Feeding a family on a budget can be tricky, but that doesn’t mean meals have to be boring or expensive! Here’s a collection of 25 cheap and easy meals that are perfect for busy weeknights. Each dish is designed to be family-friendly, wallet-conscious, and simple to whip up, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying time together.
One-Pot Pasta Primavera
One-Pot Pasta Primavera is a delightful dish that brings together colorful vegetables and pasta in a simple, quick meal. This image showcases a pot filled with perfectly cooked spaghetti, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs. The bright greens and reds add a fresh, inviting touch, making it not just tasty but also visually appealing.
These meals are perfect for families on a budget. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a nutritious dinner without breaking the bank. All you’ll need are pasta, cherry tomatoes, some greens, and your favorite herbs to create a dish that everyone will enjoy.
To make this dish, start by cooking your pasta in a pot. Once it’s almost done, toss in your cherry tomatoes and any other vegetables you have on hand. After everything is cooked, mix in the herbs for flavor. Just like that, you have a wonderful meal ready in one pot!
Homemade Pizza with Various Toppings
Homemade pizza is a fun and budget-friendly meal that brings everyone together. It’s easy to prepare and allows each family member to choose their favorite toppings. Just look at this delicious pizza topped with pepperoni, colorful bell peppers, mushrooms, and fresh basil, all ready for baking.
To make your own homemade pizza, start with simple ingredients. You’ll need pizza dough, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and your choice of toppings. Roll out the dough, spread the sauce, sprinkle the cheese, and add an assortment of toppings. Bake it until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
This meal is not only tasty but also versatile. Each person can customize their slice, making it a hit for families on a budget. It fits perfectly into the list of 25 Cheap and Easy Meals for Families on a Budget, offering both enjoyment and savings.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a fun and colorful dish that can be a hit at the dinner table. They are perfect for families on a budget, as they are easy to make and use simple ingredients.
In the image, you can see vibrant red, green, and yellow bell peppers filled with a tasty mixture. The filling usually consists of rice or orzo, veggies, and spices, making it both nutritious and filling. This dish not only looks appetizing but also brings a variety of flavors to every bite.
To make stuffed bell peppers, start by cooking your rice or orzo. Mix it with onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, and any leftover meat or beans. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Stuff them with the mixture and place them in a baking dish. Bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes, and you’ll have a meal that the whole family will enjoy!
These stuffed peppers fit perfectly into our list of 25 Cheap and Easy Meals for Families on a Budget. They are customizable and can use whatever you have on hand, making them a great choice for any night of the week.
Vegetable Fried Rice
Vegetable Fried Rice is a go-to dish that’s easy on the wallet. This colorful mix of rice and vegetables is both tasty and filling, making it perfect for families on a budget. The image shows a vibrant dish filled with bright bell peppers, green onions, and black beans, all tossed with fluffy rice.
To make this meal, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients: cooked rice, assorted vegetables (like bell peppers and snap peas), soy sauce, and a bit of oil for frying. Start by heating the oil in a pan, then add the vegetables and stir-fry until they’re tender. Stir in the cooked rice and soy sauce, mixing everything well until heated through.
This dish not only fits into the theme of ’25 Cheap and Easy Meals for Families on a Budget’ but also allows for flexibility. You can easily swap in whatever vegetables you have on hand or even add some leftover protein. It’s a great way to use up ingredients while keeping the meal affordable and delicious.
Taco Night with Ground Turkey
Taco night is a fun and budget-friendly way to bring the family together. Using ground turkey instead of beef makes it a healthier option without breaking the bank. This image shows all the delicious ingredients you need for a tasty taco feast.
You’ll see ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and warm tortillas all laid out. The vibrant colors of the peppers and tomatoes add a fresh touch. It’s easy to customize each taco to everyone’s liking, making it a hit for both kids and adults.
To prepare, simply cook the ground turkey with some spices, chop up the veggies, and let everyone build their own taco. This method keeps dinner interactive and exciting. Plus, it fits perfectly into the theme of 25 Cheap and Easy Meals for Families on a Budget.
