If you were to name the number one thing that grabs your attention about a recipe (besides the picture) what would it be? Well when we asked our readers we often found the same answer (next to frugal recipes) it was always recipes with very few ingredients and simple instructions.

The best quick and easy dinner ideas are ones with very few ingredients; they also make great frugal recipes. Cutting down on time spent in the kitchen and money spent on groceries is ideal; especially in these challenging financial times. So we've gathered 20 of the Best 5 Ingredient Recipes to make budgeting your time and money even easier.
 

It's quite surprising how many fantastic ideas there are for 5 ingredient recipes (or even less!). Recipes with so few ingredients are ideal for cost-cutting, they're time-saving and perfect for those who are beginners in the kitchen. From easy casserole recipes, to 5 ingredient chicken recipes, to easy dessert recipes, there are plenty of ideas to explore. With these 5 ingredient recipes you don't have to worry about epic grocery lists with difficult instructions and confusing steps. These frugal recipes are designed for the beginner (or busy) cook.
 

Table of Contents

5 Ingredient Recipes for Casseroles

More 5 Ingredient Recipes 

5 Ingredient Recipes for Desserts

5 Ingredient Recipes for Casseroles

Casserole recipes are easy, that's never been a question. But to find casserole recipes that are also have only a few ingredients, well then you've really hit the jack pot. These frugal recipes make the perfect quick, weeknight family dinners. These 5 ingredient recipes are also the kind of dishes you can make again and again; we promise the family won't complain - they're that good!

Crazy Easy Ritz Casserole

Broccoli and Mushroom Casserole

Slow Cooker Hash Brown Casserole

Hamburger Cups

Basic Beef Macaroni

Cheddar Potato Casserole
 

More 5 Ingredient Recipes

Simple ingredients recipes aren't limited to just casseroles, there are plenty more ideas for great family dinners with 5 ingredients or less. Chicken recipes are especially easy to make with few ingredients; like the coca cola chicken, so much flavor thanks to the cola, you don't need to add much more. Among this list you'll find more chicken recipes, pasta recipes, side dishes and even simple soup recipes.

Stove-Top Cheeseburger Pasta

Easy Five Ingredient Coca Cola Chicken

Crispy Hobo Potatoes

Frugal Chicken & Rice Soup

Easy Skillet Chicken Parm



3 Step Cole Slaw

Chicken Fried Pork Chops

Five Ingredient Pot Roast

Budget Friendly Chicken Delight

Best Biscuits and Sausage Gravy

5 Ingredient Recipes for Desserts

Finding a really good dessert that only requires 5 ingredients (or less) is simply a gem of a find. Not everyone has time to make up some elaborate dessert, but when you're craving sweets and you don't want just some boxed item - these dessert recipes are for you. From no bake recipes to quick cake mix recipes, you'll fall in love with these simple desserts. Plus these easy desserts make great frugal recipes to make any time of the year.
 

Simple Strawberry Jello Cake 

Easiest Fudge in the World

5 Cup Dessert Salad

Perfect No Bake Peanut Butter Balls