30 Budget-Friendly Family Dinners: Meals Under $10

I know how hard it can be to get a delicious, home-cooked meal on the table after a long day, especially when you’re trying to keep costs down. Grocery shopping can be a real challenge these days, and finding recipes that are both affordable and satisfying can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But don’t worry, I’m here to help! I’ve put together this collection of 30 family dinner ideas under $10. Let’s check them out!

Family Dinners on a Budget

Each of these meals can be made for under $10, and they’re all packed with flavor and simple to prepare. So ditch the takeout menus, put on your aprons, and let’s get cooking!

1. Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

This creamy and comforting casserole is a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken and rice. Combine cooked chicken, rice, vegetables like peas and carrots, and a creamy sauce made with cream of chicken soup and milk. Stir in some shredded cheese and bake until bubbly and golden brown. This casserole is a simple and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.  

2. One-Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken with Potatoes

This recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights! It requires minimal prep and cleanup, making it ideal for those hectic evenings. Start by tossing chicken drumsticks and quartered potatoes with lemon slices, garlic cloves, rosemary sprigs, and a drizzle of olive oil. Roast everything on a single baking sheet in a preheated oven until the chicken is golden brown and the potatoes are tender. This dish is not only delicious but also minimizes cleanup, leaving you with more time to spend with your family.

3. Creamy Tomato and Spinach Tortellini Soup

This comforting soup is perfect for chilly evenings when you need a warm and satisfying meal. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pot to build a flavorful base. Then, add canned diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and fresh spinach for a boost of nutrients and color. Bring the soup to a simmer and add cheese tortellini. Cook until the tortellini is tender, then stir in a dollop of cream for extra richness and a velvety texture.

4. Black Bean Burgers with Avocado Crema

Spice up your burger night with these flavorful and budget-friendly black bean burgers. These vegetarian burgers are packed with protein and fiber, making them a healthy and satisfying alternative to traditional beef burgers. Simply mash black beans with cooked rice, chopped onions, and your favorite spices. Form the mixture into patties and pan-fry or bake until golden brown and crispy. Serve on buns with a creamy avocado topping made from mashed avocado, lime juice, and cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor.

5. Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Brown Rice

This stir-fry is a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken and any vegetables you have on hand. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to your liking and what you have in your fridge. Stir-fry bite-sized pieces of chicken with broccoli florets, sliced carrots, and snap peas in a pan with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for an authentic stir-fry flavor. Serve over fluffy brown rice for a complete and satisfying meal that provides a good source of whole grains.

6. Tuna Melts with Tomato Soup

A classic comfort food combo that’s easy on the wallet and perfect for a nostalgic meal. Combine canned tuna with mayonnaise, chopped celery, and onion for a simple and flavorful filling. Spread the tuna mixture on bread slices and top with cheese. Broil in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a gooey and satisfying texture. Serve with a side of warm tomato soup for dipping, a classic pairing that is sure to please everyone.

7. Lentil Curry with Coconut Milk and Naan Bread

This fragrant and flavorful curry is packed with plant-based protein and comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s a great option for vegetarians and vegans, or anyone looking for a healthy and delicious meal. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in a pot to create a fragrant base for the curry. Then add lentils, curry powder, and coconut milk for a creamy and flavorful sauce. Simmer until the lentils are tender and serve with warm naan bread for dipping into the delicious sauce.

8. Ground Turkey Chili with Cornbread Topping

Warm up with a hearty bowl of chili that’s both delicious and budget-friendly. This chili is a great source of protein and fiber, and it’s perfect for a cold winter night. Brown ground turkey in a pot to create a flavorful base. Then add onions, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and canned tomatoes for a rich and hearty chili. Simmer until the flavors meld, then top with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Serve with a side of homemade cornbread for a truly satisfying meal that will warm you from the inside out.

9. Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quesadillas

These quesadillas are a kid-friendly favorite that’s quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun lunch. They’re also a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables. Fill tortillas with shredded cooked chicken, chopped broccoli florets, and shredded cheese. Cook in a pan or on a griddle until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and gooey. Serve with salsa and sour cream for dipping, adding a cool and creamy contrast to the warm quesadillas.

10. Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce and Meatballs

This classic Italian-American dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy on the budget and always a hit with the whole family. Simmer your favorite marinara sauce with homemade meatballs made from ground beef, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese for a truly authentic flavor. The meatballs add a hearty and satisfying element to the dish. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce and meatballs, and top with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

11. Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon with Roasted Asparagus

This elegant dish is surprisingly affordable and easy to prepare, perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight treat. The honey garlic glaze adds a sweet and savory flavor to the salmon. Roast salmon fillets in the oven with a simple honey garlic glaze made with honey, garlic, and soy sauce. Serve with roasted asparagus for a healthy and delicious meal that is packed with nutrients and flavor.

12. Beef and Bean Burrito Bowls

These burrito bowls are a customizable and budget-friendly option for a quick and easy dinner. They’re also a great way to use up leftover ingredients. Layer cooked rice, seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, salsa, and your favorite toppings in bowls. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and guacamole for a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be tailored to everyone’s preferences.

13. Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta

This vegetarian pasta dish is creamy, flavorful, and easy to make, perfect for a meatless Monday or any night of the week. The mushrooms and spinach add a boost of nutrients and flavor to the dish. Sauté mushrooms, garlic, and spinach in a pan with a touch of olive oil to bring out their flavors. Then toss with cooked pasta and a creamy sauce made from milk, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of nutmeg for a warm and comforting flavor.

14. Sausage and Pepper Skillet with Rice Pilaf

This one-pan meal is a flavorful and easy way to get dinner on the table with minimal cleanup. The combination of sausage, peppers, and onions creates a delicious and satisfying meal. Sauté sliced Italian sausage with bell peppers and onions in a skillet until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Serve over fluffy rice pilaf for a complete and satisfying meal that is perfect for a busy weeknight.

15. Baked Potato Bar with Various Toppings

This fun and interactive meal is a great way to get the whole family involved in the cooking process. It’s also a great way to use up leftovers and cater to different tastes. Bake potatoes until tender and fluffy in the oven or microwave. Then let everyone customize their own with their favorite toppings like chili, cheese, sour cream, bacon bits, and chives. This is a fun and easy way to please everyone in the family.

16. Chicken Fajita Bowls with Cauliflower Rice

These healthy and flavorful fajita bowls are a great low-carb option for those watching their carb intake. They’re also packed with protein and vegetables, making them a healthy and satisfying meal. Sauté sliced chicken with bell peppers and onions in a pan with fajita seasoning for a classic fajita flavor. Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative to traditional rice. Top with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for a burst of flavor and freshness.

17. Turkey Meatloaf with Mashed Sweet Potatoes

This classic comfort food dish is a budget-friendly and satisfying meal that is perfect for a family dinner. Turkey meatloaf is a healthier alternative to traditional beef meatloaf. Combine ground turkey with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings to make a flavorful meatloaf. Bake until cooked through and serve with creamy mashed sweet potatoes for a classic pairing that is both comforting and delicious.  

18. Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast

This recipe elevates plain chicken breasts with a flavorful stuffing that is sure to impress. The spinach and feta cheese add a delicious Mediterranean flavor to the chicken. Cut a pocket into each chicken breast and stuff with a mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and garlic. Bake or pan-fry until cooked through and the filling is heated through. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a complete and balanced meal.

19. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas

These vegetarian enchiladas are packed with flavor and easy to assemble, making them a great option for a meatless meal. The sweet potatoes and black beans provide a good source of fiber and nutrients. Fill tortillas with a mixture of mashed sweet potatoes, black beans, corn, and spices for a flavorful and satisfying filling. Top with enchilada sauce and cheese, then bake until bubbly and golden brown for a delicious and cheesy finish.

20. Pork Chops with Apple Cider Glaze and Roasted Brussels Sprouts

This dish is perfect for a cozy fall dinner when you’re craving warm and comforting flavors. The apple cider glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity to the pork chops. Pan-fry pork chops until golden brown and slightly crispy. Then simmer in a sweet and savory apple cider glaze made with apple cider, Dijon mustard, and honey. Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts for a complete and satisfying meal that is perfect for a chilly evening.

21. Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons

This twist on a classic comfort food combo is sure to please the whole family with its fun and unexpected twist. The grilled cheese croutons add a cheesy and crunchy element to the soup. Make your own creamy tomato soup from scratch or use your favorite canned variety. Cut grilled cheese sandwiches into cubes and use them as croutons for a fun and delicious twist on a classic pairing.

