17 Easy Budget Dinners Your Family Will Love

Easy budget dinners are a lifesaver for anyone looking to whip up something tasty without breaking the bank. These meals are quick, simple, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen. With a mix of affordable ingredients and handy recipes, you’ll find plenty of options to keep your dinner time stress-free and delicious!

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and tasty option for budget dinners. They are not only easy to make but also allow for creativity in the kitchen. You can use whatever ingredients you have on hand, making them a versatile choice for any meal.

The image shows vibrant bell peppers filled with a delicious mixture. The red, yellow, and orange peppers are packed with rice, beans, and topped with cheese, making them look mouthwatering. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week.

To make stuffed bell peppers, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. The best part is that you can customize the filling to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a meat-based filling or a vegetarian option, these peppers can accommodate all preferences.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix the cooked rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, packing it in gently.
5. Top each pepper with shredded cheese.
6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed bell peppers!

One-Pan Chicken and Veggies

One-pan meals are a lifesaver, especially when you’re trying to stick to a budget. This One-Pan Chicken and Veggies dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also packs a punch in flavor and nutrition. The vibrant colors of the vegetables, like broccoli, bell peppers, and potatoes, make the dish visually appealing and inviting.

Cooking everything in one pan means less cleanup, which is always a win. You can throw in whatever veggies you have on hand, making it a flexible recipe that can adapt to your pantry. Plus, the chicken gets juicy and tender while soaking up all the delicious flavors from the veggies.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is well coated.
3. In a large baking dish or oven-safe skillet, arrange the chicken thighs. Surround them with the broccoli, bell peppers, potatoes, and green beans.
4. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the vegetables and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving. Enjoy your easy, budget-friendly dinner!

Egg Fried Rice with Peas and Carrots

Egg fried rice with peas and carrots is a simple, tasty dish that anyone can whip up. This meal is perfect for a budget-friendly dinner. It combines fluffy rice with vibrant veggies and protein-packed eggs. The colors in the dish make it visually appealing, and the flavors are comforting and satisfying.

Making this dish is straightforward. Start with cooked rice, which can be leftover from another meal. The peas and carrots add a nice crunch and sweetness. Scrambled eggs bring richness and make it filling. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with your favorite protein.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced carrots and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Add the peas and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Push the veggies to one side of the skillet. Crack the eggs into the empty side and scramble them until fully cooked.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing everything together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious egg fried rice!

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice

Vegetable stir-fry with rice is a colorful and nutritious meal that’s easy on the wallet. The vibrant mix of vegetables brings life to the dish, making it not only tasty but also visually appealing. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying.

In the image, you can see a bowl filled with fluffy white rice topped with a medley of fresh vegetables. The bright colors of bell peppers, green beans, and carrots make it look inviting. Using chopsticks adds a fun touch to the dining experience.

This dish is versatile, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. It’s a great way to clear out your fridge while enjoying a healthy meal. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite sauces and spices.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 cup bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the sliced bell peppers, carrots, and green beans. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Add broccoli and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in soy sauce, mixing well to coat the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the stir-fried vegetables over the cooked rice. Enjoy!

Chickpea Curry with Rice

Chickpea curry is a fantastic dish that’s both hearty and budget-friendly. This meal is perfect for anyone looking to whip up something delicious without breaking the bank. The vibrant colors of the curry, combined with fluffy rice, make it visually appealing and satisfying.

In the image, you can see a bowl filled with golden chickpeas swimming in a rich, spicy sauce. The rice sits alongside, soaking up all those wonderful flavors. Fresh cilantro adds a pop of green, making the dish even more inviting. It’s a simple yet comforting meal that can be enjoyed any night of the week.

Now, let’s get to the fun part! Here’s how you can make this tasty chickpea curry at home.

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup coconut milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked rice
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft.
2. Stir in minced garlic, curry powder, and cumin. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk. Stir well and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the curry over cooked rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Lentil Soup with Crusty Bread

Lentil soup is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s packed with nutrients and flavors, making it a great choice for a budget-friendly dinner. The image shows a hearty bowl of lentil soup, garnished with fresh herbs, alongside slices of crusty bread. This combination is not only delicious but also filling.

The soup is rich in protein and fiber, thanks to the lentils, and the addition of vegetables adds color and taste. Pairing it with crusty bread makes it even better, allowing you to soak up every last drop of that tasty broth.

