8 Delicious Budget Meals You Can Make for Under $5

Cooking on a budget doesn’t have to be a hassle or boring! Here are 8 quick meals, each under $5, that are both easy to whip up and delicious. Whether you’re looking for something hearty or light, these recipes will help you save money while still enjoying great food. Let’s keep your wallet happy without sacrificing flavor!

Chickpea Salad with Lemon Dressing

This chickpea salad is a light and refreshing dish perfect for any time of year. With its zesty lemon dressing, crunchy veggies, and protein-packed chickpeas, it’s not only delicious but also very simple to prepare.

Mixing fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and protein-rich chickpeas creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures. It’s a great choice for quick lunches, sides, or even a light dinner. Plus, it’s budget-friendly!

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup diced cucumber
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or mint for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or mint before serving. Enjoy!

Potato and Spinach Frittata

A Potato and Spinach Frittata is a delicious and filling dish that brings together the earthy flavors of potatoes and the freshness of spinach. This recipe is not only affordable but also incredibly simple to whip up, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner.

The frittata boasts a delightful balance of textures and tastes, with creamy eggs binding the tender potatoes and vibrant spinach together. It’s versatile too; feel free to add your favorite cheeses or spices for an extra kick. Enjoy a slice hot or at room temperature, and pair it with a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 6 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced potatoes and cook until they begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the potatoes and spinach in the skillet.
5. Sprinkle cheese on top and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Spicy Bean and Rice Bowl

The Spicy Bean and Rice Bowl is a vibrant dish bursting with flavor and packed with protein. It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking for a quick, simple meal that won’t break the bank. The combination of spiced beans, fluffy rice, and fresh toppings makes it satisfying and delicious.

This bowl is not only easy to prepare but also versatile. You can adjust the spice level to your taste, and feel free to add or swap out any vegetables you have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to use up pantry staples!

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for about 3-5 minutes until tender.
2. Stir in the kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until everything is heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
3. In a bowl, layer the cooked rice, followed by the bean and vegetable mixture.
4. Top with sliced avocado and garnish with fresh cilantro.
5. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious and budget-friendly meal!

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Noodles

Vegetable stir-fry with noodles is a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Packed with vibrant veggies and tossed in a savory sauce, it’s as colorful as it is flavorful. This dish is super easy to whip up, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want something wholesome.

The combination of tender noodles and crisp vegetables gives this stir-fry a delightful texture. Plus, you can customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand. It’s a budget-friendly option that feels fancy without breaking the bank!

Ingredients

• 8 oz noodles (your choice)
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (like cilantro or green onions)

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Veggies: In a large pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 3-5 minutes until tender.
3. Add the Noodles: Toss in the cooked noodles and soy sauce, stirring everything together until well combined. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
4. Garnish: Serve hot, topped with sesame seeds and fresh herbs for added flavor.

Egg Fried Rice with Peas

Egg fried rice with peas is a quick and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal. It combines fluffy rice, tender green peas, and scrambled eggs, all seasoned to perfection for a comforting flavor. This dish is not only delicious but also super easy to whip up, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.

Whether you’re looking to use up leftover rice or simply want a filling meal on a budget, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s versatile, so you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Enjoy a bowl of this tasty fried rice, and you’ll see how simple and satisfying a meal can be!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
2. Push the garlic to one side, crack the eggs into the skillet, and scramble them until cooked through.
3. Add the cooked rice and peas, stirring to combine all the ingredients.
4. Pour the soy sauce over the rice mixture and stir well, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cabbage and Sausage Skillet

This Cabbage and Sausage Skillet is a delicious and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. With savory flavors from the sausage and the subtle crunch of cabbage, it’s a hearty dish that doesn’t break the bank. Plus, it’s super simple to prepare, making it a go-to for busy families.

The combination of cooked sausage and tender cabbage creates a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or served with rice or bread. It’s filling, tasty, and requires minimal ingredients, making it an ideal choice for those looking to save money while still enjoying a hearty dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Stir in the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the chopped cabbage, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and cover the skillet. Allow it to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Remove the lid and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to evaporate any excess liquid. Serve warm.

Lentil Soup with Carrots

This lentil soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It brings together the earthy flavor of lentils with the natural sweetness of carrots, creating a comforting dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Best of all, it’s quick to prepare and budget-friendly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The blend of spices adds just the right kick, while the carrots give it a lovely pop of color. It’s simple enough for beginners, yet delicious enough to impress anyone. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for the whole family.

Ingredients

• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 2 large carrots, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the diced carrots and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the lentils, broth, cumin, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tomato Basil Pasta

Tomato Basil Pasta is a delightful and quick dish that’s perfect for any weeknight meal. The combination of fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil creates a light yet satisfying flavor that’s sure to please everyone at the table. It’s simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, making it a go-to recipe for busy days.

This pasta not only tastes fantastic but also looks vibrant and appetizing. The sweetness of the tomatoes pairs beautifully with the aromatic basil, while a sprinkle of cheese adds a creamy finish. Serve it up with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a delicious meal that won’t break the bank!

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine works well)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese, grated, for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes: Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Mix Together: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the chopped basil. Toss everything together, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.