15 quick and easy dinner recipes for family [Cheap Meal]
Recipes that are budget-friendly, simple, and satisfying can make your busy evenings stress-free. When you need a quick and delicious meal that won’t break the bank, you want options that use affordable ingredients without sacrificing flavor. These 15 quick and easy dinner recipes are perfect for feeding your family while keeping costs low and prep time minimal. Whether you prefer one-pot meals, hearty casseroles, or quick stovetop dishes, you’ll find something here that suits your needs. Save time and money while serving up homemade meals your family will love!
1. Spaghetti and Meatballs
Your family will love this classic spaghetti and meatballs dish that’s both satisfying and budget-friendly. With tender meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce and served over perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal that feels homemade without requiring hours in the kitchen. Using pantry staples like canned tomatoes, dried herbs, and simple ground beef, this dish brings big flavors without a big price tag. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a side of garlic bread for a comforting dinner that’s easy to prepare on busy nights.
Ground beef and pasta
Even with simple ingredients, you can create a hearty and delicious meal that feels gourmet. Ground beef is an affordable protein that adds richness to the dish, while pasta provides the perfect base to soak up the flavorful sauce. You can enhance the meatballs by mixing in breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings, giving them a tender texture and balanced taste. Spaghetti works best for this dish, but you can easily swap it for other pasta shapes depending on what you have available.
Ready in 25 minutes
To get this meal on the table quickly, start by boiling the pasta while preparing the meatballs. Cooking them in a skillet until browned ensures rich flavor, and then simmering them in a savory tomato sauce helps them stay moist. By using canned tomatoes and dried herbs, you save time without sacrificing taste. Once the pasta is drained, toss everything together, and you have a delicious home-cooked meal in under half an hour.
Minutes matter on busy nights, and this dish delivers both speed and flavor. Prepping ingredients in advance, like mixing the meatball mixture ahead of time, can cut down on cooking steps. A quick boil for the pasta and a fast simmer for the sauce allow everything to come together seamlessly. If you need an even faster option, store-bought frozen meatballs work well with the same method, making this dish even more convenient without losing homemade appeal.
2. Chicken Stir-Fry Rice
Some nights, you need a quick and delicious meal, and chicken stir-fry rice is perfect for that. This dish combines tender chicken with colorful vegetables and fluffy rice, all tossed in a flavorful sauce. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice and whatever veggies you have on hand. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and simple to make in just one pan. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a wholesome meal ready in no time. Serve it hot and enjoy a tasty homemade dinner without breaking the bank.
Vegetables and chicken pieces
The key to a flavorful stir-fry is using fresh vegetables and properly sliced chicken. Choose a mix of bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli for a healthy and colorful dish. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce. Lightly seasoning the meat before cooking enhances the taste. You can also use frozen vegetables for convenience, making this dish even easier to prepare while still keeping it nutritious and satisfying.
Cook time 20 minutes
While this dish comes together quickly, proper preparation makes the cooking process even smoother. Have all ingredients chopped and ready before you start cooking. Stir-frying moves fast, and a hot pan ensures the chicken sears properly while keeping the vegetables crisp. Cooking the ingredients in stages prevents overcrowding and allows each component to develop the best texture and flavor. By keeping your heat high and stirring frequently, you’ll have a delicious and evenly cooked stir-fry in just 20 minutes.
A good stir-fry relies on balancing cooking time and technique. First, cook the chicken until golden, then set it aside before stir-frying the vegetables. Adding the chicken back in at the end ensures it stays juicy while blending well with the sauce. If using pre-cooked rice, reheating it in the same pan helps absorb all the flavors. A splash of soy sauce or a hint of ginger can elevate the dish instantly. In just a short time, you have a meal that’s satisfying, nutritious, and perfect for busy evenings.
