25+ Irresistible Cheap Family Dinner Recipes to Save Extra Money

When it comes to family dinners, finding budget-friendly recipes that are both delicious and easy to make can feel like a constant challenge.

Balancing cost, flavor, and nutritional value requires a bit of creativity, especially if you’re feeding a crowd.

But with the right recipes, you can create amazing meals that won’t break the bank.

In this article, we’ve rounded up 25+ cheap family dinner recipes that prove you don’t need expensive ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make something wonderful.

These recipes cover everything from hearty soups and casseroles to quick stir-fries, pastas, and tacos.

Each one is designed with affordability, simplicity, and family-friendly flavors in mind, ensuring there’s something for everyone at the table.

Whether you’re meal planning for the week or simply need a last-minute dinner idea, this list is full of creative recipes to help you save money without sacrificing taste.

Let’s dive into these easy, low-cost recipes that will keep your family happy and your wallet full.

25+ Irresistible Cheap Family Dinner Recipes to Save Extra Money

Cooking on a budget doesn’t mean you have to compromise on taste or creativity.

With these 25+ cheap family dinner recipes, you’ll find that stretching your dollar can still lead to satisfying, tasty meals that everyone will look forward to.

From hearty casseroles and cozy soups to flavorful pasta dishes and quick skillet meals, there’s plenty of variety here to keep your menu fresh and exciting.

The key to successful budget-friendly cooking is making the most of affordable ingredients and simple techniques, and each recipe on this list does exactly that.

So, next time you’re looking to save money on groceries while keeping your family well-fed, turn to these easy, economical meals.

One-Pot Spaghetti with Marinara and Vegetables

For a quick, affordable, and nutritious family dinner, this one-pot spaghetti brings together the richness of marinara with fresh vegetables in a simple, crowd-pleasing dish. This meal requires minimal prep, just a few ingredients, and results in minimal cleanup – making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights!

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 4 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil and Parmesan (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until vegetables soften slightly.
3. Pour in the marinara sauce and vegetable broth. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add the spaghetti directly into the pot, pressing it down gently to ensure it’s mostly covered by the liquid.
5. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes, or until the spaghetti is cooked and the sauce has thickened.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.

With every bite, you get a mix of flavors from the vegetables and marinara sauce, all balanced out by the satisfying texture of the pasta. Perfect for feeding a hungry family on a budget, this meal will become a regular in your household.

Chicken and Rice Casserole

This chicken and rice casserole is comforting, filling, and incredibly affordable. With just a few pantry ingredients, you can have a warm, creamy, and hearty dinner on the table. It’s also a versatile recipe that lets you add any extra veggies you might have on hand, making it a flexible and delicious choice for any night.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, diced
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a casserole dish and add the rice, chicken broth, and cream soup, stirring until combined.
3. Add the diced chicken, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and spread evenly in the dish.
4. Cover with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
5. Remove foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

This dish is like a hug in a casserole – creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. It’s a budget-friendly dinner that’s guaranteed to please the whole family while keeping grocery costs low.

Veggie-Packed Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is a fantastic choice when you want something hearty, nutritious, and inexpensive. This recipe is packed with protein-rich lentils, carrots, celery, and potatoes, providing a well-rounded meal that’s both filling and healthy. With a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a comforting bowl of soup ready in under an hour.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 potato, diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced potato, lentils, cumin, and paprika, stirring to combine.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 30-35 minutes, until the lentils and potatoes are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

This lentil soup is not only delicious and easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutrients that will fuel your family. The comforting warmth of this soup makes it perfect for chilly nights, and it’s so affordable that it’s bound to become a go-to family favorite.

Cheesy Beef and Potato Skillet

This one-pan beef and potato skillet is a hearty, flavorful, and budget-friendly dinner that combines tender potatoes, savory beef, and melted cheese. This dish is quick to throw together and easy to clean up, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 3-4 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften.
2. Add the onion and bell pepper, cooking for another 5 minutes until they soften.
3. Push the veggies to one side of the skillet and add the ground beef. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking until browned and fully cooked.
4. Once the beef is cooked, mix it with the potatoes and vegetables in the skillet.
5. Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top, cover with a lid, and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve.

This cheesy beef and potato skillet is a complete meal in one pan, combining the richness of beef with tender, flavorful potatoes. It’s an easy, budget-friendly dish that’ll leave everyone satisfied.

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice

This vibrant vegetable stir-fry is both quick to make and easy on the wallet. With a rainbow of fresh veggies, simple seasoning, and served over rice, this meal is healthy, filling, and perfect for families. You can even customize it with leftover ingredients, making it a flexible option for various tastes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rice, cooked
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 carrot, thinly sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ginger powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the rice according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bell pepper, broccoli, carrot, and zucchini.
3. Sprinkle garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper over the vegetables, stirring well.
4. Cook the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
5. Add soy sauce, stir to coat, and cook for another minute.
6. Serve the vegetables over a bed of rice and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

With this vibrant vegetable stir-fry, you can have a nutritious and affordable meal on the table in minutes. It’s loaded with flavor, keeps costs low, and can be adapted to include any veggies you have on hand, making it a versatile and satisfying family favorite.

Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake

This creamy tuna pasta bake is a comforting, low-cost dinner option that comes together with pantry staples. Tuna, pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce are baked until golden brown for a filling and nutritious family meal. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for picky eaters.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (any shape)
• 2 cans tuna, drained
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
• 1 tbsp butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, tuna, frozen peas, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and half of the shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper, mixing well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
4. Melt the butter and mix it with breadcrumbs, then sprinkle over the cheese for a crunchy topping.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.

