35+ Hearty February Cheap Dinner Recipes for the Whole Family

As February rolls around, many of us find ourselves looking for budget-friendly meal ideas that still pack a punch in terms of flavor and nutrition.

With rising grocery prices, it can be tough to feed your family without straining your wallet. But fear not! We’ve rounded up over 35 cheap dinner recipes that are perfect for February.

These recipes are designed to save you money while ensuring you don’t have to compromise on taste. From hearty soups and stews to quick stir-fries and pastas, you’ll find plenty of meals to keep you full and satisfied throughout the month.

Whether you’re cooking for one, a small family, or a large group, these affordable dinner ideas are easy to make, can be customized to your tastes, and are perfect for weeknight meals.

With simple ingredients and a little creativity, these 35+ recipes will help you stretch your grocery budget while keeping your taste buds happy.

35+ Hearty February Cheap Dinner Recipes for the Whole Family

February doesn’t have to be a month of sacrificing delicious meals for the sake of saving money.

With these 35+ cheap dinner recipes, you can easily create flavorful, hearty, and satisfying meals that won’t break your budget.

These dishes are not only cost-effective but also versatile, making them perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re planning ahead for a week of easy dinners or looking for a quick last-minute meal, these recipes are sure to become your go-to for the month.

Happy cooking, and enjoy these budget-friendly meals with your loved ones!

Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Stew

Lentil and vegetable stew is a nutritious, filling, and affordable dinner option perfect for chilly February evenings. Packed with protein-rich lentils and seasonal veggies, this one-pot wonder brings warmth and comfort to your table. It’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to use what’s already in your pantry or fridge, making it a true budget saver.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dry lentils (any type, rinsed)
• 2 carrots (diced)
• 2 potatoes (cubed)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add carrots, potatoes, thyme, and paprika, stirring for 2 minutes.
3. Stir in lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30–35 minutes, or until lentils and vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot with crusty bread.

This lentil and vegetable stew is a testament to how simple, affordable ingredients can come together to create a delicious and hearty meal. It’s perfect for batch cooking and freezes well, ensuring you always have a quick, cheap dinner option on hand.

Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

When you’re craving comfort food without overspending, this cheesy broccoli and rice casserole is a winner. It uses pantry staples like rice and cheese combined with frozen or fresh broccoli for a wholesome, satisfying dish. It’s a family favorite that’s easy to prepare and packed with creamy goodness.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 2 cups chopped broccoli (fresh or frozen)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix cooked rice, broccoli, soup, milk, and half the cheese. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
4. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
5. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and the cheese is melted.

This cheesy broccoli and rice casserole is a budget-friendly delight that can be customized with your favorite vegetables or leftover proteins like chicken or ham. It’s a dish that proves you don’t need expensive ingredients to create a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Spinach

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian dish known for its simplicity and affordability. Made with just pasta, garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes, this recipe is elevated with the addition of spinach for extra nutrition. Perfect for February nights when you need something quick, healthy, and flavorful without breaking the bank.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves (thinly sliced)
• 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and chili flakes, cooking until garlic is golden but not burned.
3. Toss in spinach and stir until wilted.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic oil. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Spinach is a quick and easy recipe that highlights the beauty of simple, inexpensive ingredients. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners and offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some greens into a beloved classic!

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

Sweet potato and black bean tacos are a vibrant, healthy, and affordable option for a meatless dinner. Packed with protein, fiber, and bold spices, these tacos are satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for a Taco Tuesday or any night when you’re craving something quick and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 8 small tortillas
• Toppings: salsa, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, lime wedges

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
2. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
3. Fill each tortilla with roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and desired toppings.
4. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

These sweet potato and black bean tacos are proof that affordable, plant-based meals can be packed with flavor and nutrients. Customize them with your favorite toppings for a fun, family-friendly dinner that’s easy on the budget.

