Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience when it comes to cooking on busy weeknights? You’re not alone! Many of us struggle to find quick, delicious, and affordable meal ideas that can be prepared in no time. But what if we told you that there are recipes out there that check all those boxes and more?
From hearty skillets to comforting soups, and from simple pasta dishes to satisfying baked goods, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering recipes on a budget that will become your new go-to’s for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a working professional, a student, or a parent looking for easy meal ideas, these recipes are sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through our favorite budget-friendly recipes, each one carefully crafted to satisfy your taste buds and fit within your budget. So grab a pen and paper, because it’s time to get cooking!
Spicy Black Bean and Rice Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the comforting flavors of rice, black beans, and spices for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture.
4. Add water, black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Garlic Butter Pasta with Spinach
A classic comfort food dish that combines the richness of garlic butter sauce with the nutrients of fresh spinach, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta package. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp butter
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add remaining 2 tbsp of butter and stir until melted. Pour in reserved pasta water and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter sauce, and chopped parsley (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Peanut Sauce
This recipe combines a colorful medley of vegetables with the rich and creamy flavor of peanut sauce, making it a perfect dish for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, and honey.
5. Pour the peanut sauce into the skillet or wok; stir-fry until coated, about 1 minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of comforting flavors, packed with nutrients from lentils, carrots, and celery. It’s a simple and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the lentils, carrots, celery, vegetable broth, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Baked Potato Bar with Toppings
Elevate your snack game with this easy and customizable recipe! A baked potato topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and an array of tasty toppings is the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– Toppings (choose your favorites!):
+ Sour cream
+ Diced tomatoes
+ Shredded lettuce
+ Diced onions
+ Sliced scallions
+ Crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in each one using a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, combine the shredded cheese and crumbled bacon in a bowl.
6. Remove the potatoes from the oven and top each one with the cheese-bacon mixture.
7. Add your desired toppings and serve hot!
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a staple for a reason – it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a deliciously creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. pasta of your choice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can), diced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes, heavy cream, tomato paste, and basil. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked pasta to the pot and toss with sauce until well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Veggie Quesadillas
Satisfy your cravings with these crispy, cheesy, and flavorful veggie quesadillas, packed with sautéed vegetables and gooey melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup sautéed mixed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, avocado, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
3. Add sautéed vegetables on half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes, depending on cooking speed and desired crispiness.
Chickpea and Sweet Potato Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that combines the comfort of sweet potatoes with the nutty goodness of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the sweet potato in a bowl with 1 tablespoon olive oil for 30 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in chickpeas, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Tuna and White Bean Salad
This refreshing salad combines the rich flavors of tuna with creamy white beans, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack. With its Mediterranean flair, it’s also an excellent option for a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (6 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, cannellini beans, red bell pepper, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None required! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Egg Fried Rice with Frozen Vegetables
A simple and delicious twist on traditional egg fried rice, this recipe uses frozen vegetables to add color and nutrients to the dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until they start to soften (about 2 minutes).
3. Add the frozen mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the beaten eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the vegetables. Add cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper; stir-fry everything together until well combined.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
This comforting recipe combines tender chicken, creamy broth, and fluffy dumplings for a hearty meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp of dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp of salt
– 1/4 tsp of black pepper
– 2 tbsp of butter
– 2 cups of biscuit or dumpling mix (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken in a slow cooker.
3. Add the chicken broth, flour, and butter to the slow cooker.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the dumplings by following package instructions (usually mixing with water).
6. Drop the dumpling mixture into the slow cooker and cover again.
7. Continue cooking for the remaining 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this vibrant salad that combines sweet corn, tangy lime juice, and spicy peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next fiesta!
Ingredients:
– 4 cups cooked corn kernels
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 cup diced yellow onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, red bell pepper, yellow onion, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and sprinkle with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep time only)
Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans)
Pasta e Fagioli, also known as Pasta and Beans, is a classic Italian dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This comforting stew is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrot, and celery in a little olive oil until tender.
3. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked pasta and red kidney beans to the pot. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Turkey
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory taste of ground turkey with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and top each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Oatmeal Banana Pancakes
Start your day with a delicious and healthy breakfast option that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the wholesome goodness of oatmeal. These pancakes are perfect for a quick morning meal or a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together oats, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, egg, milk, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on pancake size)
Homemade Hummus with Pita Bread
Experience the rich flavors of the Middle East with this simple recipe that combines creamy hummus with warm, crunchy pita bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 lemon, juiced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup water
– Pita bread, warmed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Blend until smooth, adding olive oil and water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
4. Warm pita bread by wrapping it in foil and baking for 5-7 minutes.
5. Serve hummus with warm pita bread for a delicious and satisfying snack.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this creamy and nutritious recipe. By combining roasted broccoli, melted cheddar cheese, and fluffy mashed potatoes, you’ll create a satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 bunch of broccoli, cut into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and poke some holes in the potatoes, then bake them for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
3. While the potatoes are baking, toss broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
4. Once the potatoes are done, slice them open lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork.
5. Mix roasted broccoli, shredded cheese, milk or heavy cream, salt, and pepper into the potato flesh.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Simple Homemade Pizza Dough with Toppings
Make a delicious homemade pizza with this simple recipe that yields a flavorful crust and endless topping possibilities. With just a few ingredients and a short preparation time, you’ll be enjoying your very own gourmet pizza in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup warm water
– Salt to taste
– Toppings of your choice (e.g. tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, bell peppers, etc.)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add olive oil and warm water, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Punch down dough, shape into desired pizza form, and top with your favorite ingredients.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Minestrone Soup with Cabbage and Beans
This Italian-inspired soup is a comforting blend of vegetables, beans, and pasta in a flavorful tomato broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium cabbage, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans
– 1/2 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pasta, vegetable broth, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Baked Eggs in Tomato Sauce
Elevate your breakfast game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of baked eggs with the tanginess of tomato sauce. Perfect for brunch or a quick dinner, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Pour the diced tomatoes into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Add olive oil, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Create 4 wells in the tomato sauce and pour in the egg mixture.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until eggs are cooked through and the whites are set.
6. If using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle on top of eggs during the last 2 minutes of baking.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious and budget-friendly meal ideas for busy weeknights? Look no further! This article features 20 mouth-watering recipes that won’t break the bank. From Spicy Black Bean and Rice Skillet to Cheesy Baked Potato Bar with Toppings, these dishes are perfect for a quick and easy dinner. Try Garlic Butter Pasta with Spinach, Vegetable Stir-Fry with Peanut Sauce, or Easy Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery for a nutritious meal in no time. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, there’s something for everyone on this list!