Gather your ingredients and enjoy a tasty taco night that’s simple, delicious, and easy on the wallet!
Tomato Basil Soup and Grilled Cheese
Tomato basil soup paired with grilled cheese is a classic meal that brings warmth and comfort. The bright red color of the soup, garnished with fresh basil leaves, makes it visually appealing. Add in the golden, crispy grilled cheese, and you have a dish that is not only delicious but also budget-friendly.
This meal is perfect for families looking to save a few bucks while enjoying something tasty. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a comforting bowl of soup and a cheesy sandwich that everyone will love.
For the soup, you’ll need tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil, and broth. Start by sautéing garlic, adding tomatoes and broth, then simmering until blended. Blend it all together for a smooth finish. For the grilled cheese, use your favorite bread and cheese, grill until golden, and you’re ready to go!
This recipe fits perfectly into the theme of 25 Cheap and Easy Meals for Families on a Budget. It’s quick to make and doesn’t require fancy ingredients, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Slow Cooker Chili with Beans
Chili is a classic family meal that hits the spot, especially on chilly nights. This slow cooker chili with beans is both affordable and easy to whip up, making it a perfect fit for our list of 25 Cheap and Easy Meals for Families on a Budget.
The image shows a rich, hearty chili filled with a colorful mix of beans and topped with shredded cheese. The vibrant colors make it look tempting, and you can almost smell the spices just by looking at it. It’s a dish that brings everyone together around the table.
To make this delicious chili, you’ll need ingredients like ground meat, kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, and some spices. Start by browning the meat in a pan, then add everything into the slow cooker. Let it simmer for several hours until the flavors meld together. Serve it hot with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or even corn chips for some crunch.
Chickpea Curry with Rice
Chickpea curry with rice is a fantastic choice for families looking to eat well on a budget. This dish is not only hearty but also simple to prepare. The image shows a delightful bowl of chickpeas simmered in a rich sauce, served over fluffy white rice. Fresh cilantro on top adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that brightens the dish.
The ingredients are pretty straightforward. You’ll need canned chickpeas, canned tomatoes, coconut milk, and a mix of spices like curry powder, cumin, and garlic. Cooking this meal is easy. Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then add the spices. Stir in the chickpeas and tomatoes, let it simmer, and finish with coconut milk for creaminess. Serve it over rice to soak up all those delicious flavors.
This chickpea curry fits perfectly in the list of 25 cheap and easy meals for families on a budget. It’s not only budget-friendly but also packed with protein and nutrients, making it a wholesome option for everyone at the table.
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu
This Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu is not only colorful but also packed with flavor. Picture bright red and yellow bell peppers, fresh green onions, and perfectly cubed tofu all tossed together in a sizzling pan. It’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds! This dish is a fantastic addition to our list of 25 Cheap and Easy Meals for Families on a Budget.
Making this stir-fry is easy and quick. Start by prepping ingredients: chop up your favorite veggies like bell peppers and green onions. Cut the tofu into cubes and pat it dry. In a hot pan, toss in some oil and sauté the tofu until golden brown. Then, add the veggies and stir-fry until they’re tender-crisp. Finish with your favorite sauce and serve hot!
This meal is a great way to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. It’s not only budget-friendly, but it’s also nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something tasty without spending too much time in the kitchen!
Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery
Lentil soup is a warm and hearty dish that fits perfectly into the theme of 25 Cheap and Easy Meals for Families on a Budget. This soup features vibrant chunks of carrots and celery, making it both nutritious and delicious.
The lentils provide an excellent source of protein, making this meal filling without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s super simple to make. You can whip up a pot of this soup in no time, using ingredients you probably already have at home.
To make this soup, you’ll need lentils, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and spices like cumin and garlic. Just sauté the veggies, add the lentils and broth, then let it simmer until everything is tender. Serve it warm with some crusty bread on the side for a satisfying meal.
