What are some good cheap family dinner ideas?

There are many options! Some ideas include pasta dishes, casseroles, soups, and dishes that utilize less expensive cuts of meat or plant-based proteins. Prioritizing seasonal produce can also reduce costs.

How can I make my family dinners more budget-friendly?

Plan your meals in advance, use leftovers creatively, and buy ingredients in bulk when possible. Compare prices at different stores and consider using coupons or loyalty programs to maximize savings.

What are some easy recipes for cheap family dinners?

Quick and easy options include spaghetti with marinara sauce, chicken and rice casserole, or lentil soup. These recipes require minimal ingredients and preparation time, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

How can I get my kids to eat cheap family dinners without complaining?

Involve your kids in the meal planning process and encourage them to help with cooking. Offer a variety of options and let them choose what they want to eat from the available dishes. This approach can help them feel more invested in the meal and less likely to complain.

20 Cheap Family Dinners: Proven Budget-Friendly Recipes

Name: 20 Cheap Family Dinners: Easy & Budget-Friendly Recipes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound pasta (any shape); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup sliced carrots; 1 cup peas; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Description

A quick and easy one pot pasta primavera recipe that’s perfect for a budget friendly family dinner. Loaded with fresh vegetables and Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound pasta (any shape)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup sliced carrots
1 cup peas
4 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the broccoli florets, sliced carrots, and peas to the pot. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are slightly tender.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta.
Stir well to ensure the pasta is submerged in the broth. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook according to the pasta package directions or until the pasta is cooked through and the broth has been absorbed.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Calories: 350
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 15mg