This creamy tuna pasta bake is a fantastic way to create a filling meal using affordable pantry items. It’s creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, making it an ideal weeknight meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Easy Chickpea and Spinach Curry

This chickpea and spinach curry is a budget-friendly, nourishing dinner option that’s packed with protein and flavor. With pantry staples like canned chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices, you can create a rich and creamy curry that’s perfect over rice or with naan bread.

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, and turmeric, cooking for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
3. Add the diced tomatoes and chickpeas, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and add the spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts and the curry thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

This chickpea and spinach curry is warm, comforting, and filled with bold flavors that the whole family will love. It’s a simple, inexpensive, and healthy meal that makes a great alternative to takeout.

Classic Baked Mac and Cheese

Homemade baked mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that’s surprisingly affordable and easy to make. With a creamy, cheesy sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping, this dish is a kid-friendly dinner that also satisfies the grown-ups in the family.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
• 1 tbsp melted butter (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the macaroni according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste.
3. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, then transfer to a greased baking dish.
5. For a crunchy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

This baked mac and cheese is an ultimate comfort food, combining creamy cheese sauce and a satisfying crunch. It’s an easy, economical meal that’s sure to become a household favorite.

Chicken Quesadillas

Chicken quesadillas are quick, affordable, and versatile, making them perfect for family dinners. Packed with shredded chicken, gooey cheese, and seasoned with Mexican spices, these quesadillas are crispy on the outside and melty on the inside – a guaranteed hit for all ages.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 large flour tortillas
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cheese, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Place a tortilla on a clean surface, spoon about 1/3 cup of the filling onto half of it, then fold the tortilla in half to cover the filling.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil. Place the folded tortilla in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
4. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
5. Slice each quesadilla into wedges and serve with sour cream, guacamole, or additional salsa.

Chicken quesadillas are a fantastic option for a quick, delicious dinner that everyone will enjoy. These are perfect for using up leftover chicken and other ingredients, making it a budget-friendly, flexible meal option for any night of the week.

Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Loaded baked potato soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting meal that’s easy to make and super budget-friendly. This soup is topped with cheese, bacon bits, and green onions, giving it all the flavors of a classic baked potato in a cozy bowl.

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• Sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring continuously, for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, then add the diced potatoes. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Use a potato masher to break down some of the potatoes for a thicker texture.
5. Stir in the shredded cheese and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve with crumbled bacon, additional cheese, and green onions on top.

This loaded baked potato soup is creamy, hearty, and filled with all the comforting flavors of a baked potato. It’s an ideal family meal that’s inexpensive and bound to satisfy everyone at the table.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful, wholesome dinner option that’s easy on the budget and customizable. Filled with a savory mixture of rice, ground beef, and tomato sauce, these peppers are a complete meal in themselves and can easily be adapted to include other vegetables or seasonings.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
4. Spoon the filling into each bell pepper and place them in a baking dish. Top with cheese if desired.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

These stuffed bell peppers are satisfying and full of flavor, making for a healthy and affordable meal that looks as good as it tastes. Plus, they’re easy to adjust to whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Sausage and Vegetable Sheet Pan Dinner

This sheet pan sausage and vegetable dinner is a simple, affordable meal that requires minimal prep and cleanup. Packed with flavorful sausage, potatoes, and a mix of colorful veggies, it’s an easy one-pan meal that’s as healthy as it is tasty.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Spread the diced potatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, and sausage slices evenly on the baking sheet.
3. Drizzle olive oil over everything and sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, and the sausage is browned.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving if desired.

This sausage and vegetable sheet pan dinner is the epitome of easy, delicious, and budget-friendly. It’s a wholesome, filling meal that comes together in one pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The flavors blend beautifully, and it’s easy to customize with your family’s favorite veggies.

Black Bean and Corn Tacos

Black bean and corn tacos are a quick, nutritious, and budget-friendly meal that’s bursting with flavor. With a simple mix of black beans, corn, and spices, these tacos are a delicious, plant-based option for taco night. You can add toppings like salsa, avocado, or cheese to make them even more satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
• Toppings: diced avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, sour cream

Instructions:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, add the black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
2. Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
3. Spoon the black bean and corn mixture into each tortilla.
4. Add your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, cheese, cilantro, and sour cream.

These black bean and corn tacos are a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy a healthy meal without breaking the bank. They’re filling, versatile, and quick to make, making them perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

This one-pot garlic Parmesan pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for families on a budget. Made with simple ingredients, it’s a quick dinner that comes together in a single pot, saving time on cooking and cleanup. The rich, garlicky flavor and cheesy sauce will make it a hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work well)
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp butter
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the pasta, broth, and milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
3. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

This one-pot garlic Parmesan pasta is creamy, delicious, and requires minimal ingredients. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy nights, giving you a rich, flavorful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen or a lot of money.

Cabbage and Sausage Stir-Fry

Cabbage and sausage stir-fry is a hearty, affordable meal that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. With just a few ingredients, including smoked sausage, cabbage, and seasonings, you can have a delicious, filling dish on the table in minutes. This meal is also low-carb and high-protein, making it a nutritious option for the whole family.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
• 1/2 head of cabbage, sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5 minutes until browned.
2. Add the onion and cook for another 3 minutes until it softens.
3. Add the sliced cabbage, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and cook for 10-12 minutes until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

This cabbage and sausage stir-fry is a satisfying, flavorful dish that’s easy on the wallet and quick to make. The caramelized cabbage and savory sausage make it an ideal choice for a simple, healthy dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!