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Penny-Pinching Perfection: 35 Dinner Recipes under $15

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By Michelle Price

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Penny-Pinching Perfection: 35 Dinner Recipes under $15

Feeding the family on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. This collection of budget-friendly recipes gives you ideas for delicious meals to feed your family for under $15. Forget grilled cheese, PB&J, or ricearoni, these recipes bring the flavor for fast dinners on the cheap.

Image shows three honey habanero tacos with corn shells sitting on a wooden board.
Honey Habanero Tacos. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Crockpot Chili

Image shows a closeup of a bowl of Crockpot beef chili.
Crockpot Chili. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Dive into a bowl of hearty budget-friendly crockpot chili, packed with tender meat, beans, and a medley of flavors that will warm your soul and satisfy your cravings. Whether enjoyed on a night in or at a gathering with friends, this comforting dish is always a crowd-pleaser without straining your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Chili

Potato Gnocchi

Image shows a bowl of Potato Gnocchi with grated cheese atop it.
Potato Gnocchi. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Experience the pillow-like goodness of homemade Potato Gnocchi without burning a hole in your pocket. Surprisingly easy to make, these delicate dumplings melt in your mouth, providing comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Serve with your favorite sauce or pesto for a complete and fulfilling meal that’s affordable and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Potato Gnocchi

Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Image shows a closeup of a spoon holding some Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole with the full skillet behind it.
Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Introducing the delectable Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole – a mouthwatering blend of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and ooey-gooey melted cheese. This hearty one-pot wonder is sure to satisfy your cravings with its irresistible combination of savory flavors and comforting textures without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Honey Habanero Tacos

Image shows three honey habanero tacos with corn shells sitting on a wooden board.
Honey Habanero Tacos. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Spice up Taco Tuesday without spending big with these budget-friendly and flavorful ground beef Honey Habanero Tacos. Quick and easy to make, this recipe proves that you don’t need to splurge to enjoy a tasty and exciting twist on your usual ground beef tacos.
Get the Recipe: Honey Habanero Tacos

Chicken Tortellini Soup

Image shows Chicken tortellini soup in a ceramic enameled pot with a wooden spoon stirring it.
Chicken Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Delight in a bowl of comforting chicken tortellini soup, made even more delightful with budget-friendly leftover rotisserie chicken. This easy recipe combines tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and flavorful broth for a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion without straining your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup

Slow Cooker Tomato Lime Chicken

Image shows a Bite of tomato lime chicken on a fork with rice and the rest of the bowl in the background.
Slow Cooker Tomato Lime Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Experience the zesty and tangy flavors of budget-friendly slow cooker tomato lime chicken, a succulent dish that combines juicy chicken with vibrant tomato and lime accents. Let the slow cooker do the work for you, creating tender and flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with your favorite side dishes without straining your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Tomato Lime Chicken

Spicy Tuna Rolls

Image shows Chopsticks holding spicy tuna roll over a plate with more of the roll.
Spicy Tuna Rolls. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Elevate your at-home sushi game with a tantalizing and budget-friendly twist on the classic spicy tuna roll, using canned tuna as a convenient and delicious alternative. Discover how to create a mouthwatering blend of flavors, incorporating the perfect amount of heat and texture to satisfy your sushi cravings without overspending.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Rolls

Cheesy Stuffed Shells

Image shows an overhead shot of Easy Cheesy Stuffed Shells with a small plate holding one and the rest of the pan next to it.
Cheesy Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Indulge in a gooey delight with Cheesy Stuffed Shells—perfect for meatless Monday, satisfying your cravings with savory goodness. This budget-friendly and easy-to-make dinner option lets you enjoy a comforting and affordable meal without compromising on taste.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Stuffed Shells

Calzones

Image shows an overhead shot of a Calzone cut in half on a wooden board with a small bowl of marinara above it.
Calzones. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Indulge in a savory delight with budget-friendly Calzones, filled with a medley of delectable ingredients. These pocket-sized wonders make for a satisfying budget-friendly meatless Monday treat that the whole family will love without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Calzones

Grown Up Mac and Cheese

Grown up mac and cheese in a casserole dish.
Grown Up Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Upgrade your mac and cheese on a budget with Grown-Up Mac and Cheese featuring juicy tomatoes and crispy bacon. This budget-friendly twist turns the classic comfort dish into a flavorful experience without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Grown Up Mac and Cheese

Pizza Rolls

Image shows a Pizza roll on a white plate in front of a pyrex with the rest of the batch in it.
Pizza Rolls. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Treat yourself to a savory cinnamon roll-style dinner with budget-friendly rotisserie chicken, spinach, cheese, and sauce Pizza Rolls. Indulge in the comforting flavors of this unique twist on a classic cinnamon roll without overspending. Each bite reveals the perfect balance of savory ingredients, wrapped in a fluffy, cinnamon-infused dough, and baked to perfection for a budget-friendly and satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups

Image shows a lasagna roll up on a white plate.
Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Say goodbye to long baking times and hello to quick and budget-friendly lasagna satisfaction. Discover the ultimate time-saving hack with Weeknight Lasagna Roll-Ups, providing perfectly portioned layers of cheese and flavor in minutes. Enjoy the comfort of lasagna without straining your budget, making it a delightful and affordable dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups

Nicoise Omelet

Image shows a slice of a Nicoise Omelet on a white plate with the cast iron skillet behind it.
Nicoise Omelet. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Indulge in the sophistication of a classic Nicoise Omelet designed for a budget-friendly dinner. This economical option combines the flavors of a traditional Nicoise salad with a touch of elegance, making it a deliciously affordable choice for those seeking a culinary adventure without overspending.
Get the Recipe: Nicoise Omelet

Creamy Pea Pasta

Image shows Creamy Pea Pasta in an enameled cast iron pot.
Creamy Pea Pasta. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Satisfy your cravings without overspending with Creamy Pea Pasta—a quick and budget-friendly meatless Monday favorite perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner. This affordable option offers tons of flavor, making it a satisfying choice that effortlessly combines simplicity and nutritional goodness.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Pasta

Tuna and Tomato Pasta

Image shows a closeup view of tuna and tomato pasta in a white patterned bowl.
Tuna and Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Keep it simple on a budget with tuna and tomato pasta, a kid-friendly dish ready in about 25 minutes. This economical, protein-packed option is perfect for any weeknight meal, offering a tasty solution to dinner without draining your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Tuna and Tomato Pasta

Mexican Skillet Quinoa

Image shows a wooden spoon holding a scoop of Mexican skillet quinoa with the full pot behind it.
Mexican Skillet Quinoa. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Delight in a naturally gluten-free one-pot meal with budget-friendly Mexican skillet quinoa, brimming with protein, salsa, corn, and more. This easy-to-make dish offers tons of flavor, making it a satisfying choice that effortlessly combines simplicity and nutritional goodness without burning a hole in your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Skillet Quinoa

Sweet Potato Turkey Meatballs

Image shows a baking sheet with a raised tray holding Sweet Potato Turkey Meatballs.
Sweet Potato Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Discover a budget-friendly twist on meatballs with Sweet Potato Turkey Meatballs—a healthier take on a classic dish. This wholesome option provides a perfect balance of flavors and textures for a satisfying and affordable dinner that won’t strain your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Turkey Meatballs

Tomato Basil Bisque

Image shows a close up of a bowl of Tomato Basil Bisque with grated parmesan on top of it.
Tomato Basil Bisque. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Revel in budget-friendly comfort with tangy Tomato Basil Bisque. This rich and velvety classic soup is ready to warm and satisfy your dinner cravings in just 30 minutes, proving that you can enjoy a comforting meal without spending a fortune.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Basil Bisque

Chicken Fried Rice

Images shows a white Bowl of chicken fried rice.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Transform leftover chicken into a wallet-friendly and flavorful meal with this easy chicken fried rice recipe. This thrifty option allows you to use your favorite veggies for a quick and budget-friendly way to satisfy your cravings without compromising on taste.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Caprese Panini

Image shows a sliced caprese panini on a wooden board with the melted cheese oozing out.
Caprese Panini. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Enjoy classic Italian flavors on a budget with a simple yet delicious Caprese Panini. This go-to sandwich provides a satisfying dinner option for those “fancy” moments without the fuss, ready in minutes and easy on your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Panini

Mediterranean Chicken With Orzo

Image shows an overhead shot of Image shows in a white bowl and a black background.
Mediterranean Chicken With Orzo. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Discover the flavorful deliciousness of budget-friendly Mediterranean chicken with orzo. This dish combines tender chicken, aromatic herbs, perfectly cooked orzo, and creamy, salty notes of feta cheese without breaking the bank. A Mediterranean-inspired feast that will delight your taste buds without stretching your budget.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken With Orzo

Italian Meatball Soup

Image shows A bowl of italian meatball soup with a basil leaf on top.
Italian Meatball Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Delight in the richness of budget-friendly Italian Meatball Soup—a flavorful concoction brimming with hearty meatballs and savory broth. Enjoy the classic taste of Italian comfort without overspending, making it a warm and satisfying choice for an affordable and comforting dinner.
Get the Recipe: Italian Meatball Soup

Cacio e Pepe

Image shows a plate with cacio e pepe in a neat pile topped with shaved parmesan cheese.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Satisfy your cheesy cravings without breaking the bank with Cacio e Pepe. This budget-friendly dish delivers fancy-sounding, yet incredibly simple, cheesy pasta perfection in just 15 minutes. Enjoy a taste of luxury without the financial guilt, proving that delicious meals can be affordable and easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Pizza Pot Pies

