Feeding a family delicious, wholesome dinners every night can sometimes feel overwhelming—especially when you’re trying to stick to a budget.
The good news is that cheap family dinners don’t have to be boring or repetitive.
With the right recipes, you can whip up meals that are not only affordable but also packed with flavor and nutrition.
From one-pan wonders to hearty casseroles and comforting soups, these 27+ cheap family dinner recipes prove that cooking on a budget can be simple, satisfying, and fun.
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or looking for meals that stretch your grocery dollars, this collection offers something for everyone without compromising taste or quality.
27+ Easy Cheap Family Dinner Recipes That Save You Money and Time
Finding affordable dinner ideas that the whole family enjoys is easier than ever with these budget-friendly recipes.
Not only do they help you save money, but they also make mealtime stress-free with simple ingredients and straightforward preparation.
By incorporating these cheap family dinners into your weekly routine, you’ll discover how delicious and varied budget cooking can be—proving that great meals don’t need to come with a high price tag.
So, gather your ingredients, try a few of these recipes, and enjoy tasty dinners that bring your family together without breaking the bank.
chili mac
Chili mac is a comforting, budget-friendly dish that brings together two family favorites: chili and macaroni.
It’s a hearty, one-pot meal made with pantry staples like ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and pasta, making it a go-to dinner when you need something filling and affordable.
This recipe is perfect for large families, picky eaters, or anyone who loves simple, cheesy comfort food with a little kick.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef
- Elbow macaroni
- Kidney or black beans
- Diced tomatoes
- Tomato sauce
- Onion and garlic
- Chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Brown ground beef in a large pot with chopped onion and garlic.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, tomato sauce, and seasonings.
- Add uncooked macaroni and enough water or broth to cover.
- Simmer until pasta is cooked and mixture is thickened.
- Stir in cheese until melted and creamy.
This dish is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you need something that stretches a dollar and feeds a crowd.
Plus, it’s easy to tweak with what you have on hand—use different beans, spice levels, or cheese to make it your own.
tuna noodle casserole
Tuna noodle casserole is a classic American dish that’s stood the test of time for good reason.
It’s warm, creamy, and satisfying, made with inexpensive ingredients like canned tuna, egg noodles, and a can of cream of mushroom soup.
Not only is it cheap to make, but it also doubles as a comfort food favorite that the whole family can enjoy.
Ingredients:
- Egg noodles
- Canned tuna
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Frozen peas
- Milk
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Bread crumbs or crushed crackers for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cook noodles according to package directions and drain.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, tuna, peas, soup, milk, and cheese.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
This casserole is both nostalgic and practical—great for when you want something filling without spending a lot.
You can easily double the recipe for leftovers or freeze it for another night.
sloppy joe sliders
Sloppy joe sliders are a fun, low-cost way to make dinner exciting for both kids and adults.
Using ground beef, tomato sauce or ketchup, and basic seasonings, you can whip up a savory meat filling that’s perfect on slider buns or even regular bread.
These mini sandwiches are great for weeknights, game days, or anytime you need a meal that feels indulgent but is light on the wallet.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or ground turkey
- Onion, chopped
- Ketchup or tomato sauce
- Brown sugar
- Worcestershire sauce
- Mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper
- Slider buns or small dinner rolls
Instructions:
- Cook ground meat with chopped onion in a skillet until browned.
- Drain fat and stir in ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
- Simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
- Spoon mixture onto slider buns and serve warm.
These sliders are versatile and budget-friendly, making them perfect for feeding a hungry family without going over budget.
Pair them with a simple salad or baked fries for a complete and satisfying meal.
baked potato bar
A baked potato bar is a fun, interactive dinner that lets each family member customize their meal while keeping costs low.
Potatoes are budget-friendly, filling, and easy to prepare in bulk.
With just a few affordable toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and leftover proteins or vegetables, you can turn simple spuds into a satisfying dinner that pleases everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- Large russet potatoes
- Olive oil and salt (for baking)
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Green onions
- Steamed broccoli
- Leftover chili or cooked bacon bits (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Scrub potatoes, rub with oil and salt, and pierce with a fork.
- Bake directly on the oven rack for 45–60 minutes, until tender.
- Set up a toppings station with cheese, sour cream, veggies, and proteins.
- Let everyone build their own stuffed potato masterpiece.
A baked potato bar offers flexibility and fun for the whole family.
