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.
Looking for a budget-friendly meal that doesn't skimp on taste? Chicken and rice soup is just what you need, with its flavorful blend of simple ingredients.
Quick, easy, and delicious, this instant pot recipe is a must-try. The combination of chicken and honey garlic sauce makes it a hit for kids and adults alike.
A satisfying chicken tray bake recipe that's perfect for feeding a hungry family. The hearty mix of chicken and vegetables ensures everyone leaves the table happy.
Chicken and leek risotto is a meal the whole family will love. The simple ingredients and delicious flavors make it a favorite in our house. If leeks are expensive, substitute shallots.
Make these baked chicken thighs a regular part of your meal plan. The mix of chicken and vegetables creates a dish that's both easy to make and flavorful.
Oven-baked chicken thighs are a budget-friendly recipe that doesn't sacrifice flavor. Packed with goodness, it's a tasty and satisfying choice for dinner.
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.
Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole
Whip up a hamburger casserole for a quick, easy dinner everyone will enjoy. The combination of hamburger and tater tots makes it a perfect choice for any night of the week.
Make this hamburger recipe part of your regular meal rotation. The savory flavors of ground beef and broccoli and ease of preparation make it a winner.
Make mealtime a breeze with an easy Taco Soup. Ground beef, spices, and vegetables combine to ensure it's a hit with everyone at the table. This recipe simmers in a crockpot for an easy meal.
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.
Pasta Al Forno
Whip up tasty pasta al forno for an easy and economical meal. The flavors combine to create a truly satisfying dish.
Make your weeknight meals stress-free with a tasty mac and cheese recipe. A delicious blend of cheese and pasta that will please even the pickiest eaters.
The next recipe is a delicious curry that's perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of butternut squash, apricots, and spices makes a meal the whole family will enjoy.
Serve a big bowl of delicious Creamy Potato Soupfor a filling meal that's easy to make. The simple ingredients come together for an incredibly comforting dish.
There's nothing like the warm, hearty goodness of these Black Bean Enchiladas with Creamy Tomatillo Sauce. They're quick to make, economical, and always a hit at the dinner table.
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.
Stovetop Tuna Casserole
Make stovetop tuna casserolewhen you need a quick, satisfying, and affordable dinner. It's a delicious dish with a comforting, homemade taste.
Serve up smoked sausage and potato skillet for a satisfying, hearty, and easy meal on the wallet. A perfect blend of baby potatoes, smoked sausage, and vegetables makes it a go-to weeknight dinner.
Here are 10 quick tips for saving money on groceries:
Shop seasonally – Fresh produce is cheaper when it’s in season.
Use frozen vegetables—Check the price of frozen vegetables that are out of season. They are often an affordable, nutritious option that prevents waste.
Buy store brands – Generic or store-brand products are often just as good as name brands but cost less.
Don’t waste food – Plan meals around what you already have in your fridge, freezer, and pantry. Make plans for using leftovers.
Shop the sales – Take advantage of weekly deals and discounts to stock up on essentials.
Buy inexpensive cuts – Choose cheaper cuts of meat, like chicken thighs, ground meat, or chuck roast, for great meals at a lower cost.
Meal plan – Planning meals helps you stick to your list and avoid impulse buys.
Buy in bulk – For items you use regularly, buying in bulk can save money in the long run.
Cook from scratch – Preparing meals from scratch is often cheaper than buying pre-made food.
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.
In this post, we’ve shared 50 affordable and easy meal ideas for busy families.
Cooking at home can be both economical 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, why not 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.
I'm a mother of three grown children and a former teacher with over 40 years' experience designing educational programs for children aged 6-13. I've cooked thousands of family meals and planned countless activities, so I know what actually works for kids and parents alike. My focus now is helping busy parents make the most of their time with their kids. That means fun family activities and easy meals that free up more time for you to spend together.