Oven-Baked Quesadillas
Oven-baked quesadillas are a fantastic option for families looking to eat deliciously without breaking the bank. They are simple to prepare and can be customized with whatever ingredients you have on hand. The image shows a plate of crispy quesadillas, filled with vibrant veggies and topped with fresh cilantro. Beside them is a small bowl of diced tomatoes, adding a fresh touch.
To make these, you’ll need flour tortillas, shredded cheese, and your choice of fillings. Common choices include bell peppers, onions, or even leftover meats. Just layer your ingredients between two tortillas, place them on a baking sheet, and pop them in the oven until they’re golden brown.
This dish is perfect for busy nights. You can set up a quesadilla bar, letting everyone choose their fillings. It’s a fun way to involve the whole family in dinner prep. Plus, it’s one of those meals that fits perfectly into our list of 25 Cheap and Easy Meals for Families on a Budget.
Savory Potato and Leek Soup
This creamy Potato and Leek Soup is a delightful addition to your dinner table. Packed with flavor and comfort, it warms you up on chilly nights. The bright yellow color hints at its deliciousness, with leeks softly mingling with tender potatoes. Fresh thyme leaves on top not only enhance the look but add a fragrant touch.
Making this soup is simple and budget-friendly, making it a perfect choice from our list of 25 Cheap and Easy Meals for Families on a Budget. You only need a few ingredients: potatoes, leeks, vegetable broth, cream, and some seasonings. Chop the ingredients and simmer them together until everything is tender. Then, blend until smooth for a creamy texture that everyone will love.
This soup is not just easy to make; it’s also versatile. You can serve it as a starter or pair it with some crusty bread for a satisfying main course. It’s a comforting dish that brings families together around the table.
Baked Ziti with Cheese
Baked ziti is a classic comfort food that brings warmth to any family meal. This dish features hearty pasta smothered in a rich tomato sauce and topped with gooey cheese. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
To make baked ziti, you’ll need ingredients like ziti pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and some Italian seasoning. Start by cooking the pasta al dente, then mix it with the marinara and ricotta in a baking dish. Top it off with mozzarella and bake until bubbly and golden.
This meal is not just cost-effective, but it also provides plenty of servings, making it ideal for families on a budget. You can enjoy this dish all week long, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for leftovers. Baked ziti with cheese is definitely one of the standout options in our list of 25 Cheap and Easy Meals for Families on a Budget.
Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
Cabbage and sausage skillet is a simple, hearty dish that fits perfectly into the theme of 25 Cheap and Easy Meals for Families on a Budget. This meal combines flavorful sausage with tender cabbage and pasta, creating a satisfying dish that won’t break the bank.
The vibrant colors in this dish make it visually appealing. The golden noodles, glistening sausage slices, and fresh green parsley create a feast for the eyes. It’s a meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with taste!
To make this dish, you’ll need ingredients like sausage, cabbage, egg noodles, and seasoning. Start by cooking the sausage in a skillet until browned. Then, add the cabbage and sauté until it softens. Finally, mix in the cooked noodles and toss everything together. Finish with a sprinkle of parsley for freshness.
This cabbage and sausage skillet is not only budget-friendly but also a great way to bring the family together for dinner. It’s quick to prepare and clean up, making it ideal for busy nights. Enjoy this comforting meal any day of the week!
Egg Fried Rice with Peas
Egg fried rice with peas is a delicious and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for families. It’s colorful, satisfying, and super easy to prepare. The bright green peas add a fresh touch to the fluffy rice, making it look as good as it tastes.
This dish is all about using simple ingredients. Typically, you’ll need cooked rice, eggs, peas, soy sauce, and a bit of oil. You can also throw in some green onions for extra flavor. It’s a great way to repurpose leftover rice and whip up a quick dinner.
To make it, start by heating oil in a pan. Scramble the eggs, then add the rice and peas. Stir everything together and drizzle some soy sauce for seasoning. It takes just a few minutes, and you’ll have a tasty meal ready to serve!
With egg fried rice, you’re not just saving money; you’re also making something your family will love. This dish fits perfectly into our list of 25 Cheap and Easy Meals for Families on a Budget. Give it a try for a simple dinner tonight!
Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
Creamy macaroni and cheese is a go-to meal for families, especially when you’re keeping an eye on the budget. The image shows a hearty bowl filled with perfectly cooked pasta coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Topped with a sprinkle of spices and fresh herbs, it’s not just comforting; it’s also a dish that kids and adults love.
This meal is not only easy to make but also requires minimal ingredients. You’ll need elbow macaroni, cheese (cheddar works great), milk, butter, and a pinch of salt and pepper. You can even throw in some breadcrumbs if you want a crunchy topping.
To whip this up, start by boiling your pasta until it’s al dente. While it’s cooking, melt the butter in a saucepan, stir in the milk, and gradually add the cheese until it’s smooth. Drain the pasta and mix it with the cheese sauce. Serve it hot, and watch it disappear!
Creamy macaroni and cheese perfectly fits into our list of 25 cheap and easy meals for families on a budget. It’s satisfying, filling, and versatile. You can add in veggies or proteins to make it even heartier, but it stands strong on its own too!
Chicken and Rice Casserole
Chicken and rice casserole is a classic dish that fits perfectly into the category of 25 Cheap and Easy Meals for Families on a Budget. This meal is not only affordable but also filling and comforting, making it a go-to option for busy nights.
The dish typically features tender pieces of chicken baked with rice, creamy sauce, and a sprinkle of cheese on top. The golden, bubbly cheese creates a mouthwatering texture that kids and adults alike will love. Plus, it’s one of those meals that your family can enjoy together.
To make this casserole, you’ll need some basic ingredients: cooked chicken, rice, cream of chicken soup, cheese, and seasonings. Simply mix everything together in a baking dish, top with cheese, and pop it in the oven. In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a warm and hearty meal ready to serve.
Sausage and Peppers Sandwiches
Sausage and peppers sandwiches are a fantastic option for a quick meal that’s both filling and affordable. This dish combines juicy sausages with colorful peppers and melted cheese, all tucked inside a soft bun. The vibrant mix of flavors and textures makes it a family favorite. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. You can whip this up in no time, keeping your budget in check with ingredients that won’t break the bank.
Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
This pasta salad is a perfect choice for busy families looking to save some money. The bright, plump cherry tomatoes add a burst of color and flavor, making the dish not only tasty but also visually appealing.
To make this meal, you’ll need simple ingredients that won’t break the bank: pasta of your choice, fresh cherry tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and a splash of vinegar. Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain and cool it down.
Next, halve the cherry tomatoes and toss them into the cooled pasta along with fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar for a hint of tanginess. Mix everything together and you’re done! It’s that easy!
This dish is great for lunch or dinner and fits perfectly into the ’25 Cheap and Easy Meals for Families on a Budget’ category. You can also modify it by adding other veggies or proteins, depending on what you have on hand.
Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwiches
Peanut butter and banana sandwiches are a simple, tasty option for families on a budget. The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet bananas offers a delightful flavor that kids love. Plus, these sandwiches are quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy days.
To make this easy meal, you just need a few ingredients: bread, peanut butter, and ripe bananas. Start by spreading peanut butter on a slice of bread. Then, slice the bananas and place them on top. You can add another slice of bread if you want a classic sandwich or enjoy it open-faced.
This meal is not only affordable but also nutritious. Bananas provide important vitamins, while peanut butter adds protein. It’s a satisfying option for lunch or a snack.
Incorporating peanut butter and banana sandwiches into your meal plan is a great way to stay within the budget. They fit perfectly into the list of 25 Cheap and Easy Meals for Families on a Budget.
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is an ideal dish for families looking to stick to a budget. This colorful meal combines tender beef with fresh broccoli, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. It’s not just tasty; it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
For this meal, you’ll need a few simple ingredients: slices of beef, broccoli florets, soy sauce, garlic, and cooked rice. Just stir-fry the beef and broccoli in a hot pan, add your sauce, and serve it on top of the rice. The flavors are bold, and the textures are satisfying.
This dish is part of our list of 25 cheap and easy meals for families on a budget. It’s nutritious, affordable, and sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Plus, you can customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand!
