Title: 20 Delicious Cheap Recipes for 2 Budget-Friendly Meals
Are you tired of sacrificing flavor and quality just because you’re on a tight budget? Look no further! We’ve gathered 20 mouthwatering, wallet-friendly recipes that are perfect for cooking up a storm with your significant other. From classic comfort foods to international twists, these dishes will satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank.
From garlic butter pasta with spinach to lentil and vegetable stir-fry, and from cheesy quesadillas with black beans to homemade margherita pizza, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a fan of comfort food or something more exotic, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the perfect meal for two without emptying your wallet!
Garlic Butter Pasta with Spinach
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the richness of garlic butter sauce with the nutrients and flavor of fresh spinach, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl of pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 30 seconds.
4. Combine cooked pasta, garlic-butter sauce, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional spinach if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Tomato Basil Rice
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of tomato, basil, and rice into a single, satisfying pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
5. Add the water, diced tomatoes, and basil leaves. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Quesadillas with Black Beans
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful and filling cheesy quesadillas packed with nutritious black beans. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on half of the tortilla.
3. Add warmed black beans on top of the cheese, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook the other side for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Serve hot with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Egg Fried Rice with Veggies
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! This recipe combines fluffy rice with scrambled eggs, crunchy veggies, and savory soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed veggies (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 the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Crack in the beaten eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the veggies.
6. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
7. Add the soy sauce and stir-fry for another minute, until the rice is well coated.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Homemade Margherita Pizza
Experience the simplicity and flavor of Italy’s most iconic pizza with this straightforward recipe. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously cheesy and herby pie 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 tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle shape.
6. Spread tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border. Top with mozzarella cheese and fresh basil leaves.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Peanut Noodles
Add a kick to your pasta with this simple and flavorful Spicy Peanut Noodle recipe. This dish is perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles or soba noodles
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts, scallions, or cilantro for garnish (optional)
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, and red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat the mixture in a pan over medium heat with water. Stir constantly until thickened.
4. Add cooked noodles to the pan and toss to coat with the spicy peanut sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped peanuts, scallions, or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lentil and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Lentil and Vegetable Stir-Fry Recipe
This recipe combines the nutritious benefits of lentils with the flavors of a variety of colorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a savory stir-fry. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 small carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper, zucchini, and carrot; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked lentils, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna Melt Sandwiches
Elevate your lunch game with this easy and satisfying tuna melt sandwich recipe. Made with canned tuna, creamy mayo, and melted cheddar cheese, these sandwiches are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups shredded 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, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in the skillet.
5. Spread half of the tuna mixture on top of the bread.
6. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
7. Top with another slice of bread (butter-side up).
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
9. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per sandwich
Chickpea and Potato Curry
This hearty curry recipe combines the creamy texture of chickpeas with the comforting warmth of potatoes, all wrapped up in a flavorful blend of Indian spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and paprika. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add potatoes and chickpeas to the pan. Stir to combine, then add coconut milk.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. By filling bell peppers with a savory mixture of rice, vegetables, and spices, you’ll create a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, corn, peas)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, mixed vegetables, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
7. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted (optional).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Simple Bean and Cheese Burritos
This classic recipe is a staple for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner. With just a few ingredients, you can create deliciously filling burritos that are perfect for the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Spoon the cooked black beans onto one half of each tortilla, followed by shredded cheese.
5. Fold the tortillas in half to enclose the filling. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and burritos are crispy.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Vegetable Omelette with Toast
Start your day with a delicious and healthy vegetable omelette paired with crispy toast. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with nutrients from a variety of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), diced
– 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices whole wheat bread
– Butter or non-stick cooking spray
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk eggs with a fork. Add salt and pepper to taste.
2. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Add butter or non-stick cooking spray.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook until the edges start to set (about 30 seconds).
4. Add diced bell peppers and mushrooms. Cook for another minute, stirring occasionally.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top.
6. Fold the omelette in half. Cook for an additional 30 seconds.
7. Meanwhile, toast the bread.
8. Serve the omelette with toast and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Pasta
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines sautéed mushrooms with a rich cream sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g. penne, fusilli)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked pasta and creamy mushroom sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Potatoes with Chili Topping
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a cozy evening or a casual gathering. This simple and flavorful dish combines the natural sweetness of baked potatoes with the spicy kick of chili.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chili con carne
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Optional toppings: sour cream, diced onions, sliced jalapeños
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in each with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with a little bit of oil and place them directly on the middle rack of the oven.
4. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, heat the chili con carne and diced tomatoes in a saucepan over medium heat.
6. Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and top each with the warmed chili mixture, shredded cheese, and your choice of optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Avocado and Egg Toast
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast that combines creamy avocado, runny eggs, and crispy toast. This Avocado and Egg Toast recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped herbs (such as parsley or chives), or feta cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Fry the eggs in a non-stick pan over medium heat until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny.
3. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
4. Place the fried eggs on top of the avocado.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional toppings (such as red pepper flakes or chopped herbs).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tomato and Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese
This comforting soup and sandwich combination is perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and melted cheese come together to create a delightful flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh basil, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, and olive oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Meanwhile, preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Butter one side of each bread slice. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet. Top with shredded cheese and another bread slice, butter-side up. Cook until golden brown and flip to cook the other side.
6. Serve soup with grilled cheese sandwich.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Peas
Classic Mac and Cheese with Peas Recipe
A comforting and creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe adds sweet and tender peas to the classic macaroni and cheese combination.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 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.
4. Add milk and stir until it starts to simmer.
5. Remove from heat and add cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked macaroni and frozen peas to the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This classic Italian recipe is a staple of Roman cuisine, featuring spaghetti tossed with garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. This simple yet flavorful dish is ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 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.
4. Add the red pepper flakes (if using) and stir to combine.
5. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the garlic mixture. Toss to combine, adding salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos
These tacos bring together the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and the savory flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, cook onion and garlic until softened.
5. Add black beans and stir to combine.
6. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning roasted sweet potato and black bean mixture into each shell.
8. Top with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Homemade Ramen with Egg
Elevate your ramen game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines rich pork broth, springy noodles, and a soft-boiled egg.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 cups of pork broth (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– Green onions and bean sprouts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine pork broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add sliced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
4. Crack an egg into the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are still slightly runny.
5. To assemble the bowls, place cooked noodles in a bowl, then add the hot broth mixture, followed by the soft-boiled egg. Garnish with green onions and bean sprouts if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious and affordable meal ideas? Look no further! This article shares 20 budget-friendly recipes perfect for two people. From classic comfort foods to international twists, these easy-to-make dishes won’t break the bank. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, tacos, or something new, there’s something for everyone on this list. Get cooking and enjoy a world of flavors without sacrificing your wallet!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
