Finding delicious meals that don't break the bank has become one of my favorite pastimes. Here are some affordable meals I've recently enjoyed, each packed with flavor and ease. Whether you're looking for a hearty dinner, a delightful dessert, or a potluck winner, there's something here for everyone.
Meatballs, Mashed Potatoes, and Green Beans – $8.74 per serving
This meal is a trifecta of comfort, convenience, and taste. I buy premade meatballs because, let's be honest, who has the time to make them from scratch? Adding Boursin cheese to the mashed potatoes makes them irresistibly garlicky and creamy. Frozen green beans complete the plate, offering a quick and nutritious side. This dish is easy to prepare, absolutely delicious, and perfect for a cozy night in. No recipe for this one! Just vibes.
Air Fryer S'mores – $0.50 per serving
Who said you need a campfire to enjoy s'mores? These air fryer s'mores are a game-changer. They're incredibly easy to make, and you get to skip the campfire smoke smell. The graham cracker, chocolate, and marshmallow combo is always a hit, and these treats come out perfectly gooey and delicious every time. At just 50 cents per serving, they're a sweet treat that won't dent your wallet. Another one that doesn't require a recipe! Keep an eye on them; they don't take long in the air fryer! Less than 2 minutes does the trick.
Lasagna Soup – $3.50 per serving
This vegetarian lasagna soup is a bowl of comfort. It's simple to make and packed with all the flavours of traditional lasagna without the fuss. Serve it with garlic bread on the side for an extra indulgence. It's hearty, satisfying, and perfect for a cozy dinner. Plus, it's a great way to enjoy lasagna flavours without the effort of layering and baking.
Chickpea Pot Pie – $2.60 per serving
I couldn't believe how easy this chickpea pot pie was to make! The biscuits cook beautifully on top, creating a delightful crust over the savoury filling. It's so delicious and a definite 10/10 in my book. Next time, I'll add more spice to kick it up a notch, but it's fantastic. This dish is hearty, comforting, and perfect for those nights when you need a warm, home-cooked meal.
Ground Beef and Broccoli – $4.37 per serving
This ground beef and broccoli dish is incredibly filling and easy to whip up. It's a great option for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn't skimp on flavour. The beef is savoury, and the broccoli adds a nice crunch and freshness. It's a simple, no-fuss meal that always satisfies.
Beef Dip and Sweet Potato Fries – $5.99 per serving
I bought the beef from Costco to make this meal even easier. The au jus dip package makes the beef dip perfectly flavorful, and pairing it with sweet potato fries is a match made in heaven. Fresh buns from the bakery elevate the whole experience, making it taste even better than a restaurant meal. It's incredibly easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. No recipe for this! I added cheese and butter, baked them for 10 minutes, and made the au jus on the stove.
Black Bean Enchiladas – $2.83 per serving
I'm obsessed with these black bean enchiladas! They're so yummy and filling and have just the right amount of spice. As someone who loves a bit of heat, I know these enchiladas hit the spot. They're also incredibly budget-friendly and perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Thai Chop Salad – $2.65 per serving
This Thai chop salad is a fantastic potluck dish because it's vegan, making it a safe option for everyone. The tofu, cooked perfectly in the air fryer, adds a great texture, and the sauce is simply delicious. I love the account I got this recipe from; she always has creative ideas. This salad is fresh, flavorful, and perfect for any gathering.
Thai Beef Rolls – $3.50 per serving
These Thai beef rolls are super yummy and versatile. You can add more toppings than the recipe calls for, but the spices make the beef taste amazing on its own. They're a great way to enjoy a flavorful meal that's easy to prepare and satisfying. Perfect for a light dinner or a tasty appetizer.
These meals have brought a lot of joy to my table recently. They're affordable, easy to prepare, and packed with flavour. I hope they inspire you to try something new and delicious without spending a fortune. Happy cooking!
