23 Cheap Dinners for a Family That Won’t Break the Bank (You’ll Love #10!)

Feeding a family on a budget can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! With a little creativity and some smart planning, you can whip up delicious meals that everyone will love without emptying your wallet. From hearty pastas to vibrant stir-fries, these 23 cheap dinners are perfect for busy weeknights, ensuring that you spend more time with your loved ones and less at the grocery store.

Each recipe is designed to be economical, nutritious, and most importantly, flavorful, making them perfect for families looking to eat well while staying on budget.

1. One-Pot Cheesy Broccoli Rice

This One-Pot Cheesy Broccoli Rice is a family favorite that brings comfort and smiles to the table without breaking the bank. The creamy, cheesy goodness is paired with nutritious broccoli, making it a wholesome dish for everyone.

Recipe Overview: Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Calories: 350 per serving.

Nutrition Information: Calories: 350, Protein: 12g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 15g, Fiber: 4g.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rice (long-grain or jasmine)

– 2 cups vegetable broth

– 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the diced onion and garlic until translucent.

2. Add the rice and toast for 2 minutes.

3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.

4. Stir in the broccoli, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.

5. Remove from heat, stir in cheese, and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.

Tips: Add cooked chicken for extra protein or substitute with your favorite veggies.

Frequently Asked Questions: Can I use brown rice? Yes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Taco Night Fiesta

Bring the fiesta to your kitchen with a fun and interactive Taco Night! This budget-friendly meal allows everyone to customize their tacos with their favorite toppings, making it a hit for both kids and adults.

Recipe Overview: Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 25 mins | Calories: 400 per serving.

Nutrition Information: Calories: 400, Protein: 25g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 15g, Fiber: 5g.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef or turkey

– 1 packet taco seasoning

– 8 taco shells

– 1 cup shredded lettuce

– 1 cup diced tomatoes

– 1 cup shredded cheese

– 1/2 cup salsa

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a skillet, brown the ground meat and drain any excess fat.

2. Stir in taco seasoning and water according to package instructions.

3. Heat taco shells in the oven according to package directions.

4. Set up a taco bar with toppings for everyone to create their own.

Tips: Use black beans or refried beans for a vegetarian option.

Frequently Asked Questions: Can I make this in advance? Yes, prepare the meat and toppings ahead of time and assemble when ready to eat.

3. Vegetable Stir-Fry

Quick, colorful, and full of flavor, this Vegetable Stir-Fry is the perfect way to use up any veggies you have in your fridge. This dish is not only budget-friendly but also packed with nutrients, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.

Recipe Overview: Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 25 mins | Calories: 250 per serving.

Nutrition Information: Calories: 250, Protein: 10g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 10g, Fiber: 6g.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)

– 2 tbsp soy sauce

– 1 tbsp olive oil

– 1 tsp ginger, minced

– 1 clove garlic, minced

– Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.

2. Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 1 minute.

3. Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes.

4. Drizzle with soy sauce and toss to combine.

5. Serve over rice or noodles.

Tips: Add tofu or chicken for extra protein.

Frequently Asked Questions: Can I use frozen vegetables? Absolutely! Just thaw them before cooking.

4. Pasta Primavera

Celebrate the fresh flavors of spring with this delightful Pasta Primavera. Loaded with seasonal vegetables, this dish is both satisfying and light, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings.

Recipe Overview: Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 25 mins | Calories: 300 per serving.

Nutrition Information: Calories: 300, Protein: 10g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 8g, Fiber: 4g.

Ingredients:

– 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)

– 2 cups mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, broccoli)

– 2 tbsp olive oil

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

3. Add mixed vegetables and sauté until tender.

4. Toss in the cooked pasta, season with salt and pepper, and mix well.

5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese.

Tips: You can add grilled chicken for added protein.

Frequently Asked Questions: What can I use instead of Parmesan? Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative.

5. Homemade Pizza Night

Nothing brings a family together like a pizza night! This DIY Homemade Pizza allows everyone to get creative with their toppings while keeping costs low. It’s a fun way to engage the kids in the kitchen.

Recipe Overview: Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Calories: 350 per serving.

Nutrition Information: Calories: 350, Protein: 15g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 15g, Fiber: 2g.

