Affordable Meals That Work for Families

Feeding a family doesn’t have to break the bank. With some smart planning and simple recipes, you can create dinners that are filling, tasty, and cost less than $15 total. These meals use everyday ingredients you’ll find at any grocery store, and they’re designed to stretch without sacrificing flavor.

1. Chili and Cornbread

Ingredients: Ground beef or turkey, canned beans, canned tomatoes, chili powder, onion, boxed cornbread mix.
Why it works: Beans stretch the meat, and the cornbread makes it feel like a full meal. Perfect for leftovers, too.

2. Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

Ingredients: Spaghetti noodles, jarred pasta sauce, ground beef or sausage, garlic, Parmesan cheese.
Why it works: A family favorite that comes together quickly. One pound of pasta and one pound of meat easily feeds 4–6 people.

3. Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies

Ingredients: Smoked sausage, potatoes, carrots, onions, olive oil, seasoning.
Why it works: Smoked sausage is inexpensive and flavorful, and roasting veggies makes this hearty and filling.

4. Chicken and Rice Casserole

Ingredients: Chicken thighs, rice, cream of mushroom soup, frozen vegetables, shredded cheese.
Why it works: Chicken thighs are budget-friendly, and the casserole can be stretched with rice and vegetables.

5. Breakfast-for-Dinner Pancakes and Eggs

Ingredients: Pancake mix, eggs, butter, syrup, optional fruit topping.
Why it works: Breakfast staples are some of the cheapest grocery items. A stack of pancakes with scrambled eggs fills everyone up for just a few dollars.

Tips for Keeping Meals Under $15

Shop store brands for basics like pasta, rice, and canned goods.
Use frozen veggies instead of fresh to save money.
Plan meals that stretch ingredients (like beans, rice, or pasta).
Double recipes and save leftovers for lunches.

Feeding Families Doesn’t Have to Cost a Lot

With a little creativity, you can serve dinners that everyone enjoys without overspending. These meals keep costs low, prep simple, and bellies full—making weeknights a little easier for busy families.

Budget-Friendly Family Meals Under $15