Finding affordable recipes that are both quick and tasty can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. With a little creativity and some basic ingredients, you can whip up delicious dinners without breaking the bank. Here are five easy cheap dinner ideas, including some cheap dinner ideas with bacon, that you can make for under $5.
Spaghetti Carbonara
Spaghetti Carbonara is a classic Italian dish that’s both simple and inexpensive. All you need is spaghetti, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and bacon.
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions.
- In a separate pan, cook bacon until crispy.
- Beat eggs in a bowl and mix with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Combine cooked spaghetti, bacon, and egg mixture, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce.
This meal is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying.
Bean and Cheese Burritos
Bean and cheese burritos are a staple for those looking for cheap and filling meals. You only need tortillas, canned beans, cheese, and some spices.
- Heat the beans in a pan with your favorite spices.
- Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
- Place the beans and cheese on the tortilla and roll it up.
These burritos are perfect for a quick dinner and can be easily customized with additional toppings like salsa or sour cream.
Bacon and Potato Soup
Who doesn’t love a hearty soup? Bacon and potato soup is another budget-friendly option that is both delicious and filling.
- Fry some bacon until crispy and set it aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic.
- Add diced potatoes and water or broth, and let it simmer until the potatoes are soft.
- Blend part of the soup for a creamy texture, then stir in the crispy bacon.
This soup is great for colder evenings and makes for excellent leftovers.
Veggie Stir-Fry
Stir-fries are one of the best ways to use up leftover vegetables and create a nutritious meal.
- Chop up any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli.
- Stir-fry them in a pan with a bit of oil and your favorite seasonings.
- Serve over rice or noodles.
This dish is versatile and can be made with whatever ingredients you have available, keeping it both cheap and easy.
BLT Sandwiches
BLT sandwiches are a classic and can be made quickly and affordably.
- Cook bacon until crispy.
- Toast slices of bread.
- Layer bacon, lettuce, and tomato slices on the toasted bread.
- Add mayonnaise if desired.
This sandwich is simple but always a crowd-pleaser.
By utilizing these affordable recipes, you can enjoy delicious dinners without spending a fortune. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, burritos, soup, stir-fry, or sandwiches, these easy cheap dinner ideas will keep both your stomach and wallet full.
Have you tried any of these recipes? Let us know in the comments!
