Eating well doesn't have to mean spending a lot of money. These 17 recipes show you how to enjoy delicious meals on a budget. Each dish is designed to be both satisfying and affordable, using simple ingredients you can find at any grocery store. Get ready to enjoy flavorful meals without breaking the bank.

Mushroom Leek Pasta Kugel

This dish combines mushrooms and leeks with pasta in a savory kugel that takes about 45 minutes to make. The earthy mushrooms and slightly sweet leeks meld together with the pasta, creating a comforting and satisfying flavor. It’s perfect for a hearty meal that won't break the bank. Enjoy a taste that’s rich and slightly creamy without being heavy.
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Creamy Citrus Chicken With Rosemary

In just under an hour, this creamy citrus chicken with rosemary brings together tender chicken, zesty citrus, and aromatic rosemary. The combination results in a flavorful dish that is both refreshing and comforting. The creamy sauce enhances the citrus notes, making it a delightful meal. This dish is perfect for a special dinner that feels luxurious yet is easy on the wallet.
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Argentinian Empanadas

These Argentinian empanadas can be prepared in about an hour and are filled with a variety of savory vegetarian ingredients. The flaky pastry encases fillings like cheese, onions, and spices, offering a taste that’s both rich and satisfying. They are perfect for a budget-friendly meal that feels indulgent. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
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Rosemary Sourdough Bread

This rosemary sourdough bread takes a bit longer to prepare, but the result is worth the wait. The main ingredients include flour, water, and fresh rosemary, creating a bread that is fragrant and flavorful. The tangy sourdough pairs perfectly with the aromatic rosemary. It’s a delicious and cost-effective way to enjoy gourmet bread at home.
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Classic Jewish Chicken Soup Recipe

This classic Jewish chicken soup takes about 2 hours to make and is packed with chicken, carrots, and celery. The broth is rich and comforting, perfect for a cozy meal. It’s a traditional recipe that’s both nourishing and economical. Enjoy the warmth and depth of flavor in every bowl.
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Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes

In just over an hour, you can enjoy this oven-baked buttermilk chicken and potatoes. The buttermilk tenderizes the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful, while the potatoes become crispy and golden. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s easy on the budget. The combination of tender chicken and crispy potatoes is always a winner.
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Mujadara

Mujadara is a hearty dish made with lentils, rice, and caramelized onions, ready in about 45 minutes. The lentils and rice provide a nutritious base, while the caramelized onions add a sweet and savory depth. It’s a flavorful and filling meal that’s also very affordable. This dish is perfect for a satisfying dinner without spending much.
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Chicken Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe

This sheet pan recipe featuring chicken sausage and veggies is ready in about 30 minutes. The chicken sausage adds a savory flavor, while the vegetables bring a fresh and vibrant taste. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s both healthy and budget-friendly. Enjoy a delicious and balanced dinner with minimal effort.
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Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab

These grilled chicken kofta kebabs take about 30 minutes to prepare and are made with ground chicken, herbs, and spices. The kebabs are juicy and flavorful, with a perfect balance of spices. They are great for a quick and tasty meal that feels special. Enjoy the delicious taste of grilled chicken without spending a fortune.
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Russian Vinaigrette Salad

This Russian vinaigrette salad, ready in about 45 minutes, combines root vegetables like beets, potatoes, and carrots. The vegetables are dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, creating a refreshing and flavorful salad. It’s a colorful and nutritious dish that’s also very economical. Enjoy a vibrant and tasty salad that’s easy to make.
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Chicken Marbella

Chicken Marbella takes about an hour to prepare and features chicken baked with prunes, olives, and capers. The combination of sweet prunes and briny olives creates a unique and delicious flavor. It’s a sophisticated dish that’s surprisingly affordable. Enjoy a gourmet meal that’s perfect for a special occasion.
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Baked Feta Pasta

Baked feta pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish ready in about 30 minutes. The main ingredients are feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and pasta, creating a creamy and tangy sauce. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s both delicious and budget-friendly. Enjoy a rich and satisfying pasta dish without much effort.
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Greek Vegetarian Moussaka

This Greek vegetarian moussaka takes about an hour to prepare and features layers of eggplant, potatoes, and a rich tomato sauce. The combination of vegetables and sauce creates a hearty and flavorful dish. It’s a satisfying meal that’s also very affordable. Enjoy a taste of Greece without leaving your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Greek Vegetarian Moussaka
Eggplant Tomato Stacks

Eggplant tomato stacks, ready in about 30 minutes, feature layers of roasted eggplant and fresh tomatoes. The combination of tender eggplant and juicy tomatoes creates a simple yet delicious dish. It’s a light and flavorful meal that’s also very budget-friendly. Enjoy a fresh and tasty dish that’s easy to prepare.
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Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

This sheet pan paprika chicken and veggies dish is ready in about 40 minutes. The chicken is seasoned with paprika, giving it a smoky and slightly spicy flavor, while the vegetables add freshness. It’s a simple and balanced meal that’s also very economical. Enjoy a flavorful and healthy dinner with minimal effort.
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The Perfect Rice Pilaf

The perfect rice pilaf, ready in about 30 minutes, combines rice with vegetables and spices. The result is a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s both filling and affordable. It’s a versatile side dish that pairs well with many main courses. Enjoy a delicious and easy-to-make rice dish that’s perfect for any meal.
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Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks

These Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks take about an hour to prepare and are marinated in a blend of spices and herbs. The marinade infuses the chicken with a rich and savory flavor. It’s a delicious and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy tender and flavorful chicken drumsticks that are easy to make.
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