There’s no denying it, eating healthy on a budget can be a real challenge.
It’s easy to get caught up in buying expensive organic produce or trendy superfoods, but the truth is, eating well doesn’t have to break the bank.
With a little bit of planning and creativity, you can enjoy delicious, nutritious meals without spending a fortune. In this post, we’ve put together a list of 35 budget-friendly meals that will help you to eat well for less.
35 Budget-Friendly Meals
1. Veggie Fried Rice
Cook rice, mix with frozen peas and carrots, scrambled egg, and soy sauce. This dish can be made for just a few dollars and leaves plenty of leftovers for lunch the next day.
2. Lentil Soup
Lentils are a cheap and versatile source of plant-based protein. Simmer them with carrots, celery, and onions in a flavorful broth for a hearty and nutritious soup.
3. Sweet Potato Chili
Sweet potatoes are another affordable and nutrient-dense ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes.
Combine them with kidney beans, tomatoes, and spices for a hearty and budget-friendly chili.
4. Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are usually less expensive than chicken breasts and are just as delicious.
Season them with pantry staples like garlic powder, paprika, and salt and bake them in the oven for an easy weeknight meal.
5. Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Ground beef can be a budget-friendly meat option, and it’s a great addition to pasta dishes like spaghetti with meat sauce.
This classic dish is both satisfying and easy on the wallet.
6. Peanut Butter and Banana Smoothie
Smoothies are a great way to get in your daily dose of fruits and vegetables.
This recipe combines frozen banana, peanut butter, and milk for a creamy, protein-packed smoothie that can be enjoyed any time of day.
7. Tuna Salad
Canned tuna is a budget-friendly source of protein that can be used in a variety of ways.
Make a simple tuna salad with Greek yogurt, celery, and onion, and enjoy it on crackers, in a wrap, or on a bed of greens.
8. Roasted Vegetable Medley
Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and makes them taste delicious.
Chop up a mix of your favorite budget-friendly vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions, toss them with olive oil and herbs, and roast them in the oven for a tasty and healthy side dish.
9. Black Bean Quesadillas
Canned black beans are an affordable and flavorful ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Layer them with cheese and veggies in a tortilla, cook until crispy, and enjoy a tasty, budget-friendly meal.
10. Cauliflower Rice Stir Fry
Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that can be used in place of rice for a low-carb, budget-friendly meal. Stir fry it with your favorite veggies, soy sauce, and protein for a tasty and nutritious dinner.
11. Baked Potato Bar
Baked potatoes are an inexpensive and filling meal option that can be customized to suit your tastes. Set out a variety of healthy toppings like broccoli, cheese, and Greek yogurt, and let everyone build their own perfect baked potato.
12. Slow Cooker Chili
Slow cooker meals are great for hands-off cooking and can help stretch your budget. Make a big batch of chili with ground beef, beans, and veggies, and enjoy it for several meals throughout the week.
13. Egg Fried Rice
Rice is a great base for affordable and filling meals. Stir fry it with scrambled eggs, frozen veggies, and spices for a tasty and easy weeknight dinner.
14. Greek Yogurt Parfait
Greek yogurt is a budget-friendly source of protein that can be dressed up with fruit, nuts, and granola for a delicious and filling breakfast.
15. One Pot Pasta
One pot meals are a great option for busy weeknights and can help cut down on dirty dishes. Toss pasta, veggies, and protein into one pot with broth and seasoning for a quick and easy dinner.
16. Broiled Salmon
Salmon can be pricey, but broiling it is an easy and affordable way to enjoy this healthy protein. Season with lemon juice, garlic powder, and black pepper, and broil until cooked through.
17. Veggie Quiche
Quiche is a great way to use up leftover veggies and is a filling meal that can be enjoyed any time of day. Substitute milk and cheese for Greek yogurt to cut down on the fat and calories.
18. Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
A classic comfort meal, grilled cheese and tomato soup is both tasty and affordable. Use whole grain bread and low-sodium soup to make it a little healthier.
19. Sheet Pan Fajitas
Sheet pan meals are easy to prepare and require minimal clean up. Toss peppers, onions, and chicken with fajita seasoning and bake until cooked through.
20. Turkey Chili
Ground turkey can be a budget-friendly substitute for ground beef and can be used in a variety of dishes. Make a flavorful chili by combining turkey, beans, peppers, and tomatoes.
21. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Bell peppers are a versatile ingredient that can be stuffed with a variety of healthy fillings. Mix ground beef with rice, onion, and spices, and stuff into bell peppers before baking in the oven.
22. Vegetable Omelette
Whip up a quick and budget-friendly meal by making a vegetable omelette. Beat eggs, add diced veggies, and cook until set for a protein-packed breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
23. Pasta Primavera
Use a mix of fresh or frozen vegetables to create a colorful pasta primavera. Toss them with your favorite pasta shape and a simple olive oil and garlic sauce for an affordable and delightful meal.
24. Tofu Stir Fry
Tofu is a cost-effective source of plant-based protein. Stir fry cubed tofu with an assortment of vegetables and a flavorful stir-fry sauce, and serve over rice or noodles for a budget-friendly and nutritious dinner.
25. Homemade Bean Burritos
Create your own bean burritos with canned beans, rice, cheese, and your preferred seasonings. Wrap them in tortillas for a quick, budget-conscious, and customizable meal.
26. Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
Sauté cabbage and sliced sausage with onions and spices for an easy, hearty, and budget-friendly one-pan meal.
27. Chicken and Rice Casserole
Make a comforting casserole using chicken, rice, vegetables, and cream of chicken soup. Bake until everything is cooked through for a satisfying and economical dinner.
28. Pancakes
Pancakes are not just for breakfast; they can be enjoyed for dinner too. Serve them with fruit, yogurt, or syrup for a simple and budget-friendly meal.
29. Homemade Veggie Pizza
Create your own pizza with a homemade or store-bought crust, top it with tomato sauce, part-skim mozzarella cheese, and a variety of budget-friendly vegetables for a more nutritious and cost-effective alternative to ordering pizza.
30. Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sandwich
Make a budget-friendly breakfast or breakfast-for-dinner sandwich by adding scrambled eggs and cheese to whole-grain bread or an English muffin.
31. Stuffed Acorn Squash
Acorn squash is a nutrient-rich ingredient. Fill it with a mixture of grains, beans, and veggies for a tasty and budget-conscious meal.
32. Lentil Tacos
Utilize affordable lentils to create a meatless taco filling. Combine them with taco seasoning and your preferred toppings in tortillas for a budget-friendly and satisfying meal.
33. Homemade Tomato Soup
Make your own tomato soup by simmering canned tomatoes with garlic, onions, and a hint of cream. Serve it with a side of grilled cheese for a classic and economical combo.
34. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Prepare a simple yet flavorful pasta dish by tossing cooked spaghetti with garlic, red pepper flakes, olive oil, and fresh parsley for a wallet-friendly Italian meal.
35. Mashed Potato and Vegetable Pancakes
Transform leftover mashed potatoes and veggies into pancakes by mixing them with breadcrumbs and spices. Cook until golden brown for a thrifty and delightful side dish.
Final Thoughts,
Eating healthy on a budget doesn’t have to be a challenge.
By incorporating budget-friendly ingredients like canned beans, sweet potatoes, lentils, and rice into your meals, you can create delicious and nutritious meals without breaking the bank.
Use these recipes as inspiration to start cooking more meals at home and saving money in the process. Your body and your wallet will thank you!