22. Lemon Dijon Chicken with Quinoa and Green Beans

This light and healthy dish is packed with flavor and perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. The lemon Dijon marinade adds a bright and zesty flavor to the chicken. Marinate chicken breasts in a lemon Dijon dressing made with lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and olive oil. Then bake or pan-fry until cooked through and juicy. Serve with fluffy quinoa and steamed green beans for a complete and balanced meal that is packed with protein and nutrients.

23. Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggie Bake

This easy one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. It’s also a great way to use up any vegetables you have on hand. Toss sliced sausage, your favorite vegetables (like broccoli, peppers, and onions), and potatoes with olive oil and herbs for a flavorful and aromatic dish. Roast on a baking sheet until the vegetables are tender and the sausage is cooked through, creating a delicious and easy cleanup meal.

24. Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

These tacos are a flavorful and budget-friendly option for a fun and easy dinner that is perfect for a casual gathering. The mango salsa adds a sweet and spicy contrast to the shrimp. Sauté shrimp with your favorite taco seasoning, adding a kick of heat and flavor. Then serve in tortillas with a fresh and fruity mango salsa made with mango, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.

25. Beef Stir-Fry with Broccoli and Peanut Sauce

This stir-fry is a quick and easy way to get dinner on the table with minimal effort. The peanut sauce adds a creamy and nutty flavor to the stir-fry. Stir-fry thinly sliced beef with broccoli florets and a homemade peanut sauce made with peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal that is packed with flavor and texture.

26. Black Bean Soup with Avocado and Lime

This vegetarian soup is hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, perfect for a cold winter day or a light and healthy meal. The avocado and lime add a creamy and refreshing touch to the soup. Sauté onions and garlic in a pot to build a flavorful base for the soup. Then add black beans, vegetable broth, and your favorite spices like cumin and chili powder. Simmer until the flavors meld, then top with avocado slices and a squeeze of lime juice for a bright and zesty finish.

27. Chicken Pot Pie Soup

This comforting soup is a twist on a classic chicken pot pie that is perfect for a cozy night in. It’s a deconstructed version of the classic dish, with all the same flavors in a comforting soup format. Sauté vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes with chicken in a pot to create a flavorful base for the soup. Then add broth, cream, and your favorite seasonings like thyme and rosemary. Simmer until the vegetables are tender, then thicken with a cornstarch slurry for a creamy consistency. Top with puff pastry or pie crust for a delicious and satisfying meal that is reminiscent of the classic chicken pot pie.  

28. Breakfast for Dinner: Blueberry Pancakes with Sausage

Switch things up with a fun and easy breakfast-for-dinner night! This is a great way to get the kids excited about dinner and have a little fun in the kitchen. Make fluffy blueberry pancakes from scratch or use a pancake mix for a quick and easy option. Serve with crispy sausage links and your favorite toppings like syrup, fruit, and whipped cream for a sweet and savory breakfast-for-dinner treat.

29. Tuna Noodle Casserole

This classic casserole is a budget-friendly and comforting meal that is perfect for a nostalgic family dinner. It’s a creamy and cheesy dish that is sure to please everyone. Combine cooked noodles with canned tuna, cream of mushroom soup, peas, and your favorite seasonings like onion powder and garlic powder. Top with crushed potato chips for a crunchy and salty topping. Bake until bubbly and golden brown for a comforting and satisfying casserole.

30. Pizzadillas

These fun and easy “pizzas” are a kid-friendly favorite that is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. They’re a fun twist on traditional pizza, using tortillas as the base. Spread pizza sauce on tortillas, then top with your favorite pizza toppings like pepperoni, cheese, and vegetables. Fold the tortillas in half to create a half-moon shape. Cook in a pan or on a griddle until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.

Conclusion

There you have it! 30 delicious and budget-friendly dinner ideas to help you feed your family without breaking the bank. Remember to adjust the recipes to your family’s preferences and dietary needs. Get creative with substitutions, add your own favorite spices, and don’t be afraid to experiment! So get in the kitchen, put on some music, and enjoy the delicious results (and the extra money in your wallet!). Happy cooking!