8 Delicious Budget Meal Recipes Under $10

1. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in milk and bring to a gentle simmer (don’t boil).
4. Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth.
5. Add drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with additional parmesan and herbs if desired.

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2. Sheet Pan Chicken & Vegetables

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment.
2. In a large bowl, toss chicken and vegetables with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread everything in a single layer on the baking sheet, placing the chicken skin-side up.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature and vegetables are tender.
5. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes if desired.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Make This Easy Dinner

3. Tex-Mex Black Bean Rice Bowl

Instructions

1. Cook rice according to package directions.
2. While rice cooks, heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add onion and bell pepper, sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
4. Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning. Stir to combine and heat through for 3-4 minutes.
5. Serve the bean mixture over rice in bowls.
6. Top with optional cheese, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.

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4. Upgraded Ramen Stir Fry

Instructions

1. Cook ramen noodles according to the package directions, but for 1 minute less than the recommended time. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and stir-fry vegetables, cooking for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Push vegetables to one side of the pan and crack eggs into the empty space. Scramble until just set.
5. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, and honey. Toss everything together for 1 to 2 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sriracha if desired.

Elevate Your Ramen Game

5. Hearty Lentil Soup

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add garlic and cumin, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add lentils, diced tomatoes with their juice, and broth. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot.

Make This Protein-Packed Soup

6. Mediterranean Tuna Pasta Salad

Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, tuna, cucumber, tomatoes, and olives.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. If using feta cheese, fold it in last.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.

Perfect for Lunch or Dinner

7. Freezer-Friendly Breakfast Burritos

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced potatoes and cook for 10-12 minutes until crispy, stirring occasionally.
2. Add bell pepper and onion to the potatoes, cooking for another 5 minutes until vegetables are soft.
3. In a bowl, beat eggs with salt and pepper. Heat the remaining oil in a separate pan and scramble eggs until just set.
4. Warm tortillas according to package directions to make them pliable.
5. Assemble burritos by placing a portion of potatoes, eggs, and cheese in the center of each tortilla. Add optional salsa if desired.
6. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll up tightly.
7. To freeze: Wrap each burrito in foil and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
8. To reheat: Remove foil, wrap in a paper towel, and microwave for 1-2 minutes from frozen.

Prep Breakfast for the Week

8. Quick Chickpea Curry

Instructions

1. Cook rice according to package directions.
2. While rice cooks, heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add garlic and curry powder, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the chickpeas and stir to coat them with the spices.
5. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes.
6. Add the frozen spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until heated through and slightly thickened.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Serve curry over rice, garnished with cilantro if desired.

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Start Cooking Delicious Budget Meals Today

These budget meal recipes under $10 prove that eating well doesn’t require a big budget. By focusing on simple ingredients, smart shopping, and a bit of creativity, you can create nutritious and delicious meals that keep both your family and your wallet happy.

The next time you’re feeling the pinch at the grocery store, remember these affordable recipes. They’re not just economical—they’re genuinely tasty meals that anyone can make, regardless of cooking experience.