When it comes to cooking, one of the biggest challenges many of us face is finding ways to create delicious meals without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a student, a busy professional, or just someone who wants to eat well without overspending, having a repertoire of budget-friendly recipes can be a lifesaver.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering and affordable recipes that are perfect for two people – whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, feeding a small family, or simply cooking for one. From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, these recipes will show you that delicious meals don’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
Garlic Butter Pasta with Spinach
This simple yet satisfying pasta dish combines the rich flavors of garlic butter with the nutrients of fresh spinach, all wrapped up in a quick and easy meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the cooked spinach leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the cooked pasta and spinach mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Tomato Basil Rice
A flavorful and easy-to-make one-pot dish that combines the simplicity of rice with the boldness of tomatoes and basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the water, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Quesadillas with Black Beans
Transform ordinary tortillas into a flavorful treat by filling them with creamy black beans and melted cheese. This recipe is a perfect blend of comfort food and international flair.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together black beans and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle one-quarter of the bean mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Sprinkle one-quarter of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top of the beans.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Egg Fried Rice with Vegetables
A classic Chinese dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! This recipe combines cooked rice, scrambled eggs, and a variety of colorful vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and stir-fry until fragrant (10 seconds).
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp (2 minutes).
4. Push the vegetables aside and create a well in the center.
5. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until cooked through (1 minute).
6. Mix eggs with vegetables, then add cooked rice and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
7. Add soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Margherita Pizza
This iconic pizza recipe brings together the simplicity of Italy’s finest ingredients and the charm of a homemade touch. With just a few essential components, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously authentic Margherita pizza in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until dough forms.
4. Knead dough for 5-7 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
5. Punch down dough and shape into a circle or rectangle. Transfer to a baking sheet.
6. Top with crushed tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Enjoy your homemade Margherita pizza!
Spicy Peanut Noodles
This recipe combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the spicy kick of chili flakes, all wrapped up in a delicious and easy-to-make noodle dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/2 tsp chili flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, chili flakes, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
3. Add the blended mixture to cooked noodles and toss until coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lentil and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This quick and nutritious recipe combines tender lentils with a variety of colorful vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch. With its bold flavors and satisfying texture, this stir-fry is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook lentils according to package instructions or until tender. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked lentils, soy sauce, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna Melt Sandwiches
A classic comfort food, Tuna Melt Sandwiches are a simple and satisfying meal that can be prepared in no time.
Ingredients:
• 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
• 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup of chopped onion
• 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
• 2 slices of cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and chopped onion until well combined.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Place one bread slice, buttered side down, in the skillet.
5. Spread half of the tuna mixture on top of the bread.
6. Place a slice of cheese on top of the tuna.
7. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top of the filling.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
9. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Vegetable Omelette with Toast
Start your day off right with this simple and satisfying recipe that combines the flavors of sautéed vegetables and melted cheese wrapped in a fluffy omelette, served with crispy toast.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices of bread
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth.
2. Heat the butter in a small non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the eggs start to set.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on half of the omelette and fold the other half over.
6. Cook for an additional minute, or until the cheese is melted.
7. Toast the bread until crispy.
8. Serve the omelette with toast.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chickpea and Tomato Curry
This flavorful and nutritious curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices, creamy tomatoes, and tender chickpeas. A great option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Stir in chickpeas, tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
4. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Potatoes with Cheese and Beans
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes
– 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, heat the black beans in a pan over low heat.
6. Remove the potatoes from the oven and top each one with shredded cheese and heated black beans.
7. Return the potatoes to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Simple Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for a reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be ready in no time. With just a few simple ingredients and some quick cooking, you’ll have a tasty and satisfying meal on the table in 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef to the pan and stir-fry everything together for another minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Peas
A comforting classic gets a sweet twist with the addition of tender peas. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup frozen peas, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in milk and bring to a simmer.
4. Add cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
5. Stir in cooked macaroni, peas, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado and Egg Toast
A simple yet satisfying breakfast or brunch option, this Avocado and Egg Toast recipe combines the creaminess of ripe avocados with the richness of fried eggs, all on top of crispy whole grain toast.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. In a non-stick skillet, fry an egg over medium heat until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired level of doneness.
3. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast slices.
4. Place the fried eggs on top of the avocado.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory flavor of rice and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook rice according to package instructions.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stuff each pepper with cooked rice mixture, then top with cheese (if using).
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tomato and Basil Bruschetta
Savor the flavors of summer with this classic Italian-inspired appetizer. Fresh tomatoes and basil atop toasted bread create a simple yet impressive dish perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 slices of baguette or Ciabatta bread, toasted
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Arrange toasted bread slices on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the tomato-basil mixture over the bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese (if using) over the top.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bread is crispy and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Ramen with Egg
This classic recipe combines rich pork broth, springy noodles, and a soft-boiled egg to create a satisfying and comforting bowl of ramen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy this delicious dish at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 4 cups pork bones (or chicken or beef broth)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 4 cups water
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork bones and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add soy sauce, sake, mirin, and water; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes or overnight.
5. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
6. Boil eggs for 6-7 minutes; slice into wedges.
7. Assemble ramen by placing noodles in a bowl, then adding pork broth, sliced egg, and garnishes (if using).
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Serves: 1-2 people
Cheesy Scrambled Eggs with Tortillas
Start your day with a delicious breakfast that combines the richness of scrambled eggs and melted cheese with the crunch of tortilla strips. This simple recipe is quick to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into strips
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk together with a fork until well-beaten.
2. Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheese to the eggs and mix until combined.
3. Heat the butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Pour in the egg mixture and scramble the eggs until cooked through (about 5 minutes).
5. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on top of the scrambled eggs and stir to combine.
6. Add the tortilla strips to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This simple yet flavorful recipe hails from Naples, Italy, and is a staple of Italian cuisine. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, or “spaghetti with garlic and oil,” is a quick-cooking dish that highlights the beauty of a few quality ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
A match made in heaven, this combination of gooey grilled cheese and creamy tomato soup is the ultimate comfort food. This recipe serves one, but can be easily doubled or tripled for a cozy dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 slices of cheddar cheese (or your preferred variety)
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup of milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Butter or non-stick cooking spray for the grill
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice or use non-stick cooking spray.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with cheese and diced tomato.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Meanwhile, combine broth and milk in a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
8. Serve the grilled cheese with a bowl of warm tomato soup.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Looking for budget-friendly meal ideas? Look no further! This article features 20 delicious and affordable recipes that are perfect for two people. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, these meals won’t break the bank. Recipes include Garlic Butter Pasta with Spinach, One-Pot Tomato Basil Rice, Cheesy Quesadillas with Black Beans, and many more. With ingredients you likely already have on hand, these meals are easy to make and will satisfy your hunger without draining your wallet.