14 Cheap One-Bowl Meal Ideas

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Need a quick and budget-friendly meal? These 14 cheap one-bowl meal ideas are here to save the day!

Packed with flavor and easy to whip up, you can enjoy a delicious dish without spending much time or money.

Dive into these tasty recipes that require just one bowl for a perfect meal experience!

Cabbage and Sausage Stir-Fry

This cabbage and sausage stir-fry is a tasty, simple dish that brings together savory sausage and tender cabbage in a quick cooking process.

The flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.

Not only is this dish budget-friendly, but it also comes together in just one bowl. It’s a hassle-free option for busy evenings, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without a lot of fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 4 cups chopped cabbage
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the sliced onion and garlic to the skillet, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chopped cabbage, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cabbage is wilted and tender.
4. Garnish with green onions if desired, and serve hot.

Savory Chickpea and Spinach Stew

This chickpea and spinach stew is a comforting and nutritious one-bowl meal.

With a delightful blend of spices and fresh ingredients, it’s packed with flavor and offers a hearty experience that will satisfy your taste buds.

Plus, it’s super simple to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

The combination of chickpeas and spinach makes this stew filling and a great source of protein and vitamins.

The spices add warmth, making it a perfect dish for any season. You can whip this up in no time, making it a go-to recipe for those busy days!

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the canned tomatoes and chickpeas. Stir well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. In the last few minutes of cooking, add the fresh spinach and stir until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is a simple yet delicious one-bowl meal that bursts with flavor.

The creamy sauce combines rich tomatoes with fresh basil, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.

This recipe is easy to make and quick, taking around 30 minutes from start to finish.

Whether you’re feeding the family or enjoying a cozy night in, this pasta dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (any type)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and oregano. Let simmer for about 5 minutes.
4. Make it Creamy: Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Mix in fresh basil and top with grated Parmesan before serving.

Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery

Lentil soup is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any day of the week.

The blend of carrots and celery adds a fresh crunch and subtle sweetness to the hearty lentils, making it a satisfying meal.

It’s simple to whip up and can be made in one pot, which is a bonus for easy cleanup!

This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, while vegetables contribute essential vitamins.

You can easily adjust the seasoning and ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a versatile option for everyone.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
2. Add diced carrots and celery, sautéing for another 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the lentils, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Greek Yogurt and Berry Parfait

This Greek yogurt and berry parfait is a deliciously simple treat that combines creamy yogurt with fresh, vibrant berries and crunchy granola.

The blend of flavors makes it a perfect breakfast or snack, providing a refreshing burst of sweetness while remaining nutritious.

Making this parfait is incredibly easy and quick. Just layer your favorite berries, creamy Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of granola in a bowl or glass.

It’s not only visually appealing but also packed with protein and antioxidants. Enjoy it any time of the day!

Ingredients

• 2 cups Greek yogurt
• 1 cup strawberries, sliced
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1 cup raspberries
• 1/2 cup granola
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Instructions

1. Start by layering half of the Greek yogurt at the bottom of a glass or bowl.
2. Add half of the sliced strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries on top of the yogurt.
3. Sprinkle half of the granola over the berries.
4. Repeat the layers with the remaining yogurt, berries, and granola.
5. If desired, drizzle honey on top for added sweetness before serving.

Spicy Black Bean and Quinoa Bowl

The Spicy Black Bean and Quinoa Bowl is a nutritious and satisfying meal packed with flavor.

This dish combines hearty black beans with protein-rich quinoa, perfectly balancing textures and tastes. A hint of spice elevates the flavor profile, making each bite exciting.

Not only is this bowl simple to make, but it also requires minimal clean-up, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

It’s a versatile recipe, too—feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for an extra zing!

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: Combine quinoa and vegetable broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy.
2. Prepare the Bean Mixture: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Combine: Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the bean mixture. Stir well to combine and heat through.
4. Serve: Spoon the mixture into bowls and top with avocado slices and fresh cilantro. Enjoy!

Mushroom and Pea Risotto

Mushroom and pea risotto is a creamy, comforting dish that’s packed with flavor.

The earthy notes of mushrooms blend perfectly with the sweetness of peas, creating a delightful harmony in every bite.

This recipe is simple to make and only requires one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as an impressive option for entertaining.

The creamy texture combined with a sprinkle of cheese on top elevates the risotto to a whole new level. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms soften.
3. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
4. Gradually add the vegetable broth, stirring frequently, one ladle at a time. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more broth.
5. After 15-20 minutes, when the rice is creamy and al dente, stir in the frozen peas and cook for 5 minutes.
6. Remove from heat, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Vegetable Fried Rice with Soy Sauce

Vegetable fried rice is a delightful and versatile dish that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying.

This one-bowl meal is perfect for any occasion with its savory taste and colorful vegetables.

It’s quick to whip up and a fantastic way to use leftover rice and veggies you might have on hand.

