**30 Affordable Family Dinners**


---

**1. Spaghetti Carbonara**

A classic pasta dish that's both simple and delicious, made with eggs, cheese, pancetta (or bacon), and spaghetti. It's a comforting favorite that won't break the bank.

**Ingredients*
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

**Instructions*
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a skillet, cook pancetta or bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and drain excess fat.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Drain cooked spaghetti, reserving a cup of pasta water. Immediately toss hot spaghetti with the egg mixture and cooked pancetta/bacon until well coated.
5. Add reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

**2. One-Pot Chicken and Rice**

A complete meal in one pot, featuring tender chicken thighs, rice, and flavorful vegetables. It's easy to prepare and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

**Ingredients*
- 4-6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup white rice
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

**Instructions*
1. In a large skillet or pot, brown chicken thighs on both sides until golden. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper until softened.
3. Stir in rice, paprika, salt, and pepper until rice is coated and slightly toasted.
4. Return browned chicken thighs to the pot. Pour chicken broth over the mixture.
5. Cover and simmer over low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

**3. Vegetarian Chili**

A hearty and nutritious chili made with beans, vegetables, and spices. It's a filling dish that's perfect for chilly evenings and can be customized with your favorite toppings.

**Ingredients*
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro

**Instructions*
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant.
2. Add diced bell pepper and zucchini, cook until vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot, topped with optional toppings if desired.

**Conclusion*

These 30 budget-friendly family dinners are proof that delicious meals don't have to be expensive. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up satisfying dishes that everyone will love. Whether you're cooking for picky eaters or looking to try something new, these recipes offer a variety of flavors and textures to suit every taste. Enjoy stress-free meal planning and stick to your budget with these affordable and tasty dinner ideas!