Food prices have risen significantly in recent years. That makes cooking cheaply in everyday life all the more important—without sacrificing flavor or a balanced diet. The good news: with the right ingredients and a bit of planning, you can still prepare many great dishes for under €5 per portion.
In this article you'll find 20 budget-friendly recipes that are filling, easy to make, and perfect for families, singles, or students.
Why cooking on a budget doesn't mean giving up
Cooking cheaply doesn't automatically mean eating boring food. Many inexpensive staple ingredients are both healthy and versatile.
These include:
- Potatoes
- Rice
- Pasta
- Lentils
- Beans
- Oats
- seasonal vegetables
- Eggs
- Frozen vegetables
These ingredients can be turned into varied dishes for every day.
Tips for budget cooking
Before we get to the recipe ideas, these money-saving tips will help:
- Buy seasonal vegetables
- Use special offers
- AI-generated symbolic image: Apricots, storage jar, and freezer boxes on a kitchen countertop.
- Cook larger quantities in advance (meal prep)
- Use frozen vegetables
- Use leftovers creatively
- Include legumes on the menu more often
This can significantly reduce the cost per portion.
20 budget-friendly recipes under €5
1. Potato and vegetable skillet
Fry potatoes, carrots, zucchini, and onions in a pan and finish with fresh herbs.
Price per portion: approx. €2.50
2. Lentil curry with rice
Red lentils, coconut milk, tomatoes, and curry make a creamy, filling dish.
Price per portion: approx. €3.50
3. Spaghetti with tomato sauce
A classic that becomes especially flavorful with fresh herbs and Parmesan.
Price per portion: approx. €2.00
4. Vegetable soup
A healthy soup made with potatoes, carrots, leeks, and celery for little money.
Price per portion: approx. €2.50
5. Fried rice with vegetables
Perfect for using up leftovers.
Price per portion: approx. €3.00
6. Baked potatoes with herbed quark
A quick and inexpensive dish.
Price per portion: approx. €3.50
7. Chili sin Carne
With beans, corn, and tomatoes this dish becomes especially filling.
Price per portion: approx. €3.00
8. Egg omelette with vegetables
Ideal for a quick lunch or dinner.
Price per portion: approx. €2.80
9. Pasta casserole
Baked with cheese and seasonal vegetables. Ideal when you have leftover pasta.
Price per portion: approx. €4.00
10. Couscous vegetable salad
Perfect for taking along or for the office.
Price per portion: approx. €3.50
11. Potato pancakes with applesauce
An inexpensive classic that adults and kids both enjoy.
Price per portion: approx. €2.50
12. Käsespätzle
With fried onions, a real comfort food.
Price per portion: approx. €4.50
13. Baked cauliflower
Serve with a yogurt-herb dip.
Price per portion: approx. €3.50
14. Wraps with beans and vegetables
Quick to prepare and versatile in fillings.
Price per portion: approx. €4.00
15. Millet pan with vegetables
A healthy alternative to rice.
Price per portion: approx. €3.80
16. Vegetable lasagna
With zucchini, carrots, and tomato sauce.
Price per portion: approx. €4.80
17. Gnocchi with spinach
Ready in just a few minutes.
Price per portion: approx. €4.00
18. Bean stew
Hearty, cheap, and perfect for cold days.
Price per portion: approx. €3.00
19. Shakshuka
Eggs in a spicy tomato sauce—simple and tasty.
Price per portion: approx. €4.50
20. Oatmeal banana pancakes
A treat not only for breakfast.
Price per portion: approx. €2.50
Budget shopping — how to save even more
With good shopping planning you can save even more:
- Create a weekly plan
- Write a shopping list
- Choose store brands
- Store food properly
- If you're single, share large packs with family or friends
Those who shop spontaneously often spend more money.
Frequently asked questions about budget cooking
Can you cook healthily for under €5 per portion?
Yes. With legumes, potatoes, rice, vegetables, and eggs you can prepare balanced meals cheaply.
Which foods are particularly inexpensive?
Potatoes, oats, pasta, rice, lentils, beans, and seasonal vegetables are among the cheapest staple ingredients.
Is meal prep worth it?
Yes. Cooking larger quantities in advance saves time, money, and prevents food waste.
Conclusion
Cooking on a budget doesn't have to mean giving up enjoyment. With the right ingredients and some planning, you can prepare varied dishes for under €5 per portion. Whether vegetarian, with meat, or vegan — affordable recipes can be healthy, very tasty, and practical for everyday life.
Buying seasonally, using leftovers, and using simple staple ingredients not only protect your wallet but also the environment.
Photo by Sabine, meinhaushalt.at
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