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Winter is the season for hearty, warm, and comforting meals—but that doesn’t mean you need to break the bank.
If you’re looking for affordable dinner ideas to keep you full and satisfied during the colder months, you’re in the right place.
In this collection of 25+ winter cheap dinner recipes, you’ll find easy and budget-friendly meals made with simple ingredients that won’t cost you a fortune.
From filling soups and casseroles to savory stir-fries and hearty pastas, these recipes will help you enjoy flavorful meals without straining your budget.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, these meals are perfect for cozy nights in.
25+ Delicious Winter Cheap Dinner Recipes for Cozy Nights

With these 25+ winter cheap dinner recipes, you’ll be able to whip up a variety of flavorful, satisfying meals that won’t drain your wallet.
These dishes are not only budget-friendly, but they also highlight the best of winter’s seasonal ingredients, from root vegetables to hearty grains.
Whether you’re looking for something simple and quick or a dish that’s perfect for meal prepping, you’ll find plenty of options here.
Say goodbye to expensive takeout or unhealthy frozen meals—these recipes are the perfect way to enjoy a warm, delicious dinner on a budget.
1. Hearty Lentil Soup

This warming, budget-friendly lentil soup is perfect for chilly winter evenings when you want something filling but affordable.
Made with simple ingredients like lentils, carrots, onions, and garlic, this soup is both nutritious and hearty.
The best part? It only requires a few pantry staples, making it a great option for anyone on a budget. The lentils provide protein and fiber, while the vegetables add flavor and vitamins.
A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors, creating a comforting, balanced meal.
Whether served with a slice of crusty bread or as is, this soup will warm you from the inside out without breaking the bank.
2. One-Pan Roasted Vegetables and Rice

This one-pan roasted vegetables and rice dish is the epitome of simplicity and affordability.
Packed with seasonal winter veggies like potatoes, carrots, and Brussels sprouts, this dish is both colorful and nutritious.
The vegetables are roasted to perfection with olive oil, garlic, and herbs like rosemary or thyme, giving them a crisp exterior and soft, tender interior.
Meanwhile, the rice is cooked alongside, soaking up all the savory flavors from the veggies, creating a complete, satisfying meal.
The dish is versatile too – you can easily switch out veggies based on what’s available in your pantry, making it a perfect go-to winter dinner.
3. Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole

A cheesy, baked pasta casserole is the ultimate comfort food for those cold winter nights.
With pasta, marinara sauce, and plenty of melted cheese, this recipe is simple yet irresistible.
The casserole comes together quickly with ingredients like pasta, tomato sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, all baked into a gooey, golden layer.
It’s a great way to use pantry staples, and you can even add frozen vegetables or leftover meats to stretch the meal further.
Whether you enjoy it alone or as a side to a larger spread, this casserole is a cheap, filling option that guarantees leftovers for another day. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!
4. Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice

This quick and easy vegetable stir-fry with rice is a fantastic winter dinner that uses inexpensive, everyday ingredients.
Simply sauté your favorite vegetables—such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and onions—in a hot pan with garlic and soy sauce for a flavorful and healthy meal.
Serve the stir-fry over a bed of rice, which soaks up all the savory sauce, creating a comforting and filling dish.
You can easily swap in frozen vegetables, making this an even cheaper option.
The beauty of this dish is its flexibility: you can add any protein like tofu or chicken if desired, but it’s just as satisfying without.
5. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili

Warm up this winter with a nutritious and budget-friendly sweet potato and black bean chili.
This hearty chili combines sweet potatoes, black beans, and a mix of spices, simmered to perfection in a pot.
The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs wonderfully with the rich, savory flavors of the beans and tomatoes.
This chili is not only filling but packed with nutrients and fiber. Plus, it can be made in large batches, providing leftovers that taste even better the next day.
Whether you top it with sour cream, cheese, or cilantro, this chili is a cozy, cheap meal that will satisfy your cravings.
6. Simple Potato Leek Soup

A creamy, flavorful potato leek soup is a warming, budget-friendly option perfect for winter dinners.
Made with just potatoes, leeks, onions, and stock, this soup is incredibly simple to prepare but tastes rich and satisfying.
The leeks add a subtle onion-like flavor that complements the potatoes, which create a creamy, smooth base.
You can blend the soup to a velvety consistency or leave it chunky for more texture.
This soup is easy to prepare in a big pot, making it ideal for a family meal, and it’s cheap enough to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
7. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

This classic Italian pasta dish, spaghetti aglio e olio, is a simple yet flavorful dinner that comes together in minutes.
Made with just spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and parsley, it’s a dish that’s perfect for when you’re on a tight budget.
The garlic is sautéed in olive oil, infusing the oil with flavor, while the red pepper flakes add a little kick. It’s a great winter meal that’s both comforting and light at the same time.
You can easily add some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even a fried egg on top to make it more filling.
8. Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Spinach

