20 Cheap Meals for the Family: Budget-Friendly Dinners Everyone Will Love

Ever feel like feeding everyone is starting to cost as much as a weekend away, even when you’re just hunting for genuinely tasty, cheap meals for family? Between work, school runs, and endless after-school activities, finding options that don't compromise on flavour, nutrition, or your sanity can feel impossible. This blog rounds up 20 chef-crafted, nutritionist-approved meals designed to help you save money, cut stress, and still serve dinners you feel proud of. Ready to make family mealtimes easier, healthier, and lighter on your wallet? Let's dive in.

Why These Cheap Meals for Family Work

Before we dive into the delicious details, let's talk about why these meals make sense for budget-conscious families. According to recent Australian data, families spend an average of $242 per week on groceries, with a surprising amount going towards takeaway when dinner plans fall through.

The hidden costs of family meals go beyond just ingredients. You're also paying in time (10+ hours weekly for planning, shopping, and cooking), energy, and the inevitable food waste from unused ingredients. Having strategic, affordable options prevents those expensive "emergency takeaway" nights that blow your weekly budget.

The 20 Cheap Meals for Family That Deliver

These 20 meals offer the perfect balance: economical, nutritious, and genuinely tasty enough that even your fussiest eater will eat them.

Our Spaghetti Bolognese is the ultimate family favourite for good reason. It uses quality grass-fed beef mince, simmered with tomatoes, vegetables, and Italian herbs. It's proper comfort food that delivers a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. Pair it with a simple side salad, and you've ticked every nutritional box without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why it's budget-smart: Pasta-based meals offer excellent value per serve, and this one stretches quality ingredients across a satisfying portion.

2. Beef Bolognese Gnocchi

Our Beef Bolognese Gnocchi is like spaghetti bolognese's more sophisticated cousin. Soft, pillowy gnocchi is tossed through our rich, veggie-packed signature beef bolognese sauce. The gnocchi delivers that satisfying potato-based carbohydrate everyone loves, while the bolognese brings plenty of protein and hidden vegetables that even kids who "hate veggies" will happily eat.

Why it's budget-smart: Gnocchi is incredibly filling, meaning smaller portions satisfy bigger appetites, stretching your dollar further.

3. Home Cooked Mac n Cheese with Grilled Chicken & Greens

Our Home Cooked Mac n Cheese with Grilled Chicken & Greens combines creamy, cheesy gluten-free pasta made with real cheddar and parmesan, tender grilled chicken breast, and a side of vibrant greens. It's the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table happy; kids love the familiar comfort, while parents appreciate the balanced nutrition and quality protein.

Why it's budget-smart: Chicken breast provides lean protein without the premium price tag of other proteins, and the meal delivers complete nutrition in one convenient package.

4. Chicken Singapore Noodles

Our Chicken Singapore Noodles dish is a rainbow of crisp vegetables tossed with tender free-range chicken and rice noodles. It's big on flavour, naturally gluten-free, and full of colour, making it visually appealing to fussy eaters. The mild Asian-inspired seasonings introduce variety without being too adventurous for cautious palates.

Why it's budget-smart: Rice noodles are economical, and the meal packs in vegetables that would cost more if purchased and prepared separately.

5. Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice

Our Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice gives you restaurant-quality flavour without the restaurant prices. Tender chicken pieces are simmered in a rich, mildly spiced tomato-based sauce and served over fluffy basmati rice. The gentle spice level keeps it family-friendly, while the protein and wholegrains deliver sustained energy for the whole crew.

Why it's budget-smart: One dish delivers protein, carbohydrates, and the satisfaction factor that prevents expensive takeaway cravings.

6. Curried Sausage with White Potato Mash

Our Curried Sausage with White Potato Mash is a nostalgic, family-friendly classic. Tender sausages are cooked in a mild curry-style sauce with peas and carrots, then served over creamy white potato mash for the ultimate comfort bowl. It’s familiar enough for fussy eaters, but the gentle curry flavour keeps it interesting for adults too, making it a great all-rounder for busy weeknights.

Why it's budget-smart: Sausages are one of the most economical proteins, and pairing them with mash made from everyday pantry staples like potatoes and butter keeps costs down while still feeling like a hearty, “proper” dinner.

