10 Delicious Dinners Under $10: Budget-Friendly Recipes

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Eating well doesn’t need to break the bank. With a little creativity and planning, you can whip up delicious dinners for under $10. This article presents ten appetizing recipes that are not only budget-friendly but also nutritious and satisfying. Each recipe includes estimated costs, ingredients, and cooking instructions to help you create wholesome meals without spending a fortune.

1. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Estimated Cost: $6

This classic Italian pasta dish is simple yet full of flavor. It requires minimal ingredients, making it a perfect budget meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound of spaghetti – $1.00
  • 6 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced – $0.50
  • 1/3 cup of olive oil – $1.50
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes – $0.25
  • Salt, to taste – $0.10
  • Chopped parsley (optional) – $1.00
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) – $2.00

Instructions:

  1. Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  3. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté until garlic is golden brown (about 2 minutes).
  4. Drain the pasta, reserving some cooking water. Add the spaghetti to the pan with garlic oil and toss to combine.
  5. If needed, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Season with salt.
  6. Serve topped with chopped parsley and Parmesan, if desired.

2. Chickpea Curry

Estimated Cost: $8

This hearty chickpea curry is perfect for a filling vegetarian dinner. It’s packed with protein and flavor!

Ingredients:

  • 1 can of chickpeas – $1.00
  • 1 can of coconut milk – $2.00
  • 1 onion, diced – $0.50
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced – $0.25
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder – $0.50
  • 1 tablespoon oil – $0.10
  • Salt, to taste – $0.10
  • Rice (to serve) – $2.00
  • Fresh cilantro (optional) – $2.00

Instructions:

  1. In a pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft.
  2. Stir in the garlic and curry powder and cook for another minute.
  3. Add chickpeas and coconut milk, simmer for 15-20 minutes until thickened.
  4. Serve warm over cooked rice and garnish with cilantro if desired.

3. Quesadillas

Estimated Cost: $7

Quesadillas are incredibly versatile, allowing you to use whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Ingredients:

  • 4 flour tortillas – $1.20
  • 1 cup of shredded cheese – $2.00
  • 1 can of black beans – $1.00
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced – $1.00
  • 1 tablespoon oil – $0.10
  • Guacamole (optional) – $2.00

Instructions:

  1. In a pan, heat oil over medium heat; add sliced bell pepper until soft.
  2. On a tortilla, layer cheese, black beans, and cooked peppers; top with another tortilla.
  3. Cook in the pan until golden brown on both sides and cheese is melted.
  4. Cut into wedges and serve with guacamole.

4. Vegetable Stir-Fry

Estimated Cost: $9

This colorful vegetable stir-fry is not only quick to prepare but also nutritious.

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups mixed vegetables (fresh/frozen) – $3.00
  • 2 cups cooked rice – $2.00
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce – $0.50
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil – $0.50
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced – $0.50
  • Salt and pepper, to taste – $0.10
  • Chopped green onions (optional) – $1.00

Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil; add ginger and sauté for 1 minute.
  2. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 5 minutes.
  3. Pour in soy sauce and toss to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  4. Serve over cooked rice and garnish with green onions if desired.

5. Tuna Pasta Salad

Estimated Cost: $6.50

This easy tuna pasta salad is a great meal for warm evenings and uses pantry staples.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound pasta – $1.00
  • 1 can tuna – $1.00
  • 1 cup frozen peas – $0.75
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise – $0.50
  • 1/2 cup chopped celery – $0.50
  • Salt and pepper, to taste – $0.10
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice – $0.50

Instructions:

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and cool.
  2. In a large bowl, mix tuna, peas, mayonnaise, celery, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add cooled pasta and mix well to combine.
  4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

6. Fried Rice

Estimated Cost: $7

Fried rice is an excellent way to use leftover rice and add your favorite proteins or veggies.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked rice – $1.00
  • 2 eggs – $0.40
  • 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables – $1.00
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce – $0.50
  • 1 tablespoon oil – $0.10
  • Green onions (optional) – $1.00

Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Scramble the eggs and set aside.
  2. Add frozen vegetables to the skillet and cook until heated through.
  3. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, and scrambled eggs, mixing well to combine.
  4. Garnish with green onions if desired and serve warm.

7. Minestrone Soup

Estimated Cost: $8.50

This hearty minestrone soup is not only filling but loaded with vegetables.

Ingredients:

  • 1 can diced tomatoes – $1.00
  • 1 can kidney beans – $1.00
  • 1 cup chopped carrots – $0.50
  • 1 cup diced zucchini – $0.75
  • 1 onion, diced – $0.50
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – $0.25
  • 4 cups vegetable broth – $2.00
  • 2 cups pasta – $1.50

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, sauté onions, carrots, and zucchini until soft.
  2. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, vegetable broth, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Bring to a boil and add pasta; cook until pasta is tender.
  4. Serve warm and enjoy this nourishing soup.

8. Taco Rice

Estimated Cost: $9

Taco rice combines the elements of tacos with rice, making for a fun and filling dinner option.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey – $4.00
  • 1 packet taco seasoning – $1.00
  • 2 cups cooked rice – $2.00
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce – $1.00
  • 1 tomato, diced – $0.50
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese – $1.00

Instructions:

  1. In a skillet, cook ground meat until browned. Drain fat.
  2. Add taco seasoning and water (as directed on the packet); simmer.
  3. In a bowl, layer cooked rice, meat mixture, lettuce, tomato, and cheese.
  4. Serve warm and enjoy your taco rice!

9. Potato Soup

Estimated Cost: $5.50

This creamy potato soup is comforting and perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients:

  • 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced – $2.00
  • 1 onion, diced – $0.50
  • 4 cups vegetable broth – $2.00
  • 1 cup milk – $0.50
  • Salt and pepper, to taste – $0.10

Instructions:

  1. In a pot, combine diced potatoes, onion, and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
  3. Add milk and season with salt and pepper; mash some potatoes for a creamy texture.
  4. Serve warm; optionally garnish with green onions or cheese.

10. Egg Fried Rice

Estimated Cost: $6

A quick and easy fried rice recipe featuring eggs and your choice of vegetables.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked rice – $1.00
  • 2 eggs – $0.40
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables – $1.00
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce – $0.50
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – $0.25
  • 1 tablespoon oil – $0.10

Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat; scramble the eggs and set aside.
  2. Add garlic and mixed vegetables; stir-fry until cooked.
  3. Add cooked rice and soy sauce, mixing well. Fold in scrambled eggs.
  4. Serve warm and enjoy this simple yet delicious dish!
Eating on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or nutrition. The recipes mentioned above are cost-effective and incredibly satisfying. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can create diverse meals that cater to various dietary preferences while keeping expenses low. Enjoy cooking these delicious dinners under $10!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can these recipes be modified for dietary restrictions?

Absolutely! Most of these recipes can be easily adapted for vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets. Swap meat for legumes or tofu, and use gluten-free pasta or rice as needed.

2. How can I save even more money on these meals?

Buy ingredients in bulk, shop for seasonal produce, and utilize sales or coupons to lower costs. Also, consider meal planning to minimize food waste.

3. Are these recipes suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Many of these dishes store well in the refrigerator for several days. Prepare in advance, portion into containers, and reheat for an easy lunch or dinner.

4. What are some good substitutions for expensive ingredients?

Consider beans, lentils, or frozen vegetables as substitutes for fresh meats or produce. Canned goods often provide a cheaper alternative that lasts longer.

5. How do I make meals more filling?

Incorporating whole grains, beans, or additional vegetables can make a dish more filling. Serve with a side salad or bread to round out the meal.

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