Frugal Food & Meal Planning, All Posts
30 Tasty Dinners Under $10: Budget-Friendly Meals
May
Hey there, fellow frugal foodies! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the hunt for delicious dinner ideas that won’t break the bank. As a computer engineer who’s all about automation and intentional living, I love finding ways to save time and money in the kitchen. That’s why I’ve put together this list of 30 dinners under $10 that actually taste good. These recipes are perfect for anyone looking to stretch their budget without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re a vegetarian, a meat-lover, or cooking for a family, there’s something here for everyone. So, let’s dive in and discover some cheap meals that are sure to become staples in your home!
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How to Stick to a Budget Without Feeling Deprived
Vegetarian Delights: 10 Dinners Under $10
1. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Ingredients: Spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, parsley
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cost per Serving: $1.50
Description: This classic Italian dish is simple yet bursting with flavor. The garlic and red pepper flakes add a nice kick, while the parsley brings a fresh touch. It’s a go-to for busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying.
Tip: Use whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber and nutrients.
2. Chickpea Curry
Ingredients: Chickpeas, coconut milk, curry powder, onion, garlic, tomatoes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.00
Description: This hearty curry is packed with protein and flavor. The chickpeas are simmered in a rich coconut milk sauce with aromatic spices. Serve it over rice for a complete meal.
Tip: Make a big batch and freeze the leftovers for an easy meal later.
3. Veggie Stir-Fry
Ingredients: Mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots), soy sauce, garlic, ginger, rice
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cost per Serving: $1.75
Description: This colorful stir-fry is a great way to use up whatever veggies you have on hand. The soy sauce, garlic, and ginger create a savory sauce that ties everything together. Serve it over rice or noodles.
Tip: Add a protein like tofu or tempeh for extra staying power.
4. Black Bean Tacos
Ingredients: Black beans, taco shells, lettuce, tomato, cheese, salsa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.25
Description: These tacos are a fun and easy dinner option. The black beans are seasoned with spices and topped with fresh veggies and cheese. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Tip: Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
5. Lentil Soup
Ingredients: Lentils, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, vegetable broth
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cost per Serving: $1.80
Description: This comforting soup is perfect for chilly evenings. The lentils are simmered with vegetables and broth until tender and flavorful. It’s a great way to warm up and fill up.
Tip: Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ingredients: Bell peppers, rice, black beans, corn, cheese
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.50
Description: These stuffed peppers are a colorful and satisfying meal. The peppers are filled with a mixture of rice, beans, corn, and cheese, then baked until tender. They’re a great way to get your veggies in.
Tip: Use quinoa instead of rice for a protein boost.
7. Eggplant Parmesan
Ingredients: Eggplant, breadcrumbs, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese
Prep Time: 50 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.75
Description: This vegetarian take on a classic Italian dish is sure to please. The eggplant is breaded and baked until crispy, then topped with marinara and cheese. It’s a bit more involved, but worth the effort.
Tip: Slice the eggplant thinly for quicker cooking.
8. Veggie Quesadillas
Ingredients: Tortillas, cheese, bell peppers, onions, black beans
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.00
Description: These quesadillas are a quick and easy dinner option. The tortillas are filled with cheese, veggies, and beans, then grilled until crispy. Serve them with salsa and sour cream for dipping.
Tip: Use whole wheat tortillas for added fiber.
9. Pasta Primavera
Ingredients: Pasta, mixed vegetables (zucchini, carrots, peas), olive oil, garlic
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cost per Serving: $1.90
Description: This light and fresh pasta dish is perfect for spring and summer. The vegetables are sautéed with garlic and olive oil, then tossed with pasta. It’s a great way to use up seasonal produce.
Tip: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
10. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili
Ingredients: Sweet potatoes, black beans, tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili powder
Prep Time: 35 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.20
Description: This hearty chili is perfect for a cozy night in. The sweet potatoes and black beans are simmered with tomatoes and spices until thick and flavorful. It’s a great make-ahead meal.
Tip: Top with avocado and cilantro for a fresh touch.
Meat-Based Marvels: 10 Dinners Under $10
1. Chicken Stir-Fry
Ingredients: Chicken breast, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, rice
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.50
Description: This classic stir-fry is a quick and easy dinner option. The chicken is cooked with veggies and a savory sauce, then served over rice. It’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables.
Tip: Marinate the chicken in soy sauce and garlic for extra flavor.
2. Spaghetti Bolognese
Ingredients: Ground beef, spaghetti, onion, garlic, tomato sauce
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.75
Description: This hearty pasta dish is a family favorite. The ground beef is simmered with onions, garlic, and tomato sauce, then served over spaghetti. It’s a comforting meal that’s sure to please.
Tip: Add a splash of red wine to the sauce for depth of flavor.
3. Taco Salad
Ingredients: Ground turkey, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, tortilla chips, salsa
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.80
Description: This taco salad is a fun and flavorful dinner option. The ground turkey is seasoned with taco spices and served over a bed of lettuce with all the fixings. It’s a great way to enjoy tacos without the carbs.
Tip: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier option.
4. Chicken and Rice Casserole
Ingredients: Chicken thighs, rice, cream of mushroom soup, vegetables
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.90
Description: This comforting casserole is perfect for a family dinner. The chicken and rice are baked with cream of mushroom soup and vegetables until tender and flavorful. It’s a one-dish meal that’s easy to clean up.
Tip: Use brown rice for added fiber and nutrients.
5. Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients: Beef strips, broccoli, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, rice
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cost per Serving: $3.00
Description: This takeout-inspired dish is quick and easy to make at home. The beef is stir-fried with broccoli and a savory sauce, then served over rice. It’s a great way to satisfy your Chinese food cravings.
