10 Affordable Dinner Recipes Under 30 Minutes for Easy Meal Prep

Busy weeknights don’t have to mean settling for takeout. Here are 10 delicious dinner recipes that are quick to whip up and perfect for meal prep, letting you enjoy hearty, homemade meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Each recipe takes just 30 minutes, making them ideal for any schedule!

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

This creamy tomato basil soup is a warm hug in a bowl. It’s rich, comforting, and bursting with fresh flavors, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner. Not only does it taste delightful, but it’s also super easy to whip up, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time.

The smooth texture and vibrant color bring a cheerful touch to your table, while fresh basil adds a lovely aromatic note. This soup is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well and can even be frozen for future enjoyment!

Spicy Chickpea Stir-Fry

This Spicy Chickpea Stir-Fry is a quick and tasty meal that brings bold flavors to your dinner table without a fuss. The chickpeas are perfectly seasoned and, when combined with colorful veggies, create a satisfying dish that’s both healthy and filling.

Easy to whip up in just 30 minutes, this recipe is great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. With a hint of spice from your favorite seasoning and the crunch of fresh vegetables, this stir-fry is sure to become a go-to for busy nights.

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup spinach
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the pepper is tender.
3. Stir in the chickpeas, red pepper flakes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the spinach and let it wilt, about 2 minutes.
5. Finish off with a squeeze of lemon juice and serve hot, or let it cool for meal prep.

Black Bean Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These black bean tacos bring together a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making dinner both satisfying and fun. The black beans provide a hearty base, while the fresh avocado salsa adds a burst of freshness, perfect for taco night!

Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, taking just about 30 minutes. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick dinner, these tacos are sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 8 small corn tortillas
• 2 cans black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
2. Make the Salsa: In another bowl, mix diced avocado, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro. Season with salt and gently toss to combine.
3. Warm the Tortillas: Heat corn tortillas in a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side until warm and pliable.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Place a generous scoop of the black bean mixture on each tortilla. Top with the avocado salsa.
5. Serve: Enjoy your tacos immediately, garnished with extra cilantro if desired!

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that bursts with fresh flavors and is incredibly easy to whip up. With tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a zesty lemon-garlic sauce, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. The bright citrus notes from the lemon complement the shrimp beautifully, creating a dish that’s both light and satisfying.

This recipe can be on your table in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those who want a quick and delicious dinner. It’s not only simple to make but also packs a punch of flavor that will impress your family or guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, then add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
3. Add the Sauce: Stir in the red pepper flakes, chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let it simmer for 2 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Combine: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine, making sure the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken

One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken is a quick and satisfying dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce perfectly complements tender chicken pieces and vibrant broccoli, making it a hit for anyone who loves a good Asian-inspired meal.

This recipe is not just quick to make; it’s also easy to clean up since everything cooks in one pan. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish can be served over rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
2. Add minced garlic and ginger to the pan, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the broccoli florets and pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and broccoli. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the sauce is heated through.
4. Serve the teriyaki chicken over cooked rice for a complete meal. Enjoy!

Vegetable Quinoa Bowl

The Vegetable Quinoa Bowl is a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for any time of day. Packed with fresh veggies and wholesome quinoa, it’s a delightful mix of textures and flavors. You’ll enjoy the nutty taste of quinoa complemented by crispy cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy avocado. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up in just 30 minutes!

This bowl is not only affordable but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies and dressings, making it a great option for meal prep. It can be served warm or cold, so you can easily pack it for lunch or enjoy it at dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: In a pot, bring vegetable broth or water to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley. Slice the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh.
3. Mix Ingredients: Fluff the quinoa with a fork and transfer it to a large bowl. Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss everything gently to combine.
4. Serve: Top with sliced avocado and enjoy your Vegetable Quinoa Bowl warm or cold!

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Beef and broccoli stir-fry is a classic dish that packs a punch of flavor in every bite. The tender beef paired with crisp broccoli creates a delightful contrast, while a savory sauce brings everything together. This recipe is quick and simple, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions.

With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up a nourishing dinner in no time. Serve it over rice or noodles, and you’ve got a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef (such as flank steak), thinly sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine sliced beef, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Prepare the Stir-Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until browned.
3. Add the Vegetables: Toss in the broccoli, red bell pepper, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for an additional 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
4. Finish with Sauce: Pour in the oyster sauce and stir to combine. Cook for another minute or two to heat through.
5. Serve: Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice and enjoy your delicious meal!

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

The Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that’s easy to whip up in just 30 minutes. With its mix of tender chickpeas, juicy tomatoes, and creamy feta, it brings together a delightful combination of flavors. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.

Perfectly suited for those busy weeknights, this salad can be made ahead and enjoyed throughout the week. It’s satisfying and light, ideal for a quick lunch or dinner. Plus, the ingredients can be easily adjusted to your taste!

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, red onion, black olives, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your meal prep-friendly salad!

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Zucchini noodles with pesto are a fresh and light dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner. The combination of tender zucchini and vibrant pesto creates a satisfying meal that bursts with flavor. This recipe is not just easy to make; it’s also a great way to incorporate more veggies into your diet without sacrificing taste.

The nutty, herbaceous notes of the pesto complement the mild taste of the zucchini, making each bite delightful. You can easily whip this up in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Pair it with cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness!

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup nuts (pine nuts or almonds work well)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Instructions

1. Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine basil, nuts, Parmesan, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until finely chopped. Gradually add olive oil while blending until smooth.
2. Prepare the Zucchini Noodles: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add spiralized zucchini and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until slightly tender. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Combine: Remove the skillet from heat and toss the zucchini noodles with the pesto until evenly coated.
4. Serve: Plate the zucchini noodles and top with halved cherry tomatoes for garnish. Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!

Quick Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

This Quick Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a fantastic side dish that’s bursting with flavor. It’s simple to prepare and takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal. The tender cauliflower florets are tossed in olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese, resulting in a delicious dish that pairs well with almost any main course.

The combination of nutty parmesan and aromatic garlic elevates the natural sweetness of the cauliflower. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or even as a vegetarian option, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a great addition to your meal prep rotation!

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Toss until the cauliflower is well coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and golden brown.
5. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.