Easy 15 Dinners You Can Make for Under $10

When you’re on a budget, cooking delicious and satisfying meals doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little creativity, you can whip up dinners that are not only affordable but also flavorful and filling. In this article, we’ll explore 15 dinners you can make for under $10, perfect for anyone looking to save money without sacrificing taste.

Why Cook Budget-Friendly Meals?

Cooking meals for under $10 is a great way to stretch your grocery budget while still enjoying homemade food. These recipes are perfect for students, families, or anyone looking to save money. Plus, cooking at home allows you to control the ingredients, making your meals healthier and more tailored to your preferences.

Tips for Making Dinners Under $10

Before diving into the recipes, here are some tips to help you stay within budget:

• Plan your meals: Create a shopping list to avoid impulse buys. Planning ahead ensures you only buy what you need.
• Buy in bulk: Staples like rice, pasta, and beans are cheaper in larger quantities. Stock up when they’re on sale.
• Use seasonal produce: Fresh fruits and vegetables are more affordable when in season. They also taste better!
• Repurpose leftovers: Turn last night’s dinner into a new meal to save time and money. For example, use leftover roasted chicken in a soup or salad.
• Cook in batches: Prepare large portions and freeze leftovers for future meals. This saves both time and money.
• Shop store brands: Store-brand items are often just as good as name brands but cost significantly less.
• Limit meat consumption: Meat can be expensive. Opt for plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, and tofu to keep costs low.
• Use your pantry: Check what you already have at home before shopping. You might be able to create a meal without buying anything new.
• Avoid pre-packaged foods: Pre-cut vegetables or pre-cooked meals are convenient but often more expensive. Do the prep work yourself to save money.
• Grow your own herbs: Fresh herbs can be pricey at the store. Growing your own is a cost-effective way to add flavor to your meals.

Now, let’s get into the

15 dinners you can make for under $10!

1. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

This classic Italian dish requires just a few ingredients: spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. It’s simple, flavorful, and costs less than $5 to make.

2. Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice

A quick and healthy option, stir-fry combines fresh or frozen vegetables with soy sauce and rice. You can add tofu or an egg for extra protein.

Here’s a simple recipe for a delicious vegetable stir-fry with rice:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cups cooked rice
• Optional: Tofu or eggs for added protein

Instructions:

1. Cook the Rice: Prepare rice according to package instructions.
2. Stir-Fry Vegetables: Heat oil in a wok or large skillet. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry until tender-crisp.
3. Add Soy Sauce: Pour in soy sauce and stir-fry for another minute.
4. Combine with Rice: Serve the vegetable mixture over cooked rice.

Tips:

• Use leftover rice to make this dish even more budget-friendly.
• Add tofu or scrambled eggs for extra protein.

3. Black Bean Tacos

Corn tortillas, canned black beans, and a few spices are all you need for these tasty tacos. Top with salsa, lettuce, and a squeeze of lime for a fresh twist.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 small onion, chopped
• 1 jalapeño pepper, minced (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/4 cup water
• 8 corn tortillas, warmed

Optional Toppings: Shredded lettuce, shredded cheese, cilantro lime crema, lime juice, avocado slices, or salsa.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base: Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onions, jalapeño (if using), cumin, salt, oregano, and smoked paprika. Stir and sauté for 3–5 minutes until the onions are softened and translucent.
2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the Beans: Add black beans, tomato paste, and water to the saucepan. Stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure the tomato paste dissolves completely.
4. Season to Taste: Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with more salt if necessary.
5. Warm Tortillas: Heat corn tortillas in a microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for about a minute or warm them on a skillet until pliable.
6. Assemble Tacos: Spoon the black bean mixture into each tortilla and top with your favorite toppings such as shredded lettuce, cheese, cilantro lime crema, or avocado slices.
7. Serve: Garnish with a squeeze of lime juice and serve immediately.

