28 Simple and Affordable Dinner Ideas for Under $5 28 Simple and Affordable Dinner Ideas for Under $5

Eating well doesn’t have to be expensive. With a little creativity and planning, you can enjoy delicious and satisfying meals without spending a fortune. Here are 28 Simple and Affordable Dinner Ideas for Under $5 that will help you stick to your budget while keeping your taste buds happy.

1. Vegetarian Chili

Combine canned beans, tomatoes, corn, and chili seasoning in a pot. Simmer until thickened. Top with shredded cheese if desired.

2. Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil

Cook pasta and toss with sautéed garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Garnish with Parmesan cheese.

3. Bean and Cheese Burritos

Fill tortillas with canned beans, shredded cheese, and salsa. Roll up and heat in a skillet until the cheese is melted.

4. Egg Fried Rice

Use leftover rice to make egg fried rice. Sauté with a scrambled egg, peas, carrots, and soy sauce.

5. Vegetable Stir-Fry

Stir-fry mixed vegetables with soy sauce and serve over rice. Add tofu or chicken if desired, keeping the cost low by buying in bulk.

6. Lentil Soup

Simmer lentils with diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, and spices. Serve with a slice of crusty bread.

7. Tomato and Basil Soup

Cook canned tomatoes with garlic, basil, and a splash of cream or milk. Blend until smooth and serve with grilled cheese.

8. Cheesy Stuffed Potatoes

Bake potatoes and top with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Add chives or green onions if available.

9. Quesadillas

Fill tortillas with cheese and any leftover meats or vegetables. Cook in a skillet until crispy and serve with salsa or sour cream.

10. Pasta Primavera

Sauté mixed vegetables with olive oil and garlic. Toss with cooked pasta and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

11. Chicken and Rice

Cook chicken pieces with rice, onions, and spices. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

12. Sweet Potato Fries

Cut sweet potatoes into strips, toss with olive oil and seasonings, and bake until crispy. Serve with a side of ketchup.

13. Tuna Pasta Salad

Mix cooked pasta with canned tuna, chopped vegetables, and a simple vinaigrette or mayo.

14. Black Bean Soup

Simmer canned black beans with diced tomatoes, onions, and spices. Blend if desired for a smoother texture.

15. Eggplant Parmesan

Bread and bake slices of eggplant. Top with marinara sauce and cheese, and bake until bubbly.

16. Vegetable Frittata

Whisk eggs and pour over sautéed vegetables in a skillet. Cook until set and finish under the broiler if needed.

17. Chicken Stir-Fry

Sauté chicken with vegetables and a simple stir-fry sauce. Serve over rice or noodles.

18. Simple Bean Salad

Combine canned beans with diced tomatoes, onions, and a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

19. Corn and Black Bean Tacos

Fill tortillas with corn, black beans, and avocado. Top with salsa or cheese if desired.

20. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Fill bell peppers with a mixture of cooked rice, ground beef, and tomato sauce. Bake until the peppers are tender.

21. Breakfast-for-Dinner

Scramble eggs with a side of toast and fruit or a simple potato hash.

22. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Cook spaghetti with sautéed garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. Toss with Parmesan cheese.

23. Chicken and Veggie Skewers

Thread chicken and vegetables onto skewers. Grill or bake until cooked through. Serve with a side of rice.

24. Cabbage Stir-Fry

Sauté shredded cabbage with soy sauce and garlic. Add any leftover meats or tofu for extra protein.

25. Baked Ziti

Mix cooked ziti with marinara sauce and cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden.

26. Minestrone Soup

Combine beans, vegetables, and pasta in a vegetable broth. Simmer until the pasta is tender.

27. Chickpea Curry

Cook chickpeas with diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and curry spices. Serve over rice.

28. Simple Sloppy Joes

Cook ground beef with onions and a simple mix of ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar. Serve on hamburger buns.

Tips for Saving Money on Meals:

Buy in Bulk: Purchase staples like rice, beans, and pasta in bulk to save money.

Use Leftovers: Incorporate leftovers into new meals to avoid waste.

Seasonal Produce: Use seasonal fruits and vegetables for better prices and flavor.

Plan Ahead: Create a meal plan for the week to avoid last-minute takeout and ensure you’re using ingredients efficiently.

Final Thoughts

These 28 Simple and Affordable Dinner Ideas for Under $5 prove that you don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy a delicious meal. With a bit of creativity and smart shopping, you can keep your budget in check while still enjoying satisfying dinners. Try these recipes and discover how easy it is to eat well on a budget. Enjoy!