Vegetable Frittata with Spinach
The vegetable frittata with spinach is a great option for a family meal that’s both budget-friendly and simple to prepare. It’s colorful, hearty, and packed with nutrients. The bright red tomatoes and fresh spinach create an inviting look, making this dish appealing to kids and adults alike.
This frittata can be made with eggs, cheese, and any leftover veggies you have on hand. It’s a flexible recipe that allows you to mix and match ingredients, keeping it fresh and exciting. Plus, it’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even dinner!
To make this delightful dish, you will need a handful of ingredients: eggs, fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, cheese (like feta or mozzarella), and some herbs for extra flavor. Whisk the eggs, stir in the chopped vegetables, pour the mixture into a skillet, and let it cook until set. Finish it off under the broiler for a few minutes to get a nice golden top.
This vegetable frittata is a tasty addition to our list of 25 cheap and easy meals for families on a budget. It’s quick to whip up, feeds several people, and is an excellent way to use up leftover vegetables. A win-win for both your wallet and your family’s taste buds!
Rice and Beans Bowl
The Rice and Beans Bowl is a fantastic option for families looking to save money without sacrificing taste. This dish combines rice, black beans, and fresh toppings, creating a colorful and nutritious meal.
In the image, you can see a generous serving of fluffy rice topped with shiny black beans, diced tomatoes, and fresh avocado slices. The bright colors make it visually appealing, and the cilantro adds a fresh touch.
To make this meal, you’ll need simple ingredients: rice, black beans, tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro. You can cook the rice and beans together for added flavor. Once they’re ready, just layer everything in a bowl and enjoy!
This dish not only fits perfectly within the theme of 25 Cheap and Easy Meals for Families on a Budget, but it’s also a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s filling, healthy, and can be whipped up in no time.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos
Sweet potato and black bean tacos are a fantastic choice for busy families looking to eat well without breaking the bank. These tacos are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and flavor.
In the image, you can see two warm tortillas filled with roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and fresh toppings. The vibrant colors make these tacos visually appealing, and they’re sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
To make these tasty tacos, you’ll need a few simple ingredients: sweet potatoes, black beans, tortillas, avocado, fresh cilantro, and lime. Start by roasting diced sweet potatoes until they’re tender. Then, mix them with black beans, add some avocado slices, and top with cilantro. A squeeze of lime juice brings everything together perfectly.
Sweet potato and black bean tacos are just one of the 25 cheap and easy meals for families on a budget. They come together in no time and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Whether it’s for a weeknight meal or a weekend treat, these tacos are sure to please everyone!
Crispy Baked Chicken Legs
Crispy baked chicken legs are a fantastic choice for families on a budget. These chicken legs look mouthwatering, with a golden-brown glaze and fresh herbs sprinkled on top. They’re not only tasty but also easy to prepare, making them a perfect option for busy weeknights.
To make these chicken legs, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Start with chicken drumsticks, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and your favorite seasoning blend. A dash of paprika adds that extra crunch and color!
Cooking is a breeze. First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Rub the chicken legs with olive oil and season them generously. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 40-45 minutes until they are crispy and cooked through, turning halfway for even browning.
Serve them up with some steamed veggies or rice, and you have a delicious meal that the whole family will love. These crispy baked chicken legs are not just one of the 25 cheap and easy meals for families on a budget; they’re also a hit at the dinner table!
Simple Coconut Curry with Vegetables
This simple coconut curry is a great addition to our list of 25 Cheap and Easy Meals for Families on a Budget. It’s colorful and packed with nutritious vegetables. The rich, creamy coconut milk pairs perfectly with the spices, creating a warm, inviting dish.
The bowl showcases a medley of veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, all swimming in a delightful curry sauce. Served over fluffy rice, this meal is both filling and satisfying. Fresh herbs like cilantro on top add a burst of freshness.
Making this dish is straightforward. Start by sautéing your choice of vegetables. Add coconut milk and curry powder, let it simmer, and serve over rice. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to please the whole family.
