You don't have to spend a lot of money to make delicious meals. This collection of Cheap Eats proves that, with 12 of our Best Recipes for a Budget. In this roundup of frugal recipes, you'll find appetizers, main dishes, desserts and more.

Cheap Eats:
12 Best Recipes for a Budget

Table of Contents

Cheap & Easy Appetizer Recipes

Budget Recipes for Main Dishes

Decadent Dessert Recipes on a Dime

Cheap & Easy Appetizer Recipes

Perfect Bite Nachos - When talking about the best "bang for your buck" appetizer recipes, this nacho dish reigns supreme.  Everyone loves nachos, so this is a surefire crowd pleaser, plus the ingredients are inexpensive and readily available.  There's a lot to love about this cheesy snack! 

Cream Cheese Chipotle Dip - Decadence for a dime... that's what this awesome dip recipe is.  Made with buttermilk and maple syrup, this delicious dip is heaven in a bowl.  No need to spend a ton of cash on party plates... just make this easy appetizer recipe and you'll be good to go.

Texas Cowboy Caviar - If you've never tried this Southwestern-style appetizer, give our easy recipe a shot.  Most of the ingredients are canned, so this dish is fast-prep and easy on the wallet too. 

Artichoke Chile Dip - With just six simple ingredients, you can create a fantastically flavorful dip that no one at the party will be able to resist.  This creamy, cheesy concoction is one of our favorite recipes for a budget: just one bite and you'll see why!

Budget Recipes for Main Dishes

Meat Loaf Casserole - It's hard to beat a comfort food classic like meat loaf.  This version, in a casserole form, is great because it's easy to prepare and won't cost you a ton of money.  Try it tonight and get ready for your family to rave!

Pork Chop and Spanish Rice Bake - Pork chops are at the top of our list for best recipes for a budget.  This version can be made in two quick steps and will be on the table in under an hour!  

Easy Chicken Broccoli Casserole - A staple in many households, this yummy chicken bake always satisfies. Penny pinchers will love that you can use inexpensive frozen veggies to make this comforting casserole.

Enchilada Pasta Bake - Many Mexican dishes are easy on the wallet, which is why we love serving them for weeknight dinners. This casserole has a bold and zesty flavor you'll love.

Decadent Dessert Recipes on a Dime

Shortcut Coconut Cream Cake - This is one of those easy dessert recipes that will wow you with how flavorful it is. Made with white cake mix, Cool Whip and sweetened condensed milk, this fluffy delight is one of the most heavenly cheap dessert recipes you'll find. 

Chocolate Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies - If you've never made cookies using boxed cake mix before, now's the time to start!  This great recipe is one of our favorite frugal finds.  It's simple to make and tastes oh so good! 

Cream Puff Pie - The simple ingredients used to make this decadent cream puff pie are what set it apart from other delicious easy dessert recipes.  When you stick to easy, basic ingredients, you can bake up an incredibly delicious treat without breaking the bank.  This creamy pie is proof positive.

Cake Batter Blondies - Talk about festive desserts!  If you're baking for a party, there's no better treat to serve than these colorful bars.  Made with yellow cake mix, white chocolate chips and, of course, sprinkles, these fun desserts are cheap and easy to make too!