When it comes to cooking, we often think that delicious meals have to break the bank. But the truth is, you don’t need to spend a fortune to create mouth-watering dishes for yourself and your loved ones. With a little creativity and some affordable ingredients, you can whip up a plethora of tasty recipes that won’t dent your wallet.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 budget-friendly meals that are perfect for two people. From comforting pasta dishes to flavorful stir-fries, these recipes are designed to impress without putting a strain on your finances. Whether you’re a busy professional or a student looking to save some cash, these delicious and easy-to-make meals will become staples in your kitchen.
So, let’s get cooking!
Garlic Butter Pasta with Spinach
This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter sauce with the nutritional benefits of spinach and pasta, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir until slightly thickened.
4. Add cooked spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Combine cooked pasta with garlic butter sauce and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Tomato Basil Rice
Savor the flavors of Italy with this easy-to-make one-pot dish, featuring tender rice, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the uncooked rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the water, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
7. Stir in chopped fresh basil and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Quesadillas with Black Beans
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this simple and delicious recipe for Cheesy Quesadillas with Black Beans. Perfect as a snack or meal, these quesadillas are filled with creamy cheese, savory black beans, and crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In the skillet, cook the diced onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the black beans and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese.
5. Spoon the black bean mixture on top of the cheese, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes per quesadilla
Egg Fried Rice with Vegetables
Egg fried rice is a classic Chinese dish that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. This recipe adds some colorful vegetables to the mix, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until they’re translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan.
5. Pour beaten eggs into the empty side of the pan; scramble until cooked through.
6. Mix eggs with the vegetable mixture.
7. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
8. Stir-fry everything together for 2-3 minutes or until the rice is well coated with soy sauce and the ingredients are combined.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Margherita Pizza
A simple yet flavorful Italian-inspired pizza recipe that brings together the perfect combination of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a circle or rectangle.
7. Spread tomato puree over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese and chopped basil leaves (if using).
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Peanut Noodles
Spicy Peanut Noodles Recipe
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional noodles! This Spicy Peanut Noodles recipe combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the bold kick of chili flakes, all wrapped up in a delicious and easy-to-make noodle dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rice noodles
– 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth.
3. Add the blended mixture to the cooked noodles and toss to combine.
4. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tuna Melt Sandwiches
A simple yet satisfying sandwich that combines the richness of tuna with the creaminess of melted cheese, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe yields 2-3 sandwiches, depending on your desired portion size.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 tablespoon of butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and chopped onion until well combined.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
5. Spoon the tuna mixture on top of the bread.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the tuna.
7. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
9. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also toasted.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry dish packed with colorful vegetables, served over a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas; stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve vegetable mixture over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of fiber-rich lentils, sweet carrots, and crunchy celery, all simmered together in a flavorful broth. A great way to warm up on a chilly day!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, sliced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, celery, and carrots in a little water until tender.
2. Add the lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Baked Potatoes with Cheese and Beans
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and satisfyingly filling. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in each with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with a little bit of oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re soft when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, heat the black beans in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.
6. Once the potatoes are done, top each one with the warm black beans, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chickpea and Spinach Curry
This creamy and aromatic curry is a delicious blend of Indian-inspired flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition. With the comforting combination of chickpeas, spinach, and spices, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until spinach has wilted.
6. Serve hot over rice, with naan bread, or as a filling for wraps.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Broccoli
A comforting classic gets a nutritious boost from steamed broccoli florets.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in milk and bring to simmer.
4. Add cheddar and mozzarella cheese; whisk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Stir cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well combined.
6. Toss broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon water; steam for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and steamed broccoli in a baking dish.
8. Top with additional grated cheese (optional).
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Avocado and Egg Toast
Start your day with a creamy and protein-packed Avocado and Egg Toast, perfect for busy mornings or as a quick snack to keep you going.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 eggs, fried or poached
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped herbs (such as parsley or chives), or crumbled feta cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Place the fried or poached eggs on top of the avocado.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add optional toppings if desired (red pepper flakes, chopped herbs, or crumbled feta cheese).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup ground beef or turkey (optional)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add the garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in the cooked rice and ground beef or turkey (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture and top with the tops of the peppers.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato and Basil Bruschetta
This classic Italian-inspired appetizer is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a quick snack to brighten up any day. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and refreshing treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Drizzle toasted bread with olive oil and top each slice with a spoonful of the tomato mixture.
5. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top of the bruschetta.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these classic pancakes, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Hummus with Pita Bread
Transform your snack game with this classic Mediterranean dip! This recipe is a cinch to make and pairs perfectly with warm, crusty pita bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons water
– Pita bread, for serving
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice, tahini, olive oil, and salt.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Add the water and blend until fully incorporated.
5. Serve warm with pita bread for dipping.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 10 minutes
– Cooking time: N/A (dip is ready to serve)
– Total time: 10 minutes
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
This comforting duo is a match made in heaven – crispy grilled cheese sandwiches paired with creamy, tangy tomato soup. It’s the perfect remedy for a chilly day or a pick-me-up any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 slices of cheddar cheese (depending on your preference)
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet. Top with cheese and another bread slice, butter-side up.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
5. In a separate pot, combine diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Serve grilled cheese sandwiches with warm tomato soup and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cook up delicious meals on a budget! This article shares 18 tasty and affordable recipes perfect for two people. From classic comfort food like mac and cheese with broccoli, to international flavors like cheesy quesadillas with black beans, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find creative twists on familiar dishes, such as garlic butter pasta with spinach and stuffed bell peppers with rice. With these easy and budget-friendly recipes, you can enjoy a variety of meals without breaking the bank.
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