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**Easy Inexpensive Dinner Recipes for Busy Weeknights**When it comes to preparing meals during a hectic week, finding easy inexpensive dinner recipes can be……
**Easy Inexpensive Dinner Recipes for Busy Weeknights**
When it comes to preparing meals during a hectic week, finding easy inexpensive dinner recipes can be a lifesaver. Not only do these recipes save you time and money, but they also ensure that you and your family enjoy delicious and nutritious meals without the stress. Below, you'll find a detailed description of some fantastic easy inexpensive dinner recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.
### One-Pot Pasta
One-pot pasta is a game-changer when it comes to easy inexpensive dinner recipes. This dish requires minimal ingredients and can be prepared in just one pot, which means less cleanup afterward. To make a basic one-pot pasta, you'll need:
- 8 oz of your favorite pasta
- 2 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 chopped onion
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon of olive oil
- Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste
Simply sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until they're soft, then add the broth, diced tomatoes, and pasta. Bring everything to a boil and then simmer until the pasta is cooked and the liquid has mostly evaporated. This dish can be customized with any vegetables or proteins you have on hand, making it versatile and budget-friendly.
### Chicken and Rice Casserole
Another excellent option for easy inexpensive dinner recipes is a chicken and rice casserole. This hearty dish is perfect for feeding a crowd and can be made with simple pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups of cooked rice
- 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, frozen vegetables, and half of the shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This casserole is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying.
### Vegetarian Stir-Fry
For those looking for meatless easy inexpensive dinner recipes, a vegetarian stir-fry is an excellent choice. This dish is quick to prepare and can be made with whatever vegetables you have in your fridge. Here’s a simple recipe:
- 2 cups of mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas)
- 1 block of tofu, cubed
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and tofu, and cook until the tofu is golden brown. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. Stir in the soy sauce and hoisin sauce, and cook for another 2 minutes. Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal.
### Bean and Cheese Quesadillas
Quesadillas are one of the simplest easy inexpensive dinner recipes you can make. They require only a few ingredients and can be customized to suit your taste. Here’s a basic recipe:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 chopped bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bell pepper and onion, and sauté until they are soft. Remove from the skillet and set aside. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of it with cheese, black beans, and the sautéed vegetables. Fold the tortilla in half and cook until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown. Repeat with the remaining tortillas. Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
These easy inexpensive dinner recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table quickly without spending a lot of money. They are simple to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and are sure to satisfy your family’s hunger. Give them a try and enjoy stress-free dinners all week long!