After a long day, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen preparing dinner. Yet, you want a delicious, healthy meal that won't break the bank. We've got you covered with these Easy Dinners Under $20. Budget-friendly, quick to prepare, and satisfying, these meals will become your new go-to solutions. Let's dive right in!
Before we begin, let's look at a general breakdown of costs. Prices may vary based on location and store choices, but as a rule of thumb, expect to spend around $10-$15 for ingredients that should last for at least two meals. Here's a summary of the cost per serving, assuming two servings per meal.
Meat-Based Dinners
Meat lovers, rejoice! We've got several options for you that won't leave you with an empty wallet.
Despite its reputation, ground beef can be a budget-friendly protein source. Paired with affordable pantry staples like onions, garlic, and rice, it forms the base for many cost-effective meals.
Spaghetti and Meat Sauce
A classic for a reason, this meal can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Brown the beef with onions and garlic, then add canned tomatoes and simmer. Toss with pasta and dinner's served.
Canned tomatoes and pasta are cheap, and if you already have olive oil, garlic, and seasonings on hand, the only real cost is the beef. Add a side of garlic bread for an extra $2 and you're still under $20.
Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
High in protein and packed with veggies, this stir-fry is both nutritious and cost-effective. Use frozen stir-fry packs (around $2), add thinly sliced beef (also around $2), and serve over rice.
Season with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. If you don't have these on hand, they're affordable pantry staples to invest in. Total cost per serving? Around $3.50.
Vegetarian Dinners
Plant-based meals can be just as delicious and even more budget-friendly. Here are two options that'll leave you with money to spare.
Lentils, chickpeas, and black beans are not only cheap but also pack an impressive nutritional punch. They're great bases for meals and can be used in various dishes.
Lentil Soup
Soup is a budget-friendly meal in itself, but lentil soup is particularly economical. Cook lentils with onions, carrots, celery, and your choice of spices. finishes with a touch of milk or cream for richness.
With ingredients like lentils (around $1 per serving), celery, onions, and carrots (around $1 for the whole bunch), this soup delivers a big flavor punch for just $2-$3 per serving.
Chickpea Curry
Craving Indian cuisine? This curry delivers authentic flavors without the high-end restaurant price tag. Sauté chickpeas with onions, tomatoes, and spices, then serve over rice.
Chickpeas are around $1 per serving, and with pantry staples like onions, tomatoes, and spices, the total cost per serving is around $2-$2.50. Throw in a simple side salad for an extra $1 and you're still well under $20.
Want to try one or both of these meals? Check out your local grocery store's sales flyer or app to see specific prices and plan your shopping list accordingly. You'd be surprised how much you can save with savvy shopping!
Happy cooking! We hope these Easy Dinners Under $20 bring variety and savings to your meal planning. Don't forget to share your creations on social media and tag us – we'd love to see what you're cooking up!