It’s also a great way to use up leftover ingredients from the fridge while still providing a hearty, balanced meal.
sheet pan sausage and vegetables
Sheet pan sausage and vegetables is a one-pan wonder that’s incredibly easy, nutritious, and inexpensive.
By using affordable sausages and in-season vegetables, you get a flavorful dinner that’s both quick to make and easy to clean up.
It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want to keep cooking simple but still crave something wholesome.
Ingredients:
- Smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced
- Potatoes, diced
- Carrots, sliced
- Bell peppers, chopped
- Zucchini or broccoli (optional)
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Toss all ingredients in olive oil and seasonings on a large sheet pan.
- Spread evenly and roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Serve hot, optionally over rice or with crusty bread.
This dish proves you don’t need fancy ingredients for a delicious, well-rounded dinner.
It’s adaptable to whatever vegetables you have on hand and scales up easily for larger families.
cheesy rice and beans
Cheesy rice and beans is a simple, protein-packed dish that’s incredibly budget-friendly and customizable.
Using pantry staples like canned beans, rice, and shredded cheese, this meal comes together quickly and feeds a crowd.
Add toppings like salsa, avocado, or tortilla chips to give it a Tex-Mex flair and extra flavor.
Ingredients:
- Cooked white or brown rice
- Canned black or pinto beans, drained
- Onion and garlic, sautéed
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- Salsa or diced tomatoes
- Taco seasoning or cumin/chili powder
- Optional: sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
- In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Stir in beans, seasoning, and a splash of water or broth.
- Add cooked rice and mix until heated through.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese and cover until melted.
- Serve with optional toppings like salsa or sour cream.
This meal is a lifesaver when the pantry is getting low.
It’s warm, hearty, and endlessly versatile, making it ideal for families on a budget who still want flavor and nutrition in every bite.
skillet chicken and rice
Skillet chicken and rice is a comforting, one-pan dinner that’s both affordable and satisfying.
This dish combines juicy chicken thighs or drumsticks with seasoned rice and vegetables, all cooked together to absorb rich, savory flavors.
It’s a great way to stretch a few pieces of meat into a full meal without dirtying a bunch of dishes.
Ingredients:
- Bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks
- White rice (uncooked)
- Chicken broth or water
- Onion and garlic
- Carrots, peas, or frozen veggie mix
- Paprika, salt, pepper, and dried herbs
Instructions:
- Season and brown chicken pieces in a large skillet; remove and set aside.
- Sauté onion and garlic in the same skillet, then stir in uncooked rice.
- Add broth, seasonings, and vegetables. Place chicken on top.
- Cover and simmer on low until rice is cooked and chicken is tender (about 30 minutes).
- Let rest before serving to absorb flavors.
This dish is ideal for busy nights and tight budgets.
It’s hearty, uses simple staples, and is easy to make in large batches for family dinners or leftovers.
vegetable stir fry
Vegetable stir fry is a fast, healthy, and low-cost meal perfect for using up leftover produce or freezer veggies.
With a simple homemade sauce and cooked rice or noodles, you can have a vibrant, flavorful dinner on the table in 20 minutes.
It’s meatless by default but easy to adapt with tofu, egg, or leftover chicken.
Ingredients:
- Mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, onions, snap peas)
- Soy sauce
- Garlic and ginger
- Cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- Cooked rice or noodles
- Oil for cooking
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a large pan or wok and sauté garlic and ginger.
- Add vegetables and stir fry until just tender.
- Stir in soy sauce (and a bit of cornstarch slurry if desired for a thicker glaze).
- Serve over rice or noodles while hot.
This dish is an affordable, flexible way to get more veggies on the table.
You can make it different every time based on what you have, and it’s quick enough for weeknight dinners.
sloppy joe pasta
Sloppy joe pasta is a clever and inexpensive twist on a family favorite.
Instead of serving the classic sloppy joe mix on buns, it’s combined with pasta for a saucy, filling dinner.
Ground beef, tomato sauce, and seasonings come together in minutes and pair perfectly with elbow macaroni or penne.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or ground turkey
- Onion
- Tomato sauce or ketchup
- Mustard and Worcestershire sauce
- Elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- Garlic powder, salt, pepper
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- Brown beef with chopped onion in a skillet.
- Stir in tomato sauce, mustard, Worcestershire, and seasonings. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Combine sauce with cooked pasta and mix until well coated.
