Eating cheaply doesn’t need to be boring or repetitive. With a bit of know-how, it’s more than possible to eat well for less; start with buying more economical cuts of meat, putting vegetables at the centre of the plate and making the most of store-cupboard spices.
Below are some of our favourite examples of budget midweek recipes, from soups to one-pot (or one-tray) meals to pasta.
Looking for more budget- and family-friendly meal inspiration? Discover our selection of Cardiff Mum’s cheap family meals, including recipes that cost less than £5 to make, and tips for shopping and cooking on a budget from Beat The Budget author Mimi Harrison.
Ginger and Lime Chicken Legs with Coconut Rice
Save on money and washing-up with this easy, flavoursome one-pot chicken dinner from Beat The Budget, Mimi Harrison’s cookbook filled with recipes that cost just £1.25 per portion.
Mexican-Inspired Bean Patty Flatbreads
Tinned beans are one of the best budget-friendly sources of fibre and protein, and these smoky black bean patties topped with mozzarella and pickled jalapeños are a great way to spice up your midweek dinners.
Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Leek Carbonara with Fresh Thyme, Garlic, Cracked Black Pepper and Parmesan
This sweet, creamy pasta dish from Jamie Oliver’s Veg is a great way to sneak some extra veggies into your mealtime. You can double or triple the amount of the leek base and freeze it in batches for an even more fuss-free evening in the future.
Roasted Aubergine, Courgette and Macaroni Bake
If you’re in need of some serious comfort food, this pasta bake from The Quick Roasting Tin delivers. The creamy Boursin adds a garlic and herb flavour, while the panko breadcrumbs provide a moreish crunch – all in under an hour.
Vegetarian Toad in the Hole
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly twist on a warming comfort classic, have a go at this Vegetarian Toad in the Hole from The Savvy Shopper’s Cookbook. Swapping meat for a veggie substitute is a great way to save on your food shop, without compromising on flavour.
Pork Meatball Thai Curry
Dean Edwards’ flavour-packed Pork Meatball Thai Curry from Mincespiration! will quickly become one of your go-to midweek dinner recipes, made with satisfying and fresh ingredients that won’t break the bank.
Saucy Chicken and Pepper Pie
This easy pie goes down a treat with even the fussier eaters in the family, combining the delicious flavours of chorizo and chicken with sweet red peppers and a comforting tomato sauce. It only gets better, with an irresistible topping of creamy mashed potato and oozy cheddar cheese.
Broccoli Pasta, Chopped Garden Salad
This Broccoli Pasta from Jamie’s 15-Minute Meals is not only quick to prepare; it’s also packed with flavour. Don’t feel obliged to make the accompanying green salad, and feel free to swap the small amount of pine nuts with whatever nuts you might have in the cupboard.
Spicy Chipotle Chicken Wings with Sweet Potato Wedges, Coriander and Lime Yogurt
Choosing cheaper cuts of meat is the best way to save money. Chicken wings are certainly more economical than the breast, making this recipe for Spicy Chipotle Chicken Wings a great midweek dinner option.
