50 Budget-Friendly Vegetarian Recipes

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Eating vegetarian doesn’t mean breaking the bank. In fact, many plant-based ingredients such as beans, grains, and vegetables are incredibly affordable, making it easy to create delicious, satisfying meals on a budget.

Whether you're new to vegetarianism or simply looking for cheap, wholesome meal ideas, this list offers a variety of recipes that are quick, nutritious, and wallet-friendly.

From comforting soups to creative takes on classics, these 50 budget-friendly vegetarian recipes will inspire your next meal without costing a fortune.

1. Vegetarian Chili

This hearty vegetarian chili is packed with flavor, thanks to a mix of beans, tomatoes, bell peppers, and a blend of chili spices. It’s an easy, one-pot dish that’s perfect for meal prep and freezes well, giving you several meals from one batch. Plus, the ingredients are inexpensive and widely available, making it a go-to budget-friendly recipe.

2. Lentil Soup

This lentil soup is rich, filling, and incredibly easy to prepare. Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, and they cook quickly without needing to be soaked. Combined with vegetables like carrots, celery, and tomatoes, this soup is a nutritious and affordable meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

3. Chickpea Curry

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are the star of this simple yet flavorful curry. Cooked in a rich coconut milk sauce with tomatoes, garlic, and curry spices, this dish is both filling and budget-friendly. Serve it over rice or with naan for a complete meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

4. Vegetable Stir-Fry

Stir-fries are a quick and easy way to use up any vegetables you have on hand. This simple vegetable stir-fry combines broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and onions in a savory soy sauce with garlic and ginger. Serve it over rice or noodles for a healthy, low-cost meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers are stuffed with a mixture of rice, beans, and vegetables, then baked until tender. This dish is filling and nutritious, using affordable pantry staples like beans and rice. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have in your kitchen, making it a versatile option for any budget.

6. Black Bean Tacos

These black bean tacos are simple yet packed with flavor. Black beans are seasoned with cumin, garlic, and chili powder, then stuffed into soft tortillas and topped with salsa, avocado, and lettuce. They’re a quick and affordable way to enjoy a satisfying vegetarian meal without a lot of prep work.

7. Spinach and Feta Quesadillas

A classic combination of spinach and feta cheese makes these quesadillas a delicious and nutritious meal. The tortillas are filled with the spinach mixture, then toasted until golden and crispy. They’re quick to prepare, affordable, and perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

8. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burritos

Roasted sweet potatoes and black beans come together in these flavorful, filling burritos. The sweetness of the potatoes complements the hearty beans, creating a delicious balance of flavors. These burritos are affordable, easy to make, and great for meal prep—just freeze the extras for a quick meal later.

9. Mushroom Risotto

This creamy mushroom risotto is an elegant dish that doesn’t break the bank. Arborio rice is cooked slowly with broth and mushrooms, resulting in a rich and comforting meal. While risotto may seem fancy, it’s easy to make at home with affordable ingredients like rice, mushrooms, and a bit of cheese.

10. Vegetable Frittata

A vegetable frittata is a versatile and budget-friendly dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Eggs are beaten and mixed with leftover or fresh vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, and bell peppers, then baked until set. This protein-packed meal is quick to prepare and makes great leftovers.

11. Zucchini Fritters

Shredded zucchini is mixed with flour, eggs, and seasonings to create crispy, golden fritters. These are easy to make, affordable, and perfect as a side dish or light meal. Serve them with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream for added flavor.

12. Tomato and Basil Pasta

This simple pasta dish showcases the classic combination of fresh tomatoes and basil. Tossed with olive oil and garlic, the pasta is light yet satisfying. It’s a budget-friendly recipe that’s perfect for summer when tomatoes and basil are at their peak flavor and affordability.

13. Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie

This comforting shepherd’s pie swaps out the traditional meat for a savory vegetable and lentil filling. Topped with creamy mashed potatoes, it’s a filling and satisfying meal. Best of all, it uses inexpensive ingredients like potatoes and lentils to create a hearty, family-friendly dinner.

14. Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant slices are breaded and baked until crispy, then layered with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese in this vegetarian version of a classic Italian dish. It’s affordable and delicious, with eggplant as the star of the dish. Serve with pasta or a side salad for a complete meal.

15. Cabbage Stir-Fry

Cabbage is one of the most affordable vegetables, and it shines in this simple stir-fry. Thinly sliced cabbage is stir-fried with garlic, soy sauce, and a splash of vinegar for a flavorful, quick meal. Add carrots or other veggies for extra nutrition, and serve with rice or noodles.