Making lentil soup is simple and requires just a few ingredients. It’s a great way to use pantry staples and can be customized with whatever veggies you have on hand. Let’s get into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or cilantro)
• Crusty bread for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
2. Add the minced garlic, cumin, and paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and alongside slices of crusty bread.

Taco Night with Homemade Salsa

Taco night is a fun and easy way to bring everyone together for a delicious meal. The image shows a vibrant spread of tacos, fresh ingredients, and tasty salsas. You can see soft tortillas filled with colorful veggies and herbs, ready to be enjoyed. The addition of lime wedges and crispy snacks makes it even more inviting.

Making tacos at home is not just budget-friendly, but also allows you to customize each one to your liking. You can choose your favorite proteins, whether it’s chicken, beef, or a vegetarian option. The fresh salsa adds a burst of flavor that elevates the entire meal.

Gather your friends or family, set up a taco bar, and let everyone build their own perfect taco. It’s a great way to enjoy a casual dinner while keeping things affordable and fun!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef or chicken
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 8 small tortillas
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cups salsa (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

1. Cook the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or chicken until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in taco seasoning and follow package instructions for adding water. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
2. Prepare the Toppings: While the meat is cooking, chop the tomatoes, onion, and cilantro. Set aside.
3. Warm the Tortillas: Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until warm and pliable.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Place a scoop of the seasoned meat on each tortilla. Top with diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, shredded lettuce, cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
5. Serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and serve with salsa on the side. Enjoy your taco night!

Pasta Primavera with Seasonal Veggies

Pasta Primavera is a colorful dish that celebrates fresh, seasonal vegetables. The vibrant mix of tomatoes, spinach, and olives creates a feast for the eyes. This meal is not just easy on the wallet; it’s also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Using seasonal veggies means you can enjoy the freshest flavors. You can swap in whatever vegetables you have on hand, making this dish versatile and fun. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients!

To make this dish, cook your pasta of choice until al dente. In a separate pan, sauté your veggies in olive oil until tender. Toss everything together with some garlic, salt, and pepper. Finish it off with a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot. Add salt and pasta, cooking according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Veggies: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables: Toss in the cherry tomatoes and olives. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften. Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
4. Combine: Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, tossing everything together until well mixed.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious, budget-friendly meal!

Homemade Pizza with Fresh Toppings

Making homemade pizza is a fun and budget-friendly way to enjoy a delicious meal. You can customize it with your favorite toppings, making it perfect for everyone in the family. The image shows a vibrant pizza topped with fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, green peppers, black olives, and a mix of cheeses. This colorful display not only looks appetizing but also promises a burst of flavors.

Creating your own pizza allows you to control the ingredients and save money compared to ordering out. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover veggies in your fridge. Gather your family or friends, and let everyone create their own masterpiece!

Here’s a simple recipe to get you started on your homemade pizza journey:

Cabbage and Sausage Skillet

This Cabbage and Sausage Skillet is a simple yet satisfying dish. It combines tender cabbage with flavorful sausage, making it a perfect choice for a budget-friendly dinner. The vibrant colors in the skillet show off the fresh ingredients, inviting you to dig in.

The dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. Cabbage is a great source of vitamins, while sausage adds a hearty touch. You can whip this up in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

To make this meal, you’ll need just a few ingredients. Start with some cabbage, sausage, and your choice of seasonings. The combination of flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the onion and cook until softened.
4. Add chopped cabbage, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Baked Ziti with Mozzarella

Baked Ziti is a classic comfort food that brings warmth to any dinner table. This dish features pasta coated in a rich tomato sauce, layered with gooey mozzarella cheese, and baked to perfection. The image showcases a bubbling casserole dish filled with ziti, topped with melted cheese and a sprinkle of herbs. It’s a sight that makes your mouth water!

This recipe is not only easy to make but also budget-friendly. You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.

Gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat. Drain excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti and meat sauce mixture. Mix well.
5. Transfer half of the ziti mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese. Add the remaining ziti and top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs with Potatoes

Oven-baked chicken thighs with potatoes make for a simple yet satisfying dinner. The golden, crispy skin on the chicken pairs perfectly with tender, roasted potatoes. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also budget-friendly, making it a great choice for weeknight meals.

The chicken thighs are seasoned just right, allowing their natural flavors to shine. The potatoes, roasted alongside the chicken, soak up all the delicious juices, creating a delightful combination. Fresh herbs like rosemary add a touch of freshness and aroma, making the meal even more inviting.