Tip: Slice the beef thinly for quicker cooking.
6. Pork Chops with Apples
Ingredients: Pork chops, apples, onion, garlic, thyme
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cost per Serving: $3.25
Description: This sweet and savory dish is perfect for fall. The pork chops are pan-seared and served with sautéed apples and onions. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that’s sure to impress.
Tip: Use bone-in pork chops for extra flavor.
7. Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients: Ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, marinara sauce, spaghetti
Prep Time: 35 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.95
Description: These tender meatballs are a healthier alternative to traditional beef meatballs. They’re baked until golden and served with marinara sauce and spaghetti. It’s a classic dish with a twist.
Tip: Add some grated Parmesan cheese to the meatball mixture for extra flavor.
8. Chicken Fajitas
Ingredients: Chicken breast, bell peppers, onions, tortillas, salsa
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.85
Description: These fajitas are a fun and interactive dinner option. The chicken and vegetables are sautéed with spices and served with tortillas and salsa. Let everyone build their own for a personalized meal.
Tip: Use whole wheat tortillas for added fiber.
9. Beef Stew
Ingredients: Beef stew meat, potatoes, carrots, onion, beef broth
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cost per Serving: $3.50
Description: This hearty stew is perfect for a cold winter night. The beef is simmered with vegetables and broth until tender and flavorful. It’s a comforting meal that’s worth the wait.
Tip: Make a big batch and freeze the leftovers for an easy meal later.
10. Pork Fried Rice
Ingredients: Pork loin, rice, peas, carrots, soy sauce, egg
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.60
Description: This fried rice is a great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables. The pork is stir-fried with veggies and egg, then tossed with rice and soy sauce. It’s a quick and satisfying meal.
Tip: Use day-old rice for the best texture.
Family-Friendly Feasts: 10 Dinners Under $10
1. Mac and Cheese
Ingredients: Elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, milk, butter, flour
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cost per Serving: $1.25
Description: This classic comfort food is always a hit with kids and adults alike. The creamy cheese sauce is made from scratch and tossed with tender macaroni. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal.
Tip: Add some cooked broccoli or peas for a pop of color and nutrition.
2. Chicken Nuggets
Ingredients: Chicken breast, breadcrumbs, egg, flour
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.00
Description: These homemade chicken nuggets are a healthier alternative to store-bought versions. The chicken is coated in breadcrumbs and baked until crispy. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tip: Cut the chicken into fun shapes for extra kid appeal.
3. Pizza
Ingredients: Pizza dough, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, toppings of choice
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.50
Description: This homemade pizza is a fun and customizable dinner option. Let everyone choose their own toppings for a personalized pie. It’s a great way to get the whole family involved in cooking.
Tip: Use whole wheat dough for added fiber.
4. Sloppy Joes
Ingredients: Ground beef, onion, garlic, tomato sauce, buns
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.25
Description: These messy sandwiches are a childhood favorite. The ground beef is simmered with onions, garlic, and tomato sauce, then served on buns. They’re perfect for a casual family dinner.
Tip: Serve with a side of coleslaw for a complete meal.
5. Tuna Casserole
Ingredients: Egg noodles, tuna, cream of mushroom soup, peas, cheese
Prep Time: 35 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.10
Description: This retro casserole is making a comeback. The noodles are mixed with tuna, soup, peas, and cheese, then baked until bubbly. It’s a comforting meal that’s easy to make.
Tip: Use whole wheat noodles for added fiber.
6. Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients: Ground beef, mashed potatoes, carrots, peas, onion
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.75
Description: This hearty pie is perfect for a family dinner. The ground beef is cooked with vegetables and topped with creamy mashed potatoes, then baked until golden. It’s a complete meal in one dish.
Tip: Use sweet potatoes for a twist on the classic.
7. Chicken Pot Pie
Ingredients: Chicken breast, mixed vegetables, pie crust, cream of chicken soup
Prep Time: 50 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.90
Description: This comforting pot pie is a family favorite. The chicken and vegetables are simmered in a creamy sauce and topped with a flaky pie crust. It’s a bit more involved, but worth the effort.
Tip: Use store-bought pie crust for a time-saving shortcut.
8. Baked Ziti
Ingredients: Ziti pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.50
Description: This cheesy pasta dish is perfect for feeding a crowd. The ziti is tossed with marinara, ricotta, and mozzarella, then baked until bubbly. It’s a great make-ahead meal.
Tip: Add some cooked ground beef or sausage for extra protein.
9. Beef and Cheese Enchiladas
Ingredients: Ground beef, tortillas, enchilada sauce, cheese, onion
Prep Time: 35 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.80
Description: These enchiladas are a fun and flavorful dinner option. The ground beef is seasoned with spices and wrapped in tortillas with cheese and sauce. They’re baked until hot and melty.
Tip: Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
10. Pancakes
Ingredients: Flour, milk, eggs, butter, syrup
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cost per Serving: $1.00
Description: Who says pancakes are just for breakfast? These fluffy pancakes are perfect for a fun family dinner. Serve them with syrup, fruit, or even savory toppings like bacon and eggs.
Tip: Make a big batch and freeze the leftovers for quick breakfasts.
Wrap-Up
There you have it, friends! 30 delicious dinners under $10 that are sure to please your taste buds and your wallet. From vegetarian delights to meat-based marvels and family-friendly feasts, there’s something here for everyone. I hope these budget dinner ideas inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and save some money in the process. Frugality isn’t about sacrifice, it’s about strategy. So, go ahead and give these frugal recipes a try, and don’t forget to share your own cheap meal ideas in the comments below. Happy cooking!
Read more:
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