- Serve warm, optionally with a sprinkle of cheese.
This dish is fun, comforting, and very cost-effective—especially for feeding a family with kids.
It’s also a great way to switch things up when everyone’s tired of plain spaghetti or sandwiches.
turkey taco skillet
Turkey taco skillet is a flavorful, budget-friendly meal that combines lean ground turkey with classic taco spices and simple ingredients.
It’s a quick one-pan dinner perfect for busy weeknights and easy enough to customize with whatever toppings your family loves.
This dish stretches your protein while delivering satisfying Mexican-inspired flavors.
Ingredients:
- Ground turkey
- Onion and garlic
- Taco seasoning
- Canned diced tomatoes with green chilies
- Black beans (optional)
- Cooked rice or tortilla chips
- Shredded cheese and sour cream for topping
Instructions:
- Brown ground turkey with onion and garlic in a skillet.
- Add taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and black beans; simmer to blend flavors.
- Serve over cooked rice or with tortilla chips.
- Top with cheese, sour cream, or your favorite taco toppings.
This skillet is a quick, healthy, and cheap dinner option that satisfies everyone and offers plenty of leftovers for the next day.
It’s a perfect way to get dinner on the table with minimal fuss.
pasta primavera
Pasta primavera is a colorful and affordable vegetarian meal packed with fresh or frozen vegetables and simple pasta.
It’s light, flavorful, and easily adaptable to whatever veggies you have on hand.
This dish is a great way to add a healthy, green twist to your family dinners without breaking the bank.
Ingredients:
- Pasta (penne or spaghetti)
- Mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, peas, carrots)
- Olive oil
- Garlic and herbs (basil, oregano)
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain.
- Sauté garlic and mixed vegetables in olive oil until tender-crisp.
- Toss cooked pasta with vegetables, herbs, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Pasta primavera is quick to prepare and a great way to sneak veggies into meals.
It’s budget-friendly and refreshing, especially during warmer months, making it a family favorite.
sausage and peppers skillet
Sausage and peppers skillet is a classic, easy, and inexpensive dinner that combines flavorful sausage with sautéed bell peppers and onions.
It’s a one-pan meal that requires minimal ingredients and effort but delivers big on taste and satisfaction.
Serve it on its own, over rice, or in sandwiches for versatile family dinners.
Ingredients:
- Italian sausage links (or any affordable sausage)
- Bell peppers (various colors), sliced
- Onion, sliced
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Slice sausage into rounds and brown in a large skillet. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté bell peppers, onion, and garlic until softened.
- Return sausage to skillet and cook until heated through and peppers are tender.
- Serve with rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
This hearty skillet meal is perfect for families looking for an affordable, flavorful dinner that’s easy to prepare and clean up after.
beef and broccoli stir fry
Beef and broccoli stir fry is a classic, budget-friendly dish that combines tender slices of beef with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce.
It’s quick to make and uses inexpensive cuts of beef, making it a perfect option for a delicious family dinner that won’t break the bank.
Ingredients:
- Thinly sliced beef (flank or sirloin)
- Fresh or frozen broccoli florets
- Soy sauce
- Garlic and ginger
- Cornstarch (for thickening)
- Cooked rice
Instructions:
- Marinate beef slices in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for 10 minutes.
- Stir-fry beef in a hot pan until browned; remove and set aside.
- Stir-fry broccoli until tender-crisp.
- Return beef to pan, add sauce and a cornstarch slurry to thicken.
- Serve hot over cooked rice.
This dish is a flavorful way to enjoy a quick, affordable, and nutritious dinner that can easily feed the whole family.
chicken and vegetable casserole
Chicken and vegetable casserole is a comforting, low-cost meal that combines simple ingredients baked together for a hearty dinner.
It’s perfect for using budget-friendly chicken cuts and seasonal vegetables, and it can be prepared in advance for busy nights.
Ingredients:
- Cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- Mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
- Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- Cooked rice or pasta
- Shredded cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix chicken, vegetables, soup, and cooked rice or pasta in a large bowl.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
This casserole is a cozy, filling dinner that’s easy on the wallet and ideal for feeding a hungry family with minimal prep work.
vegetable chili
Vegetable chili is a hearty, nutritious, and inexpensive dinner option that’s packed with beans, vegetables, and warming spices.
