30 Actual Cheap & Easy Dinner Ideas When Nothing Sounds Good

Here you’ll find actual cheap, healthy, and easy dinner ideas when nothing sounds good. Now, everyone has their own idea of what makes an easy dinner. When I think of an easy dinner, I’m talking one pan, takes 5-10 minutes to put together, with a cook time of less than an hour.

And another thing, when it comes to trying to find easy dinner recipes online, let’s stop the endless scrolling right here, especially on those busy weeknights. Not only scrolling, but also clicking out to find different recipes on other websites with lots of pictures. I don’t mean to sound ranty or negative, but I know this is important to you guys. You don’t have all the time in the world and sometimes you just want one page that tells it all.

Down below, I’ve curated 30 cheap and easy go-to dinners with instructions on how to prepare each one with minimal disruptions on this one page. These are not diet specific, but they are healthy by nature. Healthy is a relative term because it all comes down to listening to your own doctor and your own body, so you define what is healthy for you. Sometimes you just need a few easy dinner ideas when nothing sounds good, and I’ve got you! So what’s for dinner tonight?

Easy Dinner Idea Ingredients

First, let’s talk basic pantry staples you should keep on hand to make throwing together an easy, cheap meal as painless as possible. When you’re trying to whip something up quickly, consider keeping your pantry stocked with these common items for simple meals:

Grains and Starches

• White Rice or Brown Rice: A versatile base for countless dishes.
• Pasta: Quick to cook and works with various sauces.
• White Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: Great for baking, mashing, frying, roasting or boiling.
• Bread/Crackers: For sandwiches or as a side.
• Quinoa or Couscous: For a healthier grain option.
• Oats: For breakfasts or baking.

Beans and Legumes

• Canned beans (refried beans, black beans, chickpeas, lentils): Ready to use, add protein and fiber to any meal.
• Dried beans and lentils: Cheaper and can be stored longer, though they require soaking.

Meats

• Chicken Breast or Thighs: Versatile, high in protein, and can be lean.
• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Healthier alternative to ground beef.
• Pork Chops or Tenderloin: Lean cuts, budget-friendly, versatile.
• Canned Tuna or Salmon: Rich in omega-3s, no cooking required.
• Frozen Fish Fillets (tilapia, cod): Less expensive than fresh, easy to prepare.
• Ground Beef Chuck or Stew Meat: Affordable, ideal for slow cooking.

Fresh Vegetables or Fresh Fruits

• Carrots: Versatile for snacking, roasting, or adding to soups and stews.
• Onions: A foundational ingredient for flavor in a vast array of dishes.
• Garlic: Essential for adding depth and flavor to nearly any savory dish.
• Bell Peppers: Great for stir-fries, salads, and as a raw snack.
• Spinach or Kale: Nutrient-rich greens for salads, sautés, and smoothies.
• Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries): Nutrient-rich and perfect for snacks, salads, or desserts.

Canned Goods

• Tomatoes (diced, sauce, paste): Basis for soups, stews, and sauces.
• Coconut milk: For curries and soups.
• Broth or stock: For cooking grains, soups, and stews.
• Corn: Adds sweetness and crunch to salads and salsas.
• Green Beans: Great for quick side dishes, casseroles, or adding to salads.

Oils, Vinegars, and Condiments

• Olive oil and vegetable oil: For cooking and dressings.
• Vinegar (balsamic, apple cider, white): For dressings and adding acidity to dishes.
• Soy sauce, hot sauce, mustard: Flavor boosters.
• Honey and maple syrup: Natural sweeteners.
• Peanut Butter: High in protein and healthy fats, versatile for sandwiches, sauces, and baking.

Spices and Herbs

• Salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings.
• Garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, paprika: For adding depth to dishes.
• Dried herbs (basil, oregano, thyme): For Italian and Mediterranean dishes.

Baking Essentials

• Flour: For baking and thickening sauces.
• Sugar: Sweetening dishes and baking.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Leavening agents.
• Yeast: For bread making.

Refrigerator Basics (not pantry but essential)

• Eggs: Versatile for meals any time of day.
• Milk or plant-based alternatives: For cooking and baking.
• Butter: For cooking and baking.
• Cheese: Adds flavor to almost any dish.

Freezer Staples

• Frozen vegetables: Easy to add to any meal for extra nutrition.
• Frozen fruit: For smoothies or desserts.
• Bread: Freezes well for longer storage.

Easy Dinner Idea Criteria

While I’ve always been a proponent of the ketogenic diet for energy, less sugar, and a better overall lifestyle, above all, I’m an advocate for easy recipes that real people can make in their real lives. Otherwise, what is the point of putting this information out into the world, right?

