15 Easy Cheap Meals for Families on a Budget

Need some easy cheap meals today? We’ve got you.

In today’s economy, saving money at the grocery store is a win for any household. Whether you’re feeding a family of four, a college student trying to stretch a paycheck, or simply want to trim your food expenses, easy cheap meals can be a game-changer.

The good news? Budget meals don’t have to be bland or boring. With a little planning and smart pantry staples, you can serve up delicious dishes that everyone will love.

Below, you’ll find easy cheap meals, ideas broken down by type—from one-pot wonders to meatless meals, and more.

Pantry-Powered Dinners

When your fridge is nearly empty, your pantry can be a lifesaver. These meals rely on staples like pasta, canned beans, and rice.

Tuna Noodle Casserole
A creamy mix of canned tuna, pasta, frozen peas, and breadcrumbs baked to golden perfection.
Rice & Beans
Protein-packed, endlessly customizable, and cheap as dirt. Add hot sauce or shredded cheese for a flavor boost.
Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil (Aglio e Olio)
Just spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and parsley. Done in 15 minutes.

One-Pot & Sheet Pan Meals

Less cleanup, more flavor. These meals are lifesavers for busy families and weeknight dinners.

One-Pot Chili Mac
Ground beef, elbow macaroni, canned tomatoes, and spices simmered in one pot. Tastes like comfort in a bowl.
Sheet Pan Sausage & Veggies
Toss sliced kielbasa, potatoes, carrots, and peppers with olive oil and seasoning. Bake and serve.
Shakshuka
Eggs poached in a spiced tomato sauce. Serve with toast for a filling breakfast-for-dinner option.

Budget-Friendly Meat Dishes

Meat can be expensive—unless you shop smart and stretch your portions.

Sloppy Joe Sandwiches
Ground beef or turkey simmered in a sweet and tangy sauce. Serve on buns with chips or coleslaw.
Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Season with garlic, paprika, and lemon juice. Pair with rice or roasted veggies for a full meal.
Egg Fried Rice with Leftover Chicken
Use leftover rotisserie chicken, rice, frozen peas, and soy sauce. A $5 dinner that feeds the whole family.

Meatless & Vegetarian Options

Meatless meals are one of the best ways to eat on a budget—and they’re often healthier, too.

Lentil Soup
Hearty, full of fiber, and made with carrots, onions, celery, and spices. Budget-friendly and freezer-ready.
Vegetable Stir Fry with Rice or Noodles
Use whatever veggies you have on hand and whip up a quick soy-sesame sauce.
Chickpea Curry
Made with canned chickpeas, canned tomatoes, garlic, and curry spices. Creamy and satisfying.

Cheap Comfort Foods

Sometimes you just want something cozy and filling without spending a fortune.

Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup
A classic combo using pantry items and day-old bread. Perfect for cold nights or lazy Sundays.
Baked Ziti
Pasta, marinara, mozzarella, and ricotta layered and baked. Great for feeding a crowd on a budget.
Breakfast-for-Dinner Scramble
Scrambled eggs, toast, hash browns, and some sautéed veggies. Fast, cheap, and always a hit.

6. Tips for Cooking Cheap Without Cutting Quality

To make budget meals work consistently, consider these quick strategies:

Buy in bulk (rice, pasta, canned goods, frozen veggies)
Plan meals ahead to reduce waste
Embrace leftovers and repurpose them creatively
Use freezer-friendly recipes to avoid takeout on busy nights
Shop sales and use store-brand items where possible

Cooking on a budget doesn’t have to feel limiting. With these easy cheap meals and a little creativity, you’ll save money while still enjoying hearty, home-cooked food.

Conclusion: Easy Cheap Meals

From one-pot wonders to pantry staples, these easy cheap meals prove that saving money and eating well can go hand in hand. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or pulling together a last-minute dinner, the recipes above are both practical and delicious.

Pin this post for later and let us know your favorite budget-friendly meal in the comments!