20 Cheap and Healthy Dinner Ideas

Dinner is often the main meal of the day, a time to unwind and refuel after a long day. However, coming up with dinner ideas that are both healthy and affordable can be a daily challenge. This article provides 20 cheap and healthy dinner recipes that are easy to prepare, delicious, and won’t stretch your budget. From one-pot meals to sheet pan dinners, these recipes are perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying for the whole family.

1. Classic Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce

Spaghetti with marinara sauce is a timeless and budget-friendly dinner that is always a crowd-pleaser. This simple recipe can be customized with your favorite vegetables or protein.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions.
2. While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Drain the spaghetti and add it to the saucepan with the marinara sauce.
8. Toss to combine and serve with grated Parmesan cheese.

2. Easy Chicken Stir-Fry

A chicken stir-fry is a quick and healthy dinner that is packed with vegetables and protein. This versatile recipe can be made with any vegetables you have on hand.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 4 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, snow peas)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• For the sauce:
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, toss the chicken with the soy sauce and cornstarch.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until crisp-tender.
6. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute more.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet and pour the sauce over everything.
9. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
10. Serve immediately with rice or noodles.

3. Hearty Bean Chili

Bean chili is a warm and comforting dinner that is packed with protein and fiber. It’s a budget-friendly meal that is perfect for a cold evening.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin.
5. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or until the flavors have melded.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

4. Baked Chicken Thighs with Vegetables

Baked chicken thighs with vegetables is a simple and delicious one-pan meal. It’s a healthy and affordable dinner that is perfect for a busy weeknight.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 pound mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, potatoes), chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary, oregano)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a large baking sheet, toss the vegetables with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Pat the chicken thighs dry and rub them with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange the chicken thighs on the baking sheet with the vegetables.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve immediately.

5. Easy Fried Rice

Fried rice is a great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables. It’s a quick and easy dinner that can be customized with your favorite protein.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chopped vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, onions)
• 2 cups cooked and chilled rice
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
3. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
4. Stir in the soy sauce.
5. Push the rice to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten egg into the empty side.
6. Scramble the egg until cooked through, then stir it into the rice.
7. Stir in the sesame oil and serve immediately.

6. Classic Beef or Bean Tacos

Tacos are a fun and easy dinner that everyone loves. This recipe can be made with ground beef or beans for a vegetarian option.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef or 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 hard or soft taco shells
• Your favorite taco toppings (e.g., shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, salsa, sour cream)

Instructions:

1. If using ground beef, cook it in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
2. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. If using black beans, simply stir them in with the spices and heat through.
4. Warm the taco shells according to package directions.
5. Fill the taco shells with the beef or bean mixture and your favorite toppings.
6. Serve immediately.

7. Simple Vegetable Curry

A vegetable curry is a flavorful and healthy dinner that is packed with vegetables and spices. This recipe is a simple and easy version that is perfect for a weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 (13.5-ounce) can coconut milk
• 4 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., potatoes, carrots, peas, bell peppers)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and curry powder and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Stir in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the vegetables and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot with cooked rice.

8. One-Pot Pasta

One-pot pasta is a genius recipe that cooks the pasta and the sauce all in one pot. It’s a quick and easy dinner with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces linguine or other long pasta
• 1 (12-ounce) can cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 sprigs of basil
• 4 1/2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the pasta, tomatoes, onion, garlic, red pepper flakes, and basil.
2. Add the water and olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
4. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
5. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese.

9. Sheet Pan Fajitas

Sheet pan fajitas are a quick and easy way to get a delicious and healthy dinner on the table. It’s a one-pan meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Flour or corn tortillas, for serving
• Your favorite fajita toppings (e.g., salsa, sour cream, guacamole)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a large baking sheet, toss the chicken, bell peppers, and onion with the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve hot with tortillas and your favorite toppings.

10. Lentil Dal

Lentil dal is a flavorful and budget-friendly Indian lentil dish. It’s a healthy and satisfying dinner that is perfect for a vegetarian meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the lentils, water or vegetable broth, and turmeric.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are soft.
3. While the lentils are cooking, heat the oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, ginger, and cumin seeds and cook for 1 minute more.
6. Stir the onion mixture into the cooked lentils.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot with cooked rice.

11. Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is a classic and comforting pasta bake that is perfect for a family dinner. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that can be made ahead of time.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ziti or other tube-shaped pasta
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package directions, but for 2 minutes less than the recommended time.
3. While the pasta is cooking, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg in a medium bowl.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
6. Stir in the marinara sauce and the ricotta cheese mixture.
7. Pour the pasta mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

12. Chicken and Rice Casserole

A chicken and rice casserole is a hearty and satisfying one-dish meal. It’s a budget-friendly dinner that is perfect for a busy weeknight.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup milk or water
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, and milk or water.
3. Stir in the chicken and onion.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is cooked through.
6. Uncover the baking dish and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 5-10 minutes more, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

13. Hearty Vegetable Soup

A hearty vegetable soup is a warm and comforting dinner that is packed with vitamins and minerals. It’s a great way to use up any vegetables you have on hand.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup chopped potatoes
• 1 cup chopped green beans
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Stir in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, potatoes, green beans, and thyme.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot.

14. Homemade Black Bean Burgers

Black bean burgers are a healthy and delicious vegetarian alternative to traditional burgers. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 hamburger buns
• Your favorite burger toppings (e.g., lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mash the black beans with a fork until they are partially broken down.
2. Stir in the breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, cumin, and chili powder.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Form the mixture into 4 patties.
5. Cook the patties in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until heated through and lightly browned.
6. Serve the black bean burgers on hamburger buns with your favorite toppings.

15. Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a flavorful and healthy one-pan meal of eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce. It’s a budget-friendly dinner that is perfect for any time of day.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 large eggs
• Crusty bread, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, paprika, cumin, and red pepper flakes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
7. Make four wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each well.
8. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set and the yolks are still runny.
9. Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping.

16. Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers are a classic and comforting dinner that is both healthy and affordable. This recipe can be made with ground beef or a vegetarian filling.

Ingredients:

• 4 bell peppers, any color
• 1 pound ground beef or 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or black beans, cooked rice, onion, 1/2 cup of the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff the bell peppers with the filling and place them in a baking dish.
5. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the stuffed peppers.
6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
7. Uncover the baking dish and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 5-10 minutes more, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

17. Cabbage Stir-Fry

Cabbage stir-fry is a quick and easy dinner that is packed with flavor and nutrients. It’s a budget-friendly meal that is perfect for a busy weeknight.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over high heat.
2. Add the cabbage, carrot, and onion and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender-crisp.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil.
5. Serve immediately with cooked rice.

18. Egg Fried Rice

Egg fried rice is a classic and budget-friendly dinner that is a great way to use up leftover rice. It’s a quick and easy meal that can be customized with your favorite vegetables and protein.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup chopped vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, onions)
• 2 cups cooked and chilled rice
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add a little more oil to the skillet if needed, then add the vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
5. Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil.
6. Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Serve immediately.

19. Pasta Primavera

Pasta primavera is a light and refreshing pasta dish that is packed with fresh vegetables. It’s a healthy and delicious dinner that is perfect for a spring or summer evening.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g., asparagus, peas, broccoli, zucchini)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth or white wine
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until crisp-tender.
4. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth or white wine and bring to a simmer.
6. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the vegetables.
7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately.

20. Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Bean and cheese enchiladas are a classic and comforting Mexican dish. This budget-friendly recipe is easy to make and perfect for a family dinner.

Ingredients:

• 8 corn tortillas
• 1 (15-ounce) can refried beans
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 (10-ounce) can enchilada sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Warm the tortillas in the microwave or a dry skillet to make them pliable.
3. Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center of each tortilla.
4. Sprinkle with cheese and roll up the tortillas tightly.
5. Pour a thin layer of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Place the enchiladas seam-side down in the baking dish.
7. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the enchiladas and top with the remaining cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
9. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Conclusion

Enjoying a healthy and delicious dinner doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. These 20 cheap and healthy dinner recipes are a great starting point for creating satisfying and affordable meals for you and your family. By planning your meals, using budget-friendly ingredients, and getting creative in the kitchen, you can enjoy a variety of delicious and nutritious dinners without breaking the bank.

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Author: Manus AI
Published: November 29, 2025