Finding meals that are affordable, delicious, and healthy can be a challenge, but it’s totally worth the effort. And if you’ve been on this for the longest, you’ve come to the right place. In our list, we present some of the best budget-friendly meals that will keep you satisfied without breaking the bank.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
When you have a bunch of leftover veg in the fridge, a stir-fry is the way to go. All you need to do is sauté whatever vegetables you have in a little oil, throw in some soy sauce (or anything else you have), and serve it up over some rice or noodles. This dish is equal parts delicious, flexible, and affordable, and the mix of veggies makes it very healthy too.
Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich
There aren’t many people out there who don’t love peanut butter. As well as being super tasty, it’s relatively cheap and healthy too, especially when paired with bananas in a sandwich. Simply spread peanut butter on whole-grain bread and add some sliced bananas for a nutritious, high-protein snack.
Oatmeal with Fruit
Contrary to what some people think, oatmeal isn’t just for breakfast. No matter what time of day it is, oatmeal makes an affordable, healthy, and satisfying meal that’s packed with protein and fiber. So next time you’re hungry and low on cash, cook up some oats with water or milk and top with fresh or dried fruit, nuts, and a drizzle of honey (if you’re feeling fancy).
Lentil Soup
Any vegan or vegetarian can tell you that lentils make a great, budget-friendly source of protein. In fact, according to Healthline, just 1 cup contains almost 18 grams of protein. If you want to make a cheap and tasty soup, just cook them up with onions, carrots, and celery in some broth. You can also add spices like cumin or thyme to liven up the flavor without adding to the cost.
Bean and Rice Burritos
Most people are familiar with rice and beans being cheap, satisfying staples that go very well together. All you have to do is wrap them up in a tortilla, perhaps with some cheese, salsa, and a bit of seasoning, and you’ve got an affordable but hearty burrito. This easy-to-make meal gives you plenty of protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients without breaking the bank.
Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil
Pasta with garlic and olive oil is a go-to classic that’s both cheap and easy to whip up. Just cook the pasta, sauté some garlic in olive oil, and toss it all together with a few red pepper flakes. A bit of grated Parmesan on top makes a great way of adding some additional flavor without costing too much extra.
Egg Fried Rice
If you’ve got some leftover rice, there’s no better way to use it than in a delicious egg fried rice dish. Just sauté some onions and garlic, toss in the rice and a beaten egg, then mix in soy sauce and whatever veggies you have available. This satisfying meal is quick, easy, and super budget-friendly.
Chickpea Salad
Chickpeas are a cheap yet versatile source of protein that works well in all sorts of recipes. If a simple chickpea salad sounds good to you, then mix canned chickpeas with chopped veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. For some extra flavor, mix it all together with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Baked Potatoes
A lot of people see baked potatoes as the ultimate comfort food, and who can blame them? They’re soft, easy to make, and you can pair them with all sorts of tasty toppings. If you’re in a rush and want something simple but tasty and filling, bake up some ‘tatos and load them with sour cream, chives, cheese, or baked beans.
Tuna Pasta Salad
Tuna pasta salad is a quick, easy, and cost-effective dish that most people will enjoy. Mix cooked pasta with canned tuna, a bit of mayo, and chopped veggies like celery and onions. It’s filling, nutritious, and provides a good balance of protein and carbs.
Black Bean Soup
Black beans are a budget-friendly protein powerhouse. Cook them with onions, garlic, and spices to whip up a hearty black bean soup. Puree part of it for a creamy texture without any cream. It’s healthy, tasty, and easy on the wallet.
Vegetable Omelet
As you probably know, eggs are super versatile, full of protein, and relatively cheap. For a nutritious and yummy vegetable omelet, just throw in whatever veggies you have lying around and a bit of cheese for extra flavor. It’s quick to make and perfect for any meal of the day.
Quinoa Salad
Quinoa might seem pricey, but you’ll find that a little goes a long way. Cook it up and mix it with chopped veggies, beans, and a simple olive oil and lemon juice dressing. It’s nutritious, filling, and perfect for meal prepping.
Homemade Pizza
Despite what you may think, making pizza at home is super fun and affordable too. Use store-bought dough or make your own, then top it with tomato sauce, cheese, and your favorite veggies. This makes the perfect way to enjoy pizza night without the high cost of takeout.
Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Chicken stir-fry is another great budget-friendly option. Use affordable cuts of chicken and a mix of veggies, sautéed with soy sauce and a bit of garlic. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete, nutritious meal that won’t break the bank.
Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce
Spaghetti with marinara sauce is a classic, inexpensive meal. Use canned tomatoes, garlic, and onions to make a simple sauce, and add some dried herbs like basil and oregano for flavor. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a family on a budget.
Vegetable Chili
Vegetable chili is hearty and affordable. Use beans, canned tomatoes, and a mix of veggies, simmered with chili powder and other spices. It’s filling, nutritious, and great for making big batches to enjoy throughout the week.
Greek Yogurt with Honey and Nuts
If you’re looking for something that feels indulgent yet healthy, this one is definitely worth a try. Greek yogurt is a nutritious and budget-friendly option. Just top it with a drizzle of honey and a handful of nuts for added protein and healthy fats. It’s quick to prepare and can be enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A grilled cheese sandwich is comforting and affordable. Use whole-grain bread and your favorite cheese, grilled to perfection. Pair it with a cup of tomato soup for a classic combo that’s both satisfying and budget-friendly.
Bean and Cheese Quesadilla
Bean and cheese quesadillas are quick, easy, and inexpensive. Spread refried beans on a tortilla, add cheese, and cook until the cheese is melted. It’s simple to prepare and offers a good balance of protein and carbs, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.