The crisp vegetables and fragrant soy sauce mix provide a comforting flavor profile that appeals to everyone.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe delivers a hearty serving of goodness without breaking the bank!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking apart any clumps. Pour in the soy sauce and mix well until the rice is evenly coated.
4. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until everything is heated through.
5. Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper, and toss in the chopped green onions before serving.

Tuna and Chickpea Salad

This Tuna and Chickpea Salad is a delicious and satisfying one-bowl meal that combines the hearty flavors of tuna with the nutritious goodness of chickpeas.

It’s a simple and quick recipe, perfect for busy days when you still want to enjoy a healthy dish.

The mixture of fresh herbs and a splash of lemon adds a bright, zesty finish that makes each bite refreshing.

Not only is this salad easy to whip up, but it’s also budget-friendly. Packed with protein and fiber, it will keep you full and energized.

Whether you’re having it for lunch or a light dinner, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Ingredients

• 1 can of tuna, drained
• 1 can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 red onion, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna and chickpeas.
2. Add the diced red bell pepper, chopped onion, and parsley to the bowl.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Toss everything together until well mixed and serve immediately or chill for a bit for enhanced flavors.

Coconut Curry Lentils

Coconut Curry Lentils are a warm and comforting dish that packs a punch of flavor without breaking the bank.

The creamy coconut milk melds beautifully with the spices, creating a rich, hearty and satisfying curry.

Perfect for any night of the week, this recipe is simple, requires minimal prep, and can be made in just one pot!

This dish has a lovely balance of sweetness from the coconut milk and earthiness from the lentils, making it a delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Serve it over a bed of rice or with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a filling and nutritious meal ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and coconut milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
4. Cover and cook for about 25-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth if needed.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Sweet Corn and Zucchini Fritters

Sweet corn and zucchini fritters are a delightful and simple dish that brings together fresh flavors in a light and crispy package.

These fritters are perfect for any meal of the day, providing a wonderful balance of sweetness from the corn and a subtle earthiness from the zucchini.

They have a crispy exterior with a tender interior, making them incredibly satisfying and easy to enjoy.

Making these fritters is a breeze, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal effort.

They can be whipped up in no time, making them a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.

Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and you have a deliciously fun dish that the whole family will love!

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh corn kernels (or canned corn, drained)
• 1 medium zucchini, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornmeal
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup grated cheese (cheddar or parmesan)
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking oil for frying

Instructions

1. Mix the corn, grated zucchini, flour, cornmeal, egg, cheese, baking powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until well combined.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of cooking oil.
3. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the skillet, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
4. Remove fritters from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

One-Pot Vegetable Chili

One-Pot Vegetable Chili is a warm and hearty dish that brings together a medley of flavors in a simple and convenient way.

Packed with protein-rich beans, colorful vegetables, and zesty spices, it’s a great option for a filling meal that doesn’t break the bank.

The taste is a delightful combination of savory and slightly spicy, making it a perfect comfort food for any day of the week.

This recipe is easy to prepare and allows for flexibility in ingredients based on what you have on hand.

You can customize it with your favorite veggies or beans, and it cooks in one pot, saving you time on cleanup.

It’s a perfect dish for meal prep, serving as leftovers that taste even better the next day!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bell peppers, chopped
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Optional: sour cream or avocado for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
2. Add bell peppers, carrot, and zucchini. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and the flavors meld together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream or avocado if desired.

Asian Noodle Salad with Peanut Dressing

This Asian Noodle Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will brighten up any meal.

It combines tender noodles, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy peanut dressing that ties everything together beautifully.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad is simple to make and packed with nutrients.

The crunch of fresh veggies, the richness of the peanut dressing, and the satisfying noodles create a symphony of tastes.

This dish is delicious and budget-friendly, making it perfect for any weeknight meal.

Ingredients

• 8 oz rice noodles or spaghetti
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cucumber, julienned
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1-2 teaspoons chili paste (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles: Boil the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, and chili paste until smooth.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled noodles, shredded carrots, bell peppers, cucumber, green onions, and cilantro.
4. Add Dressing: Pour the peanut dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Serve: Top with chopped peanuts for crunch, and enjoy your tasty Asian Noodle Salad!

Baked Sweet Potato with Black Beans

Baked sweet potatoes are not just comforting; they pack a great punch of flavor and nutrition.

The sweetness of the potato pairs perfectly with the hearty black beans, creating a filling meal that’s simple to whip up.

Topped with fresh ingredients like avocado or cilantro, this dish becomes a vibrant and satisfying option for any time of day.

This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights or when you just want something quick and easy.

Just pop the sweet potatoes in the oven, and while they bake, you can prepare the toppings. It’s a one-bowl wonder that’s both delicious and budget-friendly.

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the sweet potatoes and pierce them a few times with a fork.
2. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes until tender.
3. While the sweet potatoes are baking, prepare the toppings. Combine the black beans with lime juice in a bowl and season with salt and pepper.
4. Once the sweet potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Cut each potato open and fluff the insides with a fork.
5. Top each sweet potato with black beans, avocado slices, and chopped cilantro. Enjoy your delicious one-bowl meal!