It’s perfect for meatless nights and can be made in a large batch to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Ingredients:
- Canned beans (kidney, black, or pinto)
- Diced tomatoes
- Onion, bell peppers, and corn
- Chili powder, cumin, garlic powder
- Vegetable broth
Instructions:
- Sauté onions and peppers until soft.
- Add beans, tomatoes, broth, and spices; simmer for 30 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning and serve with rice, tortilla chips, or cornbread.
This chili is a budget-friendly, flavorful way to warm up family dinners and keep everyone satisfied with wholesome ingredients.
baked ziti
Baked ziti is a classic, budget-friendly pasta casserole that combines pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese for a warm, comforting meal.
It’s easy to prepare, feeds a crowd, and uses affordable pantry staples, making it a perfect choice for family dinners on a budget.
Ingredients:
- Ziti or penne pasta
- Marinara sauce
- Ricotta or cottage cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic and Italian seasoning
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain.
- Mix pasta with marinara sauce and ricotta cheese.
- Layer in a baking dish, top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
This dish is a satisfying and easy way to enjoy an Italian-inspired meal that won’t strain your wallet, perfect for feeding the whole family with leftovers to spare.
shepherd’s pie
Shepherd’s pie is a hearty, economical dish that layers ground meat, vegetables, and mashed potatoes for a filling family dinner.
Using affordable ingredients like ground beef or turkey and frozen vegetables, it’s a classic comfort food that’s both budget-friendly and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or turkey
- Mixed frozen vegetables
- Onion and garlic
- Mashed potatoes
- Beef broth or gravy mix
Instructions:
- Brown meat with onions and garlic; add vegetables and broth, simmer until thickened.
- Spread meat mixture in a baking dish and top with mashed potatoes.
- Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until golden on top.
Shepherd’s pie is a warm, wholesome dinner that stretches inexpensive ingredients and keeps the whole family happy and full.
chicken and rice skillet
Chicken and rice skillet is a simple, affordable one-pan dinner that combines tender chicken pieces with seasoned rice and vegetables.
This all-in-one meal saves time and money while providing a nutritious and comforting dish the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- Chicken thighs or breasts
- White rice
- Chicken broth
- Onion and garlic
- Mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen)
- Spices like paprika, salt, and pepper
Instructions:
- Brown chicken pieces in a skillet; remove and set aside.
- Sauté onion and garlic, then add rice and chicken broth.
- Place chicken on top and add vegetables.
- Cover and cook until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through, about 30 minutes.
This skillet meal is perfect for busy families looking for an easy, budget-conscious dinner that’s full of flavor and minimal cleanup.
sloppy joe skillet
Sloppy joe skillet is a quick and budget-friendly meal that uses ground beef, tomato sauce, and simple seasonings for a messy, delicious dinner the whole family will love.
This one-pan recipe is perfect for busy nights and stretches inexpensive ingredients into a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef
- Onion and garlic
- Tomato sauce or ketchup
- Worcestershire sauce
- Hamburger buns or sandwich rolls
Instructions:
- Brown ground beef with onions and garlic until cooked through.
- Stir in tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings; simmer to thicken.
- Serve on hamburger buns for classic sloppy joes.
This skillet meal is a comforting, nostalgic dish that’s easy on the wallet and guaranteed to please kids and adults alike.
tuna noodle casserole
Tuna noodle casserole is a classic, affordable comfort food that combines canned tuna, pasta, and a creamy sauce baked with a crunchy topping.
It’s a pantry-friendly dish that’s quick to make and perfect for feeding a hungry family without spending much.
Ingredients:
- Egg noodles or any pasta
- Canned tuna
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Frozen peas or mixed vegetables
- Bread crumbs or crushed crackers for topping
Instructions:
- Cook pasta and drain.
- Mix pasta with tuna, soup, and vegetables.
- Pour into a baking dish, top with bread crumbs, and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
This casserole is a warm, hearty meal that brings together simple ingredients for a crowd-pleasing, budget-wise dinner.
vegetable fried rice
Vegetable fried rice is an easy, inexpensive way to transform leftover rice and mixed vegetables into a tasty dinner.
It’s quick to cook, versatile, and a great way to use up whatever veggies and pantry staples you have on hand.
Ingredients:
- Cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- Mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
- Eggs
- Soy sauce
- Garlic and green onions
Instructions:
- Scramble eggs in a hot skillet; remove and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and vegetables until tender.