Ingredients:

– 2 pre-made pizza crusts

– 1 cup pizza sauce

– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1 cup assorted toppings (pepperoni, bell peppers, mushrooms, olives)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven according to crust package instructions.

2. Roll out the pizza crusts on a floured surface.

3. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the crust.

4. Sprinkle cheese and add your favorite toppings.

5. Bake in the oven until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.

Tips: Use fresh herbs for added flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions: Can I freeze leftover pizza? Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to a month.

6. Chicken and Rice Casserole

This Chicken and Rice Casserole is a cozy, all-in-one meal that is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you need a hearty dinner with minimal cleanup.

Recipe Overview: Servings: 6 | Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 45 mins | Total Time: 1 hr | Calories: 400 per serving.

Nutrition Information: Calories: 400, Protein: 30g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 10g, Fiber: 2g.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups cooked rice

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 1 can cream of mushroom soup

– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables

– 1 cup shredded cheese

– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken, soup, vegetables, and half the cheese; mix well.

3. Transfer to a greased casserole dish and top with remaining cheese.

4. Bake for 30-35 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly.

Tips: Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.

Frequently Asked Questions: Can I use brown rice? Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time.

7. Lentil Soup

This hearty Lentil Soup is a nutritional powerhouse, filled with protein and fiber, making it an excellent choice for a budget-friendly meal. It’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep, providing leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Recipe Overview: Servings: 6 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 40 mins | Calories: 200 per serving.

Nutrition Information: Calories: 200, Protein: 12g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 5g, Fiber: 10g.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup dried lentils (brown or green)

– 1 onion, diced

– 2 carrots, diced

– 2 celery stalks, diced

– 4 cups vegetable broth

– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)

– 2 tsp cumin

– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.

2. Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.

3. Reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes until lentils are tender.

4. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.

Tips: Blend the soup for a creamier texture if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions: Can I freeze lentil soup? Yes, it freezes well for up to three months.

8. Sloppy Joes

These Sloppy Joes are a classic comfort food that’s both affordable and fun to eat. Served on soft buns, this dish is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a perfect choice for family dinners.

Recipe Overview: Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Calories: 300 per serving.

Nutrition Information: Calories: 300, Protein: 20g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 10g, Fiber: 2g.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef or turkey

– 1 cup ketchup

– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

– 1 onion, diced

– 4 hamburger buns

– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a skillet, brown the ground meat with diced onion; drain excess fat.

2. Stir in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper; simmer for 10 minutes.

3. Serve the mixture on hamburger buns.

Tips: Serve with pickles for an extra crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions: Can I use canned sloppy joe mix? Yes, just heat and serve.

9. Egg Fried Rice

Egg Fried Rice is a quick and easy dish that transforms leftover rice into a flavorful meal. With just a few ingredients, it’s a great way to use up what you have in your fridge while keeping costs low.

Recipe Overview: Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 15 mins | Calories: 250 per serving.

Nutrition Information: Calories: 250, Protein: 8g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 10g, Fiber: 2g.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups cooked rice (day-old is best)

– 2 eggs, beaten

– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots

– 3 tbsp soy sauce

– 2 green onions, chopped

– 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.

2. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked; remove and set aside.

3. In the same pan, add rice and soy sauce, stirring to combine.

4. Stir in peas, carrots, and cooked eggs; cook for another 3-5 minutes.

5. Garnish with green onions before serving.

Tips: Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.

Frequently Asked Questions: Can I use brown rice? Yes, just adjust the cooking time.

10. Stuffed Bell Peppers (You’ll Love #10!)

These Stuffed Bell Peppers are not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor and nutrients. This dish is versatile, allowing you to fill them with whatever ingredients you have on hand, making them an excellent budget-friendly dinner option.

Recipe Overview: Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 45 mins | Calories: 350 per serving.

Nutrition Information: Calories: 350, Protein: 20g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 10g, Fiber: 5g.

Ingredients:

– 4 large bell peppers (any color)

– 1 lb ground beef or turkey

– 1 cup cooked rice

– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)

– 1 cup shredded cheese

– 1 tsp Italian seasoning

– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.

3. In a skillet, brown the ground meat, then stir in cooked rice, tomatoes, seasoning, salt, and pepper.

4. Stuff each bell pepper with the mixture and place in a baking dish.

5. Top with cheese and bake for 30 minutes until peppers are tender.

Tips: Customize fillings with beans or lentils for a vegetarian option.