7. Portuguese Chicken

Tender strips of RSPCA-approved chicken are coated in an aromatic Portuguese spice mix, then served with creamy cauliflower mash and a side of broccoli. Comforting and nourishing, this Portuguese chicken is high-protein and low-carb, suitable for keto and paleo, 100% gluten-free and nut-free, low-sodium, and made without onion, garlic, soy, egg, or sesame.

Why it's budget-smart: Proper seasoning elevates affordable chicken into a dish that feels premium without the premium cost.

8. Korean Sesame Chicken

Our Korean Sesame Chicken features tender chicken with sesame, ginger, and garlic in a sauce that's slightly sweet, slightly savoury, and completely moreish. Served with vegetables and rice, it introduces international flavours in an approachable way that gets kids excited about trying new things.

Why it's budget-smart: The bold flavours mean you need less meat to create a satisfying meal, stretching your protein further.

9. Honey Mustard Chicken

Our Honey Mustard Chicken is all about creamy, tangy comfort with a healthy twist. Tender RSPCA-approved chicken thigh is coated in a velvety honey mustard sauce and served with a generous side of mixed greens and vegetables, so you're getting flavour and freshness in every bite. It's the kind of meal that feels like a treat but still ticks the nutrition boxes for busy families.

Why it's budget-smart: Everything is in one tray, with protein, veg, and sauce together, so you're not buying extra sides or specialty ingredients to round out the meal.

10. Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Garlic Butter Greens 

Our Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Garlic Butter Greens feels like something you’d order at a restaurant, without the bill to match. Juicy chicken breast is cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with sun-dried tomato and Italian herbs, then paired with garlicky greens like beans, broccoli, and spinach. It’s indulgent, high-protein comfort food that still sneaks in multiple veggie serves in every portion.

Why it's budget-smart: The sauce and vegetables help stretch the chicken further, so you get a satisfying, high-protein meal without needing a huge portion of meat.

11. Satay Chicken with Basmati Rice

Our Satay Chicken with Basmati Rice brings all the best parts of Thai-inspired takeaway into a balanced, family-friendly meal. Tender chicken breast is simmered in a creamy peanut and coconut satay sauce with capsicum, then served over fluffy basmati rice. It’s mildly spiced, rich in flavour, and high in protein, making it a favourite with both adults and adventurous kids.

Why it's budget-smart: Rice is one of the most economical ways to bulk out a meal, and the satay sauce stretches a modest amount of chicken into a filling, takeaway-style dinner at a fraction of the cost.

12. Pulled Pork with Potato Salad

Our Pulled Pork with Potato Salad is a hearty, homestyle favourite that still feels a little bit special. Tender, slow-cooked pulled pork is served with a creamy potato salad and bursts of sweet corn, all tossed in a zesty blend of sour cream, lemon and parsley. It’s a satisfying balance of protein, carbohydrates and vegetables in one comforting bowl, with familiar flavours that even fussy eaters happily tuck into.

Why it's budget-smart: Pork is a great value protein, and pairing it with potatoes and corn makes for a filling meal at a low cost per serve. Pre-portioned and ready to heat, it prevents buying excess ingredients that go to waste.

13. Beef Massaman

Our Beef Massaman is a Thai-inspired curry with tender beef, potatoes, and a creamy, mildly spiced sauce with hints of peanut and aromatic spices. It's exotic enough to feel special but gentle enough for family dinners, and the potatoes keep it filling and familiar for everyone at the table.

Why it's budget-smart: Curry-style meals stretch meat beautifully with vegetables and sauce, delivering maximum flavour from minimal protein.

14. Pumpkin Risotto

Our Pumpkin Risotto is a meat-free option that still feels decadent and deeply satisfying. It’s made with Japanese pumpkin, brown rice, cashew and coconut cream, gently cooked with herbs and spices for a smooth, velvety texture. Packed with veggies and fibre, it’s a cosy bowl of comfort that suits nights when you want something lighter than a roast but just as comforting.

Why it's budget-smart: Pumpkin and rice are some of the most affordable, filling ingredients you can buy, so choosing a veggie-focused meal like this helps reduce overall weekly spend while still delivering great nutrition.

15. Savoury Mince with Baba Ganoush

Our Savoury Mince with Baba Ganoush combines quality grass-fed mince seasoned to perfection with creamy baba ganoush (roasted eggplant dip) and a generous serving of vegetables. It's a Middle Eastern-inspired combination that introduces interesting flavours while still feeling accessible for the whole family. The baba ganoush adds a luxurious creaminess and a boost of hidden vegetables in every bite.