3. Tuna Casserole
Assuming you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly dinner option, tuna casserole is a fantastic choice. This dish combines canned tuna, noodles, and a creamy sauce to create a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. It’s a great way to use pantry staples while delivering a filling and satisfying dinner for your family. You can customize it with whatever vegetables or seasonings you have on hand, making it a versatile option for busy weeknights.
Canned tuna with noodles
Clearly, canned tuna and noodles make a winning pair in this casserole. The mild flavor of tuna blends perfectly with the creamy sauce, while the noodles add the perfect texture. Using canned tuna keeps costs low while still providing a good source of protein. You can choose from egg noodles, elbow macaroni, or any pasta you prefer, making it easy to work with what you already have in your kitchen.
Preparation time 30 minutes
Some meals demand too much time in the kitchen, but this tuna casserole comes together in just 30 minutes. With simple steps like boiling the noodles, mixing ingredients, and baking everything together, you’ll have a hearty family meal on the table in no time. This makes it an excellent choice for busy evenings when you need a quick yet satisfying dinner.
Plus, the minimal prep allows you to multitask while it bakes. You can prepare a side salad, set the table, or simply take a break while the oven does the work. A short cooking time means less time standing over the stove and more time enjoying a homemade meal with your loved ones.
4. Bean and Cheese Burritos
To make a quick and budget-friendly meal, bean and cheese burritos are a perfect choice. Packed with protein-rich beans and gooey melted cheese, these burritos are not only delicious but also filling. You can customize them with your favorite toppings like salsa, sour cream, or avocado for extra flavor. This is a simple meal that requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Serve them with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Tortillas with filling
Tortillas act as the base for these burritos, holding all the flavorful ingredients inside. Simply warm your tortillas to make them more pliable, then spread a generous amount of refried or black beans across the center. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beans, allowing it to melt slightly from the warmth of the tortilla. You can also add extras like diced onions, jalapeños, or a dash of seasoning for more taste. Once filled, fold in the sides and roll the tortillas into a tight burrito, sealing all the tasty ingredients within.
Done in 15 minutes
You’ll have these burritos ready in just 15 minutes, making them an excellent option for nights when cooking time is limited. Since the beans are already cooked, all you need to do is heat them up, melt the cheese, and wrap it all in warm tortillas. A few minutes on a skillet or in the microwave is all it takes to bring everything together into a satisfying meal.
Burritos don’t require complicated steps, which makes them one of the fastest meals to prepare. Heating the tortillas properly ensures they remain soft and easy to roll, while warming the beans before assembly enhances the overall texture. If you prefer a crispy finish, lightly grilling the burritos in a pan gives them a golden crust. With such a short cooking time, this dish is a go-to solution for busy evenings.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Not only is a grilled cheese sandwich a comforting classic, but it’s also one of the easiest and most affordable meals to make for your family. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a warm, gooey sandwich that pairs perfectly with soup or a side salad. Whether you stick with the classic cheddar on white bread or experiment with different cheeses and add-ins, this meal is endlessly versatile. Best of all, it takes minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying.
Bread and cheese combo
Clearly, the foundation of any great grilled cheese is the combination of bread and cheese. Using sturdy bread like sourdough or whole wheat ensures a crispy, golden crust, while a good melting cheese—cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda—creates that perfect stretch. You can also mix cheeses for a more complex flavor or even add a thin layer of butter or mayo on the outside for an extra-crunchy finish. No matter what you choose, finding the right pairing will take your grilled cheese to the next level.
Ready in 10 minutes
Now, if you’re short on time, a grilled cheese sandwich is the perfect solution. It takes just minutes to prepare and only requires toasting each side until golden brown. With a hot pan and the right amount of butter, your sandwich can be crisped to perfection in no time. This makes it an excellent option for nights when you need a satisfying meal without a long cooking process.
For instance, you can make the process even quicker by pre-slicing your cheese and having your bread ready to go. Using medium heat ensures that the bread crisps up while the cheese melts evenly without burning. You can even prepare multiple sandwiches at once by using a griddle or a large pan. By keeping it simple and efficient, you get a hot, melty sandwich on the table in just 10 minutes.