4. Lentil Soup

Lentils are a budget-friendly source of protein. Simmer them with carrots, celery, onions, and broth for a hearty soup that costs less than $10.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Spices and Lentils: Stir in cumin and coriander. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

5. Baked Potatoes with Toppings

Baked potatoes are versatile and filling. Top them with cheese, sour cream, broccoli, or even chili for a meal that’s both cheap and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 2-3 large baking potatoes
• Toppings of your choice:
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Chopped bacon or cooked sausage
  • Diced broccoli or steamed vegetables
  • Sliced green onions or chives
  • Chili or vegetarian chili
  • Sliced avocado
  • Salsa or guacamole

Instructions:

1. Bake the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork to allow steam to escape. Rub with a little oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Prepare Toppings: While the potatoes are baking, prepare your toppings. Cook bacon or sausage, steam broccoli, or warm chili.
3. Assemble: Once the potatoes are done, slice them open lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork. Add your desired toppings and serve immediately.

6. Veggie Fried Rice

Use leftover rice, frozen vegetables, and soy sauce to create this easy dish. Add an egg or two for extra protein and flavor.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked and cooled rice (preferably leftover)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten (optional)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare Vegetables: Chop the onion, carrot, and bell pepper. Mince the garlic.
2. Scramble Eggs (if using): Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the beaten eggs and scramble them until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook Vegetables: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and cook until heated through.
5. Combine with Rice: Add the cooked rice to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Add Soy Sauce and Eggs (if using): Pour in the soy sauce and stir-fry until the rice is well coated. If using eggs, add them back into the rice mixture and stir to combine.
7. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions if desired. Serve hot.

7. Pastawith Marinara Sauce

A jar of marinara sauce and a box of pasta can feed a family for under $10. Add grated Parmesan or fresh herbs for an extra touch.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pasta (such as spaghetti or penne)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves

Instructions:

1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
2. Heat Marinara Sauce: In a large saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan with marinara sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a smooth consistency.
4. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.

8. Chickpea Curry

Canned chickpeas, coconut milk, and curry spices come together to create a flavorful and affordable curry. Serve it over rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can coconut milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat Oil and Cook Onions: In a large pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Spices: Add garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir for about a minute until the spices are aromatic.
4. Add Tomatoes and Chickpeas: Pour in the diced tomatoes and add the chickpeas. Stir to combine.
5. Add Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk and stir well. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Simmer and Season: Reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side if desired. Enjoy over rice or with naan bread.

9. Homemade Pizza

Use store-bought dough or make your own, then top it with tomato sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings. This is a fun and budget-friendly dinner option.

Ingredients:

• Pizza Dough:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • ¾ cup warm water
• Toppings:
  • 1 cup pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Optional toppings: pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough: Dissolve yeast in warm water. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth. Let rise for 1-2 hours.
2. Prepare Toppings: Spread pizza sauce over the dough. Add shredded mozzarella cheese and your choice of toppings.
3. Bake: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden and cheese is melted.

10. Bean and Cheese Burritos

Flour tortillas, canned beans, and shredded cheese are the base for these quick and easy burritos. Add salsa or guacamole for extra flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 (16-oz) cans refried beans
• 1 cup shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)
• 1/4 cup salsa
• 1/4 medium onion, diced
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
• Optional toppings: guacamole, sour cream, hot sauce

Instructions:

1. Prepare Bean Mixture: In a bowl, combine refried beans, salsa, diced onion, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Assemble Burritos: Place a tortilla on a flat surface. Spread about 1/2 cup of the bean mixture down the center of the tortilla. Top with about 1/4 cup shredded cheese.
3. Roll Burritos: Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the burrito up tightly. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
4. Bake or Cook: Place burritos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until warm and slightly crispy. Alternatively, cook in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until crispy.
5. Serve: Serve warm with your favorite toppings like guacamole, sour cream, and hot sauce.

11. Vegetable Omelette

Eggs are an affordable source of protein. Whip up an omelette with whatever vegetables you have on hand for a quick and nutritious dinner.

