Broke but hungry? Enjoy 23 easy recipes!

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Times are tough, and eating on a budget shouldn’t mean sacrificing flavor. These 23 recipes aim to please the palate and the pocket. Experience the freedom of enjoying delicious meals while watching the bottom line.

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Egg Bites

Egg Bites on a board with a little parsley on top.
Egg Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Here’s a meal that won’t break the bank. Egg bites are not just delicious but also super cost-efficient. Use whatever veggies or cheese you have laying around, and you’ve got a fulfilling breakfast or snack. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and oh-so satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

Baked Potato

Baked potatoes on a serving dish with sour cream and fresh parsley.
Baked Potato. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Think a baked potato is plain? Think again. Load it up with some cheese, sour cream, or even just a bit of salt and butter. You’ve got a hearty meal that’s both filling and affordable. The possibilities are as endless as they are budget-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato

Easy Flatbread

Three freshly cooked flatbreads on a plate.
Easy Flatbread. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

No yeast? No problem. Easy flatbread is your go-to for all sorts of meals, be it a pizza base or a wrap for your veggies and proteins. The best part? It’s cheap to make with just pantry staples. It’s a versatile workhorse for the frugal kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Easy Flatbread

Vegetable Fritters

Vegetable fritters in a stack.
Vegetable Fritters. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You don’t need a wallet full of cash to enjoy some flavorful food. Vegetable fritters are perfect for using up any leftover veggies. They make a fantastic meal that proves you don’t have to sacrifice taste when money’s tight.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fritters

Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

Some picking up a slice of cheese quesadilla.
Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you own an air fryer, cheese quesadillas are a breeze. Not only is it quick, but it’s also incredibly economical. Cheese and tortillas are all you need for this satisfying meal. It’s like fast food, but way cheaper and made right at home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

Tortilla Pizza

Four tortilla pizzas on a wooden cutting board.
Tortilla Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who needs delivery? A tortilla, some sauce, and your favorite toppings are all you need for a homemade pizza that’s both delicious and budget-friendly. This dish is a true champion for those nights when you’re pinching pennies but craving something mouthwatering.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza

25 Minute Black Bean Burger

A black bean burger in a burger bap with relish oozing out over it.
25 Minute Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Short on time and cash? In just 25 minutes, you can whip up some delectable black bean burgers. They’re not just quick to make but also gentle on the wallet. Canned black beans are the star here, making it an economic win.
Get the Recipe: 25 Minute Black Bean Burger

Cilantro Lime Rice

Chipotle rice in a bowl with sliced lime and spoons.
Cilantro Lime Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Side dishes don’t have to be bland or expensive. Cilantro lime rice is where affordability meets taste. This zesty side pairs well with almost anything and gives you the most bang for your buck.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Forget the diner; you can make a divine hashbrown casserole right at home. It’s a versatile dish that can work with whatever you’ve got in your pantry. Budget-friendly and filling, it’s a win-win for anyone watching their wallet.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Burrito Seasoning

Homemade burrito seasoning on a teaspoon.
Burrito Seasoning. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

No need to buy those overpriced seasoning packs. Make your burrito seasoning at home, and you’ll save money while controlling what goes into your food. Plus, it makes for some memorable meals without emptying your pockets.
Get the Recipe: Burrito Seasoning

Neapolitan Pizza

A quick and easy pizza recipe on a white plate.
Neapolitan Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Skip the fancy Italian restaurant and make Neapolitan pizza at home. You won’t believe how simple and budget-friendly it can be. While it’s a classic, it’s also quite kind to your wallet. You get to enjoy world-class flavors without the world-class price tag.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole

A white dish with green bean casserole in it.
Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Got an air fryer? Then you’re halfway to a delicious green bean casserole that’s as affordable as it is tasty. It’s a budget-conscious choice that delivers on the comfort-food promise without skimping on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole

Corn Fritters

Sweetcorn fritters in a stack.
Corn Fritters. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Corn fritters are a classic example of doing more with less. They’re inexpensive to make and can be a meal in themselves or a great side dish. These fritters prove that cutting costs doesn’t mean cutting corners on taste.
Get the Recipe: Corn Fritters

Caprese Bites

Image shows an overhead shot of Caprese Bites on a wooden board.
Caprese Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Gourmet taste doesn’t always come with a gourmet price. Caprese bites offer the luxury of a high-end appetizer without the high-end cost. Mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil come together in a bite-sized budget-friendly masterpiece.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Bites

Air Fryer Tortilla Chips

Air fried tortilla chips stacked on a plate around a bowl of dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Tortilla Chips. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cut the cost without cutting the crunch. Air fryer tortilla chips are incredibly simple to make and cost way less than store-bought options. A perfect snack for when you’re watching both your budget and your favorite show.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tortilla Chips

Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Chipotle black beans cooked and in a serving bowl.
Copycat Chipotle Black Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Why pay more when you can make it at home? These black beans offer that Chipotle taste without the restaurant price. They’re a wallet-friendly addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Pizza Rolls

Freshly made pizza rolls stacked on each other.
Pizza Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Don’t spend your last few dollars on a snack from the store. Pizza rolls are an affordable and tasty alternative that you can easily make at home. Perfect for gatherings or a solo movie night.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

Penne Arrabiata

A plate of pasta with tomatoes and parmesan cheese.
Penne Arrabiata. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Craving something spicy but on a budget? Penne Arrabiata is your answer. It’s an affordable pasta dish that packs a punch. A little goes a long way, both in terms of flavor and cost.
Get the Recipe: Penne Arrabiata

Taco Seasoning

Taco seasoning in a glass bowl with a teaspoon in it.
Taco Seasoning. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

No need to splurge on store-bought taco seasoning. Making it at home is not only more economical but also customizable. Enjoy delicious tacos that won’t have you worrying about your spending.
Get the Recipe: Taco Seasoning

Flour Tortilla

Someone placing a tortilla on a stack of tortillas.
Flour Tortilla. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Making your flour tortillas at home isn’t just satisfying; it’s also cost-effective. Use them for wraps, burritos, or quesadillas, and relish in the fact that your tasty meal is also easy on the wallet.
Get the Recipe: Flour Tortilla

Easy Caprese Salad

Caprese salad in a serving bowl, with tomatoes, oil and balsamic glaze nearby.
Easy Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simple ingredients and even simpler preparation make the Easy Caprese Salad a top pick for budget-conscious foodies. Fresh basil, tomatoes, and mozzarella are all you need for this delicious yet economical dish.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad

Cacio e Pepe

A plate of spaghetti with parmesan cheese on a green cloth.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pasta, cheese, pepper—that’s it. Cacio e Pepe delivers big flavors with minimal expense. This Roman classic proves that you can create a satisfying, delicious meal without spending a fortune.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Pizza Sauce

Pizza sauce spread over a pizza crust.
Pizza Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Quit spending on those expensive jars of pizza sauce. A homemade version will not only taste better but will also save you money. This is one case where your wallet and your taste buds are in perfect harmony.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Sauce

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