6. Vegetable Soup
Your family will love a warm and hearty vegetable soup that’s both budget-friendly and easy to prepare. Packed with nutrients, this simple dish combines fresh or frozen vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. It’s a perfect one-pot meal that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum taste. Whether served as a standalone dish or with bread on the side, this comforting soup is an excellent way to enjoy a wholesome dinner without spending a lot of money. Plus, you can customize it with whatever ingredients you have on hand.
Mixed vegetables in broth
Clearly, the key to a delicious vegetable soup is a variety of colorful vegetables simmered in a well-seasoned broth. You can use carrots, potatoes, beans, peas, and any other leftover veggies you have in your kitchen. A combination of vegetable or chicken broth brings out the rich flavors of the ingredients while allowing the natural sweetness of the vegetables to shine. Adding a touch of herbs and spices enhances the taste, making every spoonful satisfying and nutritious for your family.
Cooking time 25 minutes
For a fast and easy dinner, this vegetable soup is ready in just 25 minutes. The short cooking time ensures the vegetables remain tender yet slightly crisp, preserving their flavors and nutrients. A simple simmer on the stove blends all the ingredients into a rich and comforting meal. Whether you’re short on time or just want a hassle-free recipe, this soup is perfect for a quick homemade dinner.
Mixed vegetables cook quickly in a simmering broth, making this a great choice for busy nights. You only need a few minutes to chop your ingredients before letting them boil and soften in the pot. Stir occasionally to distribute the flavors, and your soup will be ready in no time. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the vegetables or add a small amount of blended soup back into the pot. This quick preparation makes it an ideal option when you need a nourishing meal without a long wait.
7. Pancakes and Eggs
Unlike elaborate meals that require hours of preparation, pancakes and eggs offer a fast and satisfying dinner option for your family. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up fluffy pancakes and perfectly cooked eggs in no time. Whether you prefer scrambled, fried, or poached eggs, this meal is simple, affordable, and incredibly filling. Plus, it’s easy to customize with a variety of toppings like syrup, fruit, or cheese, making it a versatile choice for a quick weeknight dinner.
Breakfast for dinner option
Option for serving breakfast at dinnertime brings a comforting and familiar meal to your table without the hassle. Pancakes and eggs create a warm, homey atmosphere that everyone in your family will appreciate. This meal is also a great way to use up pantry staples without having to plan an elaborate grocery list. Whether you keep it simple or add extras like bacon or hash browns, it’s an easy way to serve something delicious without much effort.
Takes 20 minutes total
An advantage of making pancakes and eggs for dinner is the minimal time required to prepare and cook everything. In just 20 minutes, you can have a complete and hearty meal ready to serve. This quick cooking time makes it ideal for busy evenings when you need something filling but don’t have the energy to spend a long time in the kitchen.
A major benefit of this meal is that you can cook multiple components simultaneously. While your pancakes are browning on the griddle, your eggs can cook on the stovetop, minimizing downtime. If you’re using pre-made pancake mix, the process becomes even quicker. Cleanup is also easy since you only need a mixing bowl, a pan, and a spatula. This quick and simple meal is perfect when you need something convenient and satisfying.
8. Mac and Cheese
All you need for a comforting and budget-friendly dinner is a pot of creamy mac and cheese. This classic dish combines tender pasta with a rich, cheesy sauce that your whole family will love. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights when you need an effortless meal. You can use basic pantry ingredients like pasta, cheese, butter, and milk to whip up a satisfying dish without spending too much. Plus, you can customize it by adding veggies, cooked meats, or breadcrumbs for extra flavor and texture.
Pasta with Cheese Sauce
Cheese sauce is the heart of a good mac and cheese, and making it from scratch is easier than you think. A simple roux made with butter and flour creates a smooth base, while milk and shredded cheese bring in a velvety richness. Stir the sauce until the cheese fully melts, then mix it with freshly boiled pasta. You can use cheddar for a classic taste or experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or Gouda for a different twist. This homemade version is creamier and tastier than store-bought alternatives.
