21 Cheap Gluten-Free Low-Calorie Dinner Meals

Dinner is a meal that should be both satisfying and healthy. For those on a gluten-free and low-calorie diet, it can be challenging to find dinner recipes that are both delicious and affordable. This article is here to help. We have compiled a list of 21 cheap, gluten-free, and low-calorie dinner meals that are perfect for any night of the week. These recipes are easy to make and will leave you feeling full and satisfied without the guilt.

1. Roasted Chicken with Vegetables

A classic roasted chicken is a perfect Sunday dinner. This recipe is simple, delicious, and naturally gluten-free. The roasted vegetables add a healthy and flavorful side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
• 1 lb mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, onions, etc.)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the chicken dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs.
3. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and arrange the vegetables around it.
5. Roast for 1-1.5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.

Approximate Cost: $10.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 450 per serving

2. Shepherd’s Pie with Cauliflower Mash

This healthier version of shepherd’s pie uses a cauliflower mash topping instead of potatoes, making it low-carb and gluten-free. It’s a warm and comforting dinner that is perfect for a chilly evening.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey or beef
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tbsp milk or cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground meat until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Stir in the mixed vegetables, onion, and broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, steam or boil the cauliflower until tender. Drain and mash with milk or cream, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the meat and vegetable mixture into a baking dish and top with the cauliflower mash.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the topping is lightly browned.

Approximate Cost: $8.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 400 per serving

3. Spaghetti with Gluten-Free Pasta and Turkey Meatballs

Enjoy a classic Italian dinner with this gluten-free spaghetti and turkey meatballs recipe. The turkey meatballs are a leaner alternative to beef and are just as delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 package (12 oz) gluten-free spaghetti

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper.
2. Form the mixture into meatballs.
3. In a large skillet, brown the meatballs on all sides.
4. Add the marinara sauce to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, cook the gluten-free spaghetti according to package directions.
6. Serve the meatballs and sauce over the spaghetti.

Approximate Cost: $12.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 500 per serving

4. Black Bean and Corn Salsa Chicken

This flavorful and colorful chicken dish is a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The black bean and corn salsa adds a burst of flavor and texture to the chicken.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup black bean and corn salsa
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish.
3. Top each chicken breast with black bean and corn salsa.
4. Top with shredded cheese, if desired.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Approximate Cost: $8.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 400 per serving

5. One-Pan Lemon Herb Salmon and Veggies

This one-pan salmon and veggies recipe is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that is both healthy and delicious. The lemon and herbs add a fresh and vibrant flavor to the salmon.

Ingredients:

• 4 (6-oz) salmon fillets
• 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a large baking sheet, toss the asparagus and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet with the vegetables.
4. Top each salmon fillet with a slice of lemon and a sprinkle of herbs.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Approximate Cost: $15.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 450 per serving

6. Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

A classic stir-fry is a quick and easy way to get a healthy and flavorful dinner on the table. This recipe is easily customizable with your favorite vegetables and protein.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup gluten-free soy sauce or tamari
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
4. Add the broccoli and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
5. Pour the sauce over the chicken and broccoli and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Serve immediately with rice or quinoa.

Approximate Cost: $9.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 400 per serving

7. Turkey Chili

A hearty and flavorful chili is a perfect comfort food for a cold day. This turkey chili is a leaner alternative to beef chili and is just as delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
2. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for at least 30 minutes, or until the flavors have melded.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.

Approximate Cost: $8.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 450 per serving

8. Stuffed Acorn Squash

This stuffed acorn squash is a beautiful and delicious fall dinner. The sweet and savory filling is a perfect complement to the roasted squash.

Ingredients:

• 1 acorn squash, halved and seeded
• 1/2 lb ground sausage or turkey
• 1/2 apple, chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the acorn squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the ground sausage or turkey until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
4. Stir in the apple, walnuts, dried cranberries, and cinnamon.
5. Flip the acorn squash halves over and fill with the sausage mixture.
6. Bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Approximate Cost: $9.00 (serves 2)

Approximate Calories: 500 per serving

9. Pork Chops with Apples and Onions

This sweet and savory pork chop dish is a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The apples and onions add a delicious flavor and texture to the pork chops.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless pork chops
• 1 apple, sliced
• 1/2 onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
4. Add the apple and onion to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through.

Approximate Cost: $10.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 450 per serving

10. Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles

This light and flavorful shrimp scampi is a healthier alternative to the classic pasta dish. The zucchini noodles are a great low-carb and gluten-free substitute for pasta.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 zucchini, spiralized
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant.
5. Pour in the white wine or chicken broth and lemon juice and bring to a simmer.
6. Add the zucchini noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss with the parsley.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.