Why it's budget-smart: Mince is one of the most economical proteins, and this preparation transforms it into something that feels special.

16. Lasagne with Beef & Pumpkin

Our Lasagne with Beef & Pumpkin layers pasta with seasoned beef and butternut pumpkin in a rich tomato-based sauce. It's hearty comfort food that even dedicated meat-lovers and veggie-sceptics can agree on. The pumpkin adds natural sweetness and gorgeous colour, while delivering excellent nutrition in every slice.

Why it's budget-smart: Pumpkin is incredibly economical and filling, while the layered format makes a little go a long way.

17. Chicken Pesto Penne

Our Chicken Pesto Penne combines tender chicken with vibrant basil pesto tossed through perfectly cooked penne pasta. The pesto brings fresh, herby flavour that livens up simple ingredients, while the chicken adds satisfying protein, so you get quick midweek comfort that doesn't feel rushed.

Why it's budget-smart: Pesto delivers maximum flavour with minimal ingredients, and pasta-based meals offer excellent value per portion.

18. Beef Fajitas with Basmati Rice

Our Beef Fajitas bring a little fiesta to the family table. Tender strips of grass-fed beef are cooked with capsicum and onion, then served over basmati rice with a bright blend of citrus and Mexican-inspired spices. It's big on flavour, naturally gluten-free, and feels fun and different without being too adventurous for cautious eaters.

Why it's budget-smart: The combination of rice, vegetables, and punchy seasoning stretches a modest amount of beef into a satisfying, family-sized meal.

19. De-Constructed Shepherd's Pie

Our De-Constructed Shepherd's Pie takes a classic family favourite and gives it a wholesome, modern twist. You get rich, savoury lamb mince paired with sweet potato, peas, carrot, and mushroom for a cosy, all-in-one dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. It's hearty, comforting, and packed with vegetables in a way that still feels familiar and approachable for kids.

Why it's budget-smart: Using lamb mince instead of premium cuts delivers all the flavour at a lower price point, while the veg and sweet potato add affordable bulk and nutrition.

20. Lemon Pepper Chicken

Our Lemon Pepper Chicken combines succulent chicken breast with a creamy lemon pepper sauce, served over fluffy sweet potato mash and crisp green beans. It’s light, bright, and perfect for nights when you want something that feels fresh and nourishing without being heavy. The zesty sauce keeps it interesting, while the mash and greens make it a complete, balanced plate.

Why it's budget-smart: Everyday ingredients like chicken breast, green beans, and sweet potato keep costs down, but smart seasoning makes it taste like a restaurant-style dish.

How These Meals Save More Than Just Money

Beyond the obvious dollar savings, these cheap meals for family deliver value in ways that don't appear on the receipt:

• Time Savings: No meal planning, no shopping, no chopping, no cooking, no cleaning. Research indicates that families spend 10+ hours per week on meal-related tasks. Reclaiming even a portion of that time means more family moments, more work flexibility, or simply more rest.
• Reduced Food Waste: You know what you're getting, use precisely what you need, and nothing goes to waste in the crisper drawer. Australian households waste $2,500 worth of food annually; strategic meal choices prevent that waste.
• Nutritional Consistency: Every meal is dietitian-designed to include the five food groups recommended by Australian Dietary Guidelines. You're not guessing whether dinner covers everyone's nutritional needs; you know it does.
• Prevention of Expensive Alternatives: When you've got meals sorted, you're not grabbing $40 worth of takeaway because there's "nothing for dinner." You're preventing the expensive panic decisions that blow weekly budgets.
• Meal Variety Without Waste: Trying new recipes at home often means buying specialty ingredients that get used once and then languish in the pantry. These meals let you enjoy variety without the ingredient investment.

Making It Work for Your Family Budget

Here's the practical reality: financial experts recommend cooking from scratch 80% of the time while allowing 20% for convenient options. This balance maintains sanity while managing costs.

For most families, that might mean:

• Weekday convenience: Having ready-made meals for the busiest nights prevents expensive takeaway while ensuring proper nutrition
• Weekend cooking: Spending time on Saturday to cook something special or batch-prepare simple meals
• Strategic mixing: Combining home-cooked favourites with convenient backup options for flexibility

The cost comparison is worth considering: a nutritious, ready-made meal for $10-12 per person beats a $30-40 takeaway order while delivering significantly better nutrition. You're not comparing apples to apples when evaluating costs; you're comparing proper meals to emergency solutions.