Preparation Time 15 Minutes
On busy nights, a quick and satisfying meal makes all the difference, and mac and cheese is ready in just 15 minutes. Start by boiling your pasta while preparing the cheese sauce in a separate pan. When both are done, simply combine and stir until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce. A few extra minutes for optional toppings like breadcrumbs or parsley can enhance the dish without adding much prep time. This makes it a go-to recipe for fast and delicious family dinners.
For instance, while your pasta cooks, you can focus on making the cheese sauce, which only takes about five minutes. Using pre-shredded cheese can speed things up, but freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly. If you prefer baked mac and cheese, you can transfer it to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle some cheese or breadcrumbs on top, and broil it for a couple of minutes for a crispy finish. Even with this extra step, your meal will still be done in under 20 minutes, making it both convenient and satisfying.
9. Rice and Beans
Once again, rice and beans prove to be one of the most affordable, nutritious, and filling meals for your family. This classic dish offers a great balance of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates, ensuring everyone feels satisfied while keeping costs down. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a delicious dinner with minimal effort. The versatility of rice and beans allows you to customize it with spices, vegetables, or a protein of your choice. Whether you prefer a simple version or something with a little more kick, this dish can be easily adapted to suit your family’s tastes.
Simple protein-rich meal
On a busy evening, rice and beans come to the rescue as a simple yet protein-rich meal. The combination of grains and legumes provides a complete protein source, making it an excellent option if you’re looking for a satisfying and nutritious dinner. Adding ingredients like onions, garlic, or canned tomatoes enhances the flavor without stretching your budget. You can serve it as a side, a main dish, or even wrap it in a tortilla for a handheld meal. Whether you top it with cheese, avocado, or a sprinkle of your favorite seasoning, this dish offers plenty of tasty possibilities.
Cook time 20 minutes
Meal prep doesn’t have to take hours, and this rice and beans recipe comes together in just 20 minutes. By using pre-cooked or canned beans and quick-cooking rice, you can have dinner on the table without much hassle. A simple sauté of onions and spices adds depth of flavor, while a quick simmer blends everything perfectly. With minimal hands-on time, you can focus on setting the table or preparing a side dish while it cooks.
Any shortcuts you take won’t compromise the quality of this dish. Precooked rice or a rice cooker helps speed up the process, while canned beans eliminate the need for long soaking and simmering times. If you prefer dried beans, cooking them in bulk ahead of time and freezing portions saves effort on busy nights. You can also switch up the flavors with different seasonings, like cumin, paprika, or chili powder, to give the meal a unique twist each time. With just a few simple steps, this quick and affordable dinner will become a household favorite.
10. Sheet Pan Chicken
Keep dinner simple and stress-free with sheet pan chicken—a quick, flavorful meal that requires minimal prep and cleanup. With just a handful of ingredients, you can roast chicken with your favorite vegetables all on one pan for an easy, balanced dish. The oven does most of the work, leaving you with tender, juicy chicken and perfectly roasted veggies. Plus, you can easily swap in different seasonings or ingredients to suit your family’s preferences. Whether you’re short on time or just want a hassle-free meal, this recipe makes dinnertime effortless and delicious.
One-pan chicken dinner
There’s no need for multiple pots and pans—everything cooks together on a single sheet pan. This method locks in flavor while keeping cleanup to a minimum, making it perfect for busy evenings. Simply toss chicken and veggies in seasoning, spread them on the pan, and let the oven do the work. In just one step, you get a complete meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a small group or a full family, this fuss-free approach ensures everyone enjoys a wholesome, homemade dinner without the extra dishes.
