50 Really Cheap Meals Your Kids Will Actually Eat

Looking for really cheap meals to lower your grocery bill each month?

You’re not alone. Grocery costs have skyrocketed in the last year or so, and I think we are all feeling the pinch.

But it is a real struggle, isn’t it? Finding budget-friendly meals your kids will want to eat can feel challenging.

But no worries! I went looking for wallet-friendly options that everyone will love!

Let’s face it: weekdays are hectic for families. The last thing you need is mealtime battles on top of everything you juggle.

This collection of cheap and easy dinners is designed to simplify your evenings without breaking the bank.

This post is part of my Meal Planning for Busy Families collection — hundreds of curated recipe ideas organised by meal type, plus a free printable meal planner and grocery list.

Here’s why these meals are perfect:

• They’re quick and easy to make
• They use simple, inexpensive ingredients
• Are nutritious
• Your family will love them

Ready to check them out? Use the table of contents below to jump to the section that interests you.

Table of Contents

• Cheap Meals With Chicken
• Cheap Meals With Beef
• Cheap Vegetarian Meals
• Miscellaneous Recipes That Are Easy On The Wallet
• Tips For Saving Money On Groceries

Really Cheap Meals With Chicken

Chicken is a versatile, protein-packed option that’s also easy to cook and pairs well with a variety of flavors.

These budget-friendly recipes make the most of affordable chicken cuts like legs and thighs, giving you delicious meals without breaking the bank.

Really Cheap Meals With Beef

Beef is a rich source of protein and nutrients, making it a hearty option for satisfying meals.

Most of these affordable recipes use hamburger as the main ingredient.

It is one of the most economical cuts and creates delicious meals that stretch your budget without sacrificing flavor.

Cheap Vegetarian Meals

Vegetarian meals are not only packed with nutritious ingredients. They are also incredibly cost-effective, making them perfect for budget-conscious families.

These recipes highlight affordable staples like beans, lentils, and seasonal vegetables, offering delicious and filling meals without the need for expensive ingredients.

Miscellaneous Recipes That Are Easy On The Wallet

The next three recipes didn’t quite fit into the previous categories, but they’re just as delicious and budget-friendly. These affordable meals are sure to become new family favorites.

10 Top Tips For Saving Money On Your Grocery Bill

Here are 10 quick tips for saving money on groceries:

1. Shop seasonally – Fresh produce is cheaper when it’s in season.
2. Use frozen vegetables—Check the price of frozen vegetables that are out of season. They are often an affordable, nutritious option that prevents waste.
3. Buy store brands – Generic or store-brand products are often just as good as name brands but cost less.
4. Don’t waste food – Plan meals around what you already have in your fridge, freezer, and pantry. Make plans for using leftovers.
5. Shop the sales – Take advantage of weekly deals and discounts to stock up on essentials.
6. Buy inexpensive cuts – Choose cheaper cuts of meat, like chicken thighs, ground meat, or chuck roast, for great meals at a lower cost.
7. Meal plan – Planning meals helps you stick to your list and avoid impulse buys.
8. Buy in bulk – For items you use regularly, buying in bulk can save money in the long run.
9. Cook from scratch – Preparing meals from scratch is often cheaper than buying pre-made food.
10. Don’t dismiss canned sources of protein. Canned fish and chicken are inexpensive and can be very tasty. They are also handy to have in your pantry for quick meals.

Looking for more meal ideas? Check out our 50 Quick and Easy Family Dinners.

In this post, we’ve shared 50 affordable and easy meal ideas for busy families.

Cooking at home can be both economical and enjoyable when you have the right recipes, and this collection proves that delicious meals don’t have to come with a high price tag.

Now that you’ve explored these 50 cheap meal ideas, it’s time to pick and try a few that catch your eye! Don’t forget to pin this post so you can easily return to it whenever you need more budget-friendly inspiration.

This post is also part of the Kid-Friendly Recipes resource hub at Rediscovered Families — your complete starting point for easy family recipes, holiday treats, meal planning help, and more.