Eating like a king doesn’t have to come with a royal price tag. These 17 budget-friendly recipes are designed to make you feel luxurious without breaking the bank. Each dish is simple to prepare, using affordable ingredients to create delicious meals. Enjoy the satisfaction of hearty, flavorful food while keeping your budget in check.
Mujadara
Mujadara is a hearty dish made with lentils, rice, and caramelized onions that takes about 40 minutes to prepare. The combination of these simple ingredients results in a savory and slightly sweet flavor. It’s a filling meal that’s budget-friendly and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Try it for a satisfying and nutritious option that doesn’t break the bank.
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Argentinian Empanadas
Argentinian Empanadas feature a flaky pastry filled with a savory mix of vegetables and spices, ready in about an hour. These vegetarian delights offer a deliciously spiced taste that’s both rich and comforting. They’re a great way to enjoy a traditional dish on a budget. Serve them as an appetizer or a main course for a tasty and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Argentinian Empanadas
Chicken Marbella
Chicken Marbella is a flavorful dish with chicken, prunes, olives, and capers, taking about 1 hour to cook. The blend of sweet and tangy flavors makes it a unique and delicious meal. It’s an elegant dish that feels luxurious without being expensive. Enjoy it for a special dinner that’s easy on the wallet.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marbella
The Perfect Rice Pilaf
The Perfect Rice Pilaf is a simple yet delicious side dish made with rice, vegetables, and spices, ready in 30 minutes. The aromatic flavors and fluffy texture make it a great accompaniment to any main course. It’s an affordable way to add a touch of sophistication to your meal. Pair it with your favorite protein for a complete and satisfying dinner.
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Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes
This dish combines tender chicken and crispy potatoes baked in buttermilk, ready in about an hour. The result is a flavorful and comforting meal with a creamy and savory taste. It’s a budget-friendly option that’s perfect for a family dinner. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying dish any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes
Eggplant Tomato Stacks
Eggplant Tomato Stacks feature layers of roasted eggplant and tomatoes with cheese, taking around 45 minutes to make. The combination of flavors is rich and savory, making it a great vegetarian main or side dish. It’s an easy and affordable way to enjoy fresh vegetables. Serve it as a delicious and healthy meal option.
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Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies
This dish combines chicken and assorted vegetables seasoned with paprika, ready in about 50 minutes. The smoky and slightly spicy flavors make it a tasty and easy dinner option. It’s a budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy a nutritious and flavorful dinner with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies
Rosemary Sourdough Bread
Rosemary Sourdough Bread is a fragrant and flavorful bread that takes about 4 hours to prepare, including rising time. The combination of sourdough tang and rosemary makes it a delightful accompaniment to any meal. It’s an affordable way to enjoy homemade bread. Serve it fresh from the oven for the best taste experience.
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Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab
Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab features seasoned ground chicken shaped into skewers, ready in 30 minutes. The mix of spices and herbs creates a savory and aromatic flavor. It’s a quick and budget-friendly way to enjoy a delicious grilled meal. Perfect for a summer barbecue or an easy weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab
Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks
These drumsticks are marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and herbs, taking about an hour to prepare and cook. The result is juicy and savory chicken with a hint of tanginess. It’s an affordable and tasty meal option that’s great for any night of the week. Enjoy it with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks
Greek Vegetarian Moussaka
Greek Vegetarian Moussaka is a hearty dish made with layers of eggplant, potatoes, and a rich tomato sauce, ready in about 1.5 hours. The flavors are rich and comforting, making it a satisfying vegetarian main course. It’s a budget-friendly option that’s great for a special dinner. Serve it with a side salad for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Greek Vegetarian Moussaka
Creamy Citrus Chicken With Rosemary
This dish features chicken cooked in a creamy citrus and rosemary sauce, ready in 40 minutes. The combination of tangy citrus and aromatic rosemary makes it a flavorful and comforting meal. It’s a budget-friendly option that’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Citrus Chicken With Rosemary
Russian Vinaigrette Salad
Russian Vinaigrette Salad is a colorful mix of root vegetables like beets, potatoes, and carrots, ready in about 45 minutes. The tangy dressing and fresh vegetables create a refreshing and flavorful salad. It’s a budget-friendly and nutritious option for any meal. Serve it as a side dish or a light main course.
Get the Recipe: Russian Vinaigrette Salad
Baked Feta Pasta
Baked Feta Pasta features creamy feta cheese baked with cherry tomatoes and pasta, ready in 40 minutes. The combination of the melted feta and roasted tomatoes creates a rich and savory flavor. It’s an easy and affordable meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta
Mushroom Leek Pasta Kugel
Mushroom Leek Pasta Kugel is a savory casserole made with pasta, mushrooms, and leeks, ready in about an hour. The blend of earthy mushrooms and sweet leeks creates a rich and comforting flavor. It’s an affordable and hearty meal option that’s great for any occasion. Serve it as a main dish or a side for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Leek Pasta Kugel
Chicken Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe
This dish combines chicken sausage with assorted vegetables on a sheet pan, ready in 40 minutes. The result is a flavorful and easy meal with a mix of savory and fresh tastes. It’s a budget-friendly option that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this nutritious and delicious dinner with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe
Classic Jewish Chicken Soup Recipe
This classic soup features tender chicken, vegetables, and noodles, ready in about 2 hours. The flavors are rich and comforting, making it perfect for a cozy meal. It’s an affordable and nourishing option that’s great for any time of year. Enjoy a bowl of this hearty and delicious soup for a satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Classic Jewish Chicken Soup Recipe