- Add rice and soy sauce; stir-fry until heated through.
- Mix eggs back in and garnish with green onions.
This fried rice is a satisfying, low-cost meal that’s easy to customize and perfect for busy family dinners.
turkey taco skillet
Turkey taco skillet is a flavorful, budget-friendly dinner that uses lean ground turkey, simple spices, and pantry staples to create a quick and satisfying meal.
It’s perfect for taco night with less fat and fewer calories but all the great taste your family will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- Ground turkey
- Taco seasoning
- Onion and garlic
- Canned black beans and corn
- Shredded cheese
- Tortillas or tortilla chips
Instructions:
- Brown turkey with onions and garlic.
- Stir in taco seasoning, beans, and corn; simmer until heated through.
- Serve with tortillas or over tortilla chips and top with cheese.
This skillet meal offers a nutritious and economical way to enjoy a classic Mexican-inspired dinner that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor.
pasta primavera
Pasta primavera is a light and affordable dish that highlights fresh or frozen vegetables tossed with pasta and a simple garlic and olive oil sauce.
It’s a vibrant, colorful meal that’s both healthy and easy on the budget, ideal for family dinners any night of the week.
Ingredients:
- Pasta of choice
- Mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, peas, carrots)
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package directions; drain.
- Sauté garlic and vegetables in olive oil until tender.
- Toss pasta with vegetables and top with Parmesan cheese.
Pasta primavera is a quick, fresh, and affordable way to get a nutritious dinner on the table with minimal fuss.
baked chicken thighs
Baked chicken thighs are an economical and delicious protein option that pairs well with a variety of sides.
This recipe uses simple seasoning to create crispy, juicy chicken that the whole family will love, making it a great go-to dinner for busy households.
Ingredients:
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Rub chicken thighs with olive oil and seasonings.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until crispy and cooked through.
This baked chicken recipe offers a fuss-free, affordable dinner option that can easily be paired with veggies or rice for a complete family meal.
sausage and peppers skillet
Sausage and peppers skillet is a budget-friendly, flavorful dinner that combines savory sausage with colorful bell peppers and onions.
It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending a lot.
Ingredients:
- Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- Bell peppers (any color)
- Onion
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
Instructions:
- Slice sausage and sauté in a skillet until browned.
- Add sliced peppers, onions, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
- Season with Italian seasoning and serve over rice or pasta.
This dish is a satisfying and affordable way to bring bold flavors to your family dinner table with minimal effort.
lentil soup
Lentil soup is a nutritious, low-cost dinner option packed with protein and fiber.
It’s perfect for chilly evenings and uses simple ingredients like lentils, vegetables, and broth to create a comforting and filling meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- Lentils (dry or canned)
- Carrots, celery, and onion
- Garlic
- Vegetable or chicken broth
- Canned tomatoes
- Spices like cumin and thyme
Instructions:
- Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
- Add lentils, broth, tomatoes, and spices.
- Simmer until lentils are tender, about 30-40 minutes.
Lentil soup is a wholesome and budget-wise meal that warms the soul and stretches your grocery dollars.
chicken quesadillas
Chicken quesadillas are a quick, affordable dinner option that combines cooked chicken, cheese, and tortillas for a crispy, melty meal.
They’re easy to customize with leftover chicken and pantry staples, making them a perfect last-minute family dinner.
Ingredients:
- Cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- Flour tortillas
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or blend)
- Optional: bell peppers, onions, salsa
Instructions:
- Heat a tortilla in a skillet, sprinkle with cheese and chicken (and veggies if using).
- Top with another tortilla and cook until cheese melts and tortillas are golden brown, flipping once.
- Slice and serve with salsa or sour cream.
Chicken quesadillas are a crowd-pleasing, budget-friendly meal that’s quick to prepare and perfect for satisfying hungry kids and adults alike.
Conclusion
Cheap family dinners are all about creativity and smart ingredient choices, and this recipe collection is packed with ideas that hit both marks. These meals maximize flavor while minimizing cost, making it easier to plan dinners that everyone looks forward to. With recipes ranging from hearty skillet meals to baked favorites and quick pasta dishes, there’s plenty of inspiration to keep your dinner table exciting and budget-conscious. Remember, feeding your family well doesn’t mean spending a fortune—it means choosing recipes that nourish and satisfy while respecting your budget.