10 Budget-Friendly Meat Dinners to Try

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

A budget-friendly chuck roast takes center stage in this traditional goulash. Slow-cooked to perfection, the meat becomes irresistibly tender, while the savory, paprika-infused onion gravy begs for some fresh bread to soak it up. For a creamy touch, top with a spoonful of sour cream.

Classic Sloppy Joes

A sloppy joe sandwich is a hit for more than just kids. This filling dish serves up to 6 people with just a pound of ground beef. To make it go even further, consider adding a can of drained pinto beans during cooking to boost protein and stretch the meal for a few extra servings.

Chef John's Peanut Butter Curry Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the centerpiece of this indulgent peanut curry, bursting with aromatic spices. Served over rice, the rich sauce means a little goes a long way — making it a perfect dish to serve a crowd.

Black Pepper Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Instead of using expensive cuts of beef, this stir-fry relies on ground beef, offering the same great flavor at a fraction of the cost. With the addition of cabbage and a spicy black pepper sauce, this dish is destined to become a family favorite.

Tuna Noodle Casserole

Tuna noodle casserole has been a go-to budget meal for families for years, and it's easy to see why. A great version is filling, simple to make, and packed with nostalgic flavor. This is one of our favorites and definitely worth making regularly.

Simple Meatloaf

Meatloaf is the dish that ground beef dreams of becoming, and for good reason. It's filling, flavorful, and recipes like this one are nearly foolproof. Plus, with such a large loaf, you’ll likely have leftovers that make for amazing sandwiches later in the week, whether for lunch or dinner.

Honey-Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

What could be better than a budget-friendly recipe? One that's also easy to make! A hands-off slow-cooker dish is perfect for busy days, letting you focus on other things while dinner cooks itself. This recipe simmers on low for six hours, making it ideal for weekends. On weekdays, you can cook it overnight and reheat for dinner or start it at lunch if you're working from home.

Potato Salmon Patties

Stretching canned salmon with potato flakes to make these patties is a clever, budget-friendly trick. Many people swear it’s the best way to sneak more fish into your family's meals without a fuss from picky eaters. For an extra burst of flavor, dip them in horseradish.

Ranch-Baked Chicken Thighs with Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, and Potatoes

Let's be honest, we were sold on this dish as soon as we heard "ranch." This simple, all-in-one meal comes together in a single baking dish, blending great texture and flavor. The chicken thighs take center stage, perfect for baking because they’re not only affordable but also stay juicier than chicken breasts while cooking.

Chili

Chili is always a crowd-pleaser, especially for families. This easy recipe is sure to become a favorite. It doubles effortlessly for large gatherings, and if you're looking to save, simply cut the beef in half and double the beans for a more budget-friendly version.