Our Best Budget-Friendly Recipes to Beat the Bank

Whether you’re a kid or an adult, everyone loves hot dogs. Both affordable and accessible, hot dogs make an easy snack turned meal with this delicious hot dog fried rice recipe. Packed with spices and savoury sauces, this dish will be a family favourite in no time.

Mujadara is a classic Middle Eastern dish consisting of lentils, rice, spices and fried onions. This simple yet effective dinner side is the ideal option when thinking of a flavourful addition to any meal. Made in just under an hour, you’ll be making this recipe on repeat.

This sweet and delicious recipe only takes five ingredients that you probably have at home. Not to mention this ice cream is packed with protein! The silky flavour of cottage cheese coupled with the crunch of graham crackers makes this the perfect summer snack.

Looking to add more protein to your diet without breaking the bank? This might be the recipe for you. Cheesy, savoury and packed with enough plant-based protein to rival meat itself. You’ll only need a few household ingredients, affordable store bought items and less than 30 minutes to make this delicious meal.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly protein option that isn’t chickpeas or meat, lentils might be your best bet. These delicious, earthy legumes are incredibly cheap and nutrient dense. We love to make this recipe in the fall as the spices evoke cooler weather.

We love a hearty meal — especially during the cooler months. Chicken thighs are actually the most affordable cut of the chicken, coupled with inexpensive grains and greens — this dish is a money-saving dream.

Tacos and burgers, combined? Sign us up. These easy-to-make smash burger tacos are absolutely delicious — and only need a few inexpensive ingredients. Serve these beefy beauties at any backyard party or girls night in.

When making pesto, the recipe tends to call for tons of basil — which can get a bit pricey. Luckily, pesto isn’t exclusively made with basil. Spinach, arugula and even kale are worthy enough substitutes for basil in pesto sauces, which makes making pesto all the more affordable.

In this summer heat, who doesn’t love a good ole’ fruit sando! Sweet and fruity, this refreshing summer snack is ideal for kids (and adults). We love packing these sandos with anything from strawberries to kiwi for that extra splash of fruit flavour.

One of the most affordable summer desserts you’ll find anywhere —Haupia (or coconut pudding) is a Hawaiian classic bursting with fruity goodness. This dessert will be the star of your next get together!

If you’ve ever been to West Africa, you’ve tried Jollof rice. A delicious savoury side, this dish is best served hot with a side of chicken or beef. This recipe is more labour intensive as it leans on nearly 3 hours of cook time — but it’s well worth the wait.

Made with only a few simple ingredients, this Indigenous-inspired dish from Ecuador’s Quechua community is so delicious and affordable. A combination of potatoes, cheese and farm fresh vegetables brings together this delicate balance of bold flavours ideal for a heavier dinner main.