The Best Cheap Dinner Ideas for Family (Under $2/Serving, Ready in 30 Minutes)
Want to feed your family healthy, high-protein meals — but don’t want to spend $10+ per meal?
You’re not alone. In this post, I’ll show you the best 3 budget-friendly dinners you can make for under $2 per serving — all ready in 30 minutes or less.
Perfect for:
- ✅ Instant Pot – Fast, no-stir cooking
- ✅ Air Fryer – Crispy, oil-free meals
- ✅ Stockpot – Big-batch soups and stews
✨ Love Budget Meals?
Grab the 100 Beginner’s Instant Pot Bean and Grain Cookbook — just $0.99! Packed with the best cheap meal ideas under $2/serving.
Why These Are the Best Cheap Dinner Ideas
These recipes are the best for families because they:
- ✅ Cost under $2 per serving
- ✅ Use pantry staples (beans, rice, frozen veggies)
- ✅ Are high in protein (10–22g per serving)
- ✅ Cook in 30 minutes or less
- ✅ Freeze well for meal prep
Pro Tip: Double the batch and freeze half for later — saves time and money!
Recipe 1: The Best Red Lentil Dal with Rice (Instant Pot)
Servings: 6 | Cost: $1.60/serving | Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 25 mins
Appliance: Instant Pot
Ingredients:
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 4 cups water or broth
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Cooked rice, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sauté onion and garlic in oil for 5 minutes.
- Add tomatoes, spices, lentils, and broth.
- Pressure cook 10 minutes, natural release 5 minutes.
- Serve over rice.
Recipe 2: The Best Air Fryer Turkey & Veggie Bowls
Servings: 4 | Cost: $1.90/serving | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins
Appliance: Air Fryer
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups mixed veggies (frozen or fresh)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook turkey and onion in a pan for 8 minutes.
- Add veggies and seasonings, cook 5 minutes.
- Transfer to air fryer, cook 8–10 minutes for crispiness.
- Serve over rice.
Recipe 3: The Best Black Bean & Sweet Potato Soup (Stockpot)
Servings: 6 | Cost: $1.80/serving | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins
Appliance: Stockpot
Ingredients:
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 2 cups diced sweet potatoes
- 1 cup corn
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to stockpot.
- Simmer 20–25 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
- Serve with tortilla chips or bread.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best cheap dinner ideas for families?
The best cheap dinner ideas include red lentil dal, air fryer turkey bowls, and black bean soup — all under $2 per serving and ready in 30 minutes.
What are the best budget-friendly meals?
The best budget-friendly meals use pantry staples like beans, rice, and frozen veggies. Instant Pot, Air Fryer, and stockpot meals are perfect for saving time and money.
What are the best easy family dinners?
The best easy family dinners are high-protein, one-pot meals that cook in 30 minutes or less — like lentil stew, turkey bowls, and hearty soups.
Can I freeze the best cheap meals?
Yes! Most bean, lentil, and soup-based meals freeze well for up to 3 months. Cool completely and store in airtight containers.
📥 Get Your Free Printable: "The Best Budget Dinner Planner"
I’ve created a free downloadable guide with:
- ✅ The best 7-day budget meal plan
- ✅ Shopping list
- ✅ Prep checklist
- ✅ 5 bonus cheap dinner recipes
📅 More Easy Meals? Try Our Monthly Planners
Love quick, high-protein meals? Explore our free monthly guides:
- Full Year Index: All 12 Months
- January — New Year Reset
- September — Back-to-Routine Batchers
- December — Cozy, Festive, Freezer-Smart
🍳 More Budget Hacks You’ll Love
Want more genius tricks?
- Instant Pot Rice Recipes That Don’t Burn
- Stockpot Soup Recipes That Freeze Well
- Instant Pot Fermented Yogurt (No Yogurt Maker Needed)
Craving more budget-friendly meals?
Check out the 100 Beginner’s Instant Pot Bean and Grain Cookbook — just $0.99! Perfect for feeding a family on a budget.
— Rossi Voss | Author of the $0.99 Cookbook Series
rossivoss.blogspot.com