If you’re craving a cheesy, comforting winter meal, baked ziti with ricotta and spinach is the way to go.
This dish combines hearty pasta, tangy tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and nutritious spinach, all baked together until golden and bubbling.
It’s the perfect winter dinner for a family, and it’s surprisingly inexpensive, especially if you use frozen spinach and budget-friendly pasta.
The creamy ricotta adds richness while the spinach provides a healthy veggie boost. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making it for meal prep, this dish is sure to please.
9. Chickpea Curry

A fragrant and comforting chickpea curry is an easy, affordable dinner for winter.
With canned chickpeas, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a mix of curry spices, you can create a rich and flavorful dish that will warm you up in no time.
Serve it with rice or flatbread for a complete, filling meal. The spices can be adjusted to your taste, and you can even add in vegetables like spinach or cauliflower.
This curry is packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it both healthy and satisfying.
It’s perfect for those cold nights when you need something flavorful and inexpensive.
10. Bean and Cheese Quesadillas

A quick, easy, and affordable option for a cozy winter meal is bean and cheese quesadillas.
Simply stuff tortillas with refried beans and shredded cheese, and cook them in a hot skillet until golden and crispy.
These quesadillas are warm, cheesy, and satisfying, and you can serve them with salsa or guacamole for extra flavor.
You can even add some sautéed vegetables, like onions, bell peppers, or corn, to mix things up.
They’re perfect for a busy weeknight dinner when you need something tasty but don’t want to spend too much time or money in the kitchen.
11. Cabbage and Sausage Skillet

This cabbage and sausage skillet meal is a one-pan wonder that’s both hearty and economical.
The combination of savory sausage and tender cabbage is cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
You can use inexpensive kielbasa or any other budget-friendly sausage, and pair it with cabbage, which is a very affordable vegetable.
The dish comes together quickly with just a few seasonings like garlic, onion, and paprika, giving it a rich, savory flavor.
This meal is filling, comforting, and perfect for a cold winter evening when you want something simple and cheap.
12. Tomato and Mozzarella Frittata

This easy, budget-friendly tomato and mozzarella frittata is perfect for a quick winter dinner.
Made with eggs, fresh tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella cheese, this frittata is flavorful and satisfying.
The eggs are whisked together and poured over sautéed tomatoes, then baked until golden and puffy.
You can also add some herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor. Frittatas are great for using up leftovers, so feel free to throw in any vegetables or proteins you have on hand.
This dish is light yet filling, and it’s incredibly easy to make.
13. Baked Sweet Potato with Toppings

Baked sweet potatoes are an inexpensive, nutritious, and versatile dinner option for winter.
Simply bake the sweet potatoes until tender, then top them with your favorite toppings.
You can go savory with options like sour cream, shredded cheese, black beans, or sautéed spinach, or make it sweet with butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar.
This meal is as simple as it gets but still feels indulgent.
Plus, sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and fiber, making them a healthy and satisfying dinner choice.
14. Easy Baked Chicken Thighs with Vegetables

This easy baked chicken thighs with vegetables recipe is a no-fuss winter dinner that’s both affordable and delicious.
Chicken thighs are seasoned and baked in the oven alongside your choice of vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts.
The chicken comes out juicy and tender, and the vegetables get crispy and caramelized.
It’s a one-pan meal that requires minimal prep and is perfect for those nights when you want a comforting dinner without spending too much time or money.
You can also make this meal in bulk for leftovers.
15. Vegetable and Cheese Frittata

A vegetable and cheese frittata is a hearty and affordable meal perfect for winter.
With eggs, a variety of vegetables like spinach, onions, and bell peppers, and a generous amount of cheese, this dish is packed with flavor and protein.
You can easily use whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it an ideal meal to use up leftovers.
The frittata is baked until golden and can be served hot or cold, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner after a long day.
It’s an economical, healthy, and satisfying meal option for any night of the week.
16. Simple Veggie Fried Rice

This veggie fried rice is a perfect winter dinner for anyone looking for a quick and affordable meal.
It’s made with day-old rice, which makes it even easier to prepare.
Simply sauté a mix of your favorite vegetables (like carrots, peas, and onions) in a pan, then toss them with the rice and a bit of soy sauce.
The result is a flavorful and filling dish that you can serve as a main or a side. It’s customizable, so feel free to add any leftover protein, like chicken or tofu, to bulk it up.
With minimal ingredients, this fried rice is a great option for a cheap and satisfying winter meal.
17. Creamy Tomato Pasta

