

    Get the recipe

    Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas

    Chicken fajitas made in the air fryer.
    Image credit: Sarah Cook.

    Air fryer fajitas are a quick and easy dinner option that everyone will love. This simple Mexican dish brings great flavors to your table without much effort.

    Get the recipe

    Baked Foil Packet Cod

    A foil pack with cod and potatoes.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This dish brings together all the essentials for a filling meal in one place. With fish, potatoes, tomatoes, and lemon, it creates a flavorful sauce that's enjoyable with every bite.

    Get the recipe

    Gnocchi with Bacon & Mushrooms

    A spoonful of bacon mushroom gnocchi.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Gnocchi is pan-fried for a delicious twist, combined with crispy bacon and mushrooms for a hearty dish. This meal is both satisfying and budget-friendly, making it perfect for any day of the week.

    Get the recipe

    Air Fryer Mahi Mahi

    Mahi mahi topped with salsa.
    Image credit: Sustainable Cooks.

    A tasty mahi mahi dinner can be ready in just 20 minutes, making it a great option for a weeknight meal. This easy dish is perfect for those busy nights when you want something satisfying without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.

    Get the recipe

    Vegan Sloppy Joes

    A vegan sloppy joe.
    Image credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    This vegan version of a classic dish is perfect for a family meal. It's budget-friendly and packed with flavor, making it a great choice for any night.

    Get the recipe

    Creamy Broccoli Pasta

    Broccoli pasta.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This pasta is loaded with veggies and makes for a healthy and tasty meal. It's a great choice when you want something satisfying without spending too much.

    Get the recipe

    Air Fryer Turkey Burgers

    A turkey burger.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Turkey burgers are really juicy and go great with a side of potatoes or in a bun. They're a tasty and budget-friendly meal option that everyone will enjoy.

    Get the recipe

    Instant Pot Chicken & Potatoes

    Chicken and tomatoes.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This meal features chicken, potatoes, and tomatoes for a hearty and filling dish. It's a simple and budget-friendly option that everyone will enjoy.

    Get the recipe

    Red Curry Tofu Stir Fry

    Red curry tofu.
    Image credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    Making a delicious curry at home is a great way to enjoy a comforting meal without spending too much. It's simple to prepare and can be customized to your liking.

    Get the recipe

    Roasted Sweet Potato & Feta Cheese Salad

    A bowl of sweet potato salad.

    If you're craving a healthy salad, this sweet potato version is just what you need. Warm and filling, and great the next day as well.

    Get the recipe

    Instant Pot Chicken Stew

    Chicken stew.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    A hearty stew comes together easily with chicken drumsticks and fresh vegetables in your Instant Pot. This simple dish is both filling and budget-friendly, perfect for a cozy meal.

    Get the recipe

    Sheet Pan Gnocchi

    A bowl of sheet pan gnocchi.
    Image credit: Sustainable Cooks.

    Baking gnocchi with vegetables and sausage makes for a tasty dinner that's easy on the wallet. This meal is perfect for any night of the week when you want something filling without spending too much.

    Get the recipe

    Fried Potato & Poached Egg Bowls

    Breakfast bowl with egg.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This dish brings together crispy fried potatoes, soft poached eggs, and crumbled Feta cheese in a bowl. It's a filling meal that's sure to please everyone at the table.

    Get the recipe

    Zucchini Noodles with Tomatoes & Halloumi

    A bowl of zucchini noddles, halloumi and cherry tomatoes.
    Image credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    This dish offers a delicious and affordable option that won't break the bank. It's a great way to enjoy a comforting meal without spending too much.

    Get the recipe

    Tortellini Carbonara

    Tortellini carbonara.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This easy carbonara is a great dinner option that uses common ingredients you can find at any grocery store. It's a quick and satisfying meal that won't break the bank.

    Get the recipe

    Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup

    Chicken noodle soup.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This chicken noodle soup gets a fun Thai twist with fresh veggies, tender chicken, and flavorful noodles. It's a hearty meal that's perfect for any night without breaking the bank.

    Get the recipe

    Sweetheart Cabbage Salad

    sweetheart cabbage salad.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This cabbage salad stands out with its mix of fresh spinach, flavorful chickpeas, and Parmesan cheese. It's a simple dish that you'll want to make again and again.

    Get the recipe

    Spicy Vodka Pasta

    spicy vodka pasta.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Vodka Pasta is full of rich flavors, combining a nice kick with a creamy texture. You can easily make it without using any vodka, making it a simple and tasty meal.

    Get the recipe

    Baked Drumsticks with Veggies

    Drumsticks and veggies.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This simple sheet pan dinner brings together chicken, potatoes, and vegetables all cooked in one go for a delicious meal. Pair it with some bread for a filling dinner any night.

    Get the recipe

    Turkish Menemen

    Menemen.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This dish combines eggs and plenty of melted cheese in a flavorful sauce, similar to Shakshuka. It's a hearty meal that's great for breakfast or dinner.

    Get the recipe

    Lemon Ricotta Pasta

    Lemon ricotta pasta.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This pasta dish is super simple to make and won't break the bank. It's a great option for a filling meal that you can whip up in no time.

    Get the recipe

    Creamy Pesto Gnocchi

    Creamy pesto gnocchi.
    Image credit: Sustainable Cooks.

    This dish is rich and comforting, making it a perfect choice for a cozy meal. It's easy to make and won't break the bank, so you can enjoy it anytime.

    Get the recipe

    Air Fryer Orange Chicken

    Air fryer orange chicken.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This dish is a great way to enjoy a tasty "takeout" meal without spending too much money. Making it at home is not only cheaper, but it can also be even more satisfying.

    Get the recipe

    Garlic Butter Pasta

    Garlic butter pasta.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    A quick pasta dish can be a lifesaver when you're short on time and ingredients. With just a few staples from your pantry, you can whip up a satisfying meal that won't break the bank.

    Get the recipe

    Tomato Soup

    Tomato soup in a white bowl.
    Image credit: Sustainable Cooks.

    A simple soup can be made in under thirty minutes. It's a great way to enjoy a warm meal without spending a lot of time or money.

    Get the recipe

    Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole

    Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole.
    Photo credit: Savory with Soul.

    This casserole brings together all the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak, featuring plenty of ground beef, cheese, bell peppers, and onions. It's a comforting and filling dish that's easy to make and won't break the bank.

    Get the recipe

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    About Emmeline Kemperyd

    Emmeline Kemperyd is a writer, food blogger, recipe creator and food photographer and the founder of alwaysusebutter.com. She has more than 20 years of experience creating and simplifying recipes so they taste good, and are quick, easy, and approachable. She is a regular contributor to MSN  and her work has been featured by The Guardian, Well+Good, Vulture, SheKnows, Good Men Project, Daily Kos, The Grio, The Asian Parent, and The Feed Feed, among others.

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    Hi, I'm Emmeline! I love tasty food, but I'm always in a hurry. And I have the quick and easy recipes to prove it!

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