16 Cheap and Healthy Dinners That Don’t Taste Like a Budget Cut
These 16 dinners are proof that healthy meals can be simple and affordable. No need to compromise on taste when you’re keeping things budget-friendly. Just good, straightforward meals that won’t cost a fortune.
Taco Casserole
![A dish of taco casserole.](https://thehonoursystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/taco-casserole-msn.jpg)
This easy, affordable taco casserole is the perfect answer to “What’s for dinner?” Simple to make, naturally gluten-free, and easy to customize with your favorite toppings. Get the recipe: Taco Casserole
Maple Glazed Pork Chops
![A pan of maple glazed pork chops.](https://thehonoursystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/maple-glazed-pork-chop-msn.jpg)
These maple-glazed pork chops are tender, juicy, and perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness. No marinating needed, making them fast enough for weeknights and impressive enough for special occasions. Get the recipe: Maple Glazed Pork Chops
BBQ Chicken Pasta
![A casserole dish of BBQ Chicken Pasta.](https://thehonoursystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/bbq-chicken-pasta-recipe-horizontal.jpg)
This baked BBQ chicken pasta is cheesy, comforting, and made with ingredients you probably already have on hand. The combo of chicken and pasta with a creamy BBQ sauce makes for a meal that always hits the spot. Get the recipe: BBQ Chicken Pasta
Slow Cooker White Bean Soup
![A bowl of slow cooker white bean soup.](https://thehonoursystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/slow-cooker-white-bean-soup-msn.jpg)
This vegetarian slow cooker bean soup is a budget-friendly, no-fuss meal that simmers to perfection while you go about your day. Packed with hearty beans and veggies, it’s a warm, comforting choice for chilly nights. Get the recipe: Slow Cooker White Bean Soup
Better-than-Mom’s Hamburger Goulash
![A bowl of hamburger goulash.](https://thehonoursystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/hamburger-goulash-msn.jpg)
When you’re craving comfort food that’s easy and cheap, this Better-than-Mom’s hamburger goulash is the move. It’s cozy, filling, and guaranteed to be a hit. Get the recipe: Better-than-Mom’s Hamburger Goulash
Italian Stuffed Peppers
![A dish of Italian stuffed peppers.](https://thehonoursystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/italian-stuffed-peppers-msn.jpg)
Italian stuffed peppers are a classic, budget-friendly dinner that’s hearty and easy to make. Green bell peppers get filled with seasoned meat and rice, then baked in a rich, cheesy tomato sauce. Get the recipe: Italian Stuffed Peppers
Oven Hamburger Steaks with Mushroom Gravy
![Hamburger steaks on a plate.](https://thehonoursystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/hamburger-steaks-msn.jpg)
Hamburger steaks in mushroom gravy are an easy, budget-friendly dinner that hits the spot on busy nights. With ground beef and a simple sheet pan prep, it’s a low-effort, no-mess meal that still feels special. Get the recipe: Oven Hamburger Steaks with Mushroom Gravy
Vegetable Soup
![A bowl of vegetable soup.](https://thehonoursystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/vegetable-soup-msn.jpg)
Want a cheap, easy, and healthy vegetable soup that doesn’t take all day? We’ve got you—10 simple ingredients, 25 minutes, and a pot of homemade goodness without the hassle. Get the recipe: Vegetable Soup
Skillet Spaghetti and Meatballs
![Overhead image of skillet spaghetti.](https://thehonoursystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/skillet-spaghetti-msn.jpg)
Classic skillet spaghetti and meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for an easy family meal. With fully cooked homemade meatballs, this one-pan dinner comes together with zero hassle. Get the recipe: Skillet Spaghetti and Meatballs
Baked Lemon Garlic Tilapia
![A plate of baked lemon tilapia.](https://thehonoursystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/baked-lemon-tilapia-msn.jpg)
This baked lemon garlic tilapia is light and easy to prepare. It’s a simple dish that’s perfect for a quick, healthy dinner with minimal cleanup. Get the recipe: Baked Lemon Garlic Tilapia
Creamy Tomato Pasta
![A plate of creamy tomato spinach pasta.](https://thehonoursystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/creamy-tomato-spinach-pasta-recipe-horizontal-3.jpg)
This creamy tomato pasta is rich, smooth, and perfect for a fast, budget-friendly meal. It’s easy to make and tastes like a little effort went a long way. Get the recipe: Creamy Tomato Pasta
Hearty Pottage Stew
![A bowl of pottage.](https://thehonoursystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pottage-msn.jpg)
This comforting pottage (medieval vegetable stew) is both healthy and hearty. Made with affordable ingredients, it’s an easy, feel-good meal that’s kind to your wallet and your body. Get the recipe: Hearty Pottage Stew
Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
![A plate of sheet pan fajitas.](https://thehonoursystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/sheet-pan-fajitas-msn-1.jpg)
This sheet pan chicken fajita recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and just one pan, you’ll have a tasty dish packed with tender chicken and all the fajita goodness. Get the recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs
![Overhead image of sheet pan chicken thighs.](https://thehonoursystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/sheet-pan-chicken-thighs-msn.png)
Enjoy juicy chicken thighs and veggies in one simple dish. This healthy sheet pan meal is quick to make and ideal for busy weeknights when you need an easy, no-fuss dinner. Get the recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs
Spicy Sesame Ground Beef and Rice
![Spicy sesame ground beef bowls on a table.](https://thehonoursystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/sesame-ground-beef-bowls-recipe-horizontal.jpg)
This sweet and spicy ground beef and rice is a quick and easy dinner option that’s perfect for busy nights. With minimal effort, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time. Get the recipe: Sweet and Spicy Beef Bowls
Tomato and Feta Lentil Pasta
![A pot of lentil pasta.](https://thehonoursystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/lentil-pasta-msn.jpg)
This creamy tomato, feta, and lentil pasta is a hearty vegetarian twist on the viral TikTok recipe. It’s rich, satisfying, and packed with protein and nutrients—proof that plant-based meals can be both easy and filling. Get the recipe: Tomato and Feta Lentil Pasta