This creamy tomato pasta is an easy and budget-friendly winter dinner that combines pantry staples into a rich, comforting dish.
The sauce is made by simmering canned tomatoes with garlic, onions, and a splash of cream, creating a silky, velvety texture.
Toss this sauce with your favorite pasta, and you’ve got a quick, hearty meal that the whole family will love.
For extra flavor, you can add some fresh basil, parmesan, or even a handful of spinach for added nutrition. It’s simple, cheap, and always hits the spot.
18. Roasted Carrot and Ginger Soup

Warm up with this delicious roasted carrot and ginger soup, which is full of rich, sweet flavors and easy to make.
Roasting the carrots brings out their natural sweetness, and adding ginger gives the soup a zesty, aromatic kick.
Blended into a smooth consistency with vegetable stock, this soup is a nutritious and comforting meal perfect for winter.
You can add a splash of coconut milk or cream to make it extra creamy.
This soup is simple, cheap, and an excellent way to use up a bunch of carrots.
19. One-Pot Chili Mac

Chili mac is the perfect winter meal that combines two classics: chili and macaroni and cheese.
This hearty dish is made in one pot, saving you time on cleanup.
Start by making a simple chili with ground beef or beans, tomatoes, onions, and chili spices.
Once the chili is cooked, add in elbow macaroni and let it simmer until the pasta is tender and the flavors have melded together. Top with shredded cheese for a gooey, comforting finish.
It’s the ultimate cheap and filling dinner that the whole family can enjoy.
20. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a cozy and inexpensive winter dinner idea.
The peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of rice, ground meat (or beans for a vegetarian option), onions, garlic, and tomato sauce.
After baking, the peppers are tender and packed with flavor, making this dish both healthy and satisfying.
You can customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or spices, making it versatile and easy to adapt based on what you have on hand.
These peppers are not only cheap to make but also look impressive, making them perfect for family dinners.
21. Lentil and Spinach Curry

Lentil and spinach curry is a flavorful and hearty winter dinner that’s both nutritious and budget-friendly.
The lentils are simmered with onions, garlic, ginger, and a variety of warming spices like turmeric, cumin, and garam masala, creating a rich and aromatic base.
Add spinach for a burst of color and nutrition, and serve the curry over rice or with flatbread.
This dish is full of protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a healthy, filling, and cheap meal.
It’s easy to make in one pot, too, making cleanup a breeze.
22. Sweet Potato Hash

Sweet potato hash is a filling, cheap, and hearty dinner that’s perfect for a winter night.
This dish is made by sautéing cubed sweet potatoes with onions, garlic, and any other vegetables you have on hand, like bell peppers or spinach.
Top with fried or scrambled eggs for extra protein, and you’ve got a simple but satisfying meal.
You can season the hash with spices like paprika, cumin, or chili flakes to add a little heat, and it’s perfect for using up leftover veggies.
It’s quick, affordable, and offers a comforting flavor profile.
23. Bean and Cheese Burritos

Bean and cheese burritos are a classic winter meal that’s cheap, filling, and easy to make.
Simply warm up some refried beans, add a handful of shredded cheese, and roll them up in flour tortillas. You can add salsa, sour cream, or guacamole to top them off.
This meal is highly customizable—feel free to add in sautéed veggies, rice, or any leftover meat for more flavor and texture.
It’s a great option for those nights when you need a quick dinner that doesn’t break the bank.
24. Chicken and Vegetable Soup

Chicken and vegetable soup is a wholesome, budget-friendly dinner that warms you up on cold winter evenings.
Made with chicken thighs (which are cheaper than breasts), mixed vegetables, and a rich broth, this soup is packed with flavor and nutrients.
You can add whatever vegetables you have on hand, like carrots, celery, potatoes, or peas, and season the soup with herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra depth.
The soup is easy to prepare, can be made in large batches, and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
25. Easy Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a satisfying and cheap winter dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
This dish features breaded and baked eggplant slices layered with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, creating a comforting meal without the need for deep frying.
It’s a great way to enjoy a vegetarian meal while still feeling full, and you can serve it over pasta or with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
The best part? It’s easy to make in large quantities, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Conclusion
Winter doesn’t have to be a time for expensive grocery bills and complicated meals. With 25+ winter cheap dinner recipes, you can create nourishing and comforting dishes that satisfy both your appetite and your budget. These recipes offer a range of options, from plant-based meals to hearty meat dishes, and are all designed to be simple, affordable, and full of flavor. So, stock up on your pantry staples, embrace the cozy season, and get ready to enjoy home-cooked meals that keep both your stomach and your wallet happy.