Smart Strategies for Maximum Value

Mix and Match Meal Sizes

Our meals come in three sizes: Regular (220g-320g), Large (320-420g), and Extra Large (420-540g). Matching portion sizes to actual appetites prevents both waste and the need for extra food. Growing teenagers might need Large servings, while younger children do perfectly well with Standard.

Strategic Weekly Orders

Ordering in sensible quantities helps you control costs and avoid expensive midweek “top-up” shops or last-minute takeaway. With meals starting at $13.75 for Regular, $14.99 for Large and $16.80 for Extra Large, planning your week up front means you’re investing in dinners you’ll actually use, instead of spending extra on impulse buys and emergency solutions.

Rotate Your Favourites

With 20 meals rotating weekly from a menu of over 60 dishes, you can establish family favourites while still enjoying variety. This prevents boredom without the cost of constantly trying entirely new things.

Combine with Simple Sides

Most meals are complete as-is, but adding a simple side salad or extra steamed vegetables stretches the meal further for larger families without significantly increasing costs.

What Makes These Different from Other "Budget" Options

Let's be honest, there are plenty of cheap meal options out there. What separates these from the rest?

• Quality Ingredients: We use 100% grass-fed and RSPCA-approved meats, fresh vegetables, and absolutely no preservatives or fillers. Cheap doesn't mean compromised.
• Gluten-Free Across the Board: Every single meal is 100% gluten-free, which typically commands a premium elsewhere. Here, it's standard.
• Dietitian-Approved: Each meal is designed by accredited dietitians to deliver balanced nutrition, not just fill stomachs cheaply.
• Fresh, Not Frozen: Meals arrive fresh and last 7 days in your fridge, or up to three months frozen if you prefer. You control the timeline.
• No Hidden Costs: No membership fees, no contracts, no sneaky charges. The price you see is the price you pay (plus delivery).
• Actually Tastes Good: Budget food shouldn't taste like budget food. These meals earn repeat orders because people genuinely enjoy eating them.

Dietary Flexibility Without Extra Cost

Unlike many meal services where dietary accommodations cost extra, these cheap meals for family include options for:

• Dairy-free meals for lactose intolerance or dairy sensitivities
• Nut-free options for allergy safety
• Low-carb and keto-friendly meals for specific nutrition goals
• Paleo-friendly options focusing on whole foods
• High-protein meals for active families or those building muscle
• Diabetic-friendly options with balanced blood sugar management

All of these come at the standard price, no premium for dietary requirements.

Planning Your Week of Cheap Meals for Family

Here's a practical framework using these 20 meals:

• Monday (busy night): Chicken Singapore Noodles, quick to heat, universally liked, and offering balanced nutrition.
• Tuesday (moderate pace): Beef Bolognese Gnocchi, a comforting classic that satisfies everyone.
• Wednesday (midweek slump): Home Cooked Mac n Cheese with Grilled Chicken & Greens, the ultimate comfort food.
• Thursday (running late): Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice, exotic enough to feel special on a weeknight.
• Friday (celebrating the week's end): Portuguese Chicken, flavourful and perfect for a celebratory feel.
• Saturday (family night): Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Garlic Butter Greens, a restaurant-quality meal for family dinner.
• Sunday (easy evening): Pumpkin Risotto, a cosy meat-free option that still feels comforting and satisfying.

This rotation provides variety, balanced nutrition, and zero stress about what's for dinner. Adjust based on your family's preferences and schedules.

The Real Cost-Benefit Analysis

When evaluating cheap meals for the family, consider total cost, not just ingredient cost:

• Traditional home cooking: $8-10 per meal in ingredients + 1 hour shopping + 45 minutes cooking + 20 minutes cleanup = significant time investment
• Takeaway: $30-40 per meal + 20 minutes ordering/collection + often nutritionally compromised
• These ready-made meals: Typically $13.75–$16.80 per meal depending on size + 5 minutes heating + minimal cleanup + guaranteed balanced nutrition + reliable quality

The convenience factor isn't lazy, it's strategic. Studies show that time saved on meal preparation can be redirected towards income-generating activities, family time, exercise, or rest. Sometimes, the most economical choice is the one that gives you your time back.

