10 Delicious Budget Meals You Can Make for Under $5

Eating on a budget doesn’t have to be boring or bland! Here are 10 easy meals you can whip up for under $5 each. Whether you’re a busy student, a parent trying to save a buck, or just looking for quick and affordable ideas, these tasty recipes are here to keep your wallet happy and your taste buds satisfied.

Chickpea Salad with Lemon Dressing

This Chickpea Salad with Lemon Dressing is a refreshing and nutritious option that’s easy to whip up. It combines chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing, making it a perfect side dish or a light main course. The flavors are bright and vibrant, making each bite a delightful experience.

You’ll love how simple it is to prepare. With no cooking required, this salad comes together in just a few minutes. It’s also budget-friendly, allowing you to enjoy a healthy meal without breaking the bank!

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice

Vegetable stir-fry with rice is a quick and healthy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with colorful veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, this meal is not only visually appealing, but also bursting with flavor. The combination of fresh ingredients and savory sauces creates a delightful taste that everyone will enjoy.

This recipe is also super simple to make, making it a great option for beginner cooks or anyone looking to whip up a meal in under 30 minutes. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a satisfying dinner on the table in no time!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 carrot, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced bell pepper, broccoli, carrot, and snap peas to the pan. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Pour the soy sauce over the veggies and stir to coat evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve the stir-fried vegetables over a bed of cooked rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste and enjoy!

Spicy Black Bean Tacos

Spicy black bean tacos are a tasty and satisfying meal that won’t break the bank. They’re loaded with flavor and packed with nutrition, making them a perfect choice for anyone looking to eat well on a budget. The combination of black beans, fresh tomatoes, and zesty cilantro creates a vibrant and hearty dish that is both comforting and exhilarating.

These tacos are incredibly simple to whip up, taking just a few minutes to prepare. The spice level can easily be adjusted to suit your taste, and they’re great for both lunch and dinner. Serve them with your favorite toppings like avocados or lime for an added kick!

Ingredients

• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, or cheese

Instructions

1. In a pan over medium heat, add the black beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
2. Warm the corn tortillas in a separate skillet for about 30 seconds on each side.
3. Assemble the tacos by placing a generous spoonful of the black bean mixture on each tortilla.
4. Top with diced tomatoes and chopped cilantro.
5. Serve with lime wedges and any additional toppings you prefer.

Egg Fried Rice

Egg fried rice is a quick, satisfying meal that combines fluffy rice with vibrant vegetables and protein-rich eggs. It’s well-seasoned, bringing together the savory flavors of soy sauce and a hint of sesame oil, making it a delightful dish that everyone loves.

This recipe is simple to follow and perfect for using up leftover rice, making it both budget-friendly and delicious. Whether you need a side dish or a main course, egg fried rice delivers taste and convenience in every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until tender.
2. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Crack the eggs into the empty side and scramble them until fully cooked.
3. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, mixing everything together. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring well to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to heat through.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Vegetable Quesadillas

Vegetable quesadillas are a delightful and budget-friendly meal that packs a punch of flavor. With a golden, crispy exterior and a cheesy, melty filling, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them perfect for a quick dinner or a tasty snack.

Filled with your favorite vegetables, cheese, and spices, these quesadillas can be customized to suit any taste. Whether you use bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms, the combinations are endless! Serve them with salsa or sour cream for an extra burst of flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add mixed vegetables and sauté until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Sprinkle cumin, salt, and pepper over the vegetables, and stir to combine.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle half of the cheese, and then add half of the vegetable mixture on top. Top with more cheese and another tortilla.
4. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
5. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa or sour cream.

Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato basil soup is a comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of tomatoes and the delightful freshness of basil. This classic recipe is not only simple to prepare but also a great way to enjoy a bowl of warmth without breaking the bank.

The taste is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a crowd-pleaser for any meal. It’s creamy, satisfying, and pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. Plus, this budget-friendly recipe can be whipped up in no time!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, vegetable broth, sugar, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
3. Blend the soup using an immersion blender or in batches in a regular blender until smooth. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream at this stage.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and enjoy with your favorite bread.

Pasta Aglio e Olio

Pasta Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian dish that’s simple yet bursting with flavor. It combines just a few key ingredients—pasta, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes—creating a comforting meal that’s quick to prepare. The buttery texture of the oil mixed with the sharpness of garlic gives it a delightful taste, making it perfect for any night of the week.

This dish is especially great for those on a budget, as it’s affordable and doesn’t require fancy ingredients. Just boil some pasta, sauté garlic in olive oil, toss everything together, and you’re done! It’s a fantastic go-to recipe that satisfies without breaking the bank.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until it turns golden, about 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.
3. Add Red Pepper Flakes: Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Toss the Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, mixing well to coat it with the garlic and oil. If it seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
5. Season and Serve: Season with salt to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Lentil Soup with Spinach

Lentil soup with spinach is a warm, hearty dish that’s perfect for any time of year. It’s packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a fantastic option for a budget-friendly meal. The combination of lentils and spinach creates a satisfying, protein-rich soup that is easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy.

This recipe is straightforward and can be made in under an hour. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a delicious bowl of soup that pairs perfectly with crusty bread for dunking. It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth to the table without breaking the bank!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and carrots, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and cumin, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the lentils and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, with crusty bread on the side.

Cabbage Stir-Fry with Noodles

Cabbage stir-fry with noodles is a delightful and budget-friendly dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It combines crunchy cabbage and colorful vegetables with tender noodles, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and light. The flavors are bright and fresh, making it a great option for anyone looking to eat healthy without breaking the bank.

This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile. You can swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a quick and tasty meal.

Ingredients

• 4 cups chopped cabbage
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 8 ounces noodles (spaghetti or rice noodles)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles: In a pot of boiling water, cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the Noodles: Stir in the cooked noodles and soy sauce. Toss everything together until well combined, and heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Serve: Transfer the stir-fry to a bowl, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, and enjoy!

Homemade Vegetable Chili

Homemade vegetable chili is packed with flavors and healthy ingredients, making it a comforting meal that’s easy to whip up. This dish is not only delicious but also budget-friendly, coming in at under $5 per serving. With a mix of colorful vegetables and hearty beans, it offers a satisfying taste that’s perfect for any day of the week.

Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a casual gathering, this chili is sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s simple to make and can be customized to include your favorite veggies and spices!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Add the bell pepper, carrots, and zucchini. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, topped with cheese, sour cream, or cilantro if desired.