Cabbage Stir-Fry with Egg and Noodles

Cabbage is a star ingredient for budget-conscious cooking, and this stir-fry combines it with egg and noodles for a quick, satisfying dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is versatile, letting you incorporate whatever leftover vegetables or seasonings you have on hand.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 head of green cabbage (thinly sliced)
• 2 eggs (beaten)
• 8 oz noodles (spaghetti, ramen, or rice noodles work well)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add cabbage and stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, until softened.
3. Push cabbage to one side of the pan. Pour beaten eggs into the other side and scramble until fully cooked.
4. Toss in cooked noodles, soy sauce, garlic powder, and chili flakes. Mix everything together and stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

This cabbage stir-fry with egg and noodles is a quick, filling dinner that costs just pennies per serving. It’s a great way to use up pantry staples while enjoying a dish that feels fresh and satisfying.

Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey

Baked ziti is a hearty Italian-American favorite, and swapping ground turkey for beef keeps it both budget-friendly and lighter. This dish combines pasta, marinara sauce, cheese, and savory turkey for a comforting dinner that can feed a crowd or make excellent leftovers.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz ziti or penne pasta
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned.
3. Stir marinara sauce into the cooked turkey. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, meat sauce, and half the mozzarella. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
6. Let cool slightly before serving.

Baked ziti with ground turkey is a comforting classic that proves you can create a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish on a budget. Perfect for meal prep or family dinners, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

One-Pot Chickpea Curry

This one-pot chickpea curry is an incredibly simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cheap February dinner. The chickpeas provide a protein-packed base, while the spices and coconut milk bring richness and depth. With minimal prep and just one pot to clean, this is a perfect weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (15 oz) chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro (optional)
• Cooked rice (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 3–4 minutes).
2. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and turmeric, cooking for another minute to toast the spices.
3. Add the chickpeas, coconut milk, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over cooked rice and garnish with cilantro if desired.

This one-pot chickpea curry is an affordable and filling meal that’s perfect for busy nights. The creamy coconut milk and aromatic spices create a dish that feels indulgent but doesn’t break the bank. Plus, it’s vegan and can easily be doubled for meal prep.

Baked Potato Bar

A baked potato bar is a fun, customizable dinner that’s both cheap and filling. Each person can load their potato with toppings of their choice, making it a perfect choice for families with different tastes or picky eaters. Whether you prefer cheese, sour cream, or bacon, this meal is sure to satisfy without costing much.

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup cooked bacon (crumbled)
• 2 green onions (sliced)
• 1/4 cup butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and prick them with a fork several times. Place them directly on the oven rack and bake for 45–60 minutes, until tender.
3. While the potatoes are baking, prepare your toppings: crumble cooked bacon, slice green onions, and shred cheese.
4. Once the potatoes are done, slice them open and fluff with a fork.
5. Top with butter, cheese, sour cream, bacon, green onions, and any other toppings you prefer. Serve immediately.

A baked potato bar is a versatile, inexpensive meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Not only is it easy to make, but it also encourages creativity with toppings, ensuring that everyone at the table is happy. This meal is a fun, family-friendly way to get a hearty dinner on the table without spending much.

Vegetable Frittata

A vegetable frittata is a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have in the fridge, making it an affordable and waste-reducing meal. Eggs provide protein, while the variety of vegetables adds flavor and nutrition. This dish is flexible, quick to make, and perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup spinach (chopped)
• 1/2 bell pepper (diced)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 1/2 zucchini (sliced)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and zucchini, cooking for 5–7 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in spinach and cook for another 1–2 minutes until wilted.
4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet, making sure the vegetables are evenly distributed.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the egg mixture.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, until the frittata is set and golden on top.
7. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

A vegetable frittata is a delicious, budget-friendly dish that can be made with whatever vegetables you have on hand. It’s the perfect meal for using up leftovers while still getting a hearty, satisfying dinner. Plus, it’s great for breakfast the next day! This meal is customizable and easy to make, making it a go-to for busy nights or meal prep.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian pasta dish made with just a few simple ingredients: garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. It’s perfect for when you’re craving pasta but don’t want to spend much or spend a lot of time cooking. With the addition of Parmesan and parsley, this dish becomes elevated yet remains super affordable.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 6 cloves garlic (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1–2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden (but not burned).
3. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the garlic oil mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
5. Season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is an incredibly budget-friendly and satisfying dish that proves you don’t need fancy ingredients to make something flavorful. With just a few pantry staples, you’ve got a meal that feels elegant but is cheap and easy to prepare. Ideal for any night of the week, this dish also works great as a side or a main course.