Frequently Asked Questions: Can I freeze stuffed peppers? Yes, they freeze well before or after baking.

11. Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti is a comforting, cheesy dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd without spending a fortune. Layers of pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese come together to create a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Recipe Overview: Servings: 6 | Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 45 mins | Calories: 400 per serving.

Nutrition Information: Calories: 400, Protein: 20g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 15g, Fiber: 3g.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ziti pasta

– 3 cups marinara sauce

– 2 cups ricotta cheese

– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook ziti according to package instructions and drain.

3. In a large bowl, combine ziti, marinara sauce, ricotta, salt, and pepper.

4. Transfer to a baking dish, layer with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Tips: Add spinach or ground meat for extra flavor and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions: Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, prepare the dish and refrigerate before baking.

12. Chicken Fajitas

Sizzling Chicken Fajitas are not only budget-friendly but also packed with flavor and fun. This dish allows everyone to customize their fajitas with fresh toppings, making it a family favorite.

Recipe Overview: Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 25 mins | Calories: 450 per serving.

Nutrition Information: Calories: 450, Protein: 30g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 15g, Fiber: 4g.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb chicken breast, sliced

– 1 bell pepper, sliced

– 1 onion, sliced

– 2 tbsp fajita seasoning

– 8 tortillas

– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a skillet, heat oil and add chicken, cooking until browned.

2. Stir in bell pepper, onion, fajita seasoning, salt, and pepper.

3. Cook until vegetables are tender.

4. Serve with warm tortillas and desired toppings.

Tips: Serve with guacamole and sour cream for an extra treat.

Frequently Asked Questions: Can I use beef instead of chicken? Yes, beef works great for fajitas.

13. Quinoa Salad

This hearty Quinoa Salad is a nutritious and filling meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for lunch or dinner. Packed with fresh veggies, it’s both a budget-friendly and healthy choice.

Recipe Overview: Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 25 mins | Calories: 300 per serving.

Nutrition Information: Calories: 300, Protein: 12g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 10g, Fiber: 6g.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup quinoa

– 2 cups vegetable broth

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1 cucumber, diced

– 1 bell pepper, diced

– 1/4 cup olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Rinse quinoa and cook in vegetable broth according to package instructions.

2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

3. Toss until well combined and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh kick.

Frequently Asked Questions: Can I add protein? Yes, grilled chicken or chickpeas work well.

14. Potato Soup

This creamy Potato Soup is comforting and filling, making it a perfect choice for chilly evenings. It’s easy to prepare and can be made in one pot, keeping cleanup minimal.

Recipe Overview: Servings: 6 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 40 mins | Calories: 250 per serving.

Nutrition Information: Calories: 250, Protein: 6g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 8g, Fiber: 3g.

Ingredients:

– 4 large potatoes, diced

– 1 onion, diced

– 4 cups vegetable broth

– 1 cup milk

– 1/2 cup shredded cheese

– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté onion until translucent.

2. Add diced potatoes and broth; bring to a boil.

3. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.

4. Mash the potatoes slightly for a creamy texture, then stir in milk and cheese.

5. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Tips: Top with crispy bacon or green onions for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions: Can I use instant potatoes? Yes, but adjust the liquid accordingly.

15. Tuna Pasta Salad

This Tuna Pasta Salad is a quick and easy meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s packed with protein and can be customized with your favorite vegetables, making it a cheap and healthy option.

Recipe Overview: Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 20 mins | Calories: 350 per serving.

Nutrition Information: Calories: 350, Protein: 25g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 10g, Fiber: 2g.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz pasta (your choice)

– 1 can tuna, drained

– 1 cup peas

– 1/2 cup mayonnaise

– 1 tbsp lemon juice

– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and cool.

2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, tuna, peas, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

3. Mix until well combined and chill before serving.

Tips: Add diced celery or bell peppers for extra crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions: Can I use fresh tuna? Yes, but it will require cooking before mixing.

Conclusion

With these 23 cheap dinners, feeding your family delicious, budget-friendly meals is easier than ever. These recipes are designed with both flavor and affordability in mind, ensuring that everyone leaves the table happy and satisfied. Now, it’s your turn to gather your loved ones and start cooking!

Don’t forget to pin your favorites for later!