Ready in 30 minutes
Little time to cook? This sheet pan chicken recipe is done in just 30 minutes, getting a wholesome meal on the table fast. With quick-cooking ingredients and a high-temperature roast, you can enjoy a flavorful dinner without long prep times. It’s ideal for those evenings when you need a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Minutes matter when you’re juggling a busy schedule, and this recipe helps you maximize every second. By cutting chicken into smaller pieces and choosing fast-roasting vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans, you speed up the cooking process without sacrificing flavor. A simple seasoning mix of olive oil, garlic, and herbs enhances the taste while keeping the recipe effortless. Whether it’s a weeknight or a weekend, this quick dish ensures you can sit down to a hearty meal without delay.
11. Potato and Egg Hash
Many families love potato and egg hash for a quick, filling dinner that doesn’t strain the budget. This one-pan meal combines crispy potatoes, fluffy eggs, and flavorful seasonings for a satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy. You can customize it with cheese, veggies, or leftover meats to make it even heartier. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re short on time or looking for an affordable meal, this hash is a great go-to option for a busy night.
Diced potatoes with eggs
The combination of diced potatoes and eggs creates a perfect balance of texture and flavor. The potatoes are pan-fried until golden and crispy, while the eggs cook gently on top or are mixed in for a scramble-style dish. Seasonings like salt, pepper, and paprika add depth, while chopped onions or bell peppers bring extra flavor. If you like cheese, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or feta can enhance the dish even more. This meal is simple, but the combination of warm potatoes and creamy eggs makes it a comforting and satisfying option for dinner.
Takes 25 minutes total
For a dinner that’s both quick and delicious, this potato and egg hash takes just 25 minutes from start to finish. With minimal prep time, you can have it on the table fast, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Cooking everything in a single skillet also means less cleanup, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal instead of washing dishes.
You can speed up the cooking process by using pre-cooked or frozen diced potatoes, cutting down the time needed to soften them in the pan. If you prefer extra crispy potatoes, let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring. Once the potatoes reach the desired texture, adding the eggs only takes a couple of minutes. This simple technique helps you prepare a filling, homemade meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
12. Quesadillas
For a quick and satisfying meal, quesadillas are a perfect option. All you need are tortillas, cheese, and any extras like beans, veggies, or leftover meat. Simply layer your ingredients between tortillas, toast them in a pan until golden and crispy, then slice and serve. They’re budget-friendly, easy to customize, and great for using up leftovers. Pair with salsa or sour cream for extra flavor.
Cheese and tortilla meal
Little more than cheese and tortillas can make a delicious meal in minutes. Melted cheese between crispy tortillas offers the perfect balance of texture and taste. You can keep it simple or add ingredients like beans or cooked meats to enhance the flavor. Serve with a side of salsa or guacamole to elevate the dish even further.
Done in 10 minutes
There’s no need to spend hours in the kitchen when quesadillas come together in just 10 minutes. Heat a pan, assemble your tortilla with cheese and fillings, and cook each side until golden. With minimal prep and cook time, this meal is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without the hassle.
It takes only a few minutes to melt the cheese and crisp up the tortilla, making quesadillas one of the fastest homemade meals you can prepare. If you’re using pre-cooked ingredients like shredded chicken or beans, the process becomes even quicker. Cleanup is simple, too—just a pan and a cutting board. Whether for a last-minute dinner or a satisfying snack, this meal is a reliable go-to.
13. Pasta with Tomato Sauce
Despite its simplicity, pasta with tomato sauce is a satisfying and budget-friendly meal that you can make with pantry staples. This dish combines tender pasta with a rich, flavorful tomato sauce that comes together with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or need a quick meal, this recipe delivers great taste without stretching your budget. With just a few ingredients, you can create a comforting dish that the whole family will enjoy.
Simple pasta dinner
One of the best things about this pasta dish is how effortlessly you can prepare it. With basic ingredients like canned tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil, you can make a sauce that tastes homemade. Adjusting the seasoning lets you control the flavor, whether you prefer a hint of spice or a touch of sweetness. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad, and you have a well-rounded meal that feels both easy and satisfying.
