Food is one of the largest monthly expenses for many families, which is why I’m a big advocate of weekly meal planning. If you’re searching for new budget-friendly recipes to cook for yourself or your family, you’ve come to the right place.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture, an average family of four spends roughly $700 to $1,000 per month on food. That’s a substantial portion of a household budget—especially when a large share of food often goes to waste.
If you want meals that are both affordable and tasty, you’re in luck. The recipes below are low-cost, simple to prepare, and many use ingredients you might already have in your pantry. I’ve included dishes I currently rotate into my meal plan and enjoy making regularly.
Note: If you’d like ready-made weekly meal plans filled with budget recipes, consider the $5 Meal Plan service. For a small monthly fee it delivers a complete meal plan and shopping list each week, designed to save time and money.
Other helpful content to read:
- How I Make $1,500 A Month From Pinterest
- Ways To Make An Extra $1,000 A Month
- 12 Work From Home Jobs That Can Earn You $1,000+ Each Month
- 12 Easy Ways To Earn Free Amazon Gift Cards
- 30+ Ways To Save Money Each Month
Here are 10 budget recipes and cheap, easy meals you should try:
1. Better-Than-Chipotle DIY Chicken Burrito Bowl
Get the recipe here.
2. Bean Burrito Casserole
Get the recipe here.
3. One-Pot Chicken and Dirty Rice
Get the recipe here.
4. Spinach Artichoke Rice Bowl with Vegetables
Get the recipe here.
5. Classic Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup
Get the recipe here.
6. Mascarpone, Mushroom, and Spinach Salad
Get the recipe here.
7. Sweet Basil and Corn Chowder
Get the recipe here.
8. Hamburger and Macaroni
Get the recipe here.
9. One-Pan Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice
Get the recipe here.
10. Green Bean and Potato Curry
Get the recipe here.
Which budget recipes are your current favorites? Share your go-to inexpensive meals in the comments below!