10 Delicious Cheap Dinners for Family to Enjoy

As the sun sets on another busy day, the question on every family’s mind is often the same: what’s for dinner? With schedules packed tight and wallets stretched thin, it can be tempting to reach for the same old takeout menu or microwaveable meals. But what if you could enjoy a delicious, homemade dinner with your loved ones without breaking the bank?

In this article, we’ll share our favorite cheap dinner ideas for families, from hearty one-pot wonders to easy, adaptable recipes that can be tailored to your tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re a busy parent, a foodie on a budget, or simply looking for a way to spice up your weeknight meals, we’ve got you covered with these affordable and mouth-watering dinner ideas that are sure to become new family favorites.

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(as of February 16, 2026 12:21 GMT -05:00 - )

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Spaghetti Aglio E Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian dish that showcases the simplicity and flavor of garlic and olive oil. This quick and affordable meal is perfect for busy weeknights and can be made with just a handful of ingredients. It’s a comforting, delicious pasta dish that the whole family will love.

1. Cook 400g of spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. 2. While the pasta cooks, heat 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. 3. Add 4-6 minced garlic cloves and sauté until golden, being careful not to burn them. 4. Once the spaghetti is ready, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest. 5. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil, tossing well to combine. 6. If the pasta seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. 7. Season with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and chopped parsley. 8. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Chickpea Stir Fry

Chickpea Stir Fry is a vibrant and nutritious dish that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with protein and fiber, chickpeas are sautéed with colorful vegetables and a savory sauce that delights the taste buds. This budget-friendly meal is not only healthy but also customizable, allowing you to use whatever veggies you have on hand.

1. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. 2. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened. 3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute. 4. Add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas and your choice of vegetables (like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas). 5. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp. 6. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, and a splash of sesame oil, then pour over the stir fry. 7. Toss well to combine and heat through for another 2-3 minutes. 8. Serve hot over cooked rice or quinoa.

Vegetable Fried Rice

Vegetable Fried Rice is a quick and affordable dish that the whole family will enjoy. Packed with colorful veggies and flavorful soy sauce, it’s a satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rice and vegetables, making it an economical choice for busy weeknights.

1. Start by cooking 2 cups of rice according to package instructions, then let it cool. 2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. 3. Add 1 diced onion and stir-fry until translucent, about 3 minutes. 4. Toss in 2 cups of mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and bell peppers) and cook for another 5 minutes. 5. Push the vegetables to the side, crack 2 eggs into the pan, and scramble until fully cooked. 6. Add the cooled rice to the skillet, followed by 4 tablespoons of soy sauce and salt to taste. 7. Stir everything together until heated through, and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Taco Salad Bowls

Taco Salad Bowls are a fun and flavorful dinner option that the whole family will love. They are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings, making them a hit at the table. This dish is not only budget-friendly but also packed with fresh ingredients, perfect for any weeknight meal.

1. Start by browning 1 pound of ground beef or turkey in a skillet over medium heat. Season it with taco seasoning according to package instructions. 2. Meanwhile, prepare your salad base by chopping romaine lettuce and placing it in large bowls. 3. Once the meat is cooked and seasoned, divide it among the filled bowls. 4. Top each bowl with black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, shredded cheese, and avocado slices. 5. Drizzle with your favorite salad dressing or salsa, and serve with tortilla chips on the side for added crunch.

Lentil Soup with Spinach

Lentil Soup with Spinach is a hearty and nutritious dish, perfect for families on a budget. Packed with protein-rich lentils and fresh spinach, this soup is both filling and cost-effective. It’s an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner, offering warmth and comfort without breaking the bank.

1. In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. 2. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing until they are soft. 3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute. 4. Add rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and spices of your choice (like cumin, salt, and pepper). 5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. 6. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in fresh spinach until wilted. 7. Serve hot, garnished with a squeeze of lemon or fresh herbs if desired.

Egg and Potato Hash

Egg and Potato Hash is a hearty and budget-friendly meal perfect for families. This dish combines crispy potatoes, savory onions, and perfectly cooked eggs, making it both filling and delicious. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with whatever vegetables or leftovers you have on hand.

1. Begin by peeling and dicing 2 medium-sized potatoes into small cubes. 2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat and add the potatoes. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and tender. 3. Add 1 diced onion and season with salt and pepper, cooking until the onion is softened. 4. Create a few wells in the potato mixture and crack an egg into each well. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the eggs reach your desired doneness. 5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Pasta Primavera with Garlic

Pasta Primavera with Garlic is a vibrant and wholesome meal that brings the freshness of vegetables to your table. Made with a medley of colorful vegetables and tossed with garlic-infused pasta, it’s a delightful dish that is both nutritious and filling. Perfect for a family dinner on a budget, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to please everyone.

Ingredients: – 12 oz pasta (any type) – 2 tablespoons olive oil – 4 cloves garlic, minced – 1 zucchini, sliced – 1 bell pepper, chopped – 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – 1 cup broccoli florets – Salt and pepper to taste – Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) Instructions: 1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside. 2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. 3. Add the zucchini, bell pepper, and broccoli to the skillet. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender. 4. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cooked pasta, mixing well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Bean and Cheese Quesadillas

Bean and Cheese Quesadillas are a quick, hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, you can create a filling dish that the whole family will enjoy. These quesadillas not only taste great but are also budget-friendly, making them an ideal choice for affordable family dinners.

1. Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. 2. Spread refried beans over one half of a flour tortilla and sprinkle with cheese. 3. Fold the tortilla in half to cover the filling. 4. Place the quesadilla in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted. 5. Remove from heat, cut into wedges, and serve with salsa or sour cream.

Cabbage and Sausage Skillet

Cabbage and Sausage Skillet is a delicious and budget-friendly meal that is perfect for families. This hearty dish combines savory sausage with fresh cabbage, creating a filling and nutritious dinner option. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. 2. Add 1 pound of sliced sausage (such as kielbasa or polish sausage) and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. 3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. 4. In the same skillet, add 1 chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. 5. Stir in 1 small head of chopped cabbage and cook until wilted, about 5-8 minutes. 6. Return the sausage to the skillet, and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. 7. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat everything through. 8. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Cabbage and Sausage Skillet!

Homemade Vegetable Pizza

Homemade Vegetable Pizza is an affordable and delicious option for family dinners, combining fresh vegetables and cheese for a delightful meal. It’s a perfect way to use up leftover vegetables and involves a simple pizza dough that can be made from scratch or purchased pre-made. This recipe encourages creativity and personal taste, allowing you to customize toppings according to your family’s preferences.

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). 2. If using store-bought dough, roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness; if making homemade dough, prepare it according to your recipe. 3. Transfer the dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet and spread a thin layer of tomato sauce evenly over the base. 4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top, then add your choice of diced vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and spinach. 5. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano as desired. 6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. 7. Let it cool for a few minutes, slice, and serve.