Getting Started with Budget-Friendly Family Meals

Ready to simplify your dinner routine without blowing your budget? Here's how to make it work:

1. Start with one week: Order 5-7 meals to cover your busiest nights
2. Identify your family favourites: Note which meals get cleaned plates and requests for seconds
3. Build your rotation: Establish a core group of reliable favourites with rotating variety
4. Mix strategies: Combine these convenient options with your own cooking on days when you have more time
5. Track your savings: Notice how much you're not spending on emergency takeaway and wasted ingredients

The beauty of this approach is flexibility. There's no all-or-nothing requirement. Use these cheap meals for family when they make sense, cook from scratch when it suits you, and eliminate the guilt around feeding your family well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are ready-made meals really cost-effective for families?

Yes, when you calculate the total cost rather than just the ingredient cost. Meal planning and strategic use of ready-made options can cut grocery bills by up to 40% by preventing food waste, eliminating impulse purchases, and avoiding expensive emergency takeaway. Even though a Nourish’d meal costs more than basic ingredients alone, it will usually compare very favourably to many takeaway orders once you factor in portion control, superior nutrition, reduced food waste and the time you get back.

Are these meals suitable for children?

Absolutely. These cheap family meals are designed for diverse palates, including children. Meals like Home Cooked Mac n Cheese with Grilled Chicken & Greens, Spaghetti Bolognese, and De-Constructed Shepherd's Pie are particular favourites with younger eaters, while the balanced nutrition supports growing bodies.

Are there cheaper meal delivery options available?

Price varies across meal delivery services, but cheaper often means compromised ingredients, frozen rather than fresh meals, or added preservatives and fillers. These meals use 100% grass-fed and RSPCA-approved meats, fresh local produce, and contain absolutely no preservatives, a quality that typically commands premium prices elsewhere. When comparing costs, consider total value rather than just the price tag.

Can I customise meals for picky eaters?

While meals cannot be modified (to maintain safety and quality standards), the wide variety means you can select options that match your family's preferences. With 20 meals rotating weekly from a menu of 60+ dishes, even the fussiest eaters typically find multiple options they enjoy.

Can these meals accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes. Every meal is 100% gluten-free as standard. The menu includes clearly labelled dairy-free, nut-free, low-carb, keto-friendly, paleo-friendly, high-protein, and diabetic-friendly options at no additional cost. This means families with dietary restrictions don't pay premiums for suitable meals.

Do I need a subscription or contract?

No. Nourish'd operates without contracts or mandatory subscriptions. Order when you need meals, skip weeks when you don't, and adjust quantities based on your schedule. There are no hidden fees, membership charges, or cancellation penalties.

How does this compare to grocery shopping and cooking from scratch?

Both approaches have merit, and many families benefit from combining them. Cooking from scratch 80% of the time while using convenient options 20% of the time creates an optimal balance. These meals excel as backup options for busy nights, preventing expensive takeaway while ensuring proper nutrition even during hectic weeks.

How do I know these meals are actually nutritious?

Every meal is designed by accredited dietitians to align with Australian Dietary Guidelines, ensuring balanced nutrition across all five food groups. Detailed nutritional information, including protein, carbohydrates, fats, and calories, is clearly labelled on each meal. The 100% gluten-free, preservative-free menu means you're getting real food without hidden nasties.

How long do these meals last?

All Nourish'd meals arrive fresh and last 4–7 days in your refrigerator, depending on the meal. If you prefer, you can freeze them for up to three months, giving you ultimate flexibility. This longevity means you can order strategically when prices align with your budget, without worrying about immediate consumption.

What if my family doesn't like a meal?

With 20 meals rotating weekly, variety is built in. Most families quickly identify 5-10 favourites they rotate regularly while occasionally trying new options. The diverse menu from familiar classics to international flavours means there's genuinely something for every palate. Customer reviews consistently mention having multiple favourites, including Pumpkin Lasagna and Korean Sesame Chicken.

What's the minimum order, and what does delivery cost?

Minimum order is five meals weekly. Delivery is free for orders over $136, making it economical when ordering for the full week. Delivery covers most major cities and towns across Australia's East Coast, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Canberra.

Real Food That Respects Your Budget

Creating cheap meals for your family isn’t about chasing rock-bottom prices; it’s about choosing dinners that respect your budget, your time, and your health. These 20 Nourish'd options are economically priced, dietitian-designed, and convenient enough to replace last-minute takeaway with something you actually feel good serving. With the flexibility to order what you need, when you need it, you stay in control while still giving your family real food that tastes great. When you're ready to reclaim your evenings and your grocery bill, explore the Nourish'd menu and build your own week of budget-friendly family dinners.