So I made sure that these dinner ideas are:

1. Actually easy, simple ingredients, less than 5-10 minutes to prepare, less than 1 hour cook time (except for the Crock pot recipe, but I wanted to throw in a meal prep idea just in case)
2. Cheap & budget-friendly, pennies to a few dollars a serving, great for large groups even.
3. Healthy-ish, listen to your body, these are not diet specific, no meal plan here.
4. Kid and picky eater friendly, perfect for the whole family, even better if it’s comfort food.
5. Versatile, could be an easy lunch idea too, could experiment with different cooking styles. Don’t have an air fryer? Use the oven. Don’t have an Instant Pot? Use the Crock pot.

List of Easy Dinner Ideas – Not Diet Specific

Check these easy dinner ideas out, and let me know what you think down below:

1. Vegetable Stir-fry with Rice – Heat a splash of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in your favorite chopped vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots) and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until they’re vibrant and slightly tender. Add a splash of soy sauce, a drizzle of sesame oil, and a pinch of garlic powder for flavor. Serve it over cooked rice or noodles. Optional: Add in some pre-cooked chicken or tofu for extra protein.
2. Simple Sheet Pan Chicken and Veggies – Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, toss together chunks of potatoes, carrots, and onions with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other spices you like (rosemary and thyme work well). Nestle chicken thighs among the veggies. Bake for about 45 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are roasted to your liking.
3. Naan Pizza – Grab a piece of naan bread and spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the top. Sprinkle on shredded cheese (mozzarella is a great choice), and add your favorite toppings (sliced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or even some leftover cooked chicken). Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
4. Microwaved Sweet Potato with Toppings – Prick a sweet potato all over with a fork. Microwave on high for 5-8 minutes, or until tender. Split it open and top with your favorite ingredients—black beans, salsa, and a dollop of Greek yogurt work well for a healthy twist. A sprinkle of cheese and a quick blast in the microwave can melt the cheese for a more fancy finish.
5. Pesto Chicken and Veggies – Spread some pesto on chicken breasts and arrange them in a baking dish. Around the chicken, scatter a mix of vegetables (zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers). Drizzle everything with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
6. Quick Fried Rice – In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until soft. Stir in cooked rice (day-old rice works best), frozen peas and carrots, and a beaten egg. Cook, stirring frequently, until the egg is scrambled and mixed through the rice. Season with soy sauce to taste. For extra flavor, add a dash of sesame oil before serving. Optional: Toss in some cooked chicken or shrimp for protein.
7. Breakfast for Dinner: Simple Omelette – Beat 2-3 eggs with a splash of milk, salt, and pepper. Heat a non-stick skillet with a bit of butter or oil over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture. As the eggs begin to set, gently pull the edges into the center, letting the uncooked eggs flow to the edges. When the omelette is almost set, sprinkle your choice of fillings (cheese, diced tomatoes, spinach, and cooked ham are great) on one half. Fold the other half over the fillings and cook for another minute. Serve with a side of toast or fruit.
8. Easy Non-authentic Enchiladas – Warm up some corn tortillas in the microwave to make them pliable. Fill each tortilla with a mixture of cooked chicken (shredded rotisserie chicken works well), black beans, and a sprinkle of cheese. Roll them up and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Cover with enchilada sauce and a little more cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and some fresh cilantro on top.
9. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio – Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan and sauté minced garlic until fragrant but not browned. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat if you like. Toss the drained pasta in the garlic oil, and finish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Simple, elegant, and ready in minutes.
10. Charcuterie Board Dinner – Arrange an assortment of sliced meats (like salami and prosciutto), cheeses, olives, nuts, and fruits on a large platter. Add some crackers or slices of baguette on the side. This no-cook option allows for mixing and matching based on what’s available in your pantry and is perfect for a relaxed evening meal.
11. Lentil Soup – In a large pot, sauté diced onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in vegetable broth and rinsed lentils. Bring to a boil, then simmer until the lentils are tender, about 20-25 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of cumin for depth. Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley.
12. Fancy Ramen – Start with a packet of instant ramen. Cook the noodles in boiling water, but skip the seasoning packet to reduce sodium. In another pan, sauté your favorite veggies (mushrooms, spinach, and green onions) and add them to the cooked noodles. For protein, top with a soft-boiled egg, slices of cooked chicken, or tofu. Season with soy sauce, a dash of sesame oil, and chili flakes for an upgraded ramen experience.
13. Pasta Carbonara – Cook spaghetti until al dente. Meanwhile, cook diced bacon or pancetta in a pan until crispy. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of pepper. Once the pasta is done, quickly toss it in the pan with the bacon, remove from heat, and then mix in the egg and cheese mixture. The residual heat cooks the egg gently, creating a creamy sauce. Serve immediately with extra cheese on top.
14. Taco Mac and Cheese – Prepare a box of mac and cheese according to package instructions. In a separate pan, cook ground turkey or beef with taco seasoning. Mix the cooked meat into the prepared mac and cheese for a Tex-Mex twist. Add in some diced tomatoes and green chilies for extra flavor and texture. Top with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream.
