Budget-Friendly Dinner Ideas Under $5 Per Serving

Eating well doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself, these budget-friendly dinner recipes are affordable, nutritious, and delicious — all costing less than $5 per serving. Using simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, these meals prove you can enjoy tasty dinners without overspending.

1. Hearty Lentil Stew

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 3 cups vegetable broth or water

• 1 can diced tomatoes

• Garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper

How to Make:

Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until soft. Add garlic and spices, then lentils, broth, and tomatoes. Simmer until lentils are tender (about 30 minutes). Serve with rice or bread.

Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Lentils are inexpensive, filling, and packed with protein.

2. Simple Egg Fried Rice

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)

• 2 eggs

• 1 cup frozen mixed veggies

• Soy sauce and garlic

• Oil for cooking

How to Make:

Scramble eggs in a hot pan and set aside. Sauté garlic and veggies, add rice, and stir-fry until heated through. Mix eggs back in and season with soy sauce.

Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Uses leftover rice and frozen veggies — no waste!

3. Chickpea Curry

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can coconut milk

• 2 tablespoons curry powder

• 1 cup diced tomatoes

• Salt and pepper

How to Make:

Cook onions and garlic until soft. Add curry powder, tomatoes, chickpeas, and coconut milk. Simmer for 15-20 minutes. Serve over rice or with naan bread.

Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Chickpeas and canned goods are affordable staples that stretch meals.

Tips for Eating Well on a Budget

• Buy dried beans and grains in bulk.

• Use canned or frozen veggies when fresh is expensive.

• Cook large batches and freeze leftovers.

• Plan meals around sale items and seasonal produce.

Final Thoughts

Eating healthy and delicious meals doesn’t require spending a fortune. These budget-friendly recipes under $5 per serving help you save money while enjoying comforting, flavorful dinners every night.

Which recipe will you try first? Share your favorite budget meals or tips in the comments below!