10 Cheap Healthy Recipes to Stay on Budget This Month

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be expensive. With the right ingredients and budget-friendly meal ideas, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious meals without overspending. These 10 Cheap Healthy Recipes are packed with nutrients, easy to prepare, and perfect for meal planning. Whether you’re looking for high-protein meals, vegetarian options, or quick dinners, this list will help you eat well while saving money.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I eat healthy on a budget?

Eating healthy on a budget is easier when you plan meals, buy in bulk, use seasonal produce, and cook from scratch instead of relying on processed foods.

Are these recipes meal-prep friendly?

Yes, many of these recipes can be made in batches and stored in the fridge or freezer for quick and healthy meals throughout the week.

What are some cheap healthy ingredients?

Affordable healthy ingredients include beans, lentils, eggs, oats, frozen vegetables, canned tuna, whole grains, and seasonal fruits.

Can I modify these recipes based on dietary preferences?

Absolutely. You can swap proteins, use plant-based alternatives, or adjust ingredients to fit your dietary needs.

1. Lentil and Vegetable Soup

Lentils are one of the most budget-friendly sources of protein and fiber. This soup is hearty, nutritious, and perfect for meal prep.

To make this soup, sauté onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and spices. Let it simmer until the lentils are tender.

Get the full recipe at Minimalist Baker.

2. Oatmeal with Peanut Butter and Bananas

Oatmeal is a cheap and nutritious breakfast option that keeps you full for hours. Adding peanut butter and bananas provides healthy fats and natural sweetness.

Cook oats in water or milk, then stir in peanut butter and top with sliced bananas for a delicious and filling breakfast.

Get the full recipe at Cookie and Kate.

3. Black Bean and Rice Burritos

Black beans and rice make a complete protein, making this dish both nutritious and affordable. It’s a great meal-prep option that can be customized with toppings.

Cook black beans with onions, garlic, and spices. Mix with cooked rice and wrap in tortillas for a quick and healthy meal.

Get the full recipe at Budget Bytes.

4. Sweet Potato and Chickpea Curry

This plant-based curry is packed with fiber and flavor. Sweet potatoes and chickpeas are budget-friendly staples that create a hearty and satisfying meal.

Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger, then add chopped sweet potatoes, chickpeas, coconut milk, and curry spices. Simmer until tender.

Get the full recipe at Well Plated.

5. Egg and Spinach Breakfast Scramble

Eggs are one of the cheapest sources of high-quality protein. Adding spinach boosts the nutrients while keeping the dish low-cost and easy to prepare.

Scramble eggs with sautéed spinach, onions, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Serve with whole-grain toast for a balanced meal.

Get the full recipe at Gimme Some Oven.

6. Homemade Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice

Stir-fries are versatile and budget-friendly. You can use whatever vegetables are on sale or in season to create a quick and nutritious meal.

Sauté mixed vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and cabbage with garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of honey. Serve over brown rice or quinoa.

Get the full recipe at Damn Delicious.

7. Cabbage and Chicken Stir-Fry

Cabbage is an inexpensive and nutrient-dense vegetable that works well in stir-fries. Adding chicken makes it a complete and high-protein meal.

Cook shredded cabbage with diced chicken, garlic, and soy sauce for a quick and budget-friendly dinner.

Get the full recipe at The Spruce Eats.

8. Tuna and Chickpea Salad

Canned tuna and chickpeas make a cheap, protein-rich salad that’s perfect for meal prep.

Mix canned tuna with drained chickpeas, diced cucumbers, onions, olive oil, and lemon juice. Serve it on whole-grain bread or as a salad.

Get the full recipe at Simply Recipes.

9. Baked Potatoes with Beans and Cheese

Baked potatoes are inexpensive, filling, and easy to customize with budget-friendly toppings.

Bake whole potatoes and top them with black beans, shredded cheese, and a dollop of Greek yogurt for a nutritious and affordable meal.

Get the full recipe at BBC Good Food.

10. Pasta with Garlic, Olive Oil, and Vegetables

This simple yet delicious pasta dish requires just a few pantry ingredients and is easy to customize with any vegetables you have on hand.

Cook pasta and toss it with sautéed garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach.

Get the full recipe at Love & Lemons.

Final Thoughts

Eating healthy on a budget is possible when you use simple, nutrient-dense ingredients and plan your meals ahead of time. These 10 cheap healthy recipes will help you save money while maintaining a balanced diet.

For more budget-friendly meal ideas, check out:
Affordable Meal Prep Recipes
Healthy Dinners Under $10
Quick and Easy Budget Meals