Ingredients:

• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon milk or water
• 1 tablespoon butter or oil
• 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup mixed bell peppers (red, green, yellow), diced
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. Beat the Eggs: Whisk together eggs and milk until smooth.
2. Cook the Vegetables: Heat butter in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add diced bell peppers and sliced mushrooms. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
3. Cook the Eggs: Pour the whisked eggs over the vegetables in the pan. Cook on medium-low heat until the bottom of the eggs starts to set, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over half of the omelette.
5. Fold the Omelette: Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the cheese. Cook for another minute until the cheese is melted.
6. Serve: Slide the omelette onto a plate and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot.

12. Mac and Cheese with Veggies

Boxed mac and cheese can be upgraded with added vegetables like broccoli or peas. It’s a comforting meal that’s easy on the wallet.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Additional veggies like carrots or peas

Instructions:

1. Cook Pasta: Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Steam Vegetables: Steam broccoli and cauliflower until tender. Set aside.
3. Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
4. Add Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Assemble: Combine cooked pasta, steamed vegetables, and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Mix well.
6. Serve: Serve hot, garnished with additional grated cheese if desired.

13. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and spices make for a colorful and budget-friendly dinner. Bake them until tender for a delicious meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers, any color
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup black beans, cooked or canned
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Optional: Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook Filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Combine Filling: Stir in cooked rice, black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until well combined.
5. Stuff Peppers: Fill each bell pepper with the rice and bean mixture. Top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve warm.

14. Chicken and Rice Casserole

Using affordable cuts of chicken and rice, this casserole is a one-dish wonder. Add cream of mushroom soup and frozen vegetables for extra flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups uncooked long grain white rice
• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups milk
• 2 (10.5 ounce) cans cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray for the dish

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Casserole Dish: Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
3. Cook Rice Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together rice, milk, cream of chicken soup, and onion powder. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Add Chicken and Vegetables: Place the chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture. If using frozen vegetables, sprinkle them around the chicken.
5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the rice is tender.
7. Serve: Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or scallions if desired.

See also our Chicken and Yellow Rice Skillet

15. Pancakes with Fruit

Breakfast for dinner is always a hit. Whip up a batch of pancakes and top them with fresh or frozen fruit for a sweet and affordable meal.

Ingredients:

• 200g plain flour
• 2 large eggs
• 300ml milk
• A pinch of salt
• 20g butter or oil for cooking
• Fresh fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, bananas)
• Optional toppings: Maple syrup, honey, whipped cream

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, combine flour and a pinch of salt. Create a well in the center and crack in the eggs. Gradually whisk in the milk until you achieve a smooth batter.
2. Rest the Batter: Allow the batter to rest for about 15 minutes to help produce lighter pancakes.
3. Cook the Pancakes: Heat a small amount of butter or oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Pour in a ladleful of batter, swirling the pan to create a thin, even layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges lift slightly and the underside is golden brown. Flip the pancake and cook for an additional minute.
4. Serve: Transfer the cooked pancakes to a warm plate. Repeat the process with the remaining batter. Serve with fresh fruit and your choice of toppings like maple syrup or whipped cream.

More Ways to Save on Groceries

Here are additional tips to help you maximize your budget while cooking 15 dinners you can make for under $10:

• Compare prices: Check different stores for the best deals. Some stores offer price matching, so take advantage of that.
• Use coupons and apps: Many grocery stores have digital coupons or apps that offer discounts on items you already buy.
• Shop the sales: Plan your meals around what’s on sale that week. This can significantly reduce your grocery bill.
• Avoid food waste: Use up ingredients before they go bad. For example, overripe bananas can be used in pancakes or smoothies.
• Cook from scratch: Pre-packaged and processed foods are often more expensive than cooking from scratch. Plus, homemade meals are usually healthier.
• Buy frozen produce: Frozen fruits and vegetables are just as nutritious as fresh ones and often cost less.

Wrapping Up

Cooking 15 dinners you can make for under $10 is not only possible but also enjoyable. With these recipes and tips, you can enjoy a variety of meals without stressing about your budget. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, these ideas prove that eating well doesn’t have to be expensive.

By focusing on these 15 dinners you can make for under $10, you’ll not only save money but also discover new favorite recipes. Happy cooking!