Lentil and Tomato Soup

This hearty lentil and tomato soup is a one-pot wonder that’s both nutritious and filling. Full of fiber and protein from lentils, it’s the perfect affordable dish to keep you warm through February’s cold nights. The tomatoes add a sweet and savory base, while the herbs provide a fresh, comforting flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils (rinsed)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 carrot (diced)
• 1 celery stalk (diced)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30–40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, optionally with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of parsley.

This lentil and tomato soup is a warm, comforting dish that doesn’t require expensive ingredients but is packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s the perfect way to make a filling meal that’s kind on the wallet while still being incredibly satisfying. Great for meal prep or a cozy family dinner.

BBQ Chicken Thighs with Roasted Potatoes

BBQ chicken thighs with roasted potatoes is a simple, tasty, and inexpensive dinner that combines juicy chicken with crispy, seasoned potatoes. Chicken thighs are often cheaper than breasts and offer a ton of flavor, making them perfect for a budget-friendly meal that still feels indulgent.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 4 medium potatoes (cut into wedges)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the potato wedges in olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
4. While the potatoes are roasting, brush the chicken thighs with BBQ sauce.
5. After the potatoes have roasted for 25 minutes, add the chicken thighs to the baking sheet and continue to roast for another 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are crispy.
6. Serve the chicken thighs with roasted potatoes and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

BBQ chicken thighs with roasted potatoes is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s full of flavor but won’t break the bank. The chicken is juicy and tender, while the crispy potatoes offer a perfect side. It’s a complete meal in one pan, making cleanup easy and your dinner even easier to prepare.

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice

A vegetable stir-fry with rice is an inexpensive, colorful meal that’s full of flavor and nutrients. Packed with whatever fresh or frozen veggies you have on hand, it’s a great way to use up leftovers while still making a delicious and filling dinner. The savory soy sauce and ginger bring all the ingredients together in this quick one-pan meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 onion (sliced)
• 1 bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 zucchini (sliced)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger (minced)
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
• 2 green onions (chopped, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, zucchini, and peas. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
2. Add the garlic and ginger, stir-frying for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, soy sauce, and sesame seeds. Toss to combine and heat through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with green onions. Serve immediately.

Vegetable stir-fry with rice is a quick, healthy, and budget-friendly meal that can be made with whatever vegetables you have on hand. It’s customizable, so you can adjust it based on your preferences or what’s available. Whether you use fresh or frozen vegetables, this dish is packed with flavor and perfect for a low-cost dinner.

Easy Chili Mac

Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty chili with cheesy pasta. It’s easy to make, filling, and a great way to stretch your grocery budget. Packed with protein from the beans and ground beef (or turkey), this dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for the week.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 packet chili seasoning mix
• 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks (about 5–7 minutes).
2. Stir in the chili seasoning mix, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to let the flavors combine.
3. While the chili is simmering, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Stir the cooked macaroni into the chili mixture. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

Chili Mac is the perfect combination of hearty chili and cheesy pasta, making it a crowd-pleasing and affordable meal. It’s a filling dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for leftovers. You can also make it ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prepping or feeding a large family on a budget.

Baked Sweet Potato with Black Bean Salsa

Baked sweet potatoes topped with a fresh black bean salsa are a healthy, satisfying, and affordable dinner option. The sweetness of the potato pairs perfectly with the savory black beans, and the salsa adds a burst of freshness. It’s a nutritious, vegetarian meal that’s quick to prepare and makes great leftovers.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium sweet potatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1/2 red onion (diced)
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (diced)
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until tender.
3. While the sweet potatoes are baking, prepare the black bean salsa: In a bowl, combine the black beans, red onion, corn, cherry tomatoes, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Once the sweet potatoes are done, slice them open and fluff the insides with a fork.
5. Top each sweet potato with the black bean salsa and garnish with cilantro if desired. Serve immediately.

Baked sweet potatoes with black bean salsa are a healthy, hearty, and affordable dinner option that’s full of flavor. The sweet potatoes provide fiber and vitamins, while the black bean salsa adds protein and a refreshing crunch. This dish is easy to make, can be customized to your taste, and is perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!