This recipe is perfect for those busy evenings when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Just pop everything in the oven and let it do the work!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh rosemary, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the chicken thighs and halved potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Arrange the chicken and potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
5. Garnish with fresh rosemary before serving.

Vegetable Quesadillas with Avocado

Vegetable quesadillas are a fun and easy dinner option. They are quick to make and packed with flavor. The image shows perfectly toasted quesadillas, cut into triangles, revealing a colorful filling of fresh greens. The golden-brown crust is inviting, and the vibrant avocado beside it adds a creamy touch that pairs beautifully with the quesadillas.

These quesadillas are not only tasty but also budget-friendly. You can use whatever vegetables you have on hand, making them a versatile choice for any weeknight meal. Plus, they are great for using up leftovers!

To make these delicious quesadillas, you’ll need some basic ingredients. Gather your favorite veggies, cheese, and tortillas. The cooking process is simple and quick, perfect for busy evenings.

Ingredients

• 4 flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 cup spinach or kale
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the spinach or kale to the skillet and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle half of the cheese on one half of the tortilla. Add the sautéed vegetables on top, then sprinkle the remaining cheese over the veggies.
4. Fold the tortilla in half and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
5. Serve warm with sliced avocado on the side. Enjoy your delicious vegetable quesadillas!

Simple Beef and Broccoli

Beef and broccoli is a classic dish that brings together tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. This meal is not just tasty; it’s also budget-friendly and quick to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights, it pairs well with rice, making it a complete dinner.

The vibrant colors of the broccoli and the rich brown of the beef create a visually appealing plate. It’s a comforting dish that feels like a treat, yet it’s simple enough for anyone to whip up at home.

Let’s get into the details of making this easy beef and broccoli dish!

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef (flank steak or sirloin), sliced thinly
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in the garlic, ginger, broccoli, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Combine: Return the beef to the skillet and mix everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
5. Serve: Serve the beef and broccoli over cooked rice. Enjoy your delicious and easy budget dinner!

Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese

There’s something cozy about a bowl of creamy tomato soup paired with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich. This classic combo brings comfort and warmth, making it a perfect budget dinner option. The vibrant red of the soup contrasts beautifully with the golden-brown toast, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

To make this dish, you’ll need fresh tomatoes, a few pantry staples, and your favorite bread and cheese. The soup is smooth and creamy, with a hint of sweetness from the tomatoes. The grilled cheese adds a satisfying crunch, creating a delightful texture contrast.

Not only is this meal easy to prepare, but it’s also affordable. You can whip it up in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults!

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices of bread
• 4 slices of cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• Butter for grilling

Instructions

1. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until soft.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Blend the soup until smooth, then stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
4. For the grilled cheese, butter one side of each bread slice. Place cheese between two slices, buttered sides out, and grill in a skillet until golden brown on both sides.
5. Serve the hot soup in bowls with grilled cheese on the side. Enjoy!

Quinoa Salad with Black Beans and Corn

This quinoa salad is a colorful and nutritious option for an easy budget dinner. The combination of black beans, corn, and fresh tomatoes makes it both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up!

Start by cooking your quinoa according to the package instructions. Once it’s fluffy, let it cool. In a large bowl, mix in canned black beans (rinsed and drained), sweet corn, and diced tomatoes. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley add a nice touch.

For the dressing, a squeeze of lime juice, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper will do the trick. Toss everything together and you have a delightful meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

This salad is not only budget-friendly but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a great choice for anyone looking to eat healthy without breaking the bank.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the quinoa: In a saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
2. Mix the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and chopped herbs.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss everything: Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well. Adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors meld.

Baked Potato Bar with Toppings

Baked potatoes are a fun and easy dinner option that everyone can enjoy. Setting up a baked potato bar lets everyone customize their meal just the way they like it. You can see a variety of toppings laid out, making it easy to create a delicious and satisfying dish.

Start with perfectly baked potatoes. You can top them with classic ingredients like sour cream and chives, or get creative with cheese, bacon bits, and even veggies. The options are endless!

This meal is not only budget-friendly but also allows for creativity. You can use whatever toppings you have on hand. It’s a great way to use up leftovers too. Just think about what you have in your fridge and let everyone mix and match.

Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits
• 1 cup steamed broccoli
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wash and dry the potatoes. Poke a few holes in each potato with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
4. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
6. Cut a slit in the top of each potato and fluff the insides with a fork.
7. Set out your toppings and let everyone build their perfect baked potato!