Image shows a fork with a great cheese pull taking a bite from a blue ramekin containing a chicken pizza pot pie.
Pizza Pot Pies. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Experience the marriage of pizza and budget-friendly comfort food with pizza pot pies, a delightful twist on a classic favorite. These individual pot pies are filled with savory chicken, gooey cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings, all wrapped in a flaky crust. Perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken and a guaranteed hit with the whole family, these pot pies will bring smiles to your table without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pot Pies

Thai Chicken Chili

Image shows an overhead shot of a bowl of Thai Chicken Chili.
Thai Chicken Chili. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Embark on a budget-friendly culinary adventure with Thai Chicken Chili, where fragrant spices and tender chicken create a harmonious and fiery flavor experience. Discover the perfect balance of heat and depth in every spoonful without overspending, making it a budget-friendly choice for a satisfying meal that will delight your taste buds.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Chili

Crescent Roll Bagel Dogs

Image shows Hot dogs wrapped in crescent roll dough on a baking sheet.
Crescent Roll Bagel Dogs. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Crescent roll bagel dogs are a fun and budget-friendly recipe that everyone loves. They’re delicious for dinner, but they’re just as tasty for leftovers the next day in your child’s school lunch. Just wait for them to come home and tell you about all the other jealous kids without stretching your budget.
Get the Recipe: Crescent Roll Bagel Dogs

Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas

Image shows an overhead shot of Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas on a white tray with a bowl of guacamole to the left of them.
Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Sink your teeth into the savory goodness of budget-friendly puff pastry beef empanadas – a delectable appetizer uniting tender beef and flaky pastry for a satisfying bite. Perfect for any gathering, these handheld treats promise to delight with their irresistible combination of flavors and textures without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas

Tamale Pot Pies

Image shows a Tamale pot pie on a glass plate with guacamole sitting next to it.
Tamale Pot Pies. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Experience the comforting fusion of traditional tamales and pot pies with budget-friendly Tamale Pot Pies. Each bite reveals shredded rotisserie chicken, corn, and savory spices encased in a masa crust. Indulge in a harmonious blend of Mexican-inspired ingredients for a unique texture and flavor experience without stretching your budget.
Get the Recipe: Tamale Pot Pies

Southwest Tortilla Pie

Image shows a slice of a Southwest Tortilla Pie sitting on a white plate.
Southwest Tortilla Pie. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Treat yourself to the flavors of the Southwest with a tantalizing budget-friendly Southwest tortilla pie. This layered dish features rotisserie chicken, black beans, corn, and zesty spices, all nestled between crisp tortillas and topped with melted cheese. Whether served as a main course or a festive party dish, this Southwest-inspired pie will impress your taste buds without stretching your budget.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Tortilla Pie

Chicken Stew with Biscuits

Image shows an overhead shot of Chicken stew with biscuits in a blue ceramic enameled pot.
Chicken Stew with Biscuits. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Indulge in the hearty goodness of budget-friendly chicken stew with biscuits, a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken. This recipe combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy biscuits for a wholesome and filling meal that won’t empty your pockets.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stew with Biscuits

Asian Inspired Turkey Burgers

Image shows Asian inspired turkey burger on a blue plate.
Asian Inspired Turkey Burgers. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Amp up your burger game with flavorful and juicy Asian-inspired Turkey Burgers that won’t break the bank. This delightful and easy-to-make dinner option brings crunch and bold flavors to a classic favorite in no time, proving that you can enjoy a tasty meal without spending a fortune.
Get the Recipe: Asian Inspired Turkey Burgers

Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl

Image shows a closeup of chicken egg roll in a bowl in a blue enameled cast iron pot.
Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Discover the mouthwatering simplicity of Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl—a quick and budget-friendly recipe that satisfies your cravings without splurging. This fuss-free and tasty option is perfect for a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank, offering a wallet-friendly alternative to your regular dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl

Canned Chicken Salad

Image shows a Canned Chicken Salad sandwich on a wooden table.
Canned Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Dive into a hassle-free and budget-friendly summertime meal with Canned Chicken Salad—refreshing, easy to make, and perfect for hot days. Ideal when paired with greens or as a quick sandwich, this wallet-friendly option provides a hassle-free dinner solution that won’t empty your pockets.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Salad

Ground Turkey Pancakes

Image shows Ground Turkey Pancakes cooking on a griddle.
Ground Turkey Pancakes. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Elevate your dinner experience with these savory Ground Turkey Pancakes, a budget-friendly twist on traditional pancakes that packs plenty of protein. Surprise your taste buds with this unexpected and delicious choice for a breakfast-for-dinner experience that is both easy to make and pleasantly satisfying without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Ground Turkey Pancakes

Chicken and Dumplings

Image shows Chicken and dumplings on a spoon with more in the background.
Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Enjoy the heartwarming flavors of classic chicken and dumplings without breaking the bank. This budget-friendly dish combines leftover rotisserie chicken, fluffy dumplings made with plenty of eggs, and a savory broth for a homestyle meal that’s perfect for cozy nights in. Whip up a batch and savor the comfort without splurging.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Dumplings

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