Broke but hungry? 17 recipes for the penny pincher!

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Looking to eat well on a budget? We’ve put together 17 recipes that are both economical and satisfying. These recipes don’t require expensive ingredients or complicated methods. They’re about smart cooking, making the most of what you have, and delivering tasty results without overspending.

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

Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

Air Fryer Cheese Quesadillas.
Air Fryer Cheese Quesadillas. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Utilizing an air fryer for cheese quesadillas is not only a quick way to enjoy a delightful meal but also incredibly budget-friendly. The minimal use of cheese, tortillas, and any preferred fillings keeps costs low and satisfaction high.
Grab the Recipe: Air fryer Cheese Quesadilla

Korean Cucumber Salad

Slices of cucumber tossed in spicy Korean dressing.
Korean Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A budget-friendly option, Korean cucumber salad makes use of simple ingredients like cucumber, soy sauce, and sesame seeds. It’s a fresh and flavorful addition to any meal without the need for expensive items.
Grab the Recipe: Korean Cucumber Salad

Sweet Potato Casserole

A person scooping a sweet potato casserole out of a baking dish.
Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A wholesome and nutritious choice, sweet potato casserole is a versatile dish that leverages the affordability of sweet potatoes. Combined with simple pantry ingredients, this dish is easy on the wallet.
Grab the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole

Spaghetti Marinara

Spaghetti Marinara.
Spaghetti Marinara. Photo credit: Splash Of Taste

A classic favorite, spaghetti marinara, makes use of inexpensive ingredients like pasta, tomatoes, and basic spices. It’s a fulfilling meal that offers great taste without a high price tag.
Grab the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Egg Bites

Egg bites stacked on a plate with a dipping sauce.
Egg Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simple and nutritious, egg bites are the perfect example of a cost-effective meal. Eggs and a few additional ingredients create a satisfying dish that’s gentle on your budget.
Grab the Recipe: Egg Bites

Air Fryer Baked Potato

Air Fryer Baked Potatoes on a plate.
Air Fryer Baked Potatoes. Photo Credit: Splash of Taste.

Baking potatoes in an air fryer not only speeds up the cooking process but also makes for an economical side or main dish. Potatoes are a low-cost item that pairs well with various toppings.
Grab the Recipe: Air Fryer Baked Potato

Vegetable Fritters

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

Making use of whatever vegetables you have on hand, vegetable fritters are a delicious and economical way to enjoy a meatless meal.
Grab the Recipe: Vegetable Fritters

Easy Black Bean Burger

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

If you’re looking for an affordable and meat-free alternative, black bean burgers are both satisfying and easy on the budget. Simple ingredients come together for a great-tasting option.
Grab the Recipe: Easy Black Bean Burger

Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers.
Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers. Photo Credit: Splash of Taste.

Utilizing an air fryer to make stuffed peppers not only enhances the flavors but helps keep the meal budget-friendly. Stuff with rice, beans, or other low-cost fillings for a delicious treat.
Grab the Recipe: Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Caprese Salad

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

With just a few fresh ingredients like tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, Caprese salad is a light and affordable option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Grab the Recipe: Caprese Salad

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

Sweet potato cubes on a plate with a dipping sauce.
Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Enjoy the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes in a low-cost and easy-to-make dish. The air fryer creates a crispy texture that’s sure to please.
Grab the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cubes

Hashbrown Casserole

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

Combining potatoes with simple ingredients, hashbrown casserole offers a hearty meal that’s easy on the budget and satisfies the whole family.
Grab the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Flatbread Pizza

Two flatbread pizzas on a tray.
Flatbread Pizza. Photo Credit: Splash of Taste.

Using flatbread as the base for your pizza is not only a time-saver but a money-saver as well. Top with your favorite inexpensive ingredients for a personalized meal.
Grab the Recipe: Flatbread Pizza

Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

A bowl of freshly made Copycat Chipotle corn salsa with a serving spoon in it.
Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Recreate this favorite at home using corn, peppers, and a blend of spices. It’s a budget-friendly addition to any Mexican-inspired meal.
Grab the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

Homemade Flatbread

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

Making flatbread at home is a cost-effective way to enjoy this versatile bread. Pair it with dips, use it for sandwiches, or enjoy it on its own.
Grab the Recipe: Homemade Flatbread

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti aglio e olio.
Spaghetti aglio e olio. Photo credit: Splash Of Taste

Simplicity shines in this Italian dish. With just spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of chili, you can create a flavorful meal without stretching the budget.
Grab the Recipe: Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Air Fryer Baked Sweet Potato

Baked Sweet Potatoes.
Baked Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Like the classic baked potato, using an air fryer for sweet potatoes makes for a nutritious and affordable dish that can be customized with your favorite low-cost toppings.
Grab the Recipe: Air Fryer Baked Sweet Potato

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