Ready in 15 minutes
Tomato sauce made from canned or fresh tomatoes comes together quickly, allowing you to have dinner on the table in no time. While the pasta boils, you can prepare the sauce with just a few simple steps. A quick simmer enhances the flavor, giving you a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe fits perfectly into busy schedules while still delivering a comforting, homemade taste.
Simple ingredients like garlic, onions, and dried herbs add depth to the sauce without requiring extra effort. Sautéing them for just a couple of minutes before adding the tomatoes intensifies the flavor. To speed things up, use pre-chopped garlic or onion, and let the heat do the work. A final touch of grated cheese or fresh basil elevates the dish, making it feel special while keeping prep time minimal. In just 15 minutes, you can serve a warm, satisfying meal that tastes like it took much longer to prepare.
14. Egg Fried Rice
Once again, you can turn simple pantry staples into a satisfying meal with egg fried rice. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you need something quick, filling, and budget-friendly. With just a few ingredients like rice, eggs, soy sauce, and a handful of veggies, you can serve up a delicious homemade alternative to takeout in no time. The best part? You can customize it with whatever you have on hand, making it a versatile option for the whole family.
Leftover Rice with Eggs
You’ll get the best results using leftover rice, as it’s drier and prevents the dish from turning out mushy. Cold, day-old rice absorbs flavors better and fries up with a nice texture. Simply scramble some eggs, toss in your rice, and stir-fry everything with a bit of soy sauce and seasoning. If you have extra vegetables or protein like chicken or shrimp, you can throw them in to make the meal even heartier.
Cooking Time 15 Minutes
While this dish comes together in just 15 minutes, prepping your ingredients beforehand will make cooking even faster. Start by beating the eggs, chopping any vegetables, and measuring out your sauces. Once your pan is hot, cook the eggs first, then add the rice and seasonings, stirring everything together until well combined. A few minutes of stir-frying will bring out the flavors, and your meal is ready to serve.
Plus, using a hot pan or wok helps give your fried rice that perfect texture without sticking. A little oil keeps everything from clumping, while stirring frequently ensures even cooking. You can also adjust the seasoning based on your preference—add a splash of oyster sauce for extra depth or a pinch of chili flakes if you like heat. In just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious, budget-friendly meal that everyone will love.
Conclusion
Taking this into account, these 15 quick and easy dinner recipes for family [Cheap Meal] provide you with delicious, budget-friendly options that save time without sacrificing flavor. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create satisfying meals that keep your family happy while staying within your budget. Whether you prefer hearty casseroles, one-pan dishes, or quick stovetop meals, these recipes ensure that dinner is stress-free and enjoyable. By incorporating these affordable meals into your routine, you can streamline your cooking process and make dinnertime more convenient without compromising on taste or nutrition.
FAQ
Q: What are some budget-friendly ingredients I can use for these quick and easy dinner recipes?
A: Many affordable ingredients can help you prepare delicious and cost-effective meals. Some great options include rice, pasta, beans, lentils, potatoes, canned tomatoes, frozen vegetables, eggs, and ground meat. Buying in bulk and opting for seasonal produce can also help you cut down on expenses while making flavorful dishes.
Q: How can I make sure these meals are both affordable and nutritious?
A: To keep meals nutritious while staying on a budget, focus on incorporating protein, fiber, and vegetables into your recipes. Use ingredients like beans, lentils, eggs, and lean meats for protein, and whole grains such as brown rice or whole wheat pasta for added fiber. Adding frozen or fresh vegetables ensures your family gets vital vitamins and minerals without overspending.
Q: Can I prepare these meals in advance to save time on busy nights?
A: Yes! Many of these meals can be prepared ahead of time to save effort during busy evenings. You can chop vegetables in advance, make and freeze sauces, or cook extra portions for leftovers. Batch cooking meals like soups, casseroles, or stir-fries allows you to have ready-to-eat options that only need reheating, helping you save both time and money.