Approximate Cost: $12.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 350 per serving

11. Chicken Fajitas

These chicken fajitas are a fun and easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. Serve them with corn tortillas to keep them gluten-free.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Corn tortillas, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, onion, and bell pepper to the skillet.
3. Season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve immediately with warm corn tortillas and your favorite toppings.

Approximate Cost: $9.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 400 per serving

12. Ratatouille

This classic French dish is a beautiful and delicious way to enjoy a variety of vegetables. It’s a great vegetarian dinner option that is naturally gluten-free.

Ingredients:

• 1 eggplant, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 yellow squash, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried herbs (thyme, oregano, etc.)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large baking dish, arrange the sliced vegetables in a single layer.
3. In a small bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
4. Pour the tomato mixture over the vegetables.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Approximate Cost: $7.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 250 per serving

13. Baked Tilapia with Lemon and Dill

This light and flaky tilapia is a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The lemon and dill add a fresh and vibrant flavor to the fish.

Ingredients:

• 4 (6-oz) tilapia fillets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the tilapia fillets on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and dill.
4. Top each fillet with a slice of lemon.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Approximate Cost: $10.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 300 per serving

14. Chicken and Vegetable Curry

This flavorful and aromatic curry is a great way to use up any vegetables you have on hand. It’s a warm and comforting dinner that is perfect for a chilly evening.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tbsp red curry paste
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, etc.)
• 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional)
• 1 tbsp lime juice

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
3. Stir in the red curry paste and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
6. Stir in the fish sauce (if using) and lime juice.
7. Serve immediately with rice or quinoa.

Approximate Cost: $10.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 450 per serving

15. Beef and Broccoli

This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The beef is tender and flavorful, and the broccoli is crisp-tender.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup gluten-free soy sauce or tamari
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef and cook until browned.
4. Add the broccoli and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
5. Pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Serve immediately with rice or quinoa.

Approximate Cost: $12.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 450 per serving

16. Eggplant Parmesan

This vegetarian version of the classic Italian dish is a delicious and satisfying dinner. The eggplant is baked instead of fried, making it a healthier option.

Ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant, sliced
• 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Dip each eggplant slice in the beaten egg, then in a mixture of the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.
4. In a baking dish, layer the eggplant slices with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Approximate Cost: $8.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 400 per serving

17. Cauliflower Crust Pizza

This cauliflower crust pizza is a great low-carb and gluten-free alternative to traditional pizza. It’s a fun and healthy way to enjoy your favorite pizza toppings.

Ingredients:

• 1 head of cauliflower, riced
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Your favorite pizza toppings

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Steam or microwave the cauliflower rice until tender. Let it cool slightly, then squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the cauliflower rice, egg, mozzarella cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Press the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in the shape of a pizza crust.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and firm.
6. Top with your favorite pizza toppings and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Approximate Cost: $8.00 (serves 2)

Approximate Calories: 400 per serving

18. Chicken and Rice Soup

This classic chicken and rice soup is a warm and comforting dinner that is perfect for a cold day. It’s a simple and delicious meal that is naturally gluten-free.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup brown rice
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• Salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken, brown rice, chicken broth, onion, carrots, and celery.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs to taste and serve warm.

Approximate Cost: $9.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 350 per serving

19. Taco Salad

A taco salad is a fun and easy way to enjoy the flavors of a taco in a healthier format. This recipe is easily customizable with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey or beef
• 1 packet of taco seasoning
• 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• Salsa and sour cream, for topping

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground meat until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
2. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook according to package directions.
3. In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
4. Top with the taco meat, salsa, and sour cream.
5. Serve immediately.

Approximate Cost: $10.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 450 per serving

20. Meatloaf

This classic comfort food is a delicious and satisfying dinner. This recipe uses gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep it gluten-free.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground beef
• 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, and egg.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Form the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
5. Spread the ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until cooked through.

Approximate Cost: $10.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 450 per serving

21. Cabbage Rolls

These cabbage rolls are a warm and comforting dinner that is perfect for a chilly evening. The filling is a delicious combination of ground meat and rice, and the cabbage is tender and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 1 head of cabbage
• 1 lb ground turkey or beef
• 1/2 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Core the cabbage and place it in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes, or until the leaves are tender and can be easily removed.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, and onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the meat mixture onto the cabbage leaves and roll them up.
5. Place the cabbage rolls in a baking dish and pour the tomato sauce over the top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.

Approximate Cost: $9.00 (serves 4)

Approximate Calories: 400 per serving