16. Red Lentil Dhal

Red lentils cook quickly, making this dhal a perfect option for a quick, weeknight meal. Simmered with fragrant spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander, this dish is both flavorful and filling while staying easy on the wallet.

17. Chickpea Salad Sandwiches

A budget-friendly alternative to traditional tuna or chicken salad, mashed chickpeas provide a hearty and satisfying base. Mix with mayonnaise, mustard, and herbs, then serve between slices of bread or in a wrap for a simple, protein-packed meal.

18. Baked Ziti with Spinach

This classic baked ziti gets a healthy twist with the addition of fresh spinach. Layered with marinara sauce and cheese, the dish is baked to perfection. It’s a cheap and comforting meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

19. Sweet Potato and Lentil Stew

Sweet potatoes and lentils are a match made in budget-friendly heaven. This hearty stew is seasoned with cumin, garlic, and ginger for a flavorful and nutritious meal. It’s warming, satisfying, and easy on the budget, making it perfect for chilly days.

20. Falafel Wraps

Homemade falafel is much more affordable than store-bought, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Chickpeas are blended with garlic, herbs, and spices, then fried or baked until crispy. Serve in a wrap with hummus, lettuce, and cucumber for a filling and delicious meal.

21. Vegetarian Tofu Stir-Fry

Tofu is a great, budget-friendly source of protein that easily absorbs flavors. In this stir-fry, tofu is sautéed with a mix of fresh vegetables and a savory sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Serve over rice for a quick and inexpensive meal.

22. Cauliflower Tacos

Roasted cauliflower, seasoned with cumin and paprika, makes a delicious filling for tacos. Topped with avocado, salsa, and cilantro, these tacos are packed with flavor and are an affordable alternative to meat-based versions.

23. Peanut Noodles with Vegetables

This quick and easy dish combines noodles with a creamy peanut sauce made from peanut butter, soy sauce, and a touch of lime. Tossed with stir-fried vegetables, this meal is not only budget-friendly but also packed with flavor and nutrition.

24. Vegetable Fried Rice

Use leftover rice and whatever veggies you have on hand to make this quick, budget-friendly fried rice. Seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s great for using up ingredients you already have.

25. Quinoa-Stuffed Zucchini

Zucchini halves are hollowed out and stuffed with a mixture of quinoa, tomatoes, and herbs, then baked to perfection. This dish is both nutritious and affordable, with quinoa providing a protein-packed base for a light but satisfying meal.

26. Pasta Primavera

This pasta primavera is loaded with fresh vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, all tossed with a light garlic and olive oil sauce. It’s a colorful, healthy, and budget-friendly option that’s great for any night of the week.

27. Potato and Leek Soup

Potatoes and leeks are affordable ingredients that combine to make a creamy, comforting soup. Blended until smooth, this simple recipe is perfect for chilly days and easy to make in large batches for freezing.

28. Vegetable Biryani

This aromatic rice dish is flavored with spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cumin, and is loaded with vegetables like carrots, peas, and potatoes. Vegetable biryani is a budget-friendly one-pot meal that’s both filling and delicious.

29. Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Large pasta shells are stuffed with a creamy mixture of spinach and ricotta cheese, then baked with marinara sauce. This dish feels indulgent but is made with simple, affordable ingredients, making it perfect for a family dinner.

30. Roasted Carrot and Hummus Wraps

Sweet roasted carrots pair beautifully with creamy hummus in these easy wraps. Add some greens and a drizzle of olive oil for a light, healthy, and inexpensive lunch that’s perfect for on-the-go.

31. Lentil and Spinach Curry

Lentils are a budget-friendly staple, and in this curry, they are combined with spinach and warm spices like cumin, turmeric, and coriander. The dish is hearty and nutritious, perfect for serving over rice for a satisfying meal that’s both cheap and healthy.

32. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a mixture of rice, black beans, and corn, then baked until tender. This colorful and filling dish is as budget-friendly as it is nutritious, and you can easily swap in whatever grains or vegetables you have on hand.

33. Mushroom Risotto

Risotto might sound fancy, but it can be made with simple, affordable ingredients like mushrooms, rice, and vegetable broth. Slowly stirred and cooked until creamy, this dish is rich in flavor while staying light on your wallet.

34. Eggplant Parmesan

This affordable take on a classic Italian dish layers crispy baked eggplant slices with marinara sauce and melted cheese. Eggplant is a low-cost vegetable that adds a meaty texture to the dish, making it both satisfying and budget-friendly.

35. Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut squash is an inexpensive ingredient that shines in this creamy, velvety soup. Flavored with a touch of nutmeg and thyme, this dish is both comforting and nutritious, perfect for a warming, budget-friendly meal.

36. Vegetarian Chili

Packed with beans, tomatoes, and spices, vegetarian chili is a protein-rich, budget-friendly meal that’s easy to make in large batches. This hearty dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or freezing leftovers for a quick, cheap meal later.

37. Vegetable Quesadillas

These quesadillas are filled with a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, and melted cheese. Quick, easy, and incredibly affordable, they’re perfect for a simple lunch or dinner that doesn’t break the bank.

38. Cabbage Stir-Fry

Cabbage is one of the cheapest vegetables available, and it makes for a delicious stir-fry when paired with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. This quick and flavorful dish is a great way to get a nutritious meal on the table for next to nothing.

39. Vegetable Samosas

Crispy on the outside and filled with a spiced mixture of potatoes and peas, these homemade samosas are a budget-friendly snack or appetizer. They are easy to make in large batches, perfect for sharing or freezing for later.

40. Chickpea and Vegetable Curry

This curry features chickpeas and a mix of vegetables simmered in a spiced coconut milk sauce. It’s a simple, budget-friendly meal that’s full of flavor and can be served with rice or flatbread for a complete, satisfying dish.

41. Pasta with Broccoli and Lemon

This pasta dish is light, fresh, and incredibly affordable, with broccoli as the star ingredient. Tossed in olive oil and lemon juice, the pasta is both zesty and filling, making it a perfect budget-friendly meal for any night of the week.

42. Corn Fritters

Made with simple ingredients like corn, flour, and eggs, these fritters are crispy, golden bites of goodness. Serve with a side salad or dip them in a tangy sauce for a cheap, delicious, and easy meal or snack.

43. Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms

Large mushrooms are filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese, then baked until golden. This budget-friendly recipe works well as an appetizer or a light meal, packing plenty of flavor for just a few dollars.

44. Tomato and Mozzarella Salad

This simple salad features juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It’s a fresh, inexpensive dish that’s perfect as a side or light lunch, proving that good food doesn’t have to be complicated or costly.

45. Carrot and Lentil Soup

Carrots and lentils come together in this hearty, budget-friendly soup that’s perfect for colder days. With a base of simple ingredients and warming spices like cumin, this dish is easy to make and even easier on the wallet.

46. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

These tacos feature tender roasted sweet potatoes and protein-packed black beans, seasoned with a smoky, spicy taco seasoning. Topped with creamy avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice, these tacos are not only affordable but also bursting with vibrant flavors and textures. They offer a deliciously satisfying vegetarian option that's easy on the budget and quick to prepare.

47. Vegetarian Pad Thai

This vegetarian pad Thai brings together rice noodles, tofu, and a colorful mix of vegetables, all stir-fried in a tangy tamarind sauce. Garnished with crushed peanuts and a squeeze of lime, this dish offers a well-balanced mix of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors. It’s a budget-friendly twist on a classic Thai favorite, delivering both taste and nutrition without breaking the bank.

48. Greek Chickpea Salad

Packed with protein-rich chickpeas, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and briny olives, this Greek chickpea salad is a refreshing and satisfying meal. Tossed in a light lemon-oregano dressing and sprinkled with feta cheese, it provides a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This salad is not only budget-friendly but also ideal for meal prep, making it a great choice for both quick lunches and hearty side dishes.

49. Pumpkin Risotto

Creamy and comforting, this pumpkin risotto features the natural sweetness of pumpkin combined with the rich, savory flavors of arborio rice and vegetable broth. The dish is slowly stirred until perfectly creamy and infused with a subtle hint of pumpkin spice. It's an affordable and nourishing meal that’s perfect for cozy dinners, offering a taste of autumn without the high price tag.

50. Vegetable Pasta Bake

This vegetable pasta bake layers cooked pasta with a hearty mix of seasonal vegetables and marinara sauce, topped with melted cheese and baked until bubbly and golden. It’s a versatile and budget-friendly dish that’s perfect for using up leftover vegetables and making a large batch for family meals or meal prep. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a satisfying and economical choice for any night of the week.

Eating well on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on flavor or nutrition.

These 50 budget-friendly vegetarian recipes showcase how simple, affordable ingredients can come together to create delicious, satisfying meals. From hearty tacos and flavorful curries to fresh salads and comforting bakes, these dishes prove that you can enjoy a variety of tasty vegetarian meals without stretching your budget.

Incorporate these recipes into your meal planning to enjoy wholesome, cost-effective cooking every day.