15. Broiled Sausages with Peppers and Onions – Slice bell peppers and onions, and place them on a baking sheet. Add sausages (Italian sausages usually) on top. Drizzle everything with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Broil on high for about 10-15 minutes, turning the sausages once, until they are cooked through and the vegetables are charred and soft. Serve with crusty bread or over a bed of cooked grains.
16. Black Bean Nachos – On a baking sheet, spread out a layer of tortilla chips. Top with canned black beans (rinsed and drained), sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese. Broil in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 3-5 minutes. Serve with dollops of guacamole, salsa, and sour cream on top for a quick and satisfying meal.
17. Mexican Quinoa – In a large skillet, cook quinoa with vegetable broth according to package instructions for added flavor. Stir in canned black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes (with their juice) for the last few minutes of cooking. Season with taco seasoning for a Mexican flair. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
18. Shredded Chicken in the Crockpot – Place boneless chicken breasts in a crockpot with chicken broth, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like (garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika). Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender enough to shred easily with a fork. Use the shredded chicken in tacos, on salads, or as a protein-packed addition to your favorite meals throughout the week.
19. Air Fryer Turkey Burgers – Season frozen pre-cooked turkey burgers with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you prefer. Place them in the air fryer basket. Cook at 360°F for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the burgers reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Serve on whole-wheat buns with your choice of toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion, and a slice of cheese are classic options). Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
20. Egg Muffins for Dinner – Whisk together eggs, a splash of milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, and spinach work well) and shredded cheese. Pour the mixture into greased muffin tins, filling each cup about ¾ full. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the egg muffins are set and lightly golden on top. These are great for a quick, protein-packed dinner and can be customized with different add-ins like ham, bacon, or different cheeses.
21. Goulash – In a large pot, cook chopped onions in olive oil until translucent. Add ground turkey (or beef) and cook until browned. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer. Add uncooked elbow macaroni and cook until the pasta is tender, about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
22. Korean-Inspired Ground Turkey – Cook ground turkey in a pan until it’s fully browned. For the sauce, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a splash of sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the cooked turkey and simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Serve over a bed of white rice and top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a quick, flavorful dish.
23. Baked Fish with Lemon and Herbs – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place fish fillets (like cod or tilapia) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, a squeeze of lemon juice, and your choice of herbs (dill, parsley, or thyme are great options). Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables and quinoa for a light and healthy dinner.
24. Chickpea Salad – In a large bowl, combine canned chickpeas (rinsed and drained), diced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and a handful of chopped parsley. For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. This salad is refreshing, packed with protein, and can be served on its own or as a filling side dish.
25. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the tops off bell peppers and remove the seeds. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa or rice with canned black beans (rinsed and drained), corn, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stuff the mixture into the bell peppers, place in a baking dish, and cover with foil. Bake for about 30 minutes, then remove the foil, add more cheese on top, and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or avocado slices on top.
26. Simple Tuna Patties – Drain canned tuna well and mix in a bowl with a beaten egg, breadcrumbs, minced onion, and a bit of mustard for flavor. Season with salt and pepper. Form the mixture into patties. Heat a skillet with a little oil over medium heat and cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy. Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a quick and nutritious meal.
27. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto – Use a spiralizer or vegetable peeler to create zucchini noodles (zoodles). Heat a bit of olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté the zoodles for 2-3 minutes, just until tender. Be careful not to overcook them to keep them from getting soggy. Toss with homemade or store-bought pesto and top with grated Parmesan cheese. For extra protein, add grilled chicken or shrimp on top.
28. Curry in a Hurry – In a large skillet, sauté diced onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger in coconut oil until the onions are soft. Add cubed chicken breast (or chickpeas for a vegetarian option) and cook until browned. Stir in a generous tablespoon of curry powder (or to taste), a can of diced tomatoes, and a can of coconut milk. Bring to a simmer and cook until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Serve over cooked rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.
29. Chipotle-inspired Mexican rice bowl – Start with a base of cooked rice and top with grilled chicken seasoned with cumin and chili powder. Add warmed black beans and a simple corn salsa made from corn, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Finish with a dollop of guacamole for creaminess.
30. Garlic Butter Shrimp – Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and add minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Add raw, peeled shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve with a side of steamed broccoli and quinoa for a balanced and flavorful meal.

The next time you need meal ideas, I hope you come running for this list of easy